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Morning Devotional...

Psalm 51

When David had sinned, he had to say, "Against You, You only, have I sinned, and done this evil in Your sight." We all have to say the same thing - regardless of what our specific sins might be – because all of them, at root, have dishonored GOD.  

So God gave us this song to provide us an example of what can be done about sin against Him.  Of course Christ has made the ultimate provision for all our sins in His substitutionary atonement on the Cross, but this song is an excellent example of the only thing we ourselves can do about a relationship with God that has, after all, been broken each and every time we sin.

He begins by begging for mercy, and that's what we need to do too!  After all, sin against a holy God can only deserve infinite wrath.  Anything short of that wrath is mercy – and that's what every sinner needs all the time. So our cry to God should be the same as that of David.  He said, "Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin!"  The word for "wash" is the word the Hebrews used for washing clothing, etc., and that's appropriate because sin results in a soul that's filthy and needs laundering.  And the point here is that unless GOD launders it, it must remain unclean upon us.  

David knew that's what he had to say.  He had to admit, "For I acknowledge my transgressions, and my sin is always before me."  It just won't go away. It's going to take the action of a merciful God to really rid him of it, and that's true for us as well.  We have to admit with David, "Behold, I was brought forth in iniquity, and in sin my mother conceived me!" In other words, it's been with me right from my beginning!

Cleansing from such sin can only be accomplished by God, because it has to be a cleansing of the heart and soul.  David makes allusion to Leviticus 14:6, 7, in which hyssop is used for symbolic cleansing of a leper - a harsh kind of cleansing needed because of the clinging results of leprosy - and sin.  So the sinner confesses his sin and begs God's merciful – though sometimes harsh - laundering.

If we have come to Him for mercy, and if we join God's people in this minor-keyed song of repentance, then we need next to change to a major key.  We have confessed the awfulness of sin against so good a God, and now we need to confess the perfect and complete cleansing that God CAN accomplish!  We need to sing, "Wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow!"  When GOD answers our plea and cleanses us, then David's next words will be appropriate: "Make me hear joy and gladness, that the bones You have broken may rejoice!"  Only God can bring such forgiveness.  Only God can COMPLETELY reverse the effects of sin in our inmost being!  He CAN do it through the Cross of His Son!

Once God grants that gracious miracle, then we can hope for even more - we can hope for a future life free from the sins of the past!  In fact, the song goes on to pray for that very thing: "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.  Do not cast me away from Your presence, and do not take Your Holy Spirit from me!"  That's what every sinner needs.  It's an expression of dependence upon God's Spirit for every moment of life!

With such a miracle of forgiveness and cleansing, we can then even help others like ourselves. We can actually hope for the truth for ourselves of the following words:  "Then I will teach transgressors Your ways, and sinners shall be converted to You!" Not only so, but all this forgiving, cleansing work of God is the only - but adequate - means for opening our lips for praise.  So we can sing, with David, "O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall show forth Your praise!"  We should never presume to worship God without this wonderful cleansing and renewal.

Looking back on the way God has dealt with him, David - and every one of us - can say, "the sacrifices of God are a broken spirit.  A broken and a contrite heart - these, O God, You will not despise!"  The result is that afterward, when God's merciful cleansing has occurred, then we can look forward to spiritual prosperity, to freedom to worship Him with a clean conscience.

How is it with you?  Have you seen what sin really is in God's sight?  Do you know God well enough to realize, at least a little, the ugliness of it?  Do you confess it with broken heart?  Do you really care? It's the caring sinner that God forgives and justifies through His Son.

Al Moak

Here's a wonderful hymn that wonderfully reflects these thoughts.  Just click to hear the music.

Thank you so much, Al, the devotion is well written and I truly love that song.

Today has been a "telephone ministry" day, I think. After worship and lunch with friends, I found my couch much too comfortable and ended up resting for a couple of hours. Then, a call to a family member who has experienced not only the loss of her only child to brain cancer, but has also experienced three different bouts with cancer herself. Since we share the 23rd of different months as birthdays, when she said we should get together once a month, I suggested the 23rd! So, when I called, she wasn't able to have me come get her, but I thoroughly enjoyed listening to her (and praying silently as she was talking) for an hour and a half.

Then, next was a church member, who talked nonstop for almost the same length of time. By then, I was really ready for that cottage cheese/tomatoes/crackers dinner. Was it ever good. 

May our Lord be with us and minister to each of us as He perceives we have need. Imagine that! He knows what we need before we even ask. What an awesome God we serve.

Love to all,
Ruth Ann

It is interesting how messages intersect.  Pastor larry spoke on this subject today as well. 

Thank you Al.

Judy, my little book only has the name, such as John and the pronunciation...JAHN.  The original book has the meanings, where they are found in the Bible and short stories about them.  It is over 500 pages.  My little book is 36 half pages...still lots of names...over 4,000.  Some names in the original book said 'see ....'.  Hebrew name for a Greek name or vice versa.  I know I have many mistakes in my little book since there was no way to use spell check.  But I like it to insert in my Bible.  I have it on WORD.  If anyone would like to have it, email me.  If you print it on both sides, then fold it in half, it is like a book.

Today is a neurologist appointment.  Then Ivalou wants to go to the hospital for lunch and then visit the rehab department to see if they remember her.  Then she has rehab at 2pm.  Long day for her. 

Yesterday she gave me a scare.  She didn't show up for church.  I called her after church and the phone rang and rang.  So I left to check on her.  All the 4 miles home, I was imagining everything!  But when I went to her door, I could hear her talking to someone on the phone.  Seems she over slept and too late to call me.  Then when I called she was calling in her RX's and couldn't switch hook to take my call.  I thanked God that she was okay.  I don't want her to tell me everywhere or everything she does but today it just didn't add up.  I called Kaye Don and he didn't answer either...but he is in Michigan...I forgot!

Hi everyone.  It is a truly beautiful day here in Georgia.  I am sitting in the porch with a couple of windows open and there is a pleasant breeze coming in.  As it warms up a bit I will turn on the ceiling fan to stir the air more.  Where I sit I have a view out two windows that look across my yard into my neighbor's yard.  He keeps it very nice and and it looks like a well tended golf green.  He is mowing it at the moment.  I must remember to close the windows when I finish out here as the lawn people will be here sometime today.

We didn't walk this morning as the one man at coffee who walks in our group had two doctor appointment today and didn't have time.

My wife is still suffering with the muscle spasms in her hip.  She hoped she would be better this morning but doesn't appear to be.  This is the 4th day for this. 

I have a luncheon to attend at noon.  Today we are going to O'Charley's.  After lunch I will stop at a garden center and get some hanging planters.  We got three hanging plants from the greenhouse on Saturday.  This is all I have on my schedule for today. 

Al, thanks for that fine devotional thought for the week.  We as Christians are so fortunate to have Jesus Christ to bear these sins that we as human seem to be constantly making. 

Etta Sue, that would be frightening when you couldn't reach Ivalou.  I am sure she is comforted to know that you will be keeping a eye on her and follow-up with her when when you don't know that she is OK.  That book of names sounds like it was a lot of work.

Ruth Ann, those two people yesterday must have needed to talk. 

Carol, this is probably a great time to acquire a place to winter in Arizona.  It is hard to believe that so many people are condemning Arizona for trying to protect themselves by enforcing the law. 

Marilyn, hope you enjoy your visit with Keith's sister.  Is the first time you have met her?

Good morning all.  Larry no sunshine here.  I haven't checked to see the forecast for today, but I'm sure there is rain somewhere in there.

I'm headed out the door. I have a doctor's appointment at 8:45, so just enough time to say hello.  She will give me the results of my last lab tests and I'm hoping that my liver enzymes are back in line now.  She thinks it might have been from taking Tylenol and Aleve for my shoulder pain.  We'll see.

Have a blessed day, all.  I'll check back in later when I have time to comment.  Nita

Everyone will see

[Jesus said], "Then everyone will see the Son of Man arrive on the clouds with power and great glory. So when all these things begin to happen, stand straight and look up, for your salvation is near!"


Luke 21:27-28 NLT

Good Morning, Larry this will be the first time  meet Keith's sister. She is flying out for  his son's graduation from Medical School on the 1st but will visit us and friends while she is here. Keith's birthday is today and he has had a terrible toothache since yesterday morning. I sure hope he calls a dentist to get it fixed before he  has to leave for Portland and the graduation.

Today I am taking Happy back to the vet to see  if he needs another month of the fungus medicine, check his weight to see if he needs a change in his thyroid medicine. I am going to take Bebe along for the ride. I am also doing laundry and will bake Keith a cake this afternoon.

Nita it looks like the sun just might peek out of the clouds, it is not supposed to rain today but you never know right Nita?

Happy anniversary, Pat and Paul!!  Where does the time go?  You were just married last month. LOL

Marilyn, you are so right about the weather.  You just never know here in Oregon what it will be from minute to minute.  At least for now.  Maybe later, toward the end of May, we'll have some warm and sunny days.

Back from the doctor.  My liver enzymes are back down, and we're pretty sure it was the pain meds.  I guess I'm just very sensitive to that stuff.  I seldom ever have to take anything like that, but with the shoulder pain, I'd been taking them in the morning, and then at night.

QuoteEveryone will see

[Jesus said], "Then everyone will see the Son of Man arrive on the clouds with power and great glory. So when all these things begin to happen, stand straight and look up, for your salvation is near!"

Luke 21:27-28 NLT

Judy, can you just imagine?  I can't.  My heart beats faster just thinking of the sight, of His coming, but I still can't imagine it.

Nita I can't imagine either.  Soon sister soon!

That's lovely Jeanne!

Jeanne, how thoughtful. That's so pretty.  I'm sure they'll love it.

CP wouldn't load for me yesterday, so I got behind!

Good to read what is going on with each of you.  It is time to leave for work, so I will be back later today to post.

HAPPY SECOND ANNIVERSARY, PAT AND PAUL!!!

This week's promise: Christ will return
A heavenly vision

After I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and people and language, standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb. They were clothed in white and held palm branches in their hands. And they were shouting with a mighty shout, "Salvation comes from our God on the throne and from the Lamb!"


Revelation 7:9-10 NLT


Heavenly praise for the Lamb

Many times our prayers tend to focus on this world and the struggles we encounter in our lives. God understands and accepts these prayers, but we must also direct our thoughts and prayers to the victory we will share with Christ. In Revelation, God gives us a splendid portrayal of that final victory. In a vision, the apostle John sees a magnificent scene: a vast multitude celebrating the triumph of the Lamb of God. Waving palm branches, the traditional symbol of victory, people from all over the world extol God for the salvation he had provided through his Son.

As followers of Christ, today, we are privileged to be part of this multitude—the communion of believers. Because Jesus has overcome death, a new life of wholeness and peace through him has opened up to us. This is worth shouting about—praising God with all that is in us!

A prayer for today...

Dear Lord, I join your praying people through the ages to shout about that salvation that comes from you...

You know I just can't imagine what Heaven will be like.  We have the description, but I think the description pales compared to the reality of it.

Kassie has come back from Pitch and Praise totally on a spiritual high.  She is now talking about going to a Christian College.  I see growth this year. 

John is heading out we don't know where to yet.  But thankfully it will be just a week.  We have found out that a friend has stage 4 cancer in his leg.  Cancer is such an insidious disease.

I am keeping the dogs inside today, and the next couple of days.  At least till this heat wave ends.  It is so unusual for us to have 80+ degree weather in May.  They don't seem to like the idea of staying inside though.

Pat when do you leave for the west? 

God bless everyone!

Judy ~ Heat wave?  Didn't you just say a few days ago that you had that thick white stuff? 

Pat ~ Happy Second Anniversary!  I can never remember, are you in the US?  Canada?  Are the two of you together or one here and the other there?  Have you moved in completely in Virginia?  Keep us informed!

Here is a snippet of my 'little book'. 

      Eliel  ee LYE uhl
      Elienai  el eh EE nye
      Eliezer  el eh EE zuhr
      Elihoreph  el uh HOHR uhf
      Elihu  el LYE hoo
      Elijah  ee LYE juh
      Elika  el LYE kuh
      Elimelech  el LIM uh lek

You would think that when they all begin with e, l, & i that they would be pronounced the same.  NO!  It was fun to type and even to correct!  I corrected another one just now.  Most of my mistakes were u and h backwards such as Abagtha   uh BAG thuh and occassionally 'us' instead of 'uh.  Well, that's what am thinking are the most mistakes!  Ivalou couldn't use this book...she wasn't taught phonics in grade school.

Yesterday was a long day for Ivalou.  We went to the neurologist at 10am and she was asking him about the burning she has inside of her right arm and leg.  He said that wasn't stroke related.  So he told her to take a regime of 2 Tylenol Extra Strength three times a day for 2 weeks.  He thinks it might be inflammation and the Tylenol will get rid of it.  But here in Indiana, Tylenol has been taken off the shelves.  So she got some CVS that is comparable to Tylenol Extra Strength.  Hope it does the trick. 

After the drug store we went to the hospital where she was last fall to visit the rehab department.  When we went in she said 'I don't think I know how to get to rehab!'  She didn't come and go like I did so I told her that I knew the way.  She was wondering if they would remember her since it has been almost 7 months since she left rehab at the hospital.  Sure enough they all remembered her and they were all so pleased to see how well she walked and talked. 

Then we went to the cafeteria for lunch.  We got done eating and it wasn't even noon and she didn't have rehab at the rehabilitation center until 2pm!  So we sat there and people-watched until all the tables were filled.  So then we went to the entrance and sat.  At least there was a TV there to watch until the Soaps came on. 

Finally we got her to rehab and she is done with rehab Wednesday!  Every time she goes to rehab they give her more home exercises to do.  So I asked her what she was going to do with all her spare time with not going to rehab.  She said 'Do my exercizes!'  I am kind of sad that it is all over.  I will miss those little kids coming in for rehab.  We just don't know how much we are blessed until you see these little kids with all kinds of problems.  But without rehab Ivalou wouldn't be independent today!

Today Kitty and I are going to go swim but first, I want to mow my yard.  Tomorrow is the beginning of our 50th Class Reunion out of high school.  We are going to Brown County for two days, then tour the new high school on Friday and Friday evening is a catered meal at Lapel Lions Club.  Next Saturday, June 5, we will be recognized at the High School Commencement.

Yes Etta Sue we did have lots of white stuff, and the weather has done a 180 and now we have major heat coming up from the south.  Our temps are up in the 80's.  Now down south that is considered normal, but up here and this time of year mid 70's is the norm. 

I am glad Ivalou is doing so well.  Having her independence is so important.  Give her a hug for us here at CP.

Gotta run.

Hi everyone.  Been to coffee and a walk at the church gym.  I have somewhere I need to be about 10:45 and need to leave here in about 9 minutes.  This evening, if Pat is still feeling like it, we are going with our friends to the airport in the nearby town for dinner and to enjoy the two hour bluegrass band.  We were there last Tuesday evening and really enjoyed it and the rest of the band is suppose to be there tonight.  I was happy to hear Pat say she thought she would be up to it as not much walking and that is what is so painful for her right now. 

It is overcast here today and the wind has shifted to be from the East, which is a bit unusual.  We may get a shower later today, which would be fine. 

Happy Anniversary Pat and Paul.  Hard to believe it has now been two years. 

Good Morning, it is raining here  and will be for the next few days.

I took Happy back to the vet yesterday , his blood draw showed that his thyroid is right here we want it to be, he is to continue on with the fungus  and thyroid meds. I took Bebe along for the rind and she got to see the Doctor too for her first physical here in Oregon and they both got their  Booster and  Bordetella shots. It is better for them to have the Bordetella  if they are going to be boarded and they are  going to the horse ranch for boarding while we are gone.

Happy Anniversary Pat and Paul. How is your shoulder? We celebrated our first one last month.

I just had a very quick visit from Doug.  He has asked for prayer for the family.  God knows the details.

Dishonesty Doesn't Pay

One year, at Western, there were these two guys who were taking Chemistry and who did pretty well on all of the quizzes and the midterms and labs, etc., such that going into the final they had a solid A. These two friends were so confident going into the final that the weekend before finals week (even though the Chem final was on Monday), they decided to go over to Toronto and party with some friends there during the Vanier Cup weekend. So they did this and had a great time.

However, with their partying and everything, they overslept all day Sunday and didn't make it back to Western until early Monday morning. Rather than taking the final then, what they did was to find their Professor after the final and explain to him why they missed the final. They told him that they went up to Toronto for the weekend, and had planned to come back in time to study, but that they had a flat tire on the way back and didn't have a spare and couldn't get help for a long time and so were late getting back to campus.

The Professor thought this over and then agreed that they could make up the final on the following day. The two guys were elated and relieved. So, they studied that night and went in the next day at the time that the Prof had told them. He placed them in separate rooms and handed each of them a test booklet and told them to begin. They looked at the first problem, which was something simple about molarity and solutions and was worth 5 points. "Cool" they thought, "this is going to be easy." They did that problem and then turned the page. They were unprepared, however, for what they saw on the next page.

It said:
(95 points) Which tire?

- Don A. Wicks, Instructor Graduate School of Library & Information Science Elborn College, University of Western Ontario

*Thanks to Pastor Tim for this joke!*
cybersalt.org/cleanlaugh

We arrived home after a hard drive against wind only to find that a terrific old tree in the open space had collapsed - now where will the hawks go?  Such a hard drive that Don took it instead of me.  Then, one son came to visit and we were so happy to see that he was doing so well - life has been stressful for him lately. 

Today, just trying to catch up and a pot of Chicken Tortilla Soup is in the crockpot.  Have never made this before and it is a little of my own imagination which can be dangerous but it sure smells good.  The leftovers from a baked chicken is in the soup plus black beans, corn and chicken broth and a little kick of Rotel tomatoes.   

Summertime there is no Wed. bible study and I will feel lost tomorrow 

Happy 2 year anniversary to Pat and Paul.  Isn't it just wonderful that you found each other?  I know - it was planned   

Al:  thanks for devotions and the reminder to ask to be cleansed of all of our sins.  I do hope you and Marbeth are enjoying this spring.  Take care -

While cleaning the place in AZ, I found a bible under the bed along with all kinds of Budweiser beer caps.  A teen slept in that room - you never know what they are up to if you don't search the rooms.  I did when mine were young. 

Jeanne:  Perfect test for those young men. 

Guess who?....

hank you Colin I have saved yet another  of your wonderful poems.   


Now I will go back to my corner 

Colin - haven't seen you in here in quite a while.  That poetry is quite unusual, to say the least (and I only rarely say the least).  Good to see you back.

That is an amazing poem....


NOW don't be a stranger. Come back soon!

That's wonderful, Colin!

Hey there, Colin!  Thanks for remembering us.  Isn't it amazing how, if we are looking for them, life lessons can be found in the most ordinary of little things.  I like the poem a lot!  Come on back and chat with us, tell us what you've been up to besides writing poetry.  Oh!  And gardening, of course! 

Carol, where in Arizona is your place?  I think it is just unforgivable how Obama and his minions are trashing Arizona for simply trying to enforce the NATIONAL law!  I saw photos of a wash the illegals use, and it was a foot deep in trash.  I don't blame them for being upset, and not just about the trash, of course.  They are trashing our whole country!

I am getting more and more homesick for heaven.  I pray Jesus comes quickly.  Heaven will look a lot like earth, is my opinion, since the earth was made by God, in His taste.  Only heaven won't be marred by the effects of sin.

I had to work longer today, and will again tomorrow.  One gal's husband is undergoing heart cath and may get a stent.  I was supposed to be off on Thurs and Fri. but might have to work.  Working in the special care unit (Alzheimer's) is really different.  The weather really affects how the people act.  Yesterday was cloudy, horribly windy, and the residents were restless, crabby and just not doing well.  Today the sun was shining and they all ate well, most were in good moods, sure was a nice change.

They say and do some of the funniest things!  Of course, it is sad, too, but one cannot help but laugh sometimes, and they like laughter anyway.  They were taking glamour shots of them for nursing home week, and one lady came into the dining room with her face as white as paper.  she said, "I didn't want to spend time looking for my cleansing cream, so I'm cleansing my face with toothpaste today.  Well, that oughta work, hadn't it?"  I told one of the other workers that if she used the gritty kind, she could exfoliate while she was at it! 

One man sits at the table and repeats the same three or four phrases over and over and over and......  The other day, the CNA asked him, "Albert, tell us about Mary's little lamb."  He said, "Mary had a little lamb, its fleece was black as ink.  It chewed the paper off the wall, and spit it in the sink!"  I'll bet he learned that when he was a little boy.  Yes, working on the 100 neighborhood is a whole new world! 

I think it was Carol who asked about Beth and Mom.  Beth is the same, except that she may now have tumors growing on her optic nerves which could lead to losing her sight.  I pray that will not happen, please God.  Mom is the same, she will be 94 this week.  I have been reading my sister's book about WWII to her.  She can't see enough to read anymore because of glaucoma and macular degeneration.  John is coming in July!!

This is getting too long..........bye!

This week's promise: Christ will return

No clever story

We were not making up clever stories when we told you about the power of the Lord Jesus Christ and his coming again. We have seen his majestic splendor with our own eyes.


2 Peter 1:16 NLT 

Colin, you just made my day!  What cute poems!  I see you haven't lost your touch!  Now let us know how you have been doing! 

Janet, your experience at the nursing home with the patients are like mine while Ivalou was doing her rehab.  She said yesterday that she was glad that she wouldn't have to go back to rehab.  But I told her, I was a little sad because I won't see the little kids with joy on their faces when they see their therapists.  Or see people come and go and many of them much improved when I first saw them.  Yes, I will be sad to not see them but so grateful that Ivalou is much improved.  Fifteen years ago Ivalou wouldn't have been as independent as she is now after a major stroke. 

Well, I am all packed for Brown County.  Just like always, I am taking too much but what if I need it and don't have it?  I will be leaving at 1:30 but the laptop is going with me.  Free WiFi at Cornerstone Inn.  I just know we will have a great time!!

Kitty and I enjoyed a good swim yesterday and then we had chips and salsa at Chili's.

Colin, that's a real knee slapper!   

Savannah my 14 yr old grand daughter and Gilbert's  daughter will be graduating from the 8th grad on June 9th, smack dab in the middle of our vacation. So Keith will drive me back home where I will pick up my car and drive down for the graduation and spend the night there then drive back here early the next morning   where Keith will be waiting for me and  then we will be going back to Sunriver. Gilbert said he would rather have me come down for the graduation than for her birthday.

Back to my corner now.

On June 5th Kassie is leading the Air Cadets on parade and giving the orders, at Memorial Gardens.  I am so pleased for her.  We will know the evening of the 5th at the CO's dinner if she goes up another rank, and if she passes her level to level 5.  She has done a lot of teaching this year of the junior ranks.  As a result I suspect she will pass her level.

We have another HOT day here the forecast is for 30*C for the day.  Tomorrow it starts to cool down.  Then Thursday a welcomed day of rain...I hope!

Well, Marilyn, I'll be in California at the same time as you.  Think the state can handle both of us at once?  

I am planning to attend the memorial service at the California Veterans Home in Yountville on June 10th.  They have such a service the second Thursday of every month, to honor all those who passed the previous month.  Tom left his earthly home on the 16th of May.

Hi all.  Just finishing up my lunch while reading the postings.

Pat felt better yesterday afternoon and we went with our friend out to dinner last evening and then stayed to enjoy the bluegrass music.  We got home shortly after 9 pm so you can see we really aren't night people.  There were 5 players last night rather than two of the previous work.  We all agreed we enjoyed the two players as it wasn't quite as loud.  I think these men just come there every Tuesday night to play and doubt that they receive any pay.  My friend asked the head of the group what they would charge to come and play for a Sunday School party and he said nothing.  The group is a father and his two sons, who are great musicians plus two another guitar players.  I don't know whether they are related or not.

Today we went to Bible study with the pastor.  We are studying the book of Daniel and it is a very interesting study.  I did not go to the donut shop afterwards as wanted to return something to Lowe's and get home to do some other things.  Pat has gone to a luncheon at a friends house.  I know she is going to be exhausted when she gets back.

Marilyn, a belated happy anniversary.  I can't remember whether we extended congrats at the time and if I did do that just chalk it up to me getting a little forgetful.  I have too much stuff in my brain. 

Judy, that sounds like a nice opportunity for your daughter.  I hope she received the advancement.

Colin, great to see your posting again and thanks for the two poems.  Please don't be a stranger.

Janet, I came to have a special feeling in my heart for the folks in the Alzheimer's Unit where my Mother spent a couple of year or so.  I found the majority of the people who provide their care are also very special people. 

Wow....everyone says I am a stranger so I had better introduce me to myself. I have learned much wisdom since I was here before and this you will duly note. Thank you for all the comments on the poems. They are much appreciated. God bless

Colin that is a good poem as well Kass will enjoy both of them.  Have you ever put your poems into book form?  I am sure they would sell!

Larry no you didn't forget I just never mentioned it last month.

Well Jane we will soon find out if the state can handle both of us being there at the same time. I will be arriving on the 9th leaving on the 10th.

Hey everyone,

I use this incredible offer that I think you should check out. It's a free 34 volume QuickVerse Bible Software CD that this nonprofit ministry gives away (they do make you pick up the shipping).

I am quite impressed with the true ministry of this offer. You can get  the free CD at their website: http://www.FreeBibleSoftware.com or by calling 800-942-3766 You may want to forward this to the people you know that could use some good Bible software.

This week I got Spurgeon!!!

In Christ,

Pat



PS  This is what I'm getting on this new CD:

 This library includes these Christ-centered Bible study tools that will deepen your knowledge and move your heart in worship...


   Faith's Check Book, A Devotional, by Charles Spurgeon

In this well-known daily devotional, Charles Spurgeon provides the wealth of God's promises into the Christian's personal account of faith. In his characteristic pastoral manner, Spurgeon warmly exhorts the reader to see every promise that God has made to His children as a check that He has written, which is to be received and cashed by personally endorsing the gift it signifies. The believer will be led day by day through God's guarantees and pledges to His people supplying comfort, wisdom and understanding from His word.


   Words of Wisdom for Daily Life, by Charles Spurgeon

Read short reflections on a wide variety of topics from the eloquent and fiery 19th Century English preacher. Set in contemporary language for today's reader, Spurgeon approaches each topic with a sound biblical perspective, giving you godly truths that will strengthen your daily walk with the Lord.


   Grace, God's Unmerited Favor by Charles Spurgeon
Spurgeon discusses what it means to rest in the grace of God instead of trying to earn His favor. He explains the believer's position in Christ, addressing the provisions God has made for all of His children, including the righteousness of His Son, pardon of all sin, unconditional love, everlasting life, purpose for living, spiritual guidance, and unshakable faith. Discover the wonderful security, peace, and fullness in your life that only comes from an understanding of God's great grace.


And, Al, it doesn't work on a MAC.    

Well, hello everyone!

Yep!  I'm the stranger!  While in Virginia, I have to use the internet at McDonalds or the HandyMart and sometimes after the drive to get there and then the awkwardness of using the laptop in the car, I just can't be online as much as I'd like.

Hopefully, this might change in July according to what Paul told me the other night.

Thank you for the anniversary greetings.  Much appreciated!

Al, what a wonderful devotion this week.  I so appreciated it and also the hymn you posted (I still have it playing here).

Colin, I love your poems so much and it's so good to see you participating once again.  You see?  Everyone has missed you so much and they love you so hurry back.

My goodness, I'm missing anniversaries, birthdays, and everything. To all, my best and great wishes for the future.

Well, it's been a fun day. I picked up the lady I take to the heart doctor and we met friends at a fish restaurant that has senior days on Wednesday - a full meal plus drink for $4.49 plus tax. And, there are 10 meals to choose from!

Then, we all went trouping over to the church to do our part toward keeping it neat and clean.

Then the group went their own ways, and Lois and I proceeded to go to WalMart and do coupon shopping. She was amazed at how much money we saved with those coupons.

So, a lovely day was had by all.

G'nite, friends.

Ruth Ann Glad you had a good day.  Well deserved!

I'm having a difficult time settling tonight.  My mind is going a hundred miles an hour and that makes it hard to settle.

Kassie was impressed with the last song by the American Idol.  His finishing song was apparently a Christian song.  Not one I know but the young people know them well. 

Kassie's bag tore at the weekend outing she was on.  So today I made her one that she can use to finish the school year.  Next year she can get a new one again.  Today was an entire day of outdoor activities.  She came home with headache and hot body.  She got into a cool shower and started the cool off, but was still feeling the effects when she went to bed.  I will let her sleep in tomorrow, that should restore the good health.

Well I am off to check other posts and then try to get some rest again.

 

Hi everyone.  I thought I would get here earlier, and it looks like I may be the first for this morning although see a couple of postings after midnight.  I don't think I have ever posted in the very early morning hours as am almost always asleep.

Not much on the schedule for today with no appointments or commitments.  So I will continue to work on some projects here on the computer.  I do need to prepare for something I have committed to do tomorrow evening.

Ruth Ann, nice to see your cheery posting and know you had an enjoyable day.

Judy, sorry to hear that Kass is not feeling well.  Hope she is better today.

Pat, sure hope Paul is able to get fast internet for you all at your new home in Virginia.  I know that has been a real hassle.  Thanks for the info on the Bible resources, I will check it out.

Good morning.  I am up and at 'em!  Talk about your mind going a mile a minute!  That was me last night trying to go to sleep.  I am at Cornerstone Inn in Nashville, IN, and after visiting with 23 classmates and their wives, my mind wouldn't shut off.  Then the alarm went off at 6:15am.  But I am ready to go to the dining room for breakfast.  They sure do put on a feast here.  We are all having so much fun!  Really fun! 

Off to see who is up and at 'em at this time of day!

Larry I have these occasional nights that I am awake.  More often than I like. 

Etta sue I am glad the reunion is all that you hope it to be,  Enjoy your time with your friends.

This week's promise: Christ will return
A message for all people

With my authority, take this message of repentance to all the nations, beginning in Jerusalem: "There is forgiveness of sins for all who turn to me."


Luke 24:47 NLT

Oh, my goodness, it feels wonderful to just be at home today!!  I have missed being here.  I have been busy playing catch up on household chores, but want to get other things done, too.  Have to work tomorrow, Saturday and Monday.  Then I think I will tell them no more for a while.  It is wearing me out!  I have been working an additional three hours, so from 6 AM through lunch, until I get things cleaned up.

Marilyn, too bad the graduation falls in the middle of your vacation.  We had to change the dates of a big trip a few years ago so as not to miss Mark's high school graduation, so since then, I call and check about any "big" days for the grandkids before booking the trips!  You will be glad you made the extra effort to go, and she will not forget it.

Ruth Ann, good to hear about your good day!  I'm so glad you aren't still working so hard.  God bless you.

Judy, hope Kass is feeling better by now.  She's a busy girl.

Colin, I always enjoy your poems, and it's so good to have you posting again. 

Larry, I wish I had a little of your computer knowledge.  Maybe then I could salvage parts from several computers and have one working one again.  I would just make do with this laptop, if I had a printer that works!  It is very frustrating not to have a printer.  The new HP one just quit, so aggravating.  Glad you have a slower day today.

Darrel has gone to the hospital to get chest X-rays, blood work and an EKG in preparation for his upcoming surgery.  He will also get another infusion IV of Rocefin and a B12 shot.  Poor guy.  I  hope they get the surgery scheduled soon, this whole thing is really dragging him down.  And every time the infection comes roaring back, it is more antibiotic resistant.

My Mom's 94th birthday is this week, so I want to make her a special card.  I am reading to her as my gift, since there isn't really anything she needs or has room for in her room at the home.

The next several weeks are really going to be hectic, what with my painting class at Fowler, family reunion up by Emporia, then followed quickly by a week long scuba trip to Cozumel.  So we need to be feeling good!

See you later!

Sandy (my SIL) is already in town and will be meeting Keith at his office  by noon he will bring her her for lunch and I don;t know the plan for this afternoon. We went down to the docks late yesterday afternoon to get the Salmon and Crabs. We got a huge chunk of Chinook Salmon and 3 Crabs.

This morning I have rubbed the Salmon with Emeril's Cajun  seasoning and covered it in lemon slices wrapped it up in heavy foil, I will broil it in the foil. We will each have our own crab for  the appetizer.  Boy this is going to be one expensive dinner. The fish and crab was $75.00 then another $50 at Walmart. I would never had spent that much on one meal. So glad I am not the one dishing out the $$$$.

I have done all that I am going to do with the housework and I am gonna go to my Yoga class shortly and relax.

Marilyn:  Yum - salmon and crab.  Dungeness crab? 

Janet:  Goodness for your energy - I feel I am lacking same today.  Wearing my $39 very odd looking tennis shoes that make a person stand straight so maybe that will help.  You think?  email is on the way to you.

Love the hymn "All Creatures of our God and King" - it was last heard & sung by us while visiting St. Mildred's chapel in Canterbury, England.  The people were so friendly. 

A good friend is at the May Clinic in Rochester this morning for tests - severe stomach pain - and we will find out what tests he will go through in the next few days.  Please pray for Kent.

Carol Yes Dungeness crab.

Janet Gilbert didn't know  when the graduations was when we made the reservations for our vacation. We had to take the dates available for the timeshare and get in before July 1st to use our points and not lose them.

Hi Everyone...

Great to read all your posts.

Have you ever noticed on the left sidebar "RANDOM PHOTOS" that appear each time you click on a new page?  If you click refresh over and over, they change.

There are some fantastic photos in our gallery and we'd sure love it if you see a photo there, click on it and you'll be taken to that member's album and you can leave a comment to them.

It sure encourages those of us who like to take photos! 

(I just saw one of Happy dog and was going to click but now it's gone.  It will come back though)

This has been a good but somewhat frustrating day.  Good because grandson Mark came and was here long enough to eat lunch with us.  Always so good to see him and collect some of those good hugs!    He will travel to Antigua the first part of next week to do paperwork for a job he thinks he has pretty well cinched there, as a flight instructor.  This is the island near Barbados, not Antigua in Guatemala.  If he does get the job, he will be there for at least one year.  Darrel told him we will come visit him!    He came to borrow our enclosed trailer to move his belongings from Salina back down here.  They will probably just stay in that trailer until he comes home again after the year in Antigua!  Good thing we don't use the trailer very often!

Oh.........and frustrating because I didn't accomplish nearly as much as I had hoped.

Carol, thanks for the email!  I will answer it soon.

Darrel got all tested and poked.  One more day of IV antibiotics to go......

Beth has decided she wants to go out to the worship service and dinner that are part of the All School Reunion being held this weekend here at the civic center.  She doesn't want to attend the banquet Saturday night and sit with her former classmates.  So many of them were cruel to her when they were in school.  The Sunday dinner will be much less formal, and those who care about her can come over and talk to her.  I'm glad she decided she wants to go.  I had planned to take her, but the gal who transports the residents to various appointments and such at the care home called a while ago and said she is taking her.  She's a good friend of Beth's, so that is fine.  I will be around if needed, too. 

Darrel's brother is coming for the school reunion, too, but he stays at a motel.  I don't know when he plans to arrive.  All our kids graduated from this high school, but I think only Beth and Diane plan to attend.  They have this big reunion every five years.  Kerri (youngest daughter) has to take her German exchange student to Kansas City that day to catch his plane back to Germany.

Time to rustle up some supper!

I just can't tell you how much I have enjoyed these two days.  It seems the quiet ones in high school are the ones that are the most outgoing today!  Who would have thought that?  And my friend and classmate in Mexico?  Well, he Skyped with all the classmates yesterday afternoon.  I hope he enjoyed it as much as all of them here seemed to enjoy talking and seeing him. 

Today we check out by 11am.  Then we now have two tours.  One tour for the new high school at 3:15 and then another tour of the high school that we attended which is now Elementary and Middle School at 4:30.  Hope there is enough time to get to the second one.  Then at 5:30 we are go be at the Lions Club for our dinner tonight.  There are 24 here at Cornerstone Inn but there is to be 40 for dinner this evening. 

Then we are done until commencement night June 5th. 

I have loved every minute of it! 

Last evening while I was in the Lower Level, we had a terrific storm.  When we all left for dinner, leaves were plastered on everything.  Twigs and limbs everywhere.  I am just glad I wasn't where I could see the storm.  I would rather be home during storms! 

This week's promise: Christ will return

A vision of heaven

Now I saw heaven opened, and a white horse was standing there. And the one sitting on the horse was named Faithful and True. For he judges fairly and then goes to war. His eyes were bright like flames of fire, and on his head were many crowns. A name was written on him, and only he knew what it meant. He was clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and his title was the Word of God.


Revelation 19:11-13 NLT

Crown Him with many crowns, the Lamb upon His throne; Hark! how the heavenly anthem drowns all music but is own. Awake, my soul, and sing of Him who died for thee, and hail Him as they matchless King through all eternity.

Crown Him with Many Crowns,
Matthew Bridges (1800-1894)


Crown Him with Many Crowns

Matthew Bridges became a convert to Roman Catholicism at the age of forty-eight and published this hymn three years later under the title "The Song of the Seraphs." Godfrey Thring, an Anglican clergyman, added several stanzas to the hymn about thirty years later, with Bridges's approval. So a Roman Catholic layman and an Anglican cleric, who probably never met, were coauthors of a hymn about heaven, where Christians of every tribe and tongue, as well as of every denomination, will crown Him Lord of all.

One of the aspects that Godfrey Thring felt was missing in the original was a stanza on the Resurrection, and so it was added. "His glories now we sing who died and rose on high, who died, eternal life to bring, and lives, that death may die."

We have a beautiful day here today.  Sun is shining and the heaviness is gone.

I am heading out to mow the lawns, and then running errands.  Taking advantage of the beautiful weather.

I have been singing as I have mowed.  Thankfully the roar of the engine drowns out my voice!  Only God hears me!!!  This is what I have been singing.

Jesus Name above all Names
Beautiful Saviour, Glorious Lord
Emmanuel, God is with us
Blessed Redeemer, Living word

I am out of gas so have to run into town.  As a result I will do all my running around and be done for the day.

Judy, I love that little chorus, too!

Busy day at work, now I am tired, so early to bed and early to rise---again.

We had a funny thing happen two days in a row.  We saw a turtle on the road, and picked it up.  It was not happy about this and proceed to let us know.  Today we saw a turtle again......and it did the same thing!  Both times we put the turtle into the river or creek.  Kass is sure it was the same turtle!!!

Judy, maybe y'all would like to try putting that turtle on the OTHER side of the road!

With various doctor appointments for my elderly friend being this week, I took a "vacation day" today. I'm still in my robe!

Ahhhhh, it's really nice to be retired and in charge of my calendar.

Tomorrow, of course, will be devoted to preparing the powerpoint files for Sunday's worship service, then deciding what to cook to take for our all-church dinner after church.

So, I'm ready to rest the remainder of the evening away.

G'nite, friends.

Ruth Ann

Ruth Ann, I think I am going to have to re-retire in order to be in charge of my calendar!  This is getting ridiculous!  So good to know you are doing well at this time.

Judy, if you and Kass meet your turtle friend again, try marking it with just a dab of fingernail polish on its shell.  Then you will know for sure if it happens again.

You know Janet I suggested to Kass that we do that, but we didn't have any with us.  I think I will grab some from the dollar store for that purpose.  Ruth Ann e have now tried both sides!  Silly turtle is going to get killed.

It is a cooler morning, the humidity is gone, and we have another lovely day.  John is home and is wanting to till the garden.  I have the lawns to finish and Kass has her things to do.  In all we all will be busy.

Have a great day every one.

The servant's reward

If the master returns and finds that the servant has done a good job, there will be a reward.


Matthew 24:46 NLT


A day of reward

There are as many ways to look at the return of Jesus as there are opinions about how it will happen....To the Romans, Paul calls is the "day of God's wrath" (Romans 2:5)....In his first letter to the Corinthians, Paul refers to it as the "day of the Lord" (1 Cor. 5:5). And in his second letter to the same church he calls it the "day of salvation" (2 Cor. 6:2)....To the Ephesians he calls it a "day of redemption" (Eph. 4:30). And he encourages the church of Philippi to stand strong until the "day of Christ Jesus" (Phil. 1:6). Jude doesn't even try to describe it—he just calls it the "great Day" (Jude 1:6).

Each of these phrases suggests a unique and different view....But there's one I like the best. For followers of Jesus, it will be a day of reward.

James tells us, "God blesses the people who patiently endure testing. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him: (James 1:12)....In his second letter to Timothy [Paul says], "Now the prize awaits me—the crown of righteousness that the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on that great day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his glorious return" (4:.

But it is Jesus himself who puts it best: "Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven" (Matt. 5:12). As Christians, we have a lot to look forward to!

I am highly impressed with the new high school.  They have a little over 400 in attendance and this is the end of the third year since the school opened.  My, 45 computers in the computer training class where they learn everything you need to know about computers but are afraid to ask.  In the English room, the computers are in the desks where they write their essays and takes their quizzes...can't copy the person beside you!  The weight room is full of bench presses, treadmills etc. for strength and cardio workouts.  The gym is three basketball courts with dividers between them when necessary but when a official game is played the bleachers come out to seat 7,000!!!  The auditorium seats 700 with an orchestra pit and you can't even see anyone in the pit.  The Science Lab is better than Ball State University's Science Lab!  All classrooms are furnished with overhead screens so what is on the teacher's computer is seen by all the class.  The only thing I truly recognized the same as to what was in the old high school were the pencil sharpeners!! !!  They were still the 'stick your pencil in the left side and turn the crank on the right' kind!

After the tour, we met at the Lions Club for our evening meal.  There were 43 there.  25 classmates, one class sponsor and 17 spouses.  And we voted to go to Cornerstone Inn again next year!!  I am to call today and get a block of rooms reserved! 

Now we go to the 2010 Commencement next Saturday evening.

Etta Sue Wow you talk about an up to date school.  I have never seen anything like that up here.  That is really great for the students.  How many students could they accommodate?

It is cool enough today after the intense heat of the past couple of weeks that I am wearing a light weight jacket.  It is a beautiful day.

I think that I forgot to mention that the high school that I went to was fairly new.  The class of 1955 was the first class to attend that school and graduate and they only attended their Senior year.  The Class of 1954 had their Commencement in the gym but didn't go to school there! 

Another beautiful day in Indiana.  Not a cloud in the sky and already 72°.  It got to 90° yesterday.  Thank God for air-conditioning!

I am ready for church.  I don't know if Ivalou is going or not...her daughter, Jo, is here.  But I won't call or worry if they don't show up like last week! 

This week's promise: God's Word is powerful
Blessed rest

Blessed are those who die in the Lord...They are blessed indeed, for they will rest from all their toils and trials; for their good deeds follow them!


Revelation 14:13 NLT 

I have more time this morning because we are going to the worship service at the all school reunion, which doesn't start until 10:30.  We went to the banquet last night.  There were hundreds of people there, and it was very nice.  Of course, we saw and visited a little with lots of people we don't see often.  Darrel's class was the class of 1956. (I didn't attend school here, but all my kids graduated from this high school.)

Etta Sue, glad you had such a great time at your class reunion. 

I am watching Jentezen Franklin on TV.  On Sunday mornings, I hear four sermons before I go to church! 

Hi everyone on a beautiful Sunday morning here in Georgia.  It is sunny and suppose to reach 80 today.  I just stepped outside to take out the trash and it is very pleasant. 

We had a full day Friday and then yesterday morning took our daughter back to her apartment.  Pat and I were both really tired yesterday evening.  It is unusual for her to go to bed before I do but she did last night and slept well until about 8 am this morning.  I enjoyed an extra hour of sleep as well.

We will be attending church this morning and then going out to eat either with the group or just Pat and I.  She fixed chicken on the grill last evening and it was very good along with some sautéed squash. Then think we will have a quiet afternoon and evening.  We have nothing planned for tomorrow other than I will go to my men's luncheon. 

Etta Sue, it sounds like you had a wonderful weekend with former classmates.  Having lived far away from where I went to school I think I have attended only one or two alumni banquets.  Our school was so small that all classes attend the same banquet.  It has to be a dying event as there have been no new folks eligibile to attend since 1959, the year I graduated. 

Janet, you and Darrel have such busy lives.  Sure hope Darrel's surgery takes care of his recurrent problem.  Infections are nothing to fool around with. 

Judy, thanks for the daily scriptures and posting the hymns.

Marilyn, that sounds like a meal to remember and one not to be experienced too often.  Hope everyone enjoyed it.

Ruth Ann, it is nice of you to help a friend get to the doctor appointments.  Glad you can have a day to yourself. 

With the new & expensive hearing aides, Don could not hear anything at church and music was especially distorted.  Feeling sad.  We will go back and use the church aides that did work very well on the speaker not on any singing or any music.  Tough for a former musician.

It is very windy outdoors and has been all day long.  We had a quiet day at home and I did a little sewing.

Larry:  It does sound like Stacey is visiting with you and Pat more often and isn't that nice for you. 

Carol I am so sorry about Don's hearing.  I understand how you feel.....Helpless.  Dad had a hearing problem as well, He missed hearing crickets...funny eh....Sad too.  I have been praying for you both.

Carol, that is so sad about Don's hearing.  I am sure both of you are mourning this loss.

Beth had a pretty good time yesterday at the last of the reunion festivities.  One of the girls from her class took time to visit with her, which helped.  And she got to see several people who care about her, one was our former neighbor who came to the hospital in Wichita to visit her.

Both Darrel's brother and sister were in town for the reunion, but we only got to talk to them a little bit out there, neither one came to the house to visit.  Strange family sometimes. 

I am up way too early, couldn't sleep any more.  Have to work today, then hope the wind isn't blowing a gale, as I want to go to the cemetery later.

See you later!

(Since the door was still unlocked, I posted on yesterday's.  If someone comes to lock up for last week, please move this to today's page.  Thanks.)

Hi everyone on this Memorial Day here in the USA.  We had a heavy rain about 6 am and more showers or thunderstorms are predicted throughout the day.  It also rained very heavily last evening for about 30 minutes. 

I just spoke with our daughter and whenever the weather is stormy she suffers more from the pain in her feet and legs and back.  She is planning on staying in today. 

I have my men's luncheon today and we are going to a new place for us that is a buffet.  That is all that is on my schedule so am looking forward to a quiet and restful day.  We couldn't walk this morning as the church is locked the Memorial Day.

Carol, sorry to read that Don's hearing aids are not doing the job.  Several of my morning coffee friends wear hearing aids and they were discussing them this morning. 

Janet, it was nice to read that Beth enjoyed the class reunion.  Hope you don't have to work too hard today.   

It is time to move a new slate.  Traveling is fun, especially when you travel by clicking here.