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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."

I'm opening this up a day early as tomorrow, we will be travelling to Ashtabula, Ohio to Paul's daughter's home and there's no internet access there.

Have a wonderful Sunday!

Pat:  Safe travel for you and Paul! 

I just wanted to mention that I went into Facebook and actually looked at my site - then I really don't know what to do about certain things.  What in the world are orchids and other things being sent to me?  What should I do next?

We went out tonight with son & DIL as they treated us and her parents for dog-sitting.  It is a great place where we get a Vietnamese Noodle Bowl.  Normally, we would have this for a lunch and this bowl was so heaping that I brought home about a pint of veggies and noodles.  The kids are building their cabin at about 10,000 ft. and it is frigid up there - Don is helping next week to put up as many electrical outlets as they can get done and he will be surely wearing longies.  I can't stand that cold so opt to stay here & would only be in the way anyway.  They will be so happy when they can get the wood stove installed and a propane heater as well.  The insulation is supposed to be put in this weekend so that will be of some help.  Actually, Don has been bothered by pains here & there so it won't be good on his old bode either. 

Tomorrow, we will make the 9 service instead of 7:30 for a change. 

Thank you Pat for this message.

Quote
but he who does the will of God abides forever.

--1 John 2 

Amen Pat.

Liz don't get cold, I seize up in the cold...sounds like you do as well.

God bless everyone

I have some great news.  About 4 years ago our grandson Victor accepted Christ as his Saviour.  Last year at Christmas his Dad Jay accepted Christ as his Saviour.  Jay was a hard core agnostic.   Tonight I found out that the fellow Melaura intends to marry accepted Christ as his Saviour as well.  I am just in awe and praising God for what he is doing in our family.  There is one left to come to Christ, and that is Bonnie's baby's daddy.  God will do something there too.

Praise God with me as you go into worship tomorrow!

Wonderful news, Judy ... I am always in awe of our Father's provisions ... He always knows best and we have only to trust Him.

Carol, sounds like a good time to stay home and keep warm.  Hopefully, Don will be okay with the frigid temps.  I'll be praying.

P. S. I know NOTHING about facebook ... sorry, I can't help you on this one.

 :)Good morning or good night.   My wife and I have had a very busy time the past few days as we have had the kids and there babies here( Grandchildren).   We have had a lot of fun and we opened our gifts on boxing day.  It was so much fun to watch the grandkids opening theres. :).

Larry:  Thanks for putting that site to connect to here the messiah it is great. I hope that your daughter is feeling a bit better. :)

Judy B:  What great news to here about the family and all the decisions for accepting the Lord.  Praise his name and we keep praying for our kids that they will do the same. <3


Paul and Pat.  Have a safe trip and may you enjoy. :)

Ruth:  Congratulation's on your retirement I thought I did a long time driving a bus but you got me beet.  I hope that you have many years to enjoy yourself.  God Bless

Have a great day in the House of the Lord. <3

Gord I will be praying for your family.  If God can answer prayer in my family with the tough nuts that we have in the family, He can answer prayer in your family..  The main thing I have learned in the past 5 years is we are to remain faithful and not compromise. We must praise God for the answer to prayer, even before we see the results.  Remember the verse..."before they call. I will answer!"  He has already answered, you just don't see the results yet.  You will!!! Just be patient and thank Him.

What a windy night!  I thought the roof was going to blow off!  I got a phone call yesterday afternoon asking if I would run the projector this morning at church so I am up and ready to go to church.  I couldn't go back to sleep at 5:45 so just got up! 

It is just now getting daylight!!! 

I am glad that I played with Sunday Plus yesterday.  I hope I remember all that I learned! 

The temperature sure dropped overnight.  It is 29 now after being in the mid 60's yesterday!   Big difference!! 

Larry ~ I bookmarked your website.  Will check it out later. 

Hi everyone.  Ready for church and have some time before we leave.  I got some new shirts and pants for Christmas and so undid all of the fasteners and tried them on this morning.  I am going to take two of the shirts back as they are too small and hope I can replace them with something just a bit bigger. 

It has started to rain here this morning but don't think it is to last too long.  I hope we see a little sun before the day is over.

The Messiah links contain about 55 minutes of music.  You are most welcome to right click on any or all of the links and save the music files as they are mp3 files or just listen to them from the website.  If you need help doing this just let me know and I will see if I can help you.  For ready reference, since we are in a new week, here is the link again:


Gord, are daughter seems to have fallen into a state of depression.  We are encouraging her to seek help from her pastors or from the mental health department in the county where she lives.  It is beyond our ability to deal with this situation.  We feel this may be the result of the two surgeries and the constant pain she endures from her foot and back and recovering from the surgery. 

Etta Sue, sure you will handle the equipment well at your church this morning.

Judy, that is wonderful news concerning your family members accepting Christ. 

Jane and Carol, I am like you all I know nothing about Facebook or Myspace.  I have been thinking I might check them out.  Carol, I think you are very wise to stay where it is warm rather than so to 10,000 feet and be miserable.  Summer is the time to go there when the heat source is available if it gets chilly or cold.

Pat, thanks for the fine devotional for this week.  Hope you have a wonderful time with Paul's family in Ohio and then a good trip on to Virginia.

Ruth, it takes awhile to get into the retirement mode but the sense of relief at the lose of the responsibility comes fairly soon.

Jane:  How sweet of you to think and pray about Don and our son as they drive through the wintery weather to work on the cabin.  I have looked at Facebook but am reluctant to put too much information on it because it is so public and could be attacked by who knows who. 

Larry:  My heart goes out to you and Pat over Stacey and her feelings of depression.  How difficult to manage a normal attitude with constant pain. 

We went into the massive sanctuary this morning for service and will give it another try but really do prefer the smaller chapel and the more quiet beginning to the morning.  So, I think we are narrowing this down and must say that it has been a very long time since Don has enjoyed and spoken about the sermons so this is very nice news.  A nice day here maybe into the 40's and we do want to take a walk as it won't last long.  Don is watching the Vikings play football.   I remember sitting on a bench in the 60's watching Fran Tarkenton work his wonders on the field in Minnesota.  Talk about freezing at Thanksgiving time - we didn't wear slacks at that time.  Yikes. 

Pat, thanks for the devotional.  You and Paul stay safe, have a great time, and return to Virginia (and us) safely!

Larry, thanks for the link.  After Curtis comes to fix my computer on Tuesday, I will check it out.  Darrel had the opposite problem; the shirts he received are too big!  So we need to do some exchanging, too.

We had a really nice day yesterday celebrating Christmas with the kids.  I even managed to get some photos of my three daughters and me!  Those will be cherished.  Our day came to a rather abrupt end with two crises, but it will all be all right.  Son in law Ray's mom called, his Dad is dying of mesothelioma, and she said he was incoherent, falling down, wouldn't let her help him--so they left quickly and headed back to Salina.  That is over a 4 1/2 hour drive; they got home at 3 AM.  And the other thing would require too much explanation, but involves Darrel's brother's family.  :P :ticked:  They need prayer.

I have been asked to work tomorrow for a lady whose uncle passed away, his funeral is tomorrow.  So I must be up early in the morning.

Israel decided not to allow Hamas to continue their rocket attacks on them; now the media is accusing them of targeting "civilians."  God will not allow Israel to be destroyed!  Look up, for our salvation draws near!!

Ruth, I hope you get to do many things now that you are retired, that you have wanted to do for a long time.  It is a blessing to have you posting more often.

Carol, I hope Don doesn't get all achy from the cold.  That's what it does to me, if I stay cold very long.  Facebook--I know nothing about it, have heard several bad things, and don't feel I have time to waste on it, anyway.  And being such a computer novice as me, it might prove to be a problem.  Problems, I do not need!

I intend to do some serious resting this afternoon!

Howdy everyone!!!!!!! Keith has hit the road for home and I hope he doesn't run into any flooded roads. We have had so much rain and  i received a notice from the Weather channel and Accuweather as well there there is some flooding  at Klamath.
The dogs and cat got along just fine , Fritzy is becoming quite the traveling cat. Keith says he travels real well. Keith has to stop again in Gold Beach to see a client on the way bay up the coast. He also stopped on the way down, plus he talked to my son about the remodel he will be drawing for him so this whole trip can be a write off as far as the car is concerned.

I have been here everyday reading but not having much to say. I have prayed for your needs and said some extra prayers for Stacy, Beth and Wendy. Thank you for the prayers for the Martin family that I asked for they are OK I am not sure if they know the Lord or not. I should ask Sarah's parents  that question.

What a day wind and more wind we had to go out and recover some of our stored items, now it is time to remain in, where it is nice and warm. I do believe that the temp. is to drop this evening it goes from being warm to brrrrrrrrr its cold.


Have a great evening.    Ruth 

Ruth, I hesitate to tell you that we have had a beautiful day, no wind, and temperatures close to 70!  Unbelievable!

Kerri (daughter) just called to update me on Ray's Dad.  It is not good; she thinks he will not make it to New Year's Day.  So sad, but he does know the Lord.

I had a nice nap this afternoon!  :)  But should have gone for a long walk, instead, considering the weather!  8)

Thanks for the good devotional, Pat.

Quiet day today.  Did not feel like doing much.  Read all the posts and saved the link for Larry's music.  Will listen in a bit...

So good to hear how prayers have been answered for Judy B and family.  Yes, Judy, cold is not a friend to my body either. I try to remain indoors right now...as does Misty, the cat.  She really has come to dislike snow this year.

I am so sorry that your daughter is having such a terrible time, Larry.  Will continue to pray and trust that things will improve.  Not an easy problem to deal with and professional care can help.

My Paint Shop Pro 8 didn't give me what I wanted for editing pictures, so have loaded Picasa 3 and it is much simpler.  Since I do not do all the great things some of you are enjoying, this is more my speed!  Also free...and I do not want to update PSP and pay out more money.  Has anyone tried Picasa by Google?

Million Dollar Password is on tonight and I am going to watch later.  It has Betty White on and she is usually amusing.  This is a new show and looks promising.

I finished reading 'The Christmas Sweater' by Glen Beck.  Got it from the library.  Has a nice lesson...not sure how to take the ending.  Anyone else read it?

Pleasant Day/Evening and God Bless.

Liz

 :)Well all is now quiet around the Brown household as we are almost back to normal.  Everyone has gone home and Grandpa and Grandma can relax.  Boy it was busy and they are still so young I can just think what it will be like as they get older. :thumbsup:

Larry:  I am sorry to here about your daughter I do hope that she will realize what she needs to do. We will remember her. <3

Judy B.  Thanks for the encouragement and yes it is not easy but I know what the Lord has told us in his word. <

Have a wonderful week and may the Lord give you all the strength that you need. <3

hey everyone
hope all is well for ya'll i'm still working on all the plans and getting everything ready for wednesday hope ya'll are doing great
Sarah

Hi, friends, sorry I've been away from the computer so long. Christmas was nice with almost all the family there. The family was laughing and joking, and OH, what a relief there was no strife or even a hint of discord. Thanks be to God for His unspeakable Gift! And for allowing me a peaceful holiday season this year.

I learned on Christmas Eve morning that both my son and I have been approved to move into the apartments. Both apartments are now being painted and recarpeted, etc. prior to move-in date, so we're still waiting to learn exactly when they will be ready for occupancy.

Janet and Al, I too wear compression stockings. They really make the legs feel better.

Well, y'all have a good day with our Lord.

Ruth Ann

Hi everyone.  It is suppose to clear off here today and warm up and seeing the sun will be welcome.  I don't think we had much rain but it has been misty and cold.

Not much new here.  We had a nice day yesterday as we attended church and then just Pat and I stopped and had lunch as the group was going to a place we just don't care about so pass when they decide to go there.  I came home and watched the Falcons game, which was exciting.  They are in the playoffs the first time in four years so this has been a good year for them.  I had a nice nap during the game. 

Late yesterday afternoon and into the evening I worked on reorganizing and cleaning out my bookmarks/favorites.  I had accumulated so many over the years and most of them I don't use so decided it was time to eliminate many of them and make my organization of them more useful.  I then did some reading before going to bed.  Not exciting but that was my day.

I am going to try to do some winter housekeeping on the computer between now and the first of the year.  I need to clone my hard drive and go through my files to eliminate those I don't need.  I also have a project that Pat's 90 year old aunt asked me to do for her so will be working on that.

I have several things on the agenda for today, including getting a haircut, walking a the gym, going to a luncheon and going to Kohl's to exchange the two shirts.  I think that will be enough for one day.

Ruth Ann, nice to read that you had such a pleasant Christmas with your family.  Things change with time so we always need to maintain hope for the future. 

Sarah, don't forget to breathe during the next few days as you prepare for your marriage. 

Gord, I understand how nice it is to have the family visit and then again how nice it is when they go back to their own home and our routine of life can be resumed. 

Liz, I have used the Picasa since its early days although really haven't used the tools very much.  They keep making it better.  There is also another free graphics program that my friend Rod really like that is easy to use and it is called Irfanview.  You can resize graphics easily and make some other adjustments.

Janet, sorry to hear of the impending sadness for members of your family.  Even though we know things like this are inevitable they are never easy.  Hope your work day isn't too stressful today.

Ruth, hope your weather improves.

Marilyn, thanks to you and all those who remember my daughter in your prayers.  She did get a letter from the IRS advising the training period for this year will start on January 13 through the 15th.  I am hoping this will give her a lift from the depression.  She did say yesterday her pain level had lessened and that is also good.

Carol, I remember watching many games on TV when Fran Tarkington was playing.  I agree with you on liking my church not to be too big.  Size has some advantages but also disadvantages.

Time to head out for coffee and get my day started.

Good day. Its 32 degrees here today with a small amount of freezing rain. Hopefully it will not last long.
We had a great day at church yesterday and last night we ended out our last Sunday of the year with Thanksgiving and testimony. It was good to listen to those who shared. For many 2008 was a year of challenges but each spoke and said in the midst of trials God was faithful.

Larry thanks for that link to the Messiah . I will certainly look into it.
Praying for your daughter Stacey and asking the peace of God that passeth all understanding touch her life at this time
God Bless each one of you <3

Hi, friends, I slept quite a while this morning - am fighting that pesky cold/bronchitis that won't go away and also my DIL had a bug when we were with them for Christmas, and I think it must have "flown" my way.

I agree - my father pastored tiny churches and in small churches it seems the friendships grow strong and it's great to be able to welcome all newcomers with open arms and begin to get them assimilated quickly.

Well, today will be exercise at the YMCA, getting prescriptions refilled, trying to talk with the leasing manager at the apartments, and packing -- soon this packing will cease...then, of course, comes UNpacking!  ^-^

Y'all have a great day with our Lord.

 :)Good afternoon to all at C.P.   

Well my day started a little earlier than usual as I had to go for a stress test at the hospital.  And praise the Lord the doctor was happy with the results. I was able to  last a lot longer on the treadmill machine but they make it go a lot faster than the one at the Y.M.C.A. :thumbsup:

Larry; It is good to here that your  daughter seems a littel better. :thumbsup:

Ruth Anne:  It is nice to see you potsing and to here that you had such a good time with your family. Praise the Lord.  I hope that you have no problems with your move to your apt.

Well must go for now God bless all . <3

Good Morning or Good Afternoon where you are. I have taken down the tree and put away all the decorations for another year. I have  two strings of lights that  don't work and the lights on my prelit tree do not work either. But I did figure out how to replace the bulbs, (I couldn't get them out the last time I tried, but not my nails are a bit shorter and that helps.) maybe I will have more patience next year.

Went to Curves and to Tai Chi practice this morning and vacuumed the  living room and bedroom and washed my hair. I need to get busy with the sorting of this and my other desk, so I am not moving a bunch of  stuff I don't want or need. I am also going to leave a lot with Gilbert that will be his eventually anyway.

Good to see  some of you here already and I am wondering where is Etta Sue she is usually here by now.

Wonder of wonders, I think that I just unpacked the very last two boxes and they are of antique cruets and mugs from England that belonged to mother.  And, Don didn't say anything although he has mentioned the boxes more than a few times.  I would rather be sewing  ::)  also cut a lot more
2 1/2 inch squares that I need almost 1800 of those to make a quilted throw.  Am at about a thousand now and it is slow going. 

Gord:  Wonderful news on your stress test!  Every time you say something is from the Brown house, it reminds me that our daughter married a Brown.  She uses our last name & Brown for business reasons as that name is so popular. 

Off this afternoon for a 2nd mammogram - I am not worried, just concerned that it has to be done.  Our daughter says that I should "demand" a sonogram.  These kids - they question everything. Then, must drop off a kitchen timer that when opened did not work at all.  A dud. 

Marilyn:  You certainly keep busy.  Good to start sorting things as it does seem to take a lot longer than you can anticipate. 

Hi Sarah!  yes, take a moment to relax.   

I had a pretty rough day at work, some of our equipment isn't working properly; and my youngest daughter called to say her husband had to take his Dad to the hospice facility today.  His pain is so bad he cannot bear it.  They told him that if they can get the pain under control, he can go home again.

I read all of your posts, but my eyelids keep falling down and blocking my view, so I think I will go get in my recliner for a while and just leave them closed.  ;)

Lovely weather here today; don't even need a sweater!

The mammogram and ultrasound is over and I will either go in again at six months or one year depending on another reading. 

I don't know about your part of the country or even all over the world but we are seeing a lot of mom & pop businesses collapse.  Tough times for a lot of people.  Still people line their cars up outside of Starbucks.  Isn't it funny that twenty cars can line up and not a one even thinks of parking and going inside? 

Waiting for a call back from daughter and then I will go in and attempt to knit.  It isn't my talent at all. 

Janet:  Still working?

Here I am, Marilyn!  Whew!  At least someone missed me!! 

I did real good on the projector yesterday!!  (Bragging on myself.)  During the sermon, I was trying to open a movie.  The computer froze!!!  I told the woman doing the audio that the computer froze and they were about ready for the next song.  She said, that's okay.  Everyone knows the words to 'Isn't He.'  I was panicking.  So I did the CTRL+ALT+DEL.  The program closed saying it was Not Responding.  I clicked on the icon to bring it back up and just as the praise team leader said we are now going to sing 'Isn't He', I put the words up on the over head!!!  Whew!!!

Okay, I am late getting here today.  Kitty called this morning and asked me to go with her to get her mammogram in Indy...so we left here at 10:45.  I don't know why it took 2 hours for her mammogram and only 15 minutes for Ivalou's but I sat there for two hours waiting on Kitty.  Then we went to Don Pablo's for a late lunch. 

Then to Verizon.  My cell phone was acting up.  All the girl did was remove the battery and put it back in...it locked up for some reason.  Also changed my plan to 65+ plan.  Only $29.95 for 200 minutes and 500 minutes for weekend a month plan.  I never go over 300 minutes!!! So I am saving $5 a month. 

Then we went to a couple book stores and home. 

She came in to listen to a song with my Bose speakers.  Stayed for about 6 songs.   ;)

Now I am caught up again online!!

Yes Etta Sue I missed you this morning. Two hours for a mammogram, that is a long time, did she get an ultrasound along with the mammogram.

Carol what are you knitting?

What can I say it is winter and we must deal with the good and bad, the good today it was sunny then toward evening it got colder and I think it is starting to snow a little. The bad tomorrow it is to snow.

Janet if retired means doing lots of things the first will be getting rid of items that just found a drawer or hanger - now it is time to move then out. Looking forward to free space. 

Larry: About Picasa & Irfanview is that the web sites or do I need to go looking.

Will return tomorrow     Ruth

Yes, Carol, still working.  But if I have many days like today, I won't be for long.  Hope you get the "all clear" in your report from your tests.  Yes, a lot of small businesses are struggling, times are tough for lots of people right now. 

Etta Sue, good for you, getting the problems solved all by yourself!  I was just trying to order some prints online, and for some reason, it only picked up about a third of the ones I wanted.  So it's back to the photo machine.  Thankfully, we have one in town now, at Alco's, and so far, it's doing good.  They had one earlier, and it was a total mess.  I mean the photos from it were.

Ruth, I need to do a lot of "weeding out" too.  I'm doing lots better about getting rid of stuff quicker, but have years and years of backlog.  Sigh... :-\

Oh!  I wanted to tell Liz that I also read Glen Beck's The Christmas Sweater; and the end left me confused.  I still don't know what to think of the end, but the rest of the book was really good, I thought.

been away for awhile. busy fixing up the house and then taking a trip to michigan to meet my husband's family and spend christmas with them. now that i'm back I re-signed myself up for fostering animals for the shelter since i've been missing that for a long time. and now that i'm not living in an apartment anymore and am in my own house i can be less picky with what i bring home.

i'll try to be on again soon and post some more pictures.

 :)Good evening to all.

I was talking to friend of mine that we met on the last cruise that my sister-in-law took me and my wife on.  Well his wife has had a lot of illness so I started to tell him about C.P. And he said he enters some pictures in our challenges and then he told me he was poppa smurf well I said what a small world.  I told him that we had prayed for Sue his wife long before we had met him on the cruise. :)

It is amazing how God puts his people together long before they ever know it then you meet on a ship in the Caribbean and you are able to share with each other but not until tonight did we find this out about C.P.  Praise his name he is so Awesome. <3

I dutifully did the treadmill this morning and had to listen to local news because the t.v. downstairs only brings in shows with ads at this time of the morning.  Local news is that there have been 90 mph winds at top along the front range.  Not so bad here. 

:coffee: is ready and I have a thermos for Don as he is going into the high country today & there is no heat or electricity at the cabin that son is building.  Yikes, not me. 

Marilyn:  Am knitting a scarf with one skein of soft yarn and the other skein of Homespun.  Do  not like the clumps in the Homespun Lion brand.  I have been on the  SN & Friends site with knitting and a gal sent me a pattern for making prayer shawls (if I ever get that good).  Using the bamboo 10 1/2 size & they are so comfortable. 

Janet:  I might have had results if the group in  FC had sent my records as requested.  Now I have to call today and start that in motion once again.  Really not happy that someone was lazy. They gave me an ultrasound yesterday as well.  You need to care for yourself because you have so many to care for in your life - just a gentle reminder.

pitbullangel:  Fostering animals is such a devotion to their welfare.  Have a safe trip to Michigan.

Gord:  You mentioned small world and the fact that we meet people because we are meant to meet them - I have thought about that forever.  It is amazing. 

Good morning, friends,

Brrr, it's pretty chilly in here right now, but supposed to be really warm today, then the "bottom drops out" and high only in the 20s tomorrow. No wonder I keep having these sniffles!

My son who lives in England is coming today to help pack and determine if he's going to purchase the house. So, I'll be missing in action while he's in the States.

Good news for my daughter (and all our family, too, of course) - her fiance presented her with a gorgeous ring and now they'll be making plans for the wedding. No, I don't know any details, but will let y'all in on the secret as soon's I know something.

Have a wonderful beginning to the fresh New Year and an even better walk with our Lord during the upcoming days.

See y'all later...

Ruth Ann

Carol I have been following the posts at seniors and friends in the knitting forum. but had forgotten what you were knitting.

I reached 500 workouts this morning at Curves; it has taken my 2 years and 2 months to get there.  At first I gained 6 lbs as the muscle formed and I began to lose inches. Then I lost 17 lbs over a year and now I have gained back 9 lbs. At least the 23 inches I lost are still off. The gain has been due to the change in my eating habits since Keith and I got together.  What a bummer, we eat well and I gain weight. I will continue to workout after the move at a gym near the house with a friend of mine who lives in Coos Bay.

Happy (dog) will be having surgery on one of his back paws to remove a growth that is growing  on one of his toe pads, in a couple of weeks; I won't be traveling again until after his foot is healed. I don't want to leave his care to anyone else.

Today I think I will take all the pictures and things off the walls, books out of the book case and knick knacks out of the China Cabinet and get that packed up. Might as well start with the stuff I don't like to do first. I also need to call my Chiropractor to make and appointment for an adjustment.

Congratulations to your daughter, Ruth Ann!  (I hadn't been aware she was single.)  So nice you will have help with the packing.

Carol, it is frustrating when people don't do their jobs properly, isn't it?  We have experienced similar things several times.  I hope Don stays warm and healthy while working in the cold!

Today is the day!!!  At eleven we go to the new care home to select Beth's room.  I'm already frustrated about that because they made the rooms much too small---again.  >:(  And they have free-standing wardrobes that will hold about 12 to 20 items of clothing on hangers.  :ticked:  Who picks out that junk?  And the "Chester drawers" (as the administrator says) are about the size of a large night stand.  So I'm thinking there will be a lot of problems.  You can't expect people to consider that their home if there is no place for their stuff.  Everybody wants to have their own stuff around them.  Granted, most of us have way too much, but still.........  Well, I hope I will have a different attitude after I actually see the room she will have.

Gord, how nice for you to meet another CP member in person!

I wish you all a wonderful day!

Hi everyone.  Just back from the gym where we walked a little over a miles this morning.  It was chilly at McDonald's this morning.  Not much on the agenda for today other than to attend a meeting this morning.

Ruth, just type Picasa 3 or Irfanview in the search engine and you will find the link to where you can download the software.  The Picasa program is offered by Google now as they own the rights.

Gord, it is indeed a small world.

I was very wordy yesterday so will make this short today.  

Finally, a very nice human helped me with my medical records this morning.  She found out that they were not sent for almost two weeks - just sent yesterday.  But the records are needed now so she went ahead and faxed the information as I thought they would two weeks ago.  What a relief as I had been told all had been in the mail so we thought it had been lost. 

Janet:  Everything is about money and the love of money. 

Ruth Ann:  Exciting news.  Will you be sewing the wedding dress?  (Just kidding). 

Larry:  You can always say more!

We are warmer than Tucson right now but they will get up into the 70's this afternoon and we will stay the same in the 40's. 

Good morning, everyone!

I haven't posted in this thread for a while, so I thought I'd pop in and say hello.

We had a very nice, quiet Christmas with lots of beautiful fresh snow.  I've also had some visits from some very cool birds right to my backyard.  If you haven't seen them, they're in Wildlife/birds thread.  The snow is now melting as we have a warming trend on right now.  Now, it's an ugly slushy mess in most areas.  It was over 50 degrees yesterday.

I've been battling different illnesses as I usually do in the fall and winter.  It's a struggle to do the must do's, much less the extras. 

I am hosting a New Year's Eve party tomorrow night.  It will be the 10th anniversary of my sister's death.  I can't believe it's been that long.  I am glad I'll have lots of friend and family around to make a fun evening of it and keep from being too melancholy.

Gord-That is amazing!  My mother met someone on a cruise that my brother knows very well.  They went and surprised him by attending one of his shows (he's a musical director & pianist for musical theatre) together and he didn't know that my mother and she had met.  Boy was he surprised!

Marilyn, Congratulations on continuing your workouts.  Keep it up and you'll get the weight back off!  ;) We got a Nintendo Wii game system for Christmas.  We have never had any games like that, so it's kind of strange to have in our home.  We got the Wii Fit and I have begun to work out with that.  My asthma has finally calmed down enough to do it.  I never thought I'd be doing yoga exercises, but I do need to work on my balance and it should help. (I shall ignore the weird yoga mumbo jumbo)  Wii Fit is neat because it keeps track of your weight and workouts and also the rest of the family and reminds you to encourage them to work out, too, and if they have a birthday coming up it asks if you've shopped for their gifts.  Technology these days...

Well, I hope you all have a great day and a Happy New Year, if I don't get back in here.  I've been doing more photo posting than chatting these days.

Blessings, Kathleen  :coffee:

Another night of very little sleep.  Reason was either the 3 glasses of Pepsi I drank at Don Pablo's OR the last of my chocolates to me for Christmas.  Caffeine!  I saw 4am before finally going to sleep and then didn't wake up until 9:20!!  I hope I don't get my nights and days mixed up! 

While up last night, I discovered itunes and I am listening to Hawaiian Radio right now.  Love it!!  Wish I could find an easy listening/all instrumental music radio station!  I had to register but I doubt if I ever pay for tunes on itunes. 

Ivalou and I are going for our Christmas special out to eat tomorrow.  We are going to Muncie, Indiana, to Sirloin Stockade.  Maybe to a movie also...as long as it isn't too late in getting home.  Don't want to get caught in the drinking crowd mess!  Been there, done that...a long time ago!! It really wasn't fun then!

It looks spring outside.  Bright and sunny with a little wind.  But still cold, I think.  Don't know the temp.

I forgot to mention that the friend I will be working out with is our very own Jane Yes she will be coming out of the corner to go work out.

I discovered that I don;t have enough newspapers  yet to start wrapping up the breakables from the China Cabinet, I went to Safeway to get some of the old North Coast Journals and they out all gone. Hmmm Just when I need them they are gone.

Maybe I will just loaf around the house today and do a whole bunch of nothing.

Larry thanks for the info I will give it a try. I am still nervous about downloading in case a virus enters or I take too much out. 

Last evening I finished knitting a scarf using some bulky but very soft yarn I will put it with my coat to have handy at all times. 

We went to Wal Mart to get some photo's printed and while there we looked at some watches and to our surprise we saw one that was $20.00 less then at another well known store it pays to check Wal Mart out first, then on to Home Depot to get some new lamp shades, Wal Mart did not have those, we checked first.

Evening is almost upon us so best get a little more done before it gets to late. 

Ruth

oh man oh man what a wild 24 hours it had been in a little less than 24 hours i will be married and off in some undisclosed location enjoying a stress free weekend! i hope ya'll are having a wonderful end of the year and hopefully preparing for a wonderful start to the new one coming in! i have to go get some things taken care of as tomorrow is the "big day"
have a blessed day and new year
sarah

Hi everyone.  Sarah, I hope this is a most memorable and enjoyable day for you.  Then the work of being married begins. 

It is to be windy and only up to about 50 degrees here today after a lovely day yesterday.  I enjoyed the nice quiet day yesterday.

This evening we have been invited to a church friend's house to help finish up the goodies from Christmas.  Just what we need but always enjoy the visiting and we probably will play some games.  I don't expect we will be out very late tonight as I agree with Etta Sue in that I like to have my car in the garage and be safely in my house before it gets late on New Year's Eve.

Ruth, I have downloaded and installed lots of software over the years and don't ever remember having a problem from the download.  I assure you the two programs I mentioned, i.e. Picassa and Irfanview are safe.  We also use Wal-Mart a lot although get very tired of the crowds.  We have several stores within about 5-7 miles from us. 

Marilyn, it must not have been the right time to wrap your breakables. 

Etta Sue, it sounds like you and Ivalou have a nice day planned today.  Hope you find an enjoyable movie to watch.  If you are looking for pretty music to play through your computer let me suggest Pandora.com and ask for easy listening or instrumentals. 

Kathleen, good to see you posting and to read that you are feeling better.  We have a friend who got a Wii for Christmas but they hadn't hooked it up when we were there on Christmas afternoon.  I have never really seen one in operation other than to walk by a display in Best Buys.

Carol, glad you got the medical record situation straighten up.  Doesn't it make you sad that people tell you things that are not true.  I guess that is a way to get out of work.

I am just going to have a quiet day today doing some odds and ends types of projects here in my office. 

Etta Sue:  We can listen to hundreds of radio stations from all over the world.  It is a USB connection that I am sure was under $30.  Just love it.  All the different languages & you can choose types of music instead of countries.  Don isn't here - email me & I can give you some info.  I hope.  Meanwhile, I had cocoa last night - caffine - wired.  Now sleepy.

Larry:  Why can't people admit a wrong - a mistake?  Why can't they just apologize and get on with it?  Tsk Tsk  Tsk  Look at the politicians and they set an example. 

Sarah:  Best wishes to the bride and groom.  I am sure you won't have time to read this! 

All of a sudden, it is New Year's Eve.  We never go out unless it is really early - before six and home before 7 for sure.  All of our children stay home as well.  That night and Halloween is the night that no one in our family wants to drive. 

Time for  :coffee: de-caf, of course.  Have a safe holiday. 

I am in a rush.  Have to get ready to leave in a few minutes. 

I am listening to Pandora.com .... Instrumental.  I really like Hawaiian music and Salsa/Tejano music.  Peppier than what I am listening to right now. 

Sarah ~ I wish you well on your new endeavor.  Remember marriage takes a lot of work...give and take.  Go in with a positive attitude and with a marriage of three with God first, you will have a very happy marriage! 

Off and running. 

Cold but sunny and windy day!!! 

Sarah, I wish you every happiness in your marriage.  Just remember to put God first, and other things will fall into place.

What a busy day we had yesterday!  We went to the new care home with Beth to choose her room; she chose #408, which has an East window looking out into a small patio between wings of the facility.  I think the deciding factor was when they said that when they get a pet, if it is a dog, it will be put there to run around.  Also, she likes the number 8 because she says it is the symbol of infinity.  I cannot tell you how disappointed I am in the new facility!  We (taxpayers) are spending over seven million dollars for it; they promised the rooms would be larger; and they are actually smaller than the ones they have now!  I could barely hold back the tears.  There is barely room for the stupid wardrobe, the bed, the over sized night stand and a chair, and she really needs her recliner and also wants to have her computer desk in there.  No way will everything fit and leave room for her power chair or the lift they have to use to move her from bed to chair to bathroom, etc.  I guess it will work out someway, but... :ticked:

We had a horrible thing happen last evening in our small town.  A little 5 year old boy was riding his bicycle and got hit by a semi truck and killed.  His grandma is a long time friend of mine; she started vomiting violently and having chest pains and was taken to the hospital, but I heard she got out this morning.  Such a terrible thing to happen to anyone.  :'(

On a brighter note; there is a group of people coming in to pray for Beth tomorrow morning!  Please join your prayers with theirs that God will see fit to heal her.  Having John here has given her so much joy this Christmas, and I know she will be really lonely for him after he has to go home.  His 50th birthday was yesterday and we had a little "over the hill" party for him which turned out nice.  We will take him to meet his train Sunday night at 11:30. Yawn......   ;)

I'd better stop before you get bored and stop reading!

HAPPY NEW YEAR, EVERYBODY!!!

Good morning .... I thought I'd better get in here before next year! 

Janet, I will continue to pray for Beth and especially tomorrow morning, when the prayer group is with her.  Sorry about the disappointment with her room.  Makes one wonder what they were thinking -- or even IF they were thinking. 

What a terrible tragedy for the family of that little boy.  I pray the grandmother is recovering from the shock.  Something like that can really wreak havoc not only emotionally but physically as well.  How does anyone come to grips with such a thing.   :'(

I continue to keep all these prayer needs in mind and trust each one of you are doing well and that God will give you a blessed and peace-filled New Year. 

Sarah ... CONGRATULATIONS!  Go forth with God as your guide and enjoy your new (married) life.  Whenever you can manage to get your feet back on the ground for a bit, come in and let us know how you're doing; where you honeymooned; where you're living .... you know, all the good stuff.   ;)

Sarah - loving self sacrifice, cheerful giving of each to and for the other, dedication to being the best thing that ever happened to each other = LOVE.

Hi everyone. I am finally here to post, I have been reading of an on today.

Janet I am so sorry that  Beth's new home is not what as expected or what they had promised. It seems to be especially hard for you as well as for Beth's comfort. How terrible for that little boy's family. I will also be praying for Beth tomorrow morning. I pray for her every morning.

Larry How is Stacey doing? I am still praying for her daily.

Jane how are things moving along with Tom?

I dread the midnight hour tonight. the neighborhood  celebrates the turn of the New Year from  midnight until about two. Just about the time it is quiet of awhile suddenly there is another fire crackers.

I have been on-line paying bills and getting that over with. I had my supper of Chili beans with rice and tortillas.

Hi!

I'm Julia! :thumbsup:

I've been a member on here for several years but haven't posted due to computer problems.

I'm a friend of Pat's and I'm the co-owner of Geordie!  HAHAHAHA!!!!

I also know JudyB.

I'm hoping to take part more now as I have a new computer.

<3

Hi Julia!  :wave:  You just made it in here (again) before the end of the year!   It's good to see you and to know you'll be around more often now that you have a new computer! 

Hey JULIA!!!

How lovely to see your name pop up here!

Now, you mustn't be a stranger now.  Just come in and read all the posts every day and then post a message like I showed you!

Welcome again!

January 1st

READ: Mark 1:1-8 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark%201:1-8&version=50)

    And so John came, baptizing in the desert region and preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins (Mark 1:4).

John announced this great word: that repentance is the way people come to God, and the result is the forgiveness of sins. The greatest blessing people can experience is to have their sins forgiven. This is what the people who streamed out of Jerusalem to listen to John were looking for, and this is what they found. They found forgiveness of sins, and it came by way of repentance.

That is why the prophet Isaiah said John's message would be like a great bulldozer, building a highway in the desert for God to reach the isolated stranger in the midst of the wilderness. Without a road you cannot drive out into the desert in order to help somebody. You must have a road, a highway in the desert. John was God's bulldozer to build that highway. You know how roads are built—exactly as Isaiah describes in chapter 40: "Every valley shall be raised up, every mountain and hill made low; the rough ground shall become level, the rugged places a plain" (Isaiah 40:4). That is what repentance does. It brings down all the high peaks of pride that we stand on and refuse to admit are wrong. It takes the depressed areas of our life, where we beat and torture and punish ourselves, and lifts them up. It takes the crooked places, where we have lied and deceived, and straightens them out. And it makes the rough places plain. Then God is there at that instance of repentance.

John brought people to Christ the only way they can come—through acknowledgment of guilt. When people come this way, God meets them, cleanses them, and forgives them. John demonstrated that by the baptism he performed. But there is a greater baptism—that of the Holy Spirit. And on the day of Pentecost, when the Spirit of God came, Peter stood up and offered people two things: forgiveness of sins and the promise of the Spirit. From that time on, God has made these things available to any man or woman who will begin at the beginning—the place of repentance.

Have you ever repented? Have you ever changed your mind, stopped defending yourself and trying to blame everything on others, and said, "No, Lord, no one else is to blame, only I. This is the way I am—and I need help"? That is where God will meet you. He always meets humans at that point, washes away guilt, cleanses, forgives. That is where you will find forgiveness of sins. If you have never repented before, I urge you to do so now. God will meet you right there. In the quiet of your own heart, where God alone hears, you can say to Him, "Lord, I repent. Lord, send me the Holy Spirit through Jesus." And He will.

    Lord, thank You that You promise to meet me in this place of repentance. I come to You now on that basis.

"Whoever said, "Procrastination is the thief of time," was right. We keep postponing, promising ourselves we'll do better. be honest, How many of last year's resolutions did you keep? This year do things differently. Make your goals S.M.A.R.T. In other words, Make them;
(S)pecific: Get up earlier in order to read your Bible and pray before going to work. Make time for your family. Exercise.Eat right, Take care of you body; it's God's temple. (1Cor. 6:9-10)
(M)oderate: Tackling more than one project at a time dilutes your focus and makes it harder to stick with. When you start too much you finish too little. Start small and build on your successes by mastering and maintaining one thing at a time (Php3:13)
(A):chievable: Don't try to swallow the whole elephant in one bite. Baby steps are the name of the game. Talk n terms of what you will do instead of  what you won't. For example, instead of saying, "I'm not going to be so critical," say, "Today I'm going to look for something good in everybody I meet" (Php. 4:8  )
(R)ecordable: You can't manage what you can't measure. Documenting your progress (or lack of it!) makes you accountable, show how far you've come and what you need to work on.
(T)ime Specific: Review your goals weekly (or daily if you're struggling). That way you can trouble-shoot early and change direction when necessary. The Bible says, "Throw yourself into your tasks so....everyone will see your progress" (1Tim 3:15 NLT) Come on, make up your mind, get up off the couch and go for it!"

(The Word For today)

Just wanted everyone to know that I was on the treadmill for 40 min. this morning  ;D

Janet:  How sad for everyone and must be for the truck driver as well.  Prayers for Beth this morning. 

Janet, what a terrible thing to happen in your town.  That poor Grandma.  :(

(Continuing to pray for Beth)

Hi everyone and Happy New Year.  It was 32 degrees this morning as I was leaving McDonalds and it was really chilly in there.  I stopped at the store to pick up a package of fifteen bean soup mix as Pat has a large ham bone from Christmas that should make great soup.  I think she has it started now as was working in the kitchen.  I actually got a package of 16 beans mix so it should be even better.

Janet, when we were waiting in the hospital while Stacey had her last open heart surgery we met several people who were there for a lady in ICU.  She was told that her 5 year old grandson had been killed in a car accident and she immediately suffered a terrible heart attack.  The doctors didn't think they could save her but it was about day 18 when we were there and she had finally come to and seemed to be beginning some recovery.  Her lungs had collapsed.  Her sister had stayed around the clock in the waiting room and other members of her family came and went periodically.  The father of the little boy was a tow truck driver and he is the one who responded to the crash.  Wouldn't that be just terrible to deal with?

Sorry that Beth's room isn't more patient friendly.  It all seems to be about money now and getting as many people crowded in as possible.  You have to feel not only for the patient but also for the staff that have to work in such cramped spaces.  

Julia, glad to see you posting and nice to hear you have a new computer as that is always an exciting time.  

Pat, thank you for the new devotional.

Marilyn, Stacey is having a hard time dealing with the severe pain she is experiencing.  Also a number of things don't seem to be going too well.  She was very upset yesterday.  It is too detailed to go into here.  Week after next she will start to work at the IRS again starting with three days of refresher training.  I just hope she will be strong enough to handle an 8 hour work day and can concentrate with the pain she endures.  

I am planning on watching a lot of the bowl games today.  Georgia is playing as is Virginia Tech, which is the school by good friend Rod graduated from and follows closely.

Janet ~ It is sad that a new facility is worse for the patient and the caregivers.   Has any of the workers spoken their disappointments? 

Larry ~ I, too, pray that Stacy will find the endurance to work an 8 hour day.  Wish she was around here.  My IRS man retired so I have to find a new person or go to H & R Block.  And thanks for giving me the (https://www.christianphotographers.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fbestsmileys.com%2Fthumbs%2F7.gif&hash=a10373e05d8723b8e0851833312040783f463181) for Pandora.  I discovered the random/mix button and now I am listening to different types instead of a steady stream of the same type music.

Carol ~ I must start my walking again.  Kind of took time off during the Christmas season!

Marilyn ~ What a SMART idea!  Great suggestions! 

Pat ~ For us sinners, God's gift of forgiveness is a necessity!  We would have nothing to look forward to, no future, no goals if forgiveness of our sins were not given by our God. 

Julia ~ Welcome back.  Aren't new computers great...well, great after you learn all the new stuff?

Jane ~ Hi to you way out there on the west coast!

Al ~ Hi to you, too, way out there on the west coast!  Deja vu! 

Well, after us four had a nice dinner at Applebee's, Marge asked us to her house to play cards and snacks later on.  Betty declined...she's funny...doesn't like to be out after dark much or on holidays.  But Ivalou, Marge and I played a game of cards and then we had crackers, cheese ball, mixed nuts and punch.  Punch from a punch bowl with the fancy punch cups.  We felt special.  Marge brought us home around 11:30pm. 

I had clothes in the washer so I dried them while watching the ball drop at Times Square.  Then I turned off the TV...that music!!!  Yuck!! 

As soon as I got up this morning, I ran my sweeper!!  Then showered, ordered some RX's, updated my Euchre Hostesses that I put on the back of the Euchre tallies on the computer.  I finally ate some breakfast and read my devotions.  I have decided to read the New Testament this year plus Daily Bread and Upper Room. 

Now I am about caught up online and then it will be time for lunch.  Larry, I am having leftover/frozen 15/16 bean soup.  I need to make some cornbread though.  Can't have bean soup without cornbread! 

Oh, yes!  Sarah and Alyx!! !!  Hope your day went exactly the way you desired.  I know you are at an undisclosed place but hope you will be reading this soon! 

Hi, friends,

Happy New Year! May God be with each of us this year. Some of my kids are in Chicago seeing that outdoor ice hockey game. Brrrrr - glad I'm in my home with my wooly socks and slippers on.  ;)

Julia, welcome home!

Y'all have a great day.

Ruth Ann

Wow, Ruth Ann ... :o  I have that ice hockey game on TV right now ... but I'm sure glad I'm NOT seeing it in person. I guess that sort of excitement is 'specially reserved for the young'uns.  :-\ I heard the tickets were being scalped for mucho $$$ too.   ::)

I got the tree down this morning and stuff put away.  Then went to the care home to meet the group of men who came to pray for Beth.  They were all Hispanic men who really love the Lord.  They told us they don't usually pray in English; I said that is fine, God understands all languages!  One brought his guitar, they sang some, and he played softly while the other two read scriptures, then we had an awesome time of prayer together.  I could really feel the presence of the Lord in that room.  They also prayed for John, talked to Beth to make sure she knows the Lord as her savior, and then we prayed and sang some more.  They asked me if I am Beth's sister.   :)  And they said they will come anytime we need them to pray, also for anyone else needing prayer.  I told them they are a blessing, and thanked them for taking time out of their holiday.  It was a really sweet time.  I know Beth will be healed; I just don't know when!  If God chooses to take her home, then she will have a brand-new body.  Of course, we would love to see her healed here on this earth, and that right quickly.  But God is good, all the time.

I learned the little boy who was killed was only four years old, but nearing his 5th birthday.  Darling little guy; they showed a photo of him in front of the Christmas tree on the TV news last night.  Thank you for the prayers for his family, as well as for my Beth.

Larry, I will continue my prayers for Stacey.  I know God has a plan for her life, as well as Beth's and Wendy's.

Carol, good for you on that treadmill!!  I have GOT to get back to my exercising!!  Just GOT TO and that's all there is to it!

Welcome, Julia!  Nice to have you here.

I called grandson Mark to come help me with computer problems as Curtis only did one thing, and we were so busy we didn't get the rest taken care of while he was here.  Mark says he will come, bless him.

And I think I will actually take the rest of the afternoon off.  (Unless I think of more things I think I have to get done today.)

HAPPY  NEW  YEAR!

It snowed again last night. :ticked:  Just when I thought there might be a chance to get out of the house!  It is sheer ice everywhere and much to dangerous for me to venture outdoors.  Now know what is meant by 'Cabin Fever.'  Started melting again, so will hope for better days ahead....

Amanda is supposed to come home from Victoria today.  Spent a couple of days with friends.  I hope the Malahat is okay.  Daughter and SIL went yest. and had dinner and saw a movie.  I was invited, thought it best to stay here.  Watched 'The Bucket List' movie and had a good laught.  Also the ball dropping...Etta Sue, you are surely correct about the music!

I prayed for Beth and Stacey and will continue to do so.  Sorry about the small room they have given Beth.  Must make things very hard.  I guess money is the operative word these days.

Nothing much to write about and feeling sort of 'Bah, Humbug' due to the weather.  Will go and look for something to make me smile.  Have not made any resolutions, unless it is to not make resolutions.  I must try and view the videos of Charlton Heston's 'The Bible'.  Also a series on Mysteries of The Bible.  Would be happy to send them to anyone interested, after I get that done.   :)

Pleasant Day/Evening and God Bless.

Liz

Happy New Year To each One . And  I pray you all will have a blessed and joyous year in the lord.
Larry-Praying for Stacy.
<3

Hi Melody!

How is it going down there in our far easterly province?

Hi Pat. Good to see you. And a very happy new year to you.
We had a little snow today and freezing rain.
But I thas not been to bad weather wise here yet this year. <3

It's snowing a bit here today but last week, all of our snow disappeared with the heavy rainfall we had.

Hi, Liz!  Sorry about your weather.  And the mysteries of the Bible sounds very interesting.  Would that be the same series shown on TBN?  I watch a program with that name on Wed. nights.

Our weather here today was unbelievable, for January first!!  Seventy balmy degrees!  We are wondering when winter will hit, and how hard.  But it surely is nice while this warm weather lasts.  Of course, it gets colder at night.

Beth and John are going to have their picture taken in the morning.  They have only two days left until John has to leave.  Beth is going to miss him, for sure!  All the personnel at the care home have expressed their appreciation to John for the happiness he brings into Beth's life.  They say there is someone in this old world for everyone, and now I believe it!  :)

I hope everyone's new year is off to a wonderful start.  We know God is in control, and nothing will happen without His knowledge.  And He loves us and wants the very best for us--what more could we ask?

Hi everyone.  It is still dark outside and I think it is cloudy as they predict some intermittent rain today.  It will not be very warm. 

I don't have much on my schedule for today other than to finish up the bills for the month and probably go through some papers from last year that I don't need to keep.

Liz, sorry to hear of the additional ice and snow.  You all have really been hit hard and it is still early in the winter. 

Janet, it sounds like you all are getting southern weather.  I know Beth will be sad to see John leave but his visit has obviously done a lot of good.  It sounds like a very special relationship that benefits them both.  It sounds like the prayer session with Beth was very awesome.

I surely appreciate the continued prayer support for Stacey. 

Etta Sue, the quick mix feature on Pandora is where is usually keep my settings but occasionally change the stations included in the mix. 

It was bright and sunny when I got up so I got dressed and went to church with my camera.  I took photos inside and out.  Hope some are good enough for the overhead.  The church has 6 beautiful stained glass windows.  Hope they are great with the sun shining through some of them. 

Other than that nothing new since yesterday for me.  I stayed home all day yesterday...didn't even go outside since there was no mail.  Today I plan to fix a bite to eat for lunch and then work with my pictures I took. 

I need prayer today,

Thanks,
Samantha :(

Quote from: Samantha on January 02, 2009, 01:32:28 PM
I need prayer today,

Thanks,
Samantha :(

Praying for you right now, Samantha!

Quote from: Samantha on January 02, 2009, 01:32:28 PM
I need prayer today,

Thanks,
Samantha :(

Yes, Samantha...  I've just seen your post and I just prayed for you.  We have a wonderful Heavenly Father who makes NO MISTAKES so I've just prayed that His perfect will will be done in your situation.

Samantha I am praying for you now.

It's snowing gently and it's quite pretty out there.

Paul is at the house and will be leaving very soon to come up here as our family Christmas is tomorrow and then we'll both be leaving soon to head back to Winchester.  Lots of travel.  Yes, it gets a bit tiring.  But the house is in the stage now where you sort of have to be there to do and oversee the various things.

I just posted some photos of My Little Church (http://www.christianphotographers.com/community/index.php?topic=7893.msg127629#msg127629).

Hope you take a look since I had to retrain myself on how to post photos!!!

And they are beautiful, Etta Sue!

Thanks!!!

Quote from: Samantha on January 02, 2009, 01:32:28 PMI need prayer today, Thanks, Samantha :(

You got it !

Hi, friends,

Well, today was hurry up, then wait at the airport for the late arriving plane carrying my daughter and her fiance and my son who lives in England.

They were starved, so we went to the Bar B Cutie, a local restaurant chain begun in 1950. Afterward, we thought of going to do some errands, but they all decided they were exhausted and wanted to go back to the apartment and take a long winter's nap.

So, I just went on to the YMCA and rode the NuStep for 45 minutes - equivalent of 2.5 miles of stepping. If this "metal knee" doesn't get vigorous exercise about every other day, it really begins to complain -- maybe I'm now kin to the Wizard of Oz's tin man!  ^-^

Y'all have a wonderful rest of the day.

Ruth Ann

I have just finished all of the reading

Janet:  so sorry about Beth's new room being so small.

Larry: so sorry for Stacy as well. and yes I go to Wal mart for photo's and they are a great help so willing to spend time with you.

Sarah: congrats on your marriage and make God your # l

Christmas & New Years are past - I have started the task of putting everything back in storage for another year, in doing so I also look at the old decorations and do a in the garbage it goes with some of the old stuff, that way my storage boxes do not increase.

Ruth

I'm glad your kids made it there safely, Ruth Ann.  Enjoy!

Lovely pics of your little church, Etta Sue.

I went with Beth and John today to get their pictures taken.  I think they should turn out nice.

Now that the New Year is here, I must get back to exercising, then I think I will have more energy.  I'm feeling really lethargic, and I don't like that.

Ruth, sounds like you stay on top of things and don't let the clutter build up.  Good for you!

Prayers for Samantha.

Hello, Pat.  Looking forward to seeing that house finished!

Hi everyone.  It looks like it will be another cloudy day with perhaps some rain.  I heard it raining a little earlier this morning.  I will leave for coffee shortly and then we have a meeting to attend this morning and later this afternoon I will watch some more football, including the Atlanta Falcons play the Arizona Cardinals in Arizona in the first game of the playoffs.

Etta Sue, very nice pictures.

Ruth Ann, glad your kids made it in safely from England.  Know you are happy to see them.  I am sure exercise is important for your knee.

Janet, will you be sharing one of the pictures of Beth and John?  I expect having the picture will help Beth keep memories fresh of Johns visit.

Ruth, my wife has our Christmas decorations down to one plastic tube.  It sure makes decorating less tiresome and it was enough to make us feel the season was here.

Hi Ed, Marilyn and Samanta.  Samanta, I also prayed for you.

Pat, I am sure Paul will be glad to get back with you and to enjoy another Christmas get together.  I hope the weather cooperates.

Good Morning for Warm and Sunny California. NOT! It is 32° semi clear out side.  Not much is new here today bur figured I'd better check in and post something to let y-all know I am still here and reading all that you post.

Paul arrived.

He looked sooooo tired.  But who wouldn't be driving all night?

He's now in bed sleeping for awhile.  We don't have to be at Andrew's until about 5 pm.

What is it with men who drive all night long and then sleep all the next day?   ??? My husband used to do that when we went to Alabama to see his folks!  Oh yes, and then say, 'I made it in so and so hours and so and so minutes!'

Thanks for all the comments on 'My Little Church'.  I am really enjoying my new 'home'. 

Samantha ~ I forgot to tell you you were prayed for by me.

I am not doing much today.  Surprise!  It is gloomy...was sunny but something happened to the sun.  It is cold but warming...but not warm enough.  I am having dreams of opening windows and letting in some new fresh air but not today! 

Ivalou gave me a book that Marge gave her to read.  Ivalou read it yesterday morning.  Maybe I can get it read this afternoon.  'The Ultimate Gift'.  I read two chapters last night...seems like a page turner.

Hi everyone.  Good to read all of your posts again.  I really enjoyed this week's devotional.  It's easy to think that God has left us when trials come, but He will never leave or forsake - praise Him.

We had a breakfast at our church fellowship this morning, and then I went to the gym for a workout.  I could feel the sausages churning in my stomach ;-)

God bless all.

Anthony.

Hi Anthony welcome back, good to see you posting, come back often.

we are doing well... wedding went great lots of pics if i could ever figure out how to upload them on here i will... .hope everyone is having a good time i must be off got some things to take care of before we head back home... have a good day1
Sarah

I had written confirmation that my mammogram/ultrasound test is just great.  Such sweet and thankful news. 

Prayers for all who have concerns.

It is snowing but only and inch or two right now.  I just finished watching a YouTube video of people sledding and skiing down Queen Anne hill in Seattle.  One was in a laundry basket.  That hill is quite steep for several blocks and I still recall losing power while trying to go up with it & girlfriend Ginger had to back all the way down with people mad & honking.  Well, her car only had so much power.   :D

Keep up the good works on exercise.  I didn't sleep last night so have been so sleepy all day.  Perhaps a walk tomorrow? 

Oh, I was able to go on the SN site and looked at my quilting - boy, there are a lot more pictures that I could add.  Am so glad that they were not deleted. 

Welcome home Anthony!!!

Thanks to all who have prayed for me, it really helps <3 <3 <3 <3

Thank you Pat for fixing it so I can once again log in, That was so frustrating last night.

Hi everyone.  It is another overcast day with some rain predicted.  It is suppose to get to 60 degrees today, which is nice, and the same tomorrow. 

I am ready for church and we will leave in about an hour.  Today is communion Sunday and the choir is doing an appropriate anthem.  I expect we will go out with the group for lunch after church unless they decide to go to a place we just don't care to visit again but seems to be a favorite of a number of the group.  In that case Pat and I will find a place to eat.

I don't have much else scheduled for today.  I watched the pro football games late yesterday afternoon and evening.  I was sorry to see the Atlanta Falcons get beaten but the other team played the superior game and deserved to win.  The night game was exciting and went into overtime.

Anthony, it has been a long time since we saw you posting.  Welcome back.

Sarah, it sounds like your wedding was great.  Hope you can post some pictures.

Pat, glad to see that Paul made it back safely.  I had to quite driving late at night as would fall asleep and awake with a start and knew that was terribly unsafe.  Hope he was able to get rested up before the Christmas get together.

Carol, that is good news.  I know it is a relief for you and Don. 

It snowed most of yesterday but is only an inch or two outside.  Very cold.  Last night we spent a few hours going through photos only because one son wanted something from high school days - slim pickings but we did get things cleaned up and put away.  I think that there are a lot of boxes downstairs waiting. 

Samantha:  Your prayer concerns are important to you and us - often we read and don't reply but it is not ignored. 

Larry:  The Falcons are always a powerhouse team - I knew that you and Don were watching the same game. 

Good Morning I found the neatest Gospel clipart page  HERE (http://www.gospelgifs.com/clipart/clips-00.htm).

I am part way ready for church I have on the lower part of my clothes and am about to fix my face and my hair before I finish dressing. Everything is covered with frost outside and when I leave for church I will have to go out the back door as it is safer than trying to walk on the front porch, I am not taking any chances of falling down again, that last fall down the deck stairs in Oregon was enough for me.

I did take the dogs for their walks yesterday but go out the back door and gate when I walk them.

Samantha I did pray for you and I think I posted that I was. Many times I lay n bed when I can't sleep and pray for everyone I can possible think of. Last night was one of those nights, the toes on my right foot were hurting and keeping me awake.

Better finish getting ready for church.

Larry, I will share one of the photos of Beth and John if I can remember or figure out how!  :-[  She said the proofs will be ready tomorrow.

My sister Jeanie and I went to the little boy's funeral service yesterday. 
Yes, it was a very hard funeral, for everyone in attendance.  The grandma sang, can you even imagine?  She is one of the strongest, bravest people I know!  She sang "My Life is in Your Hands" and it was the perfect song.  The first line says 'Sometimes life is good, sometimes it's so hard.'  Lou Ann said she just had to do that for her daughter.

The poor truck driver had to be taken to emergency, it really was tough on him.  He is 62 years old, and I'll bet he was imagining his own grandchildren.  They had to cremate the remains, the only thing recognizable was his little feet.   :'(

The kids had/have been taught the meaning of NO, but Ethan was a strong-willed child, and his Mom said if you told him a thousand times not to do something, he would do it anyway, regardless of the punishment.  He was totally fearless.  And just days from his fifth birthday.

I need to paint on a little trunk for my painting group meeting next Saturday.  I have had it here for months, but have procrastinated until the last minute.  Shame on me.  Embarrassed  Bet I get it done, though.  This is the meeting where we return each other's items that we paint for them.

I copied and pasted part of the above, as I posted it in another thread yesterday, thinking I was here.  :idiot:  And I got that little trunk painted yesterday evening!!  Yea!  One less thing to be stressed over this week.

Good afternoon.  Church was great today with the guest minister being a minister who was at Clarksville about 20 years ago.  He went on with his education and the last time I saw him he was a nurse when my mother was in an Indianapolis hospital.  Now he is full time with FAME.  (Fellowship of Associates of Medical Evangelism...website http://www.fameworld.org/ )  Rick Wolford is the Executive Director of FAME headquarters at Indianapolis.  They take teams all over and furnish medical supplies to underpriviledged countries.  He was telling us that a hospital in Indy donated 130 pallets/skids of boxes of plastic gloves!  All FAME had to do was get them!  That is over 4 millions pairs of plastic gloves.  Can you imagine how much that will help people in unsanitary areas?

Ivalou gave the communion devotion this morning.  She did very good even though she gets so emotional.  We have communion every Sunday.  

After church four of us ladies went out to eat at a Chinese restaurant.  Very good food.  

Now I am home for the day.  I feel a nap coming on since I couldn't sleep very well.  Seems to be a weekly thing.  

Cloudy and windy but the temperature isn't too bad.  35°.

We had a lovely day at church today.  One of the men who has difficulties with a mental health problem found that he had a brother in the South of England.  He left us today to go and live by him, so it was a touching moment saying goodbye.  We also had some visitors from the States who are planning on some youth work during the Summer.  It was good to meet them.

Thank you for all of the welcomes, Marilyn, Carol and Larry.

It was so wonderful to read that Sarah is now married.  It will be great to see some of the photographs.

I hope you have a good day today Larry, I had to smile that it is 60 degrees where you are - we are experiencing freezing conditions in England at the moment.  My friend just come home from visiting relatives in Scotland where it is -18C.

I know what you mean Marilyn about lying bed not sleeping.  I am experiencing that myself lately.  It's good that you spend the time possitively by praying for people.

Janet, it's hard to read about the accident with the little boy.  The family must be in a state of shock.  How is Beth these days? 

I'm just about off to bed, it has been one of those wonderful days when the Bible has been expounded very clearly and dynamically.  Perhaps I will have a good night's sleep  ::)

I hope I can be forgiven for starting the new Thoughts this early - I'll be away this evening.  So go here.
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