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Morning Devotional...





The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. John 1:14a

It may shock some people to be told that Christ is not an American. Nor was He a Jew merely. He was born of the seed of Abraham of the line of David, and His mother was a Jewess of the tribe of Judah. Still Christ is vastly more than a Jew. His dearest name for himself was "the Son of man." He came through the Jewish race, but he came to the human race. He is Everyman's countryman and Everyman's contemporary. He is building a kingdom of all nations and tribes and tongues and peoples. He has no favorites, "but in every nation he that fearest him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him." Let us remember that the gospel is a divine thing. It receives no virtue from any of man's religions or philosophies. It came down to us out of heaven, a separate thing, like Peter's sheet, wholly on its own. It is something given of God. It operates in the individual heart wherever that heart may be found. Any form of human government, however lofty, deals with the citizen only as long as he lives. At the graveside it bids him adieu. It may have made his journey a little easier, and, if so, all lovers of the human race will thank God for that. But in the cool earth, slaves and free men lie down together. Then what matter the talk and the turmoil? Who was right and who was wrong in this or that political squabble doesn't matter to the dead. Judgment and sin and heaven and hell are all that matter then. So, let's keep cool, and let's think like Christians. Christ will be standing upright, tall and immortal, after the tumult and the shouting dies and the captains and the kings lie stretched side by side, the "cause" that made them famous forgotten and their whole significance reduced to a paragraph in a history book.


Christ did not come to a particular people in a particular area of the world. He assumed a certain ethnicity. He took on full humanity. But He came to be the Savior and Lord of every man and woman. He belongs to all peoples who will open their hearts to

O Christ, You are praised and worshiped today in hundreds of languages and cultural forms. You are no more my Lord than the Lord of other believers around the world. But You are my Lord and my God

From Devotions By Dr. Tozer

Good morning!  I am all ready to leave for church so can't tarry since I haven't been out since Wednesday and I have no idea if I can even get in my garage, let alone to the garage! 

Just a note!  Be sure you have time when you start reading Janet's book.  It is a page turner!  I love it.  I finally put it down right after Beth and John vowed their love to each other!  A nice thought to go to sleep by.

Later...All!

Etta Sue, thank you!  What a lovely thing to read this morning!

I have lots to do today:  Church, then this afternoon clearing out the rest of the tall cabinets in laundry and bathrooms, so Lon can install the other ones tomorrow.  And we have to be in Garden City early in the morning for Darrel's cataract surgery on his right eye.  And, I have more books to package so I can mail them tomorrow!

So I will come back later to see what's happening with all you dear friends!

Don, thank you for this morning's devotional.  Certainly a timely reminder from Dr. Tozer in these days of political arguments and mud-slinging.

Janet, do you ever slow down?

It was down below zero again last night, but hopefully we're going to have a few milder days and nights this coming week. 

Hi everyone.  What a stormy day we experienced yesterday and it appears we may be in for more of the same today, hopefully without the tornado warnings which we had yesterday.  Several places around Atlanta had over 3 inches of rain and we had a lot in our area as well.  Fortunately, I don't think any place got hit by a tornado.  I was gone all morning and then enjoyed a nice quiet afternoon and evening.  I spent several hours reading a good novel and listening to music.  I should finish the novel today as have less than 100 pages left.  Today we will go to church and out to lunch, assuming Pat is feeling like attending church when she arises this morning.  Then I will have a quiet afternoon and evening.  Our poor daughter is suffering so from the rash and welts from the new infection she is experiencing.  She called her mother late last evening to inquire as to how many benedril tablets she could safely take in one day as she hadn't kept the box from the pills she had.  Hopefully she was able to get some sleep.

Etta Sue, I would have to declare an emergency if I didn't have something sweet in the house.  :)  I am looking forward to getting my copy of Janet's book. Maybe you can read and hour and then knit an hour. 

Jeanne, my mother gave us sugar bread as well and I always loved it.  Also a little cinnamon added was good.  Sometimes she would mix up some powdered sugar frosting and put it between soda crackers or graham crackers and I also liked that.  Pat makes the graham cracker type cookies on occasion and they are still very tasty.

Ruth Ann, I just checked the weather channel app on my phone and it is currently 52 but that looks like it will be the high for the day and that more rain is forecast.

Don, thanks for the devotional reading for this week.  Dr. Tozer really is a good writer and deep thinker that causes us to think as well.  I had never considered things in the way he expressed them.

Janet, don't work too hard today.  I will be watching my mailbox this next week for the book.

This has been a long hard haul with this computer, I finally took it to a techie who actually knew what the problem was.  This is an older computer that was refurbished, but not set up for Windows 7.  Having 7 on made things slow down to a stop.  It has taken time but at least I am up and running again.

A CP friend has very graciously offered me a laptop, thank you my friend, and this will be a really big blessing.  I won't get caught in this kind of shutdown again.

Now to go back and read all that I have missed.  That is going to take time.

Judy, it's great to have you back with us!  You have been missed!   :thumbsup:

Jeanne, Thank you and the rest of the moderators, for keeping up here with "my" duties, I knew the site was in good hands.

Janet thanks.

Mel and Doug arrived home with a couple of fish enough for a diner.  They day was so lovely that they sat out in the sun rather than their portable fishing hut.

I have a windows cell phone and yesterday day with the sun shinning I took a picture and did it ever pick up the colors.   I will be doing more this way I am sure.

Figure skating is on the TV this afternoon so I will be enjoying that.

Larry it is so sad to read of the problems your daughter is having. It breaks my heart but pray for her I did.

Judy:  It is a good feeling to know you are back on line again.

It is very windy here today and there has been a few sprinkles of rain add to the wind. I could see the fur  blowing on our long haired cat, Grubby, when he was out on the deck. The wind died down enough yesterday that I  finally got out to take the dogs for the first walk in over a week. I like to keep Happy moving as he has some arthritis in his hips at age 14. He'll be 14 in May.

well, here I am, folks.  Things are pretty much the same with me, except that I no longer have a catheter, which is a big blessing.  I still have some urinary problems, but if those can be solved, I think going home may become a possibility.  May God make me willing to received everything as from His Hand.

Al, great news that you are progressing.  I'm praying you'll soon be going home, and that complete healing will be the next news.

Hi Al  I've been praying for you and hope you get to go home soon. at least you haven't had to deal with the wind and rain where you are. But outside it is still there. How  is Marbeth doing?

Jeanne, I'm afraid if I slow down something may be gaining on me!  I just naturally go at a pretty fast pace, but I do take time off, too.

My pastor announced this morning that next Sunday, he will close the service a little early and give me time to speak, then have a book signing!  Isn't God good?  8)

If you are following my blog, you might want to go there and read what happened at church this morning with Beth!

Ruth---YUM!  I love fresh fish!  Good for your guys!

Judy, welcome back!  And NO MORE computer problems is my prayer for you!

Larry, sorry poor Stacey is still feeling miserable.  The days get long and the nights even longer when you don't feel well.  I had a bad night last night, my fault, as I forgot to take my pills in the morning, then took them in the evening--big mistake, as one is a water pill!  :-[  So I think I feel a nice nap coming on.  I have done the week's laundry so that's out of the way.  We have to leave early in the morning for Darrel's eye surgery.

Al!  Great to see your smiling face!  And may God grant that you will soon be home and completely recovered from this trouble.

Blessings to each of you!  I have a nice little list of names to which to mail books tomorrow.  That is so wonderful!

Hi everyone.  I just checked our weather and see we are to have some thunderstorms this morning and early afternoon but to have a little sunshine by the end of the day and to get up to 60 degrees by late afternoon.  The big activity for today is our Monday men's luncheon.  One of the men and his wife volunteer at our County Hospital.  The hospital is opening a new multi-million dollar heart center tomorrow and he has arranged for us to have a tour of the facility today along with some other parts of the hospital.  After the tour we will eat our lunch in the cafeteria of the hospital.  I don't think too many of our men plan on attending as one is sick with a cold and another has training for the Red Cross volunteer job he wants to do.  However, am sure it will be interesting. 

Judy, welcome back.  Glad to hear you will be getting a laptop as well.  You will have a lot of messages to read to catch up.

Ruth, thank you and everyone here for the prayers for our daughter.  She has so many health issues and suffers so much of the time.  She is also expressing more often how tired she gets with doing very little.  Hope you enjoyed the fish.

Marilyn, hope your weather improves as you all sure have been hit with some bad stuff.  Glad you could get outside with the dogs and I bet they were glad

Al, that is great news.  I am sure your strong faith has helped you weather this storm you have been experiencing health-wise.  Glad you are rid of the catheter.

Janet, how nice of your pastor to give you the speaking opportunity and the chance to share about your book with the congregation.  Has he read the book?  I know Darrel will be glad to have this eye surgery out of the way.  It doesn't take them long anymore and the recovery is quick.  Dealing with the eye drops isn't a lot of fun but certainly doable. What a remarkable young man you encountered at church yesterday.  Thanks for directing us to your blog.  Just a suggestion that you might want to ask Curtis to bold your type as it is very faint, at least on my computer screen.  I found it does help to highlight it.  For some reason more websites seem to be going with this very light blue type, which may be fine for young eyes but not so much for older ones, although I have great eyesight.

Thanks for the morning devotion, Don.  Isn't it great that the Lord of kings and beggars is our Lord also?  While political parties and social ideologies may try to claim Him as their own, He, and his saving Grace, is for all.

Al, I am heartened to hear of your progress, albeit not as quick as you'd like.  I will continue to pray for your healing and ability to return home soon.

Larry, I failed to respond to your comment about  Coeur d'Alene in last week's post...I agree, that area is awesomely beautiful regardless of the season or weather.

Judy B, it is nice to see your smiling face here with us again!

I arrived in Coralville, Iowa last night, after being challenged by countless miles of freezing fog, black ice and all the other normal driving hazards.  I guess the good thing about driving in conditions like that is that there weren't too many other idiots like me on the road!

May God's blessings be upon each of you this week.

It is well,
Ken

I finished it!!!!  Where is book #2!!!  Just saying everyone will be blessed by Janet's word.  Anyone with any type of crisis will be blessed with hope!  May God continue blessing Beth and Janet!  And Janet, I read your blog of yesterday....you done it again!  I suddenly had tears of thankfulness for the teen in his compassion for Beth. 

Small groups was great last evening.  We are studying about Heaven.  Do you believe in heaven?  What on earth lets you know there is a heaven?  One person said that when you look how beautiful the clouds and sky is,....that is the underside of heaven.  How much more beautiful heaven will be...we cannot imagine!  The seasons...Spring brings new life.  Summer is our glory years.  Fall is our declining years.  Winter brings death.  Then without fail, it is Spring again!  That's new life in heaven!

My Cinnamon Roll Cake was delicious even if it didn't look like the picture.  Could be because not enough flour...I ran out with about a third of a cup more needed.  But it won't be thrown away! 

Driving home after dark last night, it was above the freezing mark so my driveway was still snowy and slushy.  I went to bed real early to read and finish Janet's book.  Around 2am, I was waken by strong winds and heavy rain hitting my window!  This morning it is 48 degrees and not a sign of snow anywhere.  Everything is yucky brown, wet, dark and windy.  The flag pole across the way is bending and dancing with Old Glory flying straight out!  It's days like this that makes us appreciate the sunny days all the more!

I have no place I need to go so I think I will turn on a light and crochet! 

It will be great to be able to read the book. My order's in and paid for. Now, to remember to send in my donation to Christian Photographers next month.

I've enjoyed typing up a file of my daughter's poems. I found the rough draft when working on the apartment after it got so messed up with that maintenance procedure. Now, she'll have an electronic file of good work she did when in high school.

Now, a couple of close friends are calling for me to meet them for a bit of lunch. Will talk with y'all later! :)

Love,
Ruth Ann

I was awakened during a sweet dream this morning by Darrel.  Usually I am the first to wake, but it was time to get ready to go to Garden.  He was worried about his surgery and hadn't slept well, he said.  But the surgery went very well, for which we praise the Lord!

Etta Sue, thank you for your kind words, so encouraging!  I really would like to write another book, but am wondering what to write about!  The lady at Dr. Fry's office who also has NF (I told you about meeting her) said she read it, loved it, and cried, because, she said, "I have walked that walk.  I had so many of the same experiences, and it feels o good to know somebody understands!"  She said she is going to read it again, maybe several times!

I am really sleepy, need to get a full night's sleep, which hasn't happened for several nights.  Maybe toningt will be the night!

I need to call Curtis and talk to him about the blog type.  Thank you, Larry, for your suggestion.  And, if he figures out a way to do it, Etta Sue, would you mind being quoted?  He wants to make it so folks can put their comments on there.

I'm excited about the way the book is being received so far.  Several have mentioned my book and Heaven is For Real in conjunction, which is a real compliment!  Wow!

I didn't get home in time to get books mailed today, but they will surely be going out tomorrow, all that haven't been mailed yet!

Janet ... I just have to say "ditto" to all that Etta Sue wrote about your book, and then double that a few more times!!  I have been reading all afternoon since picking up the mail .... for sure it is a "page turner" and I thank you, ever so much, for writing it and for including me on the list of those privileged to receive it!   <3  (I would like to have enough $$$ for everyone I know to get a copy!) 

When I lived in small-town Oklahoma, there was a woman and her adult son with NF.  I often saw them in town, and felt so badly for the way the townsfolk shunned them.  I really admire Beth's spirit and attitude through all her challanges and struggles.   :)  <3 

Don:  Thank you for devotions so timely.

Larry:  Sorry abut Stacey's skin problems.  I hope the meds work right away. 

It was good to read about Pastor Al and he may really be on his way home very soon.   

We again went to the Presbyterian church here and the men's choir was just wonderful.  The speaker was one of the congregation and he cited the books by Strobel, who speaks at our home church.  Then, Don met a pilot who knows of Don's old friend - another pilot as well.  A very small world. 

I was awake all last night for no reason at all and tried reading which makes me sleepy but it did not work.  Now, I will catch up on sleep and it is almost 9 PM here so the timing won't be so far off.  Our daughter arrives on Thursday so this will keep us hopping and driving. 

After 1 in the morning...Having a "J" night. Had a couple of disturbing calls that have sent my mind racing.

I am excited about getting a book Janet, please email me the details so I can get the $$$ off to you.

I have a book I read many years ago that I am reading now.  It is "Without A Trace" forget the author.  IT is set in the Upper Peninsula of MI.  Interesting as this is an area that John drives and talks about a lot.

Going to go and have a bite to eat and go back to bed. 

Janet, I received my copy of your book Saturday and finished reading it early this morning.  What an amazing writing, you did well.  And the book will be a blessing to many people, not only those who live with NF, but those of us going through other types of trials as well. 
Beth - how admirable, her indomitable spirit of hope and willingness to give God the glory, I think she must have inherited that sense of her standing with the Lord from you, Janet.  What an amazing story, and so many tragic events that could have sidelined her spirit so long ago, but only made her (and you) stronger.
Thank you for writing this book, it certainly makes me feel as though my trials are so puny compared to yours

Blessings to all who enter this room today.  I do not have time to address each one, but I hope you all have a good day.
Love, Janice

With all the wonderful reviews and the fact that Beth is OUR Beth I can't wait to get my book.

I am off to the Senior Movie this morning, It is Joyful Noise with Dolly Parton and Queen Latifah.

I am so much looking forward to receiving Janet's book. I like in Near-Northern Ontario, so I know it will take a bit more time.

Janet, I would be honored for you to quote me and put it in your blog.  Wow!  I was just stating the facts...ma'am!

I went to the pool this morning.  Then dropped off two Chemo Wraps at the hospital.  Then I had breakfast for lunch and a small independent restaurant where food has flavor and it isn't out of a can!  I then went to 'Deals'.  It is kind of like a Dollar Store but has different prices.  When I need gift bags, I go to Deals.  I made a baby afghan a few months back for a new baby girl due March 7th.  The baby shower is this Sunday at church.  So I got the bag, a ribbon and a card and a whole lot of other stuff!!  At least, I got what I went to get! 

Now I am catching up online.  Kitty and Bob are wanting to take me to Bonge's Tavern (http://bongestavern.com/Home.html) this evening.  This place was started by parents of one of my classmates.  They are both deceased...even my classmate...and the new owners has kept it the same as years ago.  If you go to the website, be sure and check out The Chalkboard.  I have heard the meals were very pricey but I didn't know they were that pricey!  And in the summer, people go and have to wait.  They party outside in the parking lot!  IF we get to go this evening, I will let you know about it tomorrow!  I have never been to Bonge's Tavern and it is less than 10 miles away! 

Tomorrow I plan to go to another old friend's home and visit.  We were best friends as little girls.  Her dad owned a cycle shop in Anderson and my dad had a cycle until I was a teenager!  So he belonged to the Anderson Cycle Club and they traveled as a group to a lot of places.  This was before helmets and such!  Her dad's name was Ray so Ralena and I spent a lot of time together.  I would spend time at her house between Christmas and New Year's and she loved coming out here in the summer where we could play outside and back in the woods.  Ralena lost her husband last June after 50 years of marriage.  She is having a hard time getting over it...if you can ever get over it.  Anxious to see her again in person rather than emails and FB.

Another stack of books went into the mail today!  And thank you for your wonderful comments!  I will try to get them into the blog asap.

Darrel's check with our local eye doctor went really well.  Dr. Copeland said his eye looked like the surgery was a week ago, not just yesterday!  Praise God.  And Darrel says things already look brighter.  The surgery took all of 12 minutes--amazing!

We continue to have beautiful weather here, hard to believe it is January!  Wonder what February, March and April will bring?  I trust God they will be nice months as well, with abundant moisture, of course!  ;)

My mouse just quit this morning, no place locally to get another one, so I hunted up an old corded one to use.  It will get me by for a while.

I need to go to Staples.com and get that mouse ordered.  Hope it doesn't gnaw its way out of the package before it arrives!  ;)

Hi everyone.  After coffee this morning I went to the dentist to get my new permanent crown.  I then made a fast stop at Office Depot to purchase a table for my office and then attended a meeting.  It   is a glorious today.  It isnow 64 degrees and there is no dampness as it is sunny and calm.  I just assembled the little laptop table, which I am using to hold my keyboard on the tilting portion and not having to stretch to type as I have had to do for a long time.  I think I will like the little table.  It has a separate flat surface to the right to hold the mouse.  For all the time I have been in this house I have used the mouse on my desk top.

Yesterday my men's luncheon group had a very nice tour of the new heart center at our county hospital.  It is a $33 million dollar facility and really the state of the art.  They are doing their first open heart surgery case there today but have been doing angioplasty and stents for about nine months and the quantity has far exceeded the expectations.  Our county was the largest in the United States without a dedicated heart surgery center within its borders but creating one had been fought by two of the big city hospitals, including court cases.  However, it finally got the necessary approvals to build the center. 

Stacey heard from the doctor's office today that she has an unidentified bacterial infection and the medicine she is taking should take care of it.  That was good news.

Pat's desktop is acting up and I have to get her hard drive backed up.  I just hope I haven't waited too long although have an external hard drive and program that is suppose to totally back up the drive and be bootable and from which you can work and then restore the computer.  I am thinking it is about time for her to get a new desktop as the one has was the same age as the desktop I hope that recently failed and I replaced. 

Interesting postings today but it is getting late and I have to look into the problem with Pat's computer so will make no individual comments today.

I have had a most wonderful day with Auntie. I took her Shopping then when we got back to her home she started putting  groceries away, this in turn allowed me to help her.

What a wonderful husband he even had diner ready when I arrived home.

Janet:  I am waiting for your book to arrive. 
            Is it possible that your mouse needed a new battery?   Also do not forget that even the keyboard uses batteries as well. Something that I had to learn.

Larry:   I pray that Stacey will be well soon.

Janet:  Good news for Darrel.

Judy:  I hope that you had a better day and that you will rest well this evening.

Yes, I've also had to replace my batteries, so I'm really careful to turn it off each time I power down the computer.

It was a wonderful day, but tomorrow er, better change that to TODAY will be quite busy. I'm training to be a SHIP volunteer to help elders choose the correct insurance coverage when renewal time comes each year. I'll be busy Wednesday and Friday.

We had a wonderful Bible study tonight - and the supper we brought in was good, too. It's amazing, that even with a few people, it seems God prompts us to make just the right dishes to have a well balanced meal.

Well, gotta say goodnight. Y'all know how much I love y'all, and our Saviour most of all.

Ruth Ann

Ruth, your book should arrive soon!  It's in the mail!  Thanks for the battery hint--that was the first thing I checked, as I have had to replace those several times.  Didn't work this time, though.  I dug out an old mouse that plugs into the USB port, will get along with that until we go to Garden again.  I looked at Staples.com and found mice priced from $29 to $129!  :o  Glad you had some quality time with your Aunt.  Darrel often has a meal ready when I've been out, and get back home.  So sweet of them!

Ruth Ann, you just can't keep from working, can you?  ;)  But please don't overdo it!  Love you.

Lon is supposed to bring those last cabinets today; we'll see.  Been postponed several times already. I do hope he gets them in, so I can sort and replace thing in them and get rid of the excess.  The Senior Center has another garage sale coming up soon!

I have been humbled and amazed at the reception of my book.  Last night I got a short email from a girl Beth shared her first trailer home with years ago when she was working at the care home.  Kaylinn said she "ran across" the book somehow, ordered it, then emailed me to inquire about Beth.  She said she hadn't spoken to Beth in 10 years, but always had a soft spot for her, even though they used to butt heads.

Looks like another really nice day out there!  Hope it's beautiful where you are, too!

Hi y'all.  I have a question.  It's really a question to Janet, but I'll put it in here.  How do I get to your blog? Does it have a web address?
Otherwise, all is relatively well here.  Marbeth (bless her soul greatly!) is doing well.  She comes and spends a good many hours with me every day, just as I did when she was in.  Thanks be to God!

Al, my prayers are ongoing for your continued progress.  Wonderful that Marbeth is able to spend time with you.  That's bound to make the day shorter.   ;)

Hi, Al!  Good to 'see' you again, and thanks for asking!  the website is www.JanetDamon.com, and you just click on Updates, and there you are!  I am getting emails and facebook posts from people I haven't seen or heard from in years!  It is amazing--and wonderful!

And I need to get off this computer and get busy!  Love you folks!

Hi everyone.  We had a very nice fall like day yesterday when we got up to 64 degrees and a repeat scheduled for today.  We just got back from Bible study but didn't go on to the donut shop as Pat needed to get home and get her shoe off.  I put together the little laptop table that I purchased yesterday and it is just what I wanted.  I am using it at my desk and the keyboard fits on it and it slants to the degree I want it to.  I no longer have to stretch to type or have the keyboard resting on my lap.  I also now have a nice place to use my mouse.  This morning I have put an old hard disk into Pat's computer and have cloned her existing hard disk to the old disk, which I will put on the shelf in case her existing hard disk dies.  She has been concerned about losing her games and many of her quilting files, although the quilting files and recipes are backed up on the cloud.

Ruth, nice of your husband to fix your dinner. 

Ruth Ann, I wish you well on your training.  The insurance situation is so varied I expect you will have a lot to learn.

I use Windows Mail.  I sent an email to Kitty yesterday and within a half hour, I couldn't 'send' any emails...error 554!  I searched 'error 554'.  Everything was the same ol' same ol', a free scan that says you have a trillion problems but they want $$$ to fix it!  I have no idea what I did but it finally worked last evening by going to Tools>>>Account and ticking 'My server requires authentication.'  If it was ticked before why did it un-tick?  Why all of a sudden it needed ticked if it wasn't ticked before?  Computers....grrrr!  Anyway, my outgoing mail if fine today! 

Kitty, Bob and I did get in at Bonge's Tavern!  I can say I have been there now!  Bonge's is pronounced like 'buggie' only bungie.  Hard G.  And the prices were the same as on the website!  The three of us shared two NY Strip meals.  Well, we all got the sides but shared two steaks.  All I know that sure must have been a big cow!  Those steaks were 10" by 4" easy and 1.5" thick....perfect!  I brought home some for lunch!  The place only seats about 40 people so that is why the waiting.  But we got right in but within a half hour, people were standing and waiting.  Just glad I was being pampered and didn't have to pay!  Wow!  I could have bought three outfits for that cost!

And since my email didn't go out yesterday, I called Ralena when I got home in the afternoon.  Today wasn't a good day for her so I am leaving here at 11am Friday.  We are going out to eat somewhere and then back to her house.  She is my age...69 and in '97, her husband and her rode cycles to Rapid City, SD, to the cycle rally.  Now Ralena rode her own cycle and Jim rode his!  Ralena is short so they somehow lowered her cycle but she said she had to be careful going over railroad tracks because the cycle would drag.  And she hates riding in the rain and interstates.  So as soon as they got back, she sold her cycle to a short guy and he loves it!! 

Sounds like we are going to have a great time catching up.

Hi Everyone!

Here in Virginia it's about 45 degrees and a bit dampish but not too cold.  We have Prayer Meeting tonight and then early tomorrow morning, we will leave to go to the Northern Neck of Virginia (about 175 miles to the SE) to visit Paul's brother, Rolf, and Lorraine!  I'm looking forward to seeing them.  It's been awhile.  I've made a dessert and two loaves of "Everything Braided Bread" to take with us.  We'll come home on Saturday evening.

It's soooooo nice to see you posting Alan.  I just want you to be better and get home once again.  It's been too long since you have been under the weather.

As Pat said it is a dull damp day but no snow.

This was our usual Wednesday coffee morning  to visit and catch up on the happenings. Otherwise we do not have anything on the agenda.

Wow I have missed a lot in the last few days.  I am blessed to know that so many of you  are doing well and are safe. 

Janet I will be ordering my book as soon as I can some unexpected tests and Dr appointments came up for me this week.  I will need a couple of weeks to get it sent to you by paypal.  With Etta Sue excitement I can't wait to read it myself.

JudyB computers are to help us not hinder lol I am glad you are up and with us again and soon will be going full force. 

May the Lord bless you and keep all of you with a hedge of protection around you and yours, Marlo

Hi Marlo!  I've been thinking of you and wondering how your health has been.  I guess you're to the west of where I am.  Not sure.  I'm right now in Northern Virginia just about 10 miles from West Virginia.  :)

Hi everyone.  Stopping back in this afternoon to leave a message.  This afternoon while resting I had a call from Gord Brown to ask for a telephone number, which I was able to provide.  He told me of the condition he has developed since the weekend involving one of his hands.  He didn't remember the name of the problem but spent a number of hours in the ER after going to a walk-in clinic and then was admitted to the hospital.  From there they sent him to a plastic surgeon who confirmed the diagnosis the ER doctors had given him.  His hand had swollen and his fingers had drawn back into the palm.  The plastic surgeon put a cast on the palm side of his hand and forced his fingers out straight, which Gord said hurt unbelievably.  He has medication to take and cannot drive or do much of anything else as has a lot of pain.  He said there is information in the Prayer Request discussion here on CP.  I told him I would leave a message this afternoon to ask us all to keep him in our prayers. 

Hello everyone  to Gord Brown my prayers are with you getting ready for Wednesday night Prayer Service will put each of you on the Prayer List at Bethel Baptist Church, and let me tell you there are some powerful prayer warriors there.

Pat not location on earth, but I know we will be sitting as sisters in Heaven when our Saviour come to take us home.  What a day that will be!!!!

Pat I also left you a PM :)

Have a blessed evening oh and my dear Brothers we will also be Brothers and Sister Sweet I don't have any Brothers What a day that will be!!!!!

I commented last night at Bible study that our christian friends are "family."

Well, Janet, I reached my limit today. Am already in my gown and ready to settle in for the night.

<3

Thanks be to God, my granddaughter's car was stolen this morning, so have no idea how both girls got to high/elementary schools.

My son just sent a text saying that they found it about a mile away, unharmed, but of course the thief "removed" some things while "using" the car. His last words were "GOD IS GOOD!"

Love to all,
Ruth Ann

Ruth Ann, I know your son's words were sweet to hear!  We rejoice when our children walk in the Lord!

My youngest called last night, a rare treat.  She had received her copy of the book and said it is awesome!  And she hadn't even read it yet!  ;)

My very first book signing is tomorrow at noon at the Senior Center.  Please pray that it is a blessing to those in attendance, and those who can benefit from the book will buy it.  Thanks.

I need to hem a piece of fabric I bought yesterday to use for a tablecloth at book signings.  Running out of time to do that!  ;)

I left a prayer rquest inthe prayer  folder. Please pray as  the Lord leads.

Thank you Marlo!   <3



(Had a long post here ready to post and dropped my mouse on the floor and it shut down my browser!)


Just a head's up that Paul and I are leaving early in the morning to travel to the Northern Neck of Virginia (about 175-200 miles east and a bit south from here) to see his brother and sister-in-law.  Both have been  battling cancer so it will be great to see them. 

I won't have internet I don't think but I'll try.  If I don't get online, I will be checking in early Monday.

You are all in the capable hands of the rest of the Administrators and Moderators!

:woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo:

 :)  Good morning to all it is very hard to do this with one hand.  Had an other sleepless night and I am so glad that I am seeing the Surgeon today.  The time is at 2-45 p.m. and I will try to get back later today to let you all know what the results are with regards to my right hand.  Again thanks for all the prayers that you all have sent.  God's Richest Blessings to you all. :thumbsup:  Love in Christ.  Gordon. :cp:

Hi everyone.  Just back from coffee and walking at the church gym with my good friend.  We have sort of gotten out of the habit of walking there and we both need to do it so are going to try harder to put this in as a part of our routine.  Today is a pretty clear day.  Pat made a batch of caramel corn yesterday afternoon and we may take a big bag of it over to a church friend who is quickly slipping into dementia.  His wife and I have sung in the choir and Pat generally sat with Walt.  It is so sad to see this happening to him.  Yesterday in the mail I got my copy of Janet Damon's new book and started reading it when I went to bed and couldn't put it down and will finish it today.  It is such an inspiring story of two amazing ladies, Janet and her beautiful daughter Beth. It is suppose to be in the 70s here today with 100% chance of rain tonight and perhaps some storms in the area.  It is misty and foggy today.

Ruth Ann, so glad they found you granddaughter's car and it was unharmed.  It seems nothing is safe anymore.  We hear about so much of that thing as well as other crimes in the Atlanta area, including the large county where I live.

Janet, I read the first 135 pages of your book and was overwhelmed at the grace and courage of the two beautiful ladies in the book.  Some of the stories of the mistreatment of Beth and her courage in working at that horrible pig farm just broke my heart.  I will finish the book today.  I am going to post on Seniors and Friends and the book discussion I read each day that Ginny Anderson has about the book and my reaction and provide a link to your website.  I so liked the way you weaved Beth's recollections in with the narrative of the story.  All I can say is you both are very strong women with an abiding faith that has and will conitiinue to sustain you.

Marilyn, I will go check out the prayer request.

Pat, hope you had a nice trip to see Paul's brother and his wife. 

Gord, hope you get the message from the surgeon you are wanting and you can dispense with the cast.

We were blessed with some snow, enough that Mel used the shovel on the driveway.

Much earlier this morning Mel took the van to have speaker wires fixed and while there he also purchased new pr. of wiper blades then over to Bolton for gas.   I then left home around 9:00 am  for the Chiro,   Then I think we will be meeting our daughter for diner at the Swiss Chalet. Around 6:00 or so.   But now it is time to get some lunch ready. 

Mel & I went to see War Horse last evening a great movie.

Will visit with y'll tomorrow.   

Doing nothing today.  But I am doing some laundry.  Tony just left.  I will miss him when he goes back to work in March.  We had a great visit! 

Another dark, dreary day in Indiana.  When I went to Wednesday Night Live last night it was snowing, then turned to rain.  At a four-way stop a car turned in front of me.  When I went on, I noticed the car went into the side ditch behind me and was backing up to continue on his way!  It was 32 degrees.  When I came home, it was raining.  32 degrees.  And when I got up this morning, it was still raining and 32 degrees.  I see it is 34 degrees now!  Glad I am not going anywhere today!   

Off to see the Prayer Requests.

Larry, thank you so much for your kind words, and for putting the website on the places you mentioned.  I tried to get into Srs. and Friends last evening, but have forgotten my password there, so never was able to post.  If anyone can tell me my password, I will appreciate it.

I had my first book signing today!  I consider it a great success!  They tell us that if you sell 5 to 8 books at a book signing, that is average, and lots sell even fewer.  We sold eleven today!  And that was at the Senior Center!  It seems a bit strange to me, but one never knows how those people will receive things.  Sometimes they are enthusiastic, sometimes just plain NOT interested, but today they were quite receptive.  Several came up and visited with Beth, which is really good, and all wanted their books signed.  My friend Pat was there as my 'book signing buddy' and was a great help.  I'm praising God!!

I think I will go to Facebook and search for some of my old high school classmates, if I find some I will put the link to the book on their walls.  You never know how the word gets around!  I have heard from some people I hadn't thought about in years!  It is really wonderful, and so exciting!

I did mail two more books this morning.  I need to count up and see how many have found homes now.  ;)

Ruth, say hello to your daughter and enjoy dinner with her!

This morning was occupied b taking a friend to the doctor. However, I certainly enjoyed reading the paper and some of the local magazines and flyers while she was seeing the doctor.

Then, this afternoon, I mainly rested and dozed in the big recliner in the living room. And, since tomorrow's the last day of the volunteers' training session, the bed will see me very soon. ;)

Pat, may God bless you and Paul and you go to visit and to care for the relatives.

Now, I, too, am off to the prayer requests.

Love to all,
Ruth Ann

Hi everyone.  After a rainy and very warm day here it Atlanta the weather is to settle down today with sunshine and cooler temperatures.  Yesterday turned out to be a busy one after all.  It was capped off by a call from a friend's wife asking if I could come right away and help her get my friend to the ER.  He has been ill for over two weeks and isn't getting any better.  We got him there without difficulty.  I went o bed early last night and must have been asleep by 8:30 but feel more rested today.  I have a friend coming over after coffee this morning and then today is our ROMEO's lunch.  I did finish reading your book Janet and it is a good one. It is such a wonderful story of courage and hope in the face of such severe medical problems.  I told Pat when I finished it that if I ever start feeling sorry for myself and complaining just hand me that book to reread.  I feel so fortunate to be able to call you a friend.

Ruth, hope you were able to have dinner with your daughter yesterday.  I have not seen that movie you mentioned.

Etta Sue, glad you made it safely home from your Wednesday night church services. 

Janet, I think you will sell a lot of books just from word of mouth.  I have to tell you that reading it caused me to not take a nap yesterday as I couldn't put it down until I finished it.  You are a very talented writer. 

Ruth Ann, hope your training course is going well but know you will be glad to have it over.

Yesterday I had a really nice visit with Tony.  I will miss him when he goes back to work in about a month.  He works at a gravel pit and runs a loader.  They are laid off January and February because it is too cold to get the stone.  His birthday is Monday so we are going out to eat.  He realized yesterday that he can get Senior discounts at some places.  That sure makes me feel old...my son a Senior citizen!!

Today I am going to Ralena's.  I think we are going to Cracker Barrel for lunch and then back to her house.  We only have about 55 years to catch up on!

The radio just said that we are to have sunshine this afternoon.  What is sunshine??  Just kidding but seems to have been a long time since we have seen the sun!  Right now it is dark, dreary, windy and cold.  Edit:  Just now on the radio...sun this afternoon, then tonight snow showers!! 

I just got home from Pat's.  She made me all 'gorgeous' again!  :lol:  She colored, cut and styled my hair, so it does make a difference!

Larry, thank you so much for those kind words.  They mean a lot, coming from one who has plenty of medical problems of his own, plus the ones with your daughter and Pat.  You always inspire me, as your attitude is so positive--you just keep on keeping on!  Thanks for considering me a friend, as I certainly consider you a friend as well.

Etta Sue, your weather doesn't know what it wants to do, does it?  Speaking of your son being a senior citizen reminded me of this.  When John was leaving, he said he will be here again in August to help Beth celebrate her 50th birthday.  I said, "You're going to be FIFTY, Beth?  When did you pass me?"   ;)

Diane and Abby were up yesterday evening, and Diane brought me more framing to do.  Guess I won't be running out of things to do for a while!  I need to post a photo of Abby, I know several of you remember her as a baby, a toddler, etc., and now she is a beautiful young lady, several inches taller than her mom and her grandma!  How fast they grow up.... :-\

Darrel's main desktop computer quit, so he is thinking about what to get.  Should he just buy a laptop?  Don't they do anything the bulky desktop will do?  What do you think, Larry?  Since Curtis took over the alarm business, he doesn't have to keep those books, do the statements, etc. any more, so I'm thinking a laptop might be sufficient for his needs.

I need to package up another book for the mail!

Pat and Paul:  I just realized you are going to aid a relative - blessings for you and prayers for strength as well.

We just realized how time has passed so quickly when we heard that our oldest grandson is taking SAT tests tomorrow. 

Daughter is visiting until Monday and a cousin & wife are setting dates to visit - they always bring a little dog too.  We are eating healthy food because our daughter has us trying things she eats - apparently power foods.  It has not given us more power as yet.   ^-^

Well, Carol, "more power to you!" as they say down here in the south. ;)

That training session (actually both of them) were long, but REALLY informative regarding Medicare, Medicaid, and all things thereabouts. Wow! Some of the things I learned will help me, too, as well as be able to help others.

And, I'll be volnteering in their office and/or at my home via computer to help them preparing documents, analyzing data, etc. Oh, what fun that will be! :)

Now, I'm off to rest, since tomorrow's an all-day meeting for a "ladies breakaway" at a church maybe 8-10 miles from here. We're to get there by 8 a.m., so ole "hard to get up granny, here" will be up n atem early, early for me. ;)

Love to each of you,
Ruth Ann

Hi everyone.  I got up early so am getting to the discussion boards before going to coffee a little later this morning.  We had a beautiful day here yesterday and today is to be nice as well.  I did enjoy the ROMEO's luncheon yesterday.  We had only six in attendance but that way everyone could participate in one discussion.  I heard from my friend's wife that my friend was feeling much better yesterday and should get to come home today.  There was good news and bad news.  The bad news was that his prostate cancer has returned and the good news is that they found no evidence that it has spread to the bone.  He will be receiving treatments soon to begin to battle it.  I should have a pretty quiet day today.  I will attend a meeting this morning and that will likely be it.  Pat and I did go out to Firehouse Subs for dinner last evening and they were very tasty.  We hadn't been to one of their places for a long time. 

Etta Sue, hope your lunch with Ralena helped you start getting caught up.  Are you saying you had not talked with her in all those years?  Sounds like winter has hit Indiana. 

Janet, thanks for your kind words.  I sure do remember Abby and how much you enjoyed her visits with you.  It is hard to keep in mind how fast time goes and these little ones grow up and we older ones grow older.  A laptop will do anything a desktop computer will do.  I seriously considered just using my laptop when my desktop died not long ago but decided to get another desktop simply because I spend a lot of time during the day in my office as I don't want to be sitting so many hours in the living room with the TV going.  It would be a hassle for me to constantly shift the laptop to my office and back each day.  I keep my laptop by my easy chair, as does Pat with her laptop, and when I go into the family room in the late afternoon I will then use the laptop.

Carol, if you find some power foods be sure to let us know.  I expect there are a few of us here who could use more power.  I sometimes think I am becoming a Model T in terms of power and energy.

Ruth Ann, hope the all day meeting today isn't too much for you.  It sounds like they plan on keeping you busy with the Medicare type work.  I bet they were glad to see you come along with your computer skills and work experience.

 :)Good afternoon to all.  Well I saw the surgeon on Thurs. and he has made me keep the cast on and also I have to keep my arm up above my heart area for 10 hours a day and this is very hard.   They do not put slings on it any more as it can cause other problems.  So It will be a very long week as I cannot do anything for myself so please continue to pray for me and also for my wife that i don;y drive her nuts.  God's richest blessings to all . Gordon and Noreen. :thumbsup: :cp: :pine: :bananadance:

Ralena and I had a great time trying to catch up.  In all these years, we did exchange Christmas cards, we have talked on the phone a few times, we have seen each other at funerals...my parents and her parents but not visited at each others homes.  She lives around 20 miles away...not far by any means and it is funny that I go east about 14 miles on my road, turn left and go another few miles, turn right and she is the second house!  A no- brainer getting there!  We ate at Cracker Barrel and went back to her house and talked.  When I got ready to leave, she said she hadn't laughed so much since before her husband got cancer.  Laughter is good medicine.  I still think the only people who understands another person who has lost a spouse is someone who has lost a spouse.  I think Ralena might be a good person to travel and do things with.  She's fun!

Yesterday was a beautiful day with sunshine in the afternoon.  Then it snowed last night and the wind...well, whew!  As I look across the road, the field looks like zebra stripes.  The yard looks like Dalmatian spots.  The Red, White and Blue is straight out so you can see every stripe and star.  But...not a cloud in the sky!  Bright and sunny.  Pretty but not a day to get outside and walk around much!  Cold!

Two more months and it should be warming up! 

Larry, have a nice day, glad you don't have a long list of to-dos today!

Gord, I know keeping that hand above heart level will be difficult.  Maybe you can lie in a recliner with your hand up beside your head.  I pray you get relief soon, and for Noreen's sanity, too!   ;)  You husbands know we will take care of you!

Etta Sue, how nice that you can get together with a long time friend who understands, and is also lots of fun!  Be good for both of you!

I have been to pick up our Prairie Pak (food), back home to package more books, back to town to mail them and to visit and read to Beth, now home again, catching up on here and then back to the work I was doing about a week ago when I hurt my back.  I need to keep whittling away on the work or it will never be finished.

It is really fun to check the website and find more book orders!  Praise the Lord.

There are some on here to whom I have sent books but don't know yet if you received them.  If you got yours and haven't let me know, would you mention it?  I don't want anyone waiting and wondering....... Thanks.

Janet:   My Auntie has said not to let my hair go white or grey what ever it is. She is 92 yrs young.

Also your book has not arrived but I expect coming to Canada will take a little longer.

Carol:  Sounds like the Power Foods are a weight watchers thing. Good food with little or no calories. As WW would say the better choice.

Today has been a snow a rain mix with about 5 minutes of sun.

Gord:  I hope that the treatment works.  The idea is to keep the fingers straight if possible. 

I felt that I would like to change my profile picture with no luck help. 

Janet, I picked up the book from my mailbox this afternoon, on my way home from grocery shopping.  And the groceries that don't need the refrigerator or freezer are still sitting on my dining room table!  After seeing in here all the great comments, I couldn't wait to get started reading and I'm so glad I didn't wait.

The entire book is such a wonderful God-filled testimony!  My thanks to you and Beth for getting it out into the world and for letting me see into your lives. 

<3

And Jane, thank you so much!

Gord: Still praying for you.... how difficult to have to have your arm up for 10 hours a day! I don't think Everett could do it...... he uses his hands when he talks   ;D
Ruth: you are just on the other side of Hwy 400 from where I used to live, in Oak Ridges..... lovely area, however the urban growth got too much for us..... we moved north eight years ago.
Janet: Like Ruth, the book hasn't arrived. I'll let you know as soon as it does.

May all in C.P. enjoy a blessed day tomorrow.

'Courageous'!  What a great Christian movie.  A must see.  If you can't see it at the theater or on TV, purchase a DVD and watch it in your home.  You will be blessed. 

The young marrieds had a feast of different soups, breads, crackers, salad and the fixin's and dessert plus drinks.  I was stuffed.  Then we went to the sanctuary to watch the movie.  Only thing missing was Kleenex's! 

Today is a busy day...church, Sunday School, out to eat, back to church for a Baby Shower, then to Small Groups!  Whew! 

I will be back this afternoon or this evening to post the new Thoughts.

Gord: I'm praying for you. I've dealt with some injuries that have made me realize how thankful we can be when everything is working properly. It can be a difficult time - it's a good thing we don't have to face things on our own.may you have God's peace and comfort through this time.
Janet: my book hasn't arrived yet either, but I'm assuming that it will take longer to get here anyway. I'm looking forward to reading it.
Judy: it's good to see you back. I haven't been up in your area lately as my Dad is improving from the shingles. I'll let you know if I go up that way.
Ken: do you have any long trips coming up? I've been praying for safety for you. I enjoy the pictures you take on your travels and your write ups. I always enjoy seeing new entries in your blog.

The snow has dumped on us here in our area, and a snow squall warning is in effect. The churches, including ours, have all had to cancel their services. I can't remember this happening before. Our road really needs to be ploughed, but this probably won't happen until this afternoon or tomorrow. Our road is one of the last since it is a cottafe road. We are warm and comfortable here though and it looks beautiful with the snow weighing the trees down.

Oops. You'll be wondering what a cottafe road is - should have checked before I posted. It's a cottage road, which means the snow blows across the lake and fills the road pretty good. The road is between our house and the lake.

Good morning!  I got up early to pray over the book signing that will follow church services this morning.  I am believing for favor; but mostly that those who will be blessed by the book will go home with one in hand.

I spoke to my friend Bonnie (in the book, she's the one who stayed with me when Beth was in hospital in Wichita following the car accident.)  Her beloved husband is now in hospice and failing rapidly, but she said God had prepared her; she knows beforehand everything that is happening.  And He is giving her that peace that passes understanding, she said they both keep saying, "All is well."  They sing together, pray together and just enjoy the time they have.  She said they want to give Eugene something to make him sleep, but she refuses, she wants to have these moments to enjoy, treasure and remember.  This couple has been an inspiration and example to me in Christian living for many years.  I love them dearly.  They now live in Pratt, Kansas, and we need to go visit them.

I need to get dressed for church, gather up what I need for the book signing; we will go get Beth, etc.  I think we will be taking two vehicles this morning, as when we get Beth in the van, there isn't much room for anything else.  Prayers for the day much appreciated.  I am praying Beth is having one of her really good days, so she can speak loudly enough to be heard.  Thanks.

Jeanne, thank you---and bless you!

Hi everyone.  A beautiful and sunny Sunday morning here in Georgia.  It is going to be cooler here today than yesterday, which seemed like a spring day.  I had a very quiet day yesterday but did several things that needed doing yesterday morning and really wore myself out for the rest of the day.  However, a good nights sleep has revived me and am ready for church.  We will likely eat out after church and that will be it for today.

Gord, sure glad you don't have to use that sling for your arm.  Hope the swelling is going down.  At least you haven't had to have surgery.  Just sit back and enjoy being waited on since you can't do much else.  I will be looking forward to your next postings as to your progress.

Etta Sue, you are probably right about being able to understand another person's situation only when we have walked the same path.  I think this is why 12-step programs work.  The men's group at our church is sponsoring that movie and will show it at our church very soon.

Ruth, I had written some comments on like white or grey hair and accidentally erased them.

Jeanne, I see you agree with me about the wonderful testimony of Janet and Beth's book.  Two remarkable ladies who have walked a long and difficult path with Christ holding their hands and seeing them through each crisis and stage of life experiences.

RuthV, I think a lot of people are in trouble if they can't use their hands when they talk.  :) 

Betty, you all must have to keep the pantry stocked for the possibility of getting snowed in during the winter.  We seldom see any snow here where I live and have seen only a few small specks so far this year.  It has been very warm most of the winter in our area.  Sounds like you have a beautiful setting for your home.

Janet, hope you have a great book signing today as know people will be blessed with the reading of your book.

Well, it's that time again.  Time for a new week of thoughts.  Hmmm!  Thinking...thinking...here (http://www.christianphotographers.com/community/index.php?topic=12131.msg170348#msg170348).