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Morning Devotional...



Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.... And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever. --1 John 2:15,17

Any appeal to the public in the name of Christ that rises no higher than an invitation to tranquillity must be recognized as mere humanism with a few words of Jesus thrown in to make it appear Christian....

Christ calls men to carry a cross; we call them to have fun in His name. He calls them to forsake the world; we assure them that if they but accept Jesus the world is their oyster. He calls them to suffer; we call them to enjoy all the bourgeois comforts modern civilization affords. He calls them to self-abnegation and death; we call them to spread themselves like green bay trees or perchance even to become stars in a pitiful fifth-rate religious zodiac. He calls them to holiness; we call them to a cheap and tawdry happiness that would have been rejected with scorn by the least of the Stoic philosophers....

We can afford to suffer now; we'll have a long eternity to enjoy ourselves. And our enjoyment will be valid and pure, for it will come in the right way at the right time.
Dr. Tozer in "Born After Midnight", pp. 141-142

"Lord, may I be faithful to call people to that which is important to You, at whatever cost. Thank You that 'we can afford to suffer now; we'll have a long eternity to enjoy ourselves.' Amen."

Hi everyone.  We have a cloudy and chilly day in the Atlanta area but suppose to warm up in a day or so.  Our Cantata last evening went very well and was well attended.  I will take our daughter back home later this morning and try to get her computer setup on wi-fi.  I did a lot of maintenance on it while I had it here so hopefully that should be an easy process.  I have an appointment this afternoon to have my pacemaker checked. 

Ruth Ann, the choir gave me a lovely wall hanging that said "To everything there is a season. a time for every purpose under Heaven"  (Ecclesiastes).  I thought it was very appropriate and will always appreciate it and looking at it will bring back many wonderful memories over the years to come.  They also gave me a little Christmas figurine of a caroler and a very nice card signed by choir members with little messages. 

Judy, of course I felt a bit of sadness if knowing it was my last time to sing with the choir but also a sense of gratitude for the wonderful friends I made with the choir family and to God for the ability to sing over these many years. 

Terry, join with us for a few days and you will feel you have known us for a long time.  We love having new folks join with us and share about their daily lives and families as they feel comfortable.  I feel much closer to the folks on this website than I do to a large part of my family.  Sure glad you found us.

Gord, for years I have wanted a home with a garage to accommodate my cars as I never liked to get into a cold car or a blazing hot one in summer.  I was very surprised years ago when I lived in Alaska that very few people had garages.  You had to have an engine heater in use during the winter so you could get your car started and also deal with the ice and snow on the cars. Gord, that is a beautiful solo pieces that you sang.  Our son seems to be doing fine now and has recovered from his surgeries and then the little bout with the flu.

John, as always it was good to see your message.  Glad your driving conditions have been good so far this year.  While we haven't talked about it yet I think Pat and I will consider my new desktop computer and her Kindle Fire as our Christmas for each other.  There will be 5 of us here at Christmas so will have something under the tree for the others and know they have something for us so we will be continuing our family tradition of sharing gifts after a finger food type of meal. 

Carol, sounds like you have winter out your way with the ice.

Marilyn, it is always nice to have a routine type day, at least it is for me.

Pat, thanks for the devotional thought for the week. 

Pat, a wonderful devotional this morning.  And a lovely graphic for the Christmas season.

Larry, what an appropriate wall hanging to apply to your retirement from the choir.  Now it's your turn to sit back and enjoy the results of the efforts of other people.

Terry, as Larry said, welcome to our "family".  We share each others' concerns and joys, always remembering that God is in control at all times.

Oh how I would love to have a garage, especially in winter.  But the rules of the trailer park say "No garages", so I'll just have to continue clearing the snow off the car.  It would be much easier without a roof rack, but we didn't think of that when we bought the car - 14 years ago!   :D

Bonesy, don't forget, when you make a stop in Wilton you're going to give me a call!

Pat, Your devotional was great. We are assured that we have the Holy Spirit living in us to help us in times of trial. What a blessed assurance and how much needed!!

I am without a vehicle..... my brakes failed on Friday in North Bay; 50 kilometers (30 miles) from home. I had to have it towed to a garage and I'm waiting to find out what it will cost me to get it back on the road. We have some wonderful friends who took us to a Christmas dinner on Saturday and let us borrow their vehicle, with the promise to pick them up for church, yesterday. I am supposed to work today, however had no way to get there; hoping for Wednesday.

I have been in every day to read, and keep up with everyone on C.P. Terry, it's true that the friends you find here become an extension of your family.... I love & pray for them all, even though I don't post often.

Thanks, Pat, for the lovely devotion. 

One of our congregation sang 'Mary, Did You Know' yesterday.  I get goose bumps when I hear that song.  Such a wonderful song. 

Crochet Angels displayed all their finished items to take to Third Phase.  We have 40 items.  That was all done in about two months!  I called Third Phase Saturday and told them what we were doing.  They were delighted and said that they were positive they would get some great use out of them.  I think I will take them tomorrow. 

Marilyn, I have seen the photos of Jackson on here and FB but failed to comment.  I do say he is a keeper!  Such a pretty baby!

And Larry, now you will sit in the pews and listen to the choir...and imagine the joy you gave others while you were singing in the choir.  And what precious gifts the choir members gave to you! 

Bonsey, remember if you are around Indianapolis, give me a call.  I would love to join you in a cup of coffee and great conversation!

One of our Elders passed away Saturday evening.  He was 82 and at church last Sunday.  His health has been failing the past two years.  His burial will be Wednesday.  Our church will have a funeral dinner for the family.  I love working at those dinners with all the other ladies.  Not for the reason but for the togetherness. 

Tonight is our Christmas Dinner with my Photo Guild.  We won't be showing photos but one of the members asks for 5-6 photos from the members and then puts them on a DVD with music.  Always nice to see the wonderful photos of the Guild members.  I think there will be another program but not sure what.  And of course, great food!

Good morning everyone, I am going to bake the last Banana bread this morning and perhaps make another batch of fudge. Then I am going to thoroughly clean my kitchen floors and counters. I make such a mess when I get the standing mixer out and use so many bowls and measuring cups.

Hi Etta Sue you posted  while I was typing. Thanks for the nice comment on Jackson. Keith is so proud of his first grandson.

Hi, friends,

I've been listening to a friend with her troubles for a while, so needed to come here to praise the Lord for another new day and for His mercies that truly are fresh every morning for us.

I am thinking of the song that talks about the riches of God. How comforting to know He's with us and carries us when we're too weak to walk alone.

Unsearchable Riches

Oh, the unsearchable riches of Christ,
Wealth that can never be told!
Riches exhaustless of mercy and grace,
Precious, more precious than gold!

Precious, more precious,
Wealth that can never be told!
Oh, the unsearchable riches of Christ!
Precious, more precious than gold.

Y'all have a wonderful day.

Ruth Ann

What a wonderful rendition of this hymn!  Please CLICK HERE (http://www.bereansudbury.ca/Sound/ItIsWellWithMySoul.mp3) and then you can follow the words below or just sing along with them.  What a wonderful choir!

Pat:  Thanks for the music. 

RuthV:  Sorry about your car and I hope it doesn't cost you too much to have it fixed. 

I spent 1/2 of the day dealing with a mistake from my doctor's office to where they sent a prescription request.  The pills were sent to me but are not covered by my insurance and they say I owe almost $100.00 even though they were never opened.  My prescriptions are covered at another place - and this was a computer entering error I am sure. 

Also, still need a oven & need repairman to call back. 

For fun tonight, we are going to listen to the high school orchestra where grandson has two trumpet solos.  Is it ever dark outside and yes, there is ice on the road. 

We parked in a waiting area by the airport last night and every car was practically jumping when of all things - the beleaguered Broncos won.  Behind 10 to zero with five minutes remaining, they caught up & tied the game.  In sudden death overtime - field goal.  Denver Broncos with ever faithful Tim Tebow won 13 to 10.  Our son was watching the game in the plane prior to landing & the entire plane went wild. 

Just thought you might like to know  :D

Carol, I saw a very inspirational clip on TV this morning about Tebow.  What a wonderful example of Christianity that young man is.  I'm so proud of him!  And glad the Broncos won, too (because of him.)

The guys came today and took out all the upper kitchen cabinets, got the walls primed.  He said the top cabinets are all cut out, but they sent the wrong dimension of lumber for the backs so he couldn't put them together.  The right material is in now, so he will just send Dallas to paint tomorrow and he will be putting the cabinets together.  Says we should have the kitchen back together by Friday.  We will see!  ;)  What will be, will be okay, I know things happen that are not in his control, so I am not getting upset about it.  Have decided not to decorate at all for Christmas, (Unless I really get inspired when the kitchen is done!)  I haven't bought a gift, nor even hung a wreath.....never have I had a Christmas like this before!

Larry, so glad your choir family gave you such thoughtful gifts.  It is so nice to be appreciated.

Ruth, I hope you get your car back soon, and without too much expense.  It's really hard to be without a car!

Marilyn, I saw the pictures of the baby.  He is precious, and God must have a lot of faith in us humans, to entrust such sweet, innocent lives into our hands, don't you think?

Beth's aunt gave her a pretty ring last Christmas, and she has worn it constantly.  But on Friday, her hand swelled up inexplicably, the ring was really tight and her finger was turning blue, so they had to cut it off.  Now I am wondering WHY her had swelled up like that.

I got called in to write out a statement of what I saw and heard when Myrtle passed away last week.  Then I had to sign it before a Notary.  So while there, I went in and read a story to Beth and John, who was on the phone.  He will be arriving this Saturday, and neither he nor Beth can hardly wait!

I finally got all the complicated mats cut for those six big pieces I am framing.  Tomorrow I will get them stretched and cut the glass, and if the frames arrive, start putting those together.  Since I have only one corner vise it will take a while to do all of them!

It is cold here!

Carol, all Paul is talking about is Tim Tebow!!!!  He just phoned his brother in Oregon to talk about Tim Tebow!!!  So I can imagine the plane erupting!!!

Tim Tebow

[attachimg=1[attachimg=2]]

Pat:  It is so wonderful.  It may not last but at least people are acknowledging someone of faith - and the Christian faith to boot.  What could be better at our time in history?  Hugs to you & Paul.

We had a fantastic time at the high school concert.  The acoustics were so good and people quiet that Don was able to hear our sophomore grandson in his two trumpet solos.  Tears of joy.

I forgot to say that church had songs Don knew on Sunday AM and he sang.  More moments of thankfulness - just loving the season. 

Janet:  Only one hand was swollen?  Do they have a doctor to check Beth's hand?  You have the right attitude about the kitchen but we sure do like things working in the kitchen. 

Thank you Janet and Carol. Because my regular garage did not have the right diagnostic tools, I had the car re-towed to a Chrysler dealership. I'm waiting to hear from them.

Because we are without transportation, both my husband and I are missing our usual studies in town. However, I have much to do here at home.

Pat: Even though troubles come, it's great to remember, "it is well with my soul." I do love that song!!

Dallas is here, painting in the kitchen; Lon is in his workshop, building the upper cabinets, he just has to assemble them; and Sharon is here trying to figure out how to clean around all the misplaced stuff!  Life is good...... ::)

I have no idea why only one of Beth's hands swelled up.  Another mystery.  Carol, I am thanking God along with you about the blessings of the season for you and especially Don.  I have some idea how he feels; our new worship leader (KID) plays so loud you cannot hear the voices; I asked him Sunday morning if he was aware that Christmas is this month?  He said yes, so I asked if we were going to sing any Christmas songs, he said yes again.  Well, he opened with a VERY LOUD, jazzed up, almost non-recognizable version of Joy to the World.  I am not happy about the change in music........

I got all those mats cut yesterday, now I must get in there and assemble the things. 

Ruth, nice to see you.  I included your nieces' stories in the book, but unfortunately, they were edited out.  :(  Editor said she only wanted to hear Beth's story.........I was disappointed in that, as I felt the information in your girls' stories would be helpful in understanding Neurofibromatosis.

Blessings to you all!

Hope you get wheels soon, Ruth!  Did you have to take it to North Bay? 

Janet, and all of this renovation was caused by? 

It's been a long many months!!!!

Being without a car can certainly be a challenge.  When mine was a couple of days in the shop recently, my son-in-law came by and seeing the empty driveway just drove away, sure I wasn't at home.   :) 

I certainly understand about "moving back in" after major work in your home. My apartment is still not as I want it to be.  All things come with time, and it will be SUCH a good thing when it's as I want it to be for welcoming each day with our Lord (and with the occasional visitor!). :)

Today's really busy, so I must prepare to leave home, probably for the rest of the day.

May our Lord be with each of us today.

Ruth Ann

Yes Pat, I had it initially towed to Powassan, however the garage did not have the tools to properly diagnose and fix the problem; ABS - brakes, all dual powered! So yesterday I called CAA to ask if they would tow it back up to the Chrysler dealership in North Bay. I'm anxiously awaiting their phone call.

Quote from: Jeanne Lee on December 13, 2011, 10:59:50 AM
Being without a car can certainly be a challenge.  When mine was a couple of days in the shop recently, my son-in-law came by and seeing the empty driveway just drove away, sure I wasn't at home.   :) 

Jeanne, I had this happen too, with some friends. Everyone expects to see a car in the yard, especially when we live so far from town.

Here is a link to some of the gifts I made this year. I did all of these yesterday.
Click Here (http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd222/tudogmom/Earrings.jpg)

Hi everyone.  Am sitting here eating lunch after a very busy morning.  Nothing special other than dropping Pat off for some shopping at Walmart and then picking her up after my task was completed.  Unfortunately, she had a rather lengthy wait at Wal-Mart as her legs give out on her but she could sit down at the McDonald's in the store and wait for me.  Needless to say we will be going out for dinner tonight.

I was behind so many postings that I am not offering any individual comments today.  Will give you all a break from my long postings.

What a busy day for me today.  Even I am tired.  First I ate breakfast and then read my devotions.  Then off to Noblesville to Third Phase.  Third Phase is a home for abuse women.  They are allowed to stay at the home for 12 month while learning how to cook, clean, sew, can, freeze, set tables, laundry...all the skills that most women know but these women were never taught.  They also receive legal advice and counseling about their abusive relationship with their spouse or significant other.  If they have children, they stay there also.  Some will study and get their G.E.D.  Some will find work.  But the requirement is that they are all there at dinner time and all have to sit around the table, pray and eat together.  It is a Christian based home so they are taught about Jesus Christ as well.  In 12 months they graduate and are on their own again. 

The lady I talked to this morning was Kathy.  I took in all the hats, scarves and mittens the Crochet Angels made.  Then I told her I would be back tomorrow night to eat with the Lions Club.  She smiled real big and said 'And I know what you are going to eat!  I am the cook!'  Then she told me what the menu would be.  I loved the smile when she said 'I am the cook!'  She is also waiting for her G.E.D.  It was suppose to be in the mail a week ago.  So I told her it would be in the mail today. 

Then I went to the pool.  When I went out to get in the water, there were only two therapists in the pool.  No one else.  That's a first.  Soon others came in.  I was in the water an hour and a half!  Water-logged!

Then I ate breakfast at a little cafe. 

Off to Walmart then for groceries.  Saw so many people I know shopping there also. 

I wish I could relax now but Ivalou and I are going to a visitation at the funeral home this evening after 4pm.  Then I can come home and relax. 

It's been a cloudy, rainy day so far today with the temps in the low 40's right now.  But it looks like a cold winter day out there! 

I am finished with my shopping and wrapping/bagging the gifts, all except for the Banana bread that is in the freezer. I will take it out next week a couple of days before we head out to California on Christmas eve. We are going to Portland this Friday and I already have their bread on the counter thawing.  I've made the reservations at Puppy Love  for boarding the dogs so  all is ready here.

I have a doctor appointment this afternoon to find out  the results of my blood work. hope my Cholesterol numbers are still going down and that everything else is OK. I just got a 90 day supply of the Crestor, maybe I'll get to use it and maybe if my numbers are good I won't.

I  hope everyone clicks on the link to the earrings I made. I am quite pleased with the results. It has been so long since I have been able to  hold my tools in my left hand; and making 5 pair in one day is  quite an accomplishment. I am wearing the red ones today. The crystals are all Swarvoski (sp) Crystals that I purchased over 10 years ago. I did straighten out that on that is crooked in the picture after I took the photo.

Quote from: Marilyn on December 13, 2011, 01:35:23 PM
Here is a link to some of the gifts I made this year. I did all of these yesterday.
Click Here (http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd222/tudogmom/Earrings.jpg)

Those are lovely, Marilyn.   I'd like to make jewellery.

Quote from: Larry Hanna on December 13, 2011, 01:43:09 PM


I was behind so many postings that I am not offering any individual comments today.  Will give you all a break from my long postings.

Awww...  you aren't giving us a break!  I look forward to your newsy postings, Larry.


I had my flu shot today and my arm is a bit sore.  Feels like I have the flu!  ;)

Etta Sue, what a wonderful sounding place for these ladies to stay.  Sounds as if you had a great time and I wish I could join you for the meal! 

(What are you going to eat?)  ;)

Marilyn, those are lovely.  You are so talented! 

Thank you Pat and Jeanne

Pat, you really are behind!  In August our house flooded because of a malfunction in the water well.....entire house damaged, all carpets and cabinets were ruined.  Anyway, the renovation is ongoing, and we are HOPING it will be finished by Christmas, but I highly doubt it.  I do hope the kitchen will be done, though.

I worked on my Christmas cards and letters some, then decided to go to the home and get Beth's done for her, so that chore is done, except for mailing them.  Mine aren't done, but hers are.  And I add her name to ours on all the family ones; no need to double up.

My friend Mary is supposed to arrive tonight.  She has promised to help me repaint the trees and birds in the dining room, they got painted over yesterday and today.  She did call today and say she will be here tonight!  Yay!!!

Marilyn, those earrings are very pretty!

I will be so happy when we can put things back where they belong!  I'm tired of the mess!

Ruth if you need a ride somewhere I can help you.  Now that the phones are working feel free to call.

Quote from: Janet on December 13, 2011, 10:10:30 AM

Ruth, nice to see you.  I included your nieces' stories in the book, but unfortunately, they were edited out.  :(  Editor said she only wanted to hear Beth's story.........I was disappointed in that, as I felt the information in your girls' stories would be helpful in understanding Neurofibromatosis.

Janet, no problem. It gave me a chance to revisit the losses my sister had gone through and to have a few talks with her. They were special girls and my sister is one very special lady!

Busy, busy, busy, bizzy, dizzy!!!

And the result? TIRED  ;)

Tomorrow's much the same - cook for a family dinner after a funeral, attend the funeral, help clean up afterwards, then 2 back to back doctor appointments several miles apart.

Then...I think I'm coming home and turning off all the lights, the cell phone, and the television.  :crazy:

I loved the earrings. Unfortunately, there are none that I can wear - I'm allergic to even the Whispers brand that was supposed to be nonallergenic. So, I enjoy the beautiful ones that others wear. I couldn't even wear my own wedding and engagement rings!

Now, it's 'way past midnight, so I'll shut down the computer and go to bed.

My prayer, as always, is that our gracious, loving Father will grant each of us peace and serenity as we rest.

Love to y'all,
Ruth Ann

               ROYAL REFLECTIONS FOR CHRISTMAS

A Season of Wonder



                   

                     Today's Scripture:  Stand still and consider the
wondrous works of God

                      (Job 37:14, NKJV).



                     Point to Ponder:  Pray to be calm and quiet and hushed,
and that He will

                      vouchsafe you the sense of His blessed presence; that
you may do all things

beneath His eye; to sit with Mary calmly at His feet and hear His voice, and
then calmly rise and minister to Him.    -Edward Bouverie Pusey



Today's Prayer thot:  Spend two or three minutes in absolute silence.  Do
not move; do not think of what you are facing today; just remember God,
listening for His wondrous Word to enter your heart. Perhaps you will want
to repeat the name of Jesus, always listening for His echo in your soul, for
"at His name all heaven and earth will bow in worship" (Philippians 2:10).

Hi everyone.  I expect to have a fairly quiet day today.  We do have Bible study with the pastor this morning and then will enjoy the time at Dunkin' Donut.  Then nothing extra on the schedule for the rest of the day.  Yesterday was a beautiful day here getting up to 65 degrees and a carbon copy is on tap for today.  I have my car scheduled for the body shop on January 9th.  Fortunately the repair is not at all urgent.

Pat, sure hope you don't get the flu.  My arm wasn't even sore this year after I had the flu shot.

Janet, I hope you enjoyed your time with Mary in repainting the trees and birds.  I am sure that adds a very nice touch to your room.  We had a mural in our dining room on one wall in the house we had before moving here and we really enjoyed it. 

Ruth Ann, it sounds like you are pushing yourself terribly hard.  Couldn't others in better health do the cooking?  I just worry about you-not trying to meddle.

Judy, thanks for that special piece.

Ruth Ann, I hope you're not pushing yourself too hard.  There does come a time when it's important to remember that little word "no".

Larry, it sounds like you should have a quiet, restful day.

The temperatures don't get very high around here these days, in fact there are still some traces of last week's one inch snowfall.   That's December in the North Country!   :D

Marilyn, I did take a peek at your earrings.  Beautiful!  I used to do bead work earrings but I got tired of doing them.  I gave all my supplies to a lady in Texas.  She was on SrNet.  Donna Getz.  Donna Marie was her name on SrNet.  She has family near here and we meet every once in a while.  Her church had a group that did bead work so I am sure they were all well used. 

Like Ruth Ann, I, too, and helping with a funeral dinner today.  I went to the visitation last evening.  I have Macaroni and Cheese in the oven now.  It will be a tiring day for me.  I just have to have a chair for me to sit down once in a while.  I am so fortunate to have back pain that is gone when I sit, lie or walk.  It only hurts while I am standing...like washing dishes, waiting in line at Walmart and such. 

Then this evening Ivalou, Jane and I are going to the Lions Club Christmas Dinner at Third Phase where the cook, Kathy, said we would be having ham, roast, mashed potatoes, green beans, corn, REAL sweet potatoes...not from a can...and lots of desserts!  You feel like royalty when you eat at Third Phase.  Everything is so elegant! 

It looks like a drizzly day in Indiana but suppose to be a lot warmer today.  I will take it!

Good morning, friends,

I'll certainly rest when I arrive home this evening. :)

Much love to everyone.

Ruth Ann

Ruth Ann, I add my vote to your not driving yourself so hard, and learning to say "NO."

I am not feeling up to par, but being awake past 3 AM tends to do that to a person. 

Mary hasn't yet arrived.  Carpenter didn't come today, said he had one corner cabinet to finish before he tears out the rest of my kitchen.  It will get done, it WILL get done, IT WILL GET DONE!!  eventually.

Her is what I consider some excellent advice about gift giving to kids:  It is called the four gift rule.  Give them:

One thing they want
One thing they need
One thing to wear
One thing to read.

Sure would make Christmas simpler for parents and grandparents if that rule were followed, and the kids might appreciate the gifts more, too.

I'm going to try to catch a nap before Mary arrives (IF she arrives.)

Spent more than one day on a prescription error by my doctor's office - they sent my script to a place where I do not have coverage.  Meds came here ---they cannot be returned -- price is 3 months worth at almost $100 ---- :crazy:  Now, all is settled.  Thank goodness!

Oven repair man is coming tomorrow.  We shall see if we can even get the parts needed. 

Janet:  Last year, the main church Christmas service had what Don called "pure jazz" as we entered & later - we were so disappointed.  We love everything but not not what they plan for Christmas & want to return just for that night to what we grew up with in the more traditional church. 

Etta Sue:  It sounds like a wonderful place "Third Place" and bless all of them.  It amazes me that people don't know how to cook just to save a lot of money is the most important thing & better food (at times).  My sons know how to do laundry and cook & clean as well as their sister because I had back surgery when all were teens.    Wish I  could help the girls learn to mend and do a little sewing. 

It's been good reading everyone's posts and catching up. My life seemed to go into overdrive these last few weeks, looking after my Dad on weekends (case of painful shingles on his head) and juggling work in between. I'm looking forward to a couple of weeks off work.
I'm so glad and thankful that when we go through trials, we can lean on the Lord. He is always there for us.

Hello Betty!  I don't remember "meeting" you, but welcome!  And here is a cheap, simple and VERY effective treatment for those shingles!  I found it online, paid to download it, and my husband used it.  It cleared up his shingles in just a few days, and they haven't come back.  Have your Dad drink a half cup of water with two tablespoonfuls of good Apple Cider vinegar first thing in the morning.  Then soak a cloth with the pure vinegar and use it directly on the shingles.  Let me know how he does--it sure worked for Darrel!

HALLELUJAH!!  I just approved the layout on the book!  Should have a proof of the actual book in a week or so!  People keep asking me how many pages it has, and until now, I didn't know, but there are 212 pages!  Oh, how I hope it gets here while John is here, wouldn't that be great?  Exciting!

Mary still hasn't shown up...... :-\   :'(   >:(

Oops, Judy!  You posted that today already.  But it's good to read it again........

Thanks Janet.  This one is different.

ROYAL REFLECTIONS FOR CHRISTMAS

A Season of Wonder



Today's Scripture:  Zechariah ... was filled with the Holy Spirit and gave this prophecy: "Praise the Lord, the God of Israel, because he has visited his people and  redeemed them ... Because of God's tender mercy, the light from heaven is about to break upon us, to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, and to guide us to the path of peace" (Luke 1:67-79, NLT).



Point to Ponder:  Music is well said to be the speech of angels; in fact, nothing among the utterances allowed to man is felt to be so divine.  It brings us near to the Infinite.

-       Thomas Carlyle



Today's Prayer:  Great Light, Mover of all that is moving and at rest, ... be my glad Song and my stark Silence.   -  Stephen P. Lawhead

I was going to sign up for a credit card tonight......till I saw the interest and read the small print.  Eek that is not for me.

Hi everyone.  Just back from coffee and a quick stop at Walgreen's.  I have no other place to go today so am looking forward to a quiet and hopefully productive morning here at my desk.  My wife has a luncheon engagement with a friend.  Last evening I prepared my Christmas e-mail, which I will send this year in place of mailed cards.  This is my second year not to mail Christmas cards and am sure that will be what I do in the future as well.  It looks like we will have another very nice day here.  Yesterday it got up to about 70 degrees.

Etta Sue, my wife is also relatively pain free with her knees when she is sitting but certainly not so when she is walking.  Of course, her fibromyalgia always hurts.

Janet, liked your four gift rule for children.  Hope you got some good rest last night and are feeling better today.

Carol, glad you got satisfaction on your prescription problem.  I agree with you on the traditional type of Christmas service at church.  Fortunately, our church has a very traditional approach to those services.

Betty, sure hope you dad feels better some from those miserable shingles.  It sounds like you are ready for a couple of weeks vacation from work.

Janet, I copied your treatment for shingles and emailed it to myself to keep in a saved e-mail file so I could find it again if I need to find it.  Exciting times with your book.

Judy, thanks for the "Reflections for Christmas".  Credit cards are handy and we use one a lot but always pay it off when the bill comes and haven't paid interest for many years.

Betty:  Shingles are heard to be very painful and I am sorry for your dad.  May he heal quickly. 

Don is at his doc's appointment and our favorite repairman is here.  My hand is aching so much and it may be an injury I can't recall what happened.  Using a pain cream & also the paraffin dip.  Should stop using the keyboard, don't you think? 

Gray and gloomy and rainy today.  It's easy to grumble about it.  BUT!!!  It is a day the Lord has made and therefore it's a beautiful day.   :)

My, did we have a spread of food last evening at Third Phase!  Pork loin, chicken, green beans, corn, real sweet potatoes (that were heavenly), cole slaw, vegetable plate, cranberries, rolls, gravy, cornbread dressing and probably some things that I can't remember.  Pickle and cheese plate.  Dessert was strawberry cheesecake, pecan pie, sugar-free cherry pie, blueberry pie and cookies...all calorie free! 

I chuckled to myself when I returned to the dining room with my plate of food.  One of the girls was taking a goblet of ice water to a lady.  She started to set it at right-front of the lady by going from the left in front of her.  Then must have remembered her lesson to always serve on the persons right.  She pulled her arm back and set the ice water to the right of the person.  All the girls were the best of manners but not overly in-your-face.  Wonderful time! 

And Kathy didn't get her G.E.D. in the mail! 

We served about 56 people at the funeral dinner.  Clarksville Christian Church has the reputation of good food.  Most of them came into the kitchen to thank us and tell us how good the food was.  While scraping the plates, we sure didn't find much food not eaten.  They especially like it that they were eating on china and with silverware.  Then it was clean up.  But I was home by 2:30pm so when you have plenty of help, it goes fast!

Today is a do-nothing day!  Yay!  And it sure is rainy and windy today.  The temp is in the high 40's so not too bad but that dampness and wind would go right through you if you were out and about. 

Tomorrow is taking Ivalou for a blood draw and then breakfast out.  Then at 3pm I am going to church to help sort Christmas Cards to give out Sunday at church.  After that I am going to Tony and Charlene's, hoping to see all her little ones that she baby sits for.  She sent pictures this week and there were 9 there that day...all under pre-school age...all sitting on little chairs...all in a row!  One video they were singing 'Jingle Bells'!  Cute little tykes.

Then Tony, Charlene and I are going somewhere for out Christmas together. 

My best Christmas gifts are green.  Non-returnable.  Fits every pocket.  And no shopping on my part!

Hi Everyone...

In our Daily devotions each day, yesterday started a little series "The Twelve Days of Christmas" so I've decided that I'm going to post them in here each day and also in the "Manna For the Soul" topic on Seniors and Friends.

Please pray with me that the Word will be accepted in our topic on S&F where we can feel free to post God's Word.

Now, the first one...

Link to this on S&F (http://www.seniorsandfriends.org/index.php?topic=354.msg444825#msg444825)

"And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel.  Genesis 3:15

The 18th Century Christmas carol, "The Twelve Days of Christmas" is a catchy tune and tells of a young man giving a cumulative group of gifts to the one he loves.  His gifts run from a variety of fowl to folk working, frolicking, and playing instruments!

Our story of a dozen days of Deity's invasion of earth, and the penetrating of men's lives, is also filled with various expressions of God's revealing of His Son, and our Saviour to mankind.  Come on and I hope you enjoy the trip, and perhaps it will put a tune or two in your heart.

Our text conveys the truth of the inbred animosity and enmity of Satan for the coming Messiah.  And an early expression of God's solution of a Redeemer is prophesied here, for His plan declares that the gift of salvation had been formed in the mind of God long before it was implemented.  Our Book says there was a "...Lamb slain from the foundation of the world" (Rev. 13:8b).

Jesus Christ said that He would utter things that had been kept secret from the foundation of the world too (cf. Matt. 13:35). 

Friend, God did not search through Heaven looking for a "volunteer" to come forward as the propitiation for the human race.  No, the answer to redemption's plan was seated at His right hand!  The Crown Prince of Glory, Jesus Christ, was a ready and willing accomplice in the master plan of atonement.  How He was to arrive on planet earth, to me at least, is the greatest miracle in all of history--the virgin birth!

Such wonderful thoughts on this advent season. Truly, "Jesus is the reason for the season."

I was speaking with someone yesterday afternoon, and he reminded me of this verse:

Matthew 22:38-39
King James Version (KJV)
³⁸This is the first and great commandment.

³⁹And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.

That gave me pause - yes, I really do need to love myself more. We, as servants, tend to forget these 2 verses, but if we are to be true and faithful stewards of our time and talents, then we really do need to commit these verses to memory.

So, I'm going to rest again this evening, knowing that someone who is blind needs a ride to the eye surgeon tomorrow morning early - the hopes are that the eye to have the surgery will be able to see again. As I rest in the waiting room, my prayers will be that this person's surgery will be successful.

Love to each of you,
Ruth Ann

Wonderful idea, Pat.  I'll be watching for each day's offering.

Ruth Ann, I'll add the eyesight of your friend to my prayers tonight.

Thanks, Jeanne.

That was a good read, Pat.

G'nite, friends,
Ruth Ann

Hi everyone.  I have a few minutes before my neighbor picks me up and we go to the senior center for our men's Friday coffee.  Then have a friend coming over to spend an hour this morning and that will be followed by our ROMEO's luncheon, which is close by today.  Yesterday I ended up going out to lunch with Pat as they person she had planned to meet for lunch had come down with the flu.  We stopped at Walmart and Barnes & Noble and pretty well completed our Christmas shopping.  Now just have to write some check and get the few packages we have wrapped.  I did get my Christmas letters e-mailed yesterday. 

Carol, hope your hand is feeling better today. 

Jeanne, it is the gray and gloomy days that make us appreciate the bright and sunny ones so much. 

Etta Sue, your Third Phase dinner sounds like it was very special and with really good food as well.  I bet your green Christmas gifts are anticipated and really appreciated.

Pat, thanks for sharing the Daily Devotional material.

Ruth Ann, another good Samaritan act today.  I know your efforts are appreciated.

Well!  Mary finally DID arrive, late Wednesday night.  Yesterday, she and I got one wall in the kitchen painted with zebra stripes.  The end wall will be a jungle.  That wall is where our two stained glass windows with macaws are, and I had painted limbs, lots of leaves and other birds on it.  Now it has been painted over and really looks blank to us.  So today I hope we get going on that project.  Time is short; she needs to go to Dodge City one day and I want to go with her to do a little shopping (my first for Christmas.. :o) and I'm sure she wants to be home in Dallas for Christmas.  She has a boyfriend now; last year she spent Christmas with us!

And...the guys are to be here at 8:00 to get busy tearing out the bottom cabinets and installing the new ones.  I HOPE!  This has already been postponed several times, for various reasons.  I know it is tough, with Lon being single and working by himself except for one helper.  He always anticipates getting much more done than he can really accomplish, and being an optimist myself, I do understand that.

AND.....Rising Above has its back cover being designed, then it will be bound and sent to me as a REAL BOOK!!  How wonderful if it arrives while John is here to share in Beth's joy!  God is SO GOOD!

I must run over to Pat's and get my hair done.  Maybe I will have time to stop back by later, but no promises today!

"...the Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the powr of the Highest shall overshadow thee:  therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God."  Luke 1:35b

The opening "act" if you please , played out on the stage in the quaint, quiet, city of Nazareth; finds the angel, Gabriel, communicating the most fantastic news to an incredulous, young virgin named Mary.  The staggering news that was given that night is to me the greatest miracle in the annals of time.  You might argue that the resurrection was a greater miracle or the Rapture of the saints will be far superior.  But, let me present my thesis with this rebuttal; others had risen from the dead!  The widow of Nain's boy, Lazarus, and the man who fell on Elisha's bones for instance.  Also, others had been "raptured," like Enoch and Elijah I propose.  However, a virgin birth was unprecedented and unrepeated for time and for all time.  And the means of her being with child doesn't border on the miraculous, it is a miracle beyond our comprehension.  The Holy Ghost overshadowed her and placed the seed of God in the womb of Mary.

When you think about it, the only thing approaching this miracle is what God does in us at the time of our new birth!  The Holy Ghost comes in with the seed of God and imports in us a new nature, the divine nature, God's nature in the womb of our soul, and we are born again!  In some respects we must become a "Mary," willing to yield to the Holy Ghost, so that life, God's life can be born anew in us.  Perhaps we should lift our voices as the virgin did and shout, "My soul doth magnify the Lord"  (Luke 1:46).

Wow!  That's wonderful. 

I am ready to begin my trek to California for Christmas with (some of the family) just waiting for Dot to wake up.  She arrived here last night (from Spokane) and we will drive to Sacramento today for a few days with Joy and John and Bryan.  Then, Tuesday evening, my grandson Tim has tickets for us to see the Christmas service at his church featuring The Silhouettes.  This group was on America's Got Talent, and will be preforming at all sixteen (16) of the services at Tim's church.  He says all nights (and afternoon) are completely full ... a few walk-in seats still available. 

Wednesday Bryan and Joy will join Dot and me as we drive on to Lancaster, California where Candice lives and Becky has recently reunited with her sister.  The trip was originally planned so Dot would be with all three of her girls and all three of her grandkids for the first time in several years, but Jessica is not able to make the trip at this time.  Bryan is happy to be able to spend time with his cousins ... being an only child, and since returning from combat with the army, he really feels strongly about being with family.  Christmas is all about family, so this should be a very enjoyable time.

I finished one Chemo Wrap yesterday and started another.  The second one is yellows and oranges.  Lot brighter than the off-white to dark brown one! 

I loved my leisure day.  It was cloudy, rainy and windy.  A wonderful day to stay inside. 

This morning I took Ivalou for her blood work at the doctor's office.  Then we went to Steak n Shake for breakfast. 

This afternoon I am to be at the church by 3pm to help sort Christmas cards.  Then I am going on to Tony's house.  Charlene, Tony and I are going out to eat for our Christmas dinner.  I am hoping I get to see all the little ones that she sits for before they leave. 

That's about it from central Indiana!

We are leaving for Portland  in about 30 minutes. I have loaded the Corvette, taken the dogs to Puppy LOve and am just waiting for Keith to get here. See all y'all on Monday.

Janet we want to see pictures when you get the house done. I want to see the Jungle wall.

And we're still waiting for some of those travel pictures, too.   :D

Well, my friend's eye surgery went very well, the retina stayed attached this time, and the YAG laser procedure seems to be a success. We'll know when the bandage is removed tomorrow.

Thank you, Lord, for your goodness to your patient, and to all the rest of us, too. Please grant our friends traveling mercies, and give each of us a "strange warming of the heart" that will make us even more aware of Your presence with us.

In Jesus' Holy name,
Amen.

Kassie has gone to bed, I am settling down for a long evening's rest... John will be home soon.

Took RuthV and her daughter shopping today, both their cars are on the fritz.  I really enjoyed the company.  Fun day.  Ruth we need to do that again soon!

Christmas shopping is done a bit of knitting left to do.  Now to finish the house decorating and enjoy the season.

Have a great evening folks.  Those of you who are going to be away know you are prayed for.

Night all!

Yes JudyB, it was a marvelous day! It's not often I get a chance to get out; I do NEED to do it more. Thank you!!

Today I need to get my Christmas letter together. I tried to put it in my gallery and put a link here, but was unsuccessful on the first attempt. I will try again later.

First: coffee!! and breakfast.   ;)  It's currently 8:08 A.M.  -17C (1.4 F) and cloudy.

Hi everyone.  Earlier this morning I made a fast trip to the pharmacy at Kroger's to get Pat some cough syrup and some butterscotch drops to fight her cold.  Unfortunately, they now have to keep all of the cough syrup behind the service center counter and it wasn't open.  I did pick up something for her breakfast as she doesn't feel up to cooking for herself this morning.  This cold has really gotten her down.  Had a busy day yesterday but today should be much less busy. I have a meeting to attend later this morning and that should be it for today.

Judy, I bet you and RuthV had a good time when you took her shopping.

Janet, I think this is the first time you have told us the name of your book.  I like it.  Hope the painting of your mural as well as the kitchen work progressed yesterday.

Jane, hope your trip to Sacramento went without problem.  I am sure you will enjoy your time with family and so nice that you don't have to spend Christmas alone.  Our DIL has a friend who was going to be spending Christmas alone and so she asked if she could invite this friend to come with them to have Christmas with us.  The answer was certainly.  There is always plenty of food and we even have something for her that will be under the tree, if we ever get it put up.  You will get to see your new great grandchild--exciting time in Lancaster. 

Etta Sue, hope you had a lovely time with Tony and Charlene.  I bet the little ones are cute.

Marilyn, guess it will be welcome home when you read this on Monday or later.  Hope your trip was fun.

Ruth Ann, they are doing some amazing things with lasers these days.  The same is true with robotic surgery.  Glad your friends eye surgery went very well.

Judy, sure you will be glad to have John back for a couple of days. 

Sorting Christmas cards was fun.  I imagine we are the only church in Indiana with so many 'Z' last names.  Marge's husband and brother has the last name of Zeller and all their descendants!  Bet there are 20 families of Zellers!  And surprisingly, no 'J' families.  No Jones, Johnson or Jackson! 

Our Sunday School teacher makes the best cheese cakes!!  HE, not she, made us a Peppermint Cheese Cake.  So we had coffee and cheesecake after sorting cards!  Yum!

Then off to Tony's.  Tony was already home.  There were only two little boys still there.  Talkative little boys with lots of questions.  Who are you?  What's your name?  Where do you live?  Cute! 

And then we went to 'On the Border'.  What a surprise!  Mexican is about the only place Tony will eat out. 

I visited with them until about 10:30 and came home. 

This morning I got an email from Charlene.  It seems there was an accident in front of their home at 4am this morning.  A man was in an addition is west of them and this young man was going to his father's home.  Tony heard a beep...they have beepers on their drive so they know when someone drives in.  Charlene heard the crash.  She looked out the window and the car headlights were toward their house.  She yelled for Tony, he got dressed and went outside.  Seems a deer set off the beeper, then the man and the deer collided.  Problem was the man was scared and tried to go back home.  Tony called 911 and the man called 911 when his car died in the middle of the road.  The man was bleeding and they took him to the hospital.  The car was totaled...a Saab.  Three corner fence posts and some fencing was broken off at the ground.  Thank God, the man wasn't hurt bad!  The deer?  He went on! 

I got information back from Betty and Marge's family so I am making them birthday/anniversary calenders today for Christmas.  I would like to take them to church tomorrow but if I don't get them done, I know where they live!!

Doing some laundry and that's it!

Etta Sue, I haven't thanked you for the great collection of Christmas-themed animations you put in your posts. It certainly decorates our site beautifully every day. :)

Well, it's close to noontime, so time to think of a bit of food to eat. :)

Y'all have a wonderful, God-blessed day.

Ruth Ann

Hello from Portland the trip went just fine. good weather means it didn't rain on us.

"...But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting."  Micah 5:3

Obviously, our lessons are not about partridges in pear trees or leaping lords.  Today I'd like to contemplate the prophet's appreciation of the fulfillment of their prophecies.  Of course, today we have the text "Book" and evidence of fulfilled prophecy recorded.  But, knowing a little bit about human nature, misgivings, and doubt, maybe, just maybe, Micah may have wondered when his prediction was going to come to pass.  Don't you think that Micah, there in Abraham's bosom, Paradise, would have been glad to be notified that Mary was espoused to Joseph, and they had to go to Bethlehem for the census?  Maybe he didn't know Mary and Joseph from Tom and Kathy!  But, when he was apprised that she was a virgin and going to have a baby—THE BABY—I would wager he got a little excited and maybe even relieved (if he was a touch insecure).

Now what about Isaiah?  He had foretold that a virgin would conceive and bear a son, and he ever predicted the little lad's name, who was the Lord, Immanuel (cf. Isa. 7:14).  Nearly eight centuries before Christ's birth this noble prophet had declared the miracle about the Messiah's birth!

I believe all the saints who had enjoyed glimpses of redemption's plan and had hope of a Messiah rejoiced at His birth.  As Abraham, "...not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off..."  And Moses who "...[esteemed] the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt..." (Cf. Heb. 11); all of Paradise's devout denizens rejoiced to see the birth in Bethlehem.
.

wELL, HERE k STILL AM AT dUREKA cARE & rEHAB.  aPPOINTMENT LN THE 21ST AT THE RUROLOGIST FOR AN ULTRA SOUND.  tHEN, KF EVERYTHING'S ALLRIGJT, i hOLPE THEY'LL REMOVE THE CATHETER, REARRANGE THE ARCHETECTURE OF MY PROSTATE.  hOPEFULLY, ALL THAT WILL GET ME CLOSE TO BEING ABLE TO GO HOME!

How wonderful to see Al's smiling face and read his optimistic post. 

Al, be sure prayers are being said for your recovery, sooner than later, if it's the Lord's Will.  <3

Al, It is sure great to see you. I will pray for good results on the 21st. Will it not be great to get home for Christmas?

Sending love & hugs your way!!

(((Al, more hugs from Nashville, too!)))

We are praying, trusting, believing, and praising God for His love and care extended to you and Marbeth.

I'm back in from shopping, and going to turn in early, early this evening. Tomorrow morning's gonna be great at the church I will attend. :)

Love to all of y'all,
Ruth Ann

An early night for me, too.  After 2 "J" nights in a row I'm done in. 

Ohhh, how wonderful to see your post, Alan. 

We love you and miss you so much!  We will continue to pray for you.  Get well soon my dear special friend.

"...now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into."  I Peter 1:12b

Let's look quickly at the angelic perspective of the first Christmas pageant and present.  They really played a significant part and were not mere "bit players" like modern day; white sheet draped, coat-hanger covered wings, and their angel-haired replicas.

Of course, Gabriel's annunciation to Mary and the angel of the Lord's pronouncement to Joseph are paramount in the story.  However, let's rewind a moment and return to golden streets and crystal rivers and surmise the preparation.  We all recall that there was an angelic choir that sang the Babe's praises to lowly shepherds that first Christmas Eve.  When do you suppose that they found out they were going to be the opening vocal act to the greatest event of all time?  Now, I am not a musician, but I know a few, and they like to practice.  Matter of fact, I like them to practice too!  (It's usually better when they do some of that.)  You might think that their audience wasn't too sophisticated and they could just "wing-it" (sorry), but I believe they did their best.  For they were singing about the very BEST!

What the angels sung about and witnessed that day was something that Peter said they have a great desire to look into.  What is that you might ask?  I think the answer is redemption.  It might be forgiveness or grace extended to fallen man.  It may be salvation's sweet salve to the human soul, for they know nothing about the guilt of Adam's sinful family, and the dawn of redeeming grace.

Great to see Al posting.  I am praying all will be fine with you and yours. 

Yesterday was a great day of laundry, making two more calenders and printing them, talking/visiting to Ivalou and all the normal every day things.  Also TV and more crocheting in the evening.

And my night's rest was fabulous.  I may not even have a nap this afternoon! 

I am working the projector system this week and two more weeks so I have to go into church early.

Off I go>>>>>>

Time to start a new week.


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