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Morning Devotional...

Scripture: 2 Samuel 22:3
"My God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the strength of my salvation, and my stronghold, my high tower, my savior, the one who saves me from violence"

In early 1941 with storm clouds of war all around the American Military was preparing for eventual war --- but not yet prepared. Each new American recruit whether Army, Navy or Marine was issued an interesting book when reporting for duty.

Each recruit received a book called "Song and Service Book for Ship and Field." A book of Christian prayers and songs! On the first page of this book was the following:

Almighty God, we make our earnest prayer that Thou wilt keep the United States in thy holy protection, that Thou wilt incline the hearts of the citizens to cultivate a spirit of subordination and obedience to government, and entertain a brotherly affection and love for one another and for their fellow citizens of the United States at large.

And finally that Thou wilt most graciously be pleased to dispose us all to do justice, to love mercy, and to demean ourselves with that charity, humility, and pacific temper of mind which were the characteristics of the Divine Author of our blessed religion, and without a humble imitation of whose example in these things, we can never hope to be a happy nation.

Grant our supplications, we beseech Thee, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

(This prayer was written by General George Washington, at his headquarters in Newburgh, New York on June 8, 1783. The prayer was immediately dispatched to the Governors of all States. This prayer was written six years before Washington was elected the first President of the United States of America in 1789.)

Prayer: Father thank you for a new wave of God fearing men and women leading the USA. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen!

thank you Janet for the devotion, it looks Like I am the first to post in our nice clean new forum.

Rainy and dreary here today. I guess I won't be walking the dogs unless  the sun comes out for a little bit. I need a break every now and then. I am moving right along on the pink baby Afghan I am making. this pattern sure goes fast, but I  am being good and taking breaks to give my hands some rest. I just hope  the gift is appreciated by my grand daughter who neglected to invite me to hers or her brothers weddings. My feelings got hurt then but I am over that. If they don't want me in their lives it is their loss. They know my phone number.

I hope and pray everyone has a wonderful Sunday. I sure am happy with my life here in Oregon.

Hi everyone.  We didn't see the sun yesterday as it was overcast a just a bit chilly.  We attended the birthday party I spoke of yesterday and it was set up outside.  Everyone filled their plate and and we did eat outside but most everyone moved inside after they ate as they were cold.  It was a very nice affair and well attended.  I met some folks I hadn't met before and got to see a lot of friends that I did know. 

Yesterday was one of my very tired days.  We did not go out to lunch and as soon as church was over we headed home for a quick lunch and then both of us rested a good part of the afternoon.  By the time we attended the party I was feeling better but was once again tired by the time we got home and went to bed early.  I do hope today is a better day in terms of energy but will have to wait and see.

Marilyn, you are wise not to dwell on what has past.  Perhaps someday your grandchildren will realize what they have missed by cutting off the relationship with you.  Glad your project is going well.

Janet, I had never seen the prayer written by George Washington.  I can't even imagine in today's society that such a little booklet would be allowed to be given to new military persons. 

Other than my Monday Men's Luncheon my schedule is clear today.  I do need to contact the IRS to get an answer about the way I reported something last year and to see if I need to file an amended return.  It won't have any impact on my taxes but might mess things in sometime in the future.  There is also a local tax matter I need to work on due to the great devaluation of property and the basis the County sets the tax base for our property taxes.  Sounds like an exciting day doesn't it.

You are right Larry, it hard thing to do but the one that causes the greatest peace is to step over the hurts and leave them at the cross. It is a difficult thing to do especially when it concerns family.

It is white and freezing.  We have snow again. 

We had a wonderful message in church yesterday.  The title was Are you a Judas, and he gave the characteristcs of a Judas.  Really left us a lot to think about.

Kassie came home from babysitting last night.  She has a lot of decisions to make and I am trying to get her to think about what she wants to accomplish with each decision she makes.  A difficult process for her.

I am off have a great day.

A great Sunday service sitting beside my sister.  Then 5 of us ladies ate at Bob Evan's.  One lady is new to our little church and is going to the retreat.  Very nice to get to know her better. 

I came home and put some laundry in the washer while I caught up online.  Then when it went into the dryer, Inky and I took a nap.  A long nap.  About 4 hour nap!!  I started to fold the clothes and they were still damp!  So I set the dryer for another hour.  Still damp.  Then I realized I had it on AIR!  I had aired an afghan the day of cleaning and forgot to set it back to heat.  So after 4 hours of the dryer running, I finally got dry laundry! 

I went back to bed around midnight and sleep sooo good. 

Now I am ready to go out the door and take Ivalou to her neurologist!

I got this in a email today.  Before and after the Japan Earthquake.
(http://www.abc.net.au/news/events/japan-quake-2011/beforeafter.htm)  If you don't feel the devastation after seeing these, your heart is dead.  Don't forget Part 2.

Saturday I had the path to my propane tanks cleared.  Saturday night the news reported that so far this year we've had 28 inches above normal.  Today it's snowing again and there's another four inches.  And the path is disappearing.   :( 

Well, I worked again today, and will again tomorrow; BUT THEN I am retiring!!  I did tell her I will help out maybe one day a week until she gets some more people hired, but I'm looking forward to more freedom!

Mom is fading pretty fast.  She's becoming less verbal, appears to be sleeping more and has all but stopped eating.  And today she started having pain in her side.  Of course, Hospice will make sure she doesn't suffer.  It's just hard to see her go, knowing it is happening and there is nothing I can do.   :'(

The prayer by George Washington (apologies to Etta Sue, because I know she doesn't like old English) is an important part of our country's history; and I for one, feel sad that America is being ripped from her roots and cast adrift on a sea of propaganda, ignorance, humanism and crooked politics.  We cannot fight the whole world's battles!!  It's utter folly to try to stretch our troops to fight three wars all at once.  :'(

But we do know the Creator of all the universe, and He is still in control.  All these things must happen before Jesus can call to us, "Come up hither!"  What a joyful day that will be!

I had a good visit with the hospice nurse today, and am appreciative of their support during this stressful time.

 :)  Hi to all.  My computer has not been working properly so it was away getting fixed.  The man that fixed it is very reasonable and did such a good job. :thumbsup:  Then I have been kept busy with going back and forth to Toronto and also being with my grandkids which is a lot of fun. :)

Larry and Pat:  Hope that you are both well and it must be nice to have that warm weather.  How is your daughter?

Janet:  Thank you for the devotional and also your time to do it.

Al:  How are you doing we have not talked for a long time how is you health you could send me an email my address is ngbrown@bell.net  Keep well.

Etta Sue:  Thanks for your previous devotional and it was good.  How is your sisters health doing I hope that you are both healthy.

To all others on C.P.   please continue to pray for Japan and all the people that have nothing it must be so hard.  May the Lord look after them.  God's richest Blessing's to all We praise his name for his goodness to us. :cp:

Good morning!  See you after work!!

Janet ~ I searched for the prayer by George Washington (http://www.beliefnet.com/Faiths/Faith-Tools/Meditation/2005/01/Prayers-Of-The-Presidents.aspx).  If this is the one, it is a great prayer we should use daily.  I did have to read it three times and dissect it but got the meaning.  The words are musical when read but I don't get the thought until I checked some words for different meanings.  Just me.  I do like the prayer.

Gord ~ Ivalou and I are fine.  I really don't think Ivalou is as good as she was this time last year because of pain in her right arm and taking pain meds that make her sleep so much, therefore her agility has lessened.  Her neurologist yesterday changed her pain meds.  She asked him what they were for...pain.  And if they will make her sleepy...no.  She was still having pain with her old pills and if she sat for 5 minutes, she was asleep.  She has started rehab again and her physical therapist said her right arm and spine is full of knots. 

Ivalou has always been one to have a pain somewhere that is sometimes excruciating.  Then she will do something that will really hurt and it will disappear!  Back of legs, shoulder blades, neck, etc.  She says she isn't stressed so I don't know why this happens to her.  Thank God that isn't in my genes! 

Today I take Ivalou to the DDS.  After that we are going to a pub...yes, a pub...for a hamburger.  The DDS staff once told us to eat there and it was the best hamburger we ever ate.  I wouldn't go there in the evening but for lunch when it is about empty, I will.  Never alone though.  Not that it is in a bad neighborhood...just remember what bars used to be and want no part of that scene again.  Am I digging myself a hole and climbing in?  Going for the food and not the drinks or the camaraderie!

Then since Kroger grocery is near by we make see if there is anything in there that we can't live without!

It is cloudy and suppose to rain today.  Only 46 degrees.  But while sitting here I saw a squirrel run across my yard and the birds are everywhere!  My tulips, daffodils and narcissus are greening up.  Maple trees are budding.  Ah, spring!!

Did no one see the before and after Japan earthquake (http://www.abc.net.au/news/events/japan-quake-2011/beforeafter.htm)?

We are on the "down" side of March.  Still snow to be expected, and even into April, but the six foot piles plowed up along the road are shrinking.  And before yesterday's extra 4 inches, the leach (leech?) field line in my back yard was clear of snow.   

Hi everyone on a truly beautiful day in Georgia.  It is warm and no wind.  I have to think our freezing weather is over for this season but one never knows.

My wife left me a note this morning when I got home from coffee that she had gone to the Senior Center to visit with a friend and to play some games or work on the puzzle they always have available.  I was glad to see her feeling up to getting out on this beautiful day. 

I have a meeting this morning and then at lunch time the lady I work with on the Golden Games is stopping to pick up the paperwork I have completed and to leave another big bunch of applications.  She said there will be one more small bunch after this and then we will wrap up the process before the games with the reports they need. 

Gord, we are all doing about the same.  Some good days and some when we could feel better.  Just spoke with my daughter, or perhaps should say listened.  She has an appointment with the foot doctor and he was 90 minutes late in calling his first patient.  She expects to spend the whole day at the hospital where she has the appointment as well have to get medications afterwards.  She had taken something for her lunch and bottled water.  It is good for her to get out of her apartment.

Jeanne, it seems that you and Judy and Pat can't get away from that snow.  Hope your path doesn't get filled back in.

Etta Sue, it seems that most places to eat around here also have a bar.  However, have not experienced any problems in that regard as are never there at a late hour. 

Janet, sorry to hear of the continued downward spiral your mother is in.  It is good that she is under Hospice care so she doesn't suffer unnecessarily.

Judy, I feel for young people trying to live in the environment of today's society.  It is good that you have communication with her and can listen to her as she struggles with decisions she needs to make.

Time for me to leave.  You all have a nice day.

It is interesting when 2 sisters go on a double date.  Even more interesting when the younger sets up the older!.  Topping off the evening they were both home before cirfew.  I love the chatter about the evening, and the set up sister was "so cute", as was her guy.  This is a young man who has strong principles.  We will have to see where this goes!

It is not as cold today as was yesterday.  Again the last dump of snow is melting slowly.  Jeanne looks like our weather is about the same.

Etta sue you really didn't dig yourself a hole. There is a place in North Bay that is a bar at night but in the daytime is a lovely restaurant.

Bye for now

Amazing and so sad, the pictures of Japan.

We drove to Yuma to visit with cousin & wife and they leave for Washington soon.  He wants so badly for us to go together over to Sweden to meet relatives and his wife is afraid to fly.  Finally, I told her "Why not?  You are Good with God!"  She laughed but really, our lives are not in our control so why fret over such things?  We were probably more in danger driving back to the Phoenix area in heavy rain yesterday.  Oh, and we did cross into Mexico just for some pharmacy things & a little bit of shopping.  Not much, but I do love the little handmade baskets that are only $2 and the people are so poor that it is sad sad sad. 

Janet:  I am getting really tired & have to rest between company but need to invite a few more cousins.  Our friends just need a place to rest so this is it - we do love them & want to help them relax between hospital visits.  Good that your mom is sleeping so that means she is resting and that is to be thankful for - hugs to you & Beth.  Have heard knee surgery is more painful than hip surgery. 

Larry:  Good luck with all the paperwork.  We are contesting our taxes too because the value has gone down. 

Judy:  How sweet with the girls.  It is a lovely time of their lives and soon they will be away.  I miss all my children but they won't move in with us again.   :'(

Al:  Do understand about the evacuation orders.  If you didn't do so then the worst could happen.  Nice that you have hills between you and the ocean. 

Hello Gord!   Is it almost springtime for you?  Take care. 

Almost finished knitting one last piece of the sweater and I made a mistake.  This is so stressful at times and should be soothing. 

It seems there's more to come.  Depending on which channel I watch we could get anywhere from one to eight inches of snow tomorrow night and into Thursday.  Plus, temperatures are expected to be from 10 to 20 degrees below average for the next week.  Oh well!  That's March in northern New York State.   ::)

Yes, Etta Sue, I did look at the before and after pictures of Japan.  So sad, there just aren't words.

And here in our corner of the 'desert' there are two huge wildfires raging; with winds gusting to 60 MPH.  One has burned an area of over 50 miles already.  One is in the adjoing county to the west of us, the other in Oklahoma near Guymon.  Guymon is only about 60 miles from here, too.

Today was my last day at work!!!  Oh, joy!!

Gonna go watch The Biggest Loser, see you later!

Hello all from a dusty burnt area of my world,
We had massive wildfires all over the area today and I do believe at one time there were as many as four grass fires burning at one time :S. Been a bit of a crazy day. There were the 2 that Janet mentioned and then 2 in my county but they were not near as big as those up north and over east. Our radios still have not stopped going off with the firefighters out working these fires :(. But I need to be off to bed so I can get up early and prepare to teach the kids tomorrow and I hope I don't wake up with 2 black eyes as I think Ruth may have cracked my nose when she head butted me :( Have a good day all
Sarah

Hi everyone.  Up early this morning, have had breakfast and put together my two medicine boxes for the next two weeks.  This morning is Bible study at the church and then I plan on coming home right after as have a lot of work to do on the new applications I have to process for the Golden Games.  I think there are 110 applications in this batch and there will be another 60 or so to go that I haven't received yet.  Tonight is choir practice and we are starting to work on our Easter music as well as the regular music.

Sarah, those little ones can get to us in more ways than one.  Sorry to hear of the fires and you and Janet have mentioned.

Janet, hope you can get some rest today since you have finished your job.

Jeanne, brrrr.  Wish I could share our great weather with you.  It was almost 80 yesterday and to be that again today.  The pollen count has become very high and soon everything outside will be covered with pine pollen, which doesn't affect folks as some of the other grass and tree pollen but sure makes a yellow mess on everything. Hope you don't get snowed in.

Carol, were you saying that you all are going to Sweden with your cousins or just that you were encouraging his wife to fly over with him?  You are so right about the safety of flying versus driving. 

Judy, those young teen years are tough ones for those responsible for them.  Glad the girls had a nice evening and made it home by curfew.  Kids push against the rules but I firmly believe they are glad they exist as it helps them set boundaries. 

I was just thinking...I remember when Sarah was looking for prom dresses online.  How time flies!  Now here she is wondering if she has black eyes from a head-butting from her daughter, Ruth! 

Well, I got Ivalou to the DDS and the staff and I talked about Droid and applications!  Then Ivalou and I did get our hamburger and it was just as good as I remembered.  Wonderful.  Price is higher but they are everywhere. 

Ivalou decided she was too tired to get groceries and would wait until we go to WalMart so she can get her Fish Oil Concentrate also.  Maybe today. 

Today I take Ivalou to rehab.  She thinks the different pain pills, the tape and exercises she is doing is helping.  Yay!  We may go to WalMart after eating somewhere. 

Tonight is Wednesday Night Live at church.  No prep for that.  Just watch an Andy Stanley video and listen to Steve. 

It rained here overnight.  The sun is trying to shine.  But the temp is to drop drastically and perhaps by morning there will be snow on the ground.  What???  Well, it is still March even though the calender says SPRING!

I have knitted 6 dish clothes for the Silent Auction for the Retreat for Women.  We plan to put two or three in baskets for the auction.  Dish clothes are the only thing I knit.  No two are alike!  I know I made a big mistake in one but I don't know how to correct a mistake once I make one.  So I just keep on!  They won't fall apart and besides, they are used to wash dishes!

Ha ha ha!   And if anyone is so picky that they demand PERFECTION in their dish cloths, well........I just don't know about them!  :lol:

Hi everyone I see it is about time for me to check in again.  Nothing much going on here, I am still crocheting on  the baby afghan and working on the scarf/shawl that I am knitting.  I am about half way through with the afghan. still taking time out to work on my graphics too.

Dreary day here, a little bit of rain, more coming sporadically tonight according to the weatherman. Went to the free monthly Senior movie yesterday morning, Keith took most of the day off and he went with me this time after checking the office. Then after lunch he went back to the office for about an hour and was here when I got home from taking Happy for a walk.

1. Sleep my love, and peace attend thee
All through the night;
Guardian angels God will lend thee,
All through the night,
Soft the drowsy hours are creeping,
Hill and vale in slumber steeping,
I my loving vigil keeping,
All through the night.

2. Angels watching ever round thee,
All through the night,
In thy slumbers close surround thee,
All through the night,
They should of all fears disarm thee,
No forebodings should alarm thee,
They will let no peril harm thee,
All through the night.
       
Newer Verses
3. While the moon her watch is keeping
All through the night
While the weary world is sleeping
All through the night
O'er thy spirit gently stealing
Visions of delight revealing
Breathes a pure and holy feeling
All through the night.

4. Love, to thee my thoughts are turning
All through the night
All for thee my heart is yearning,
All through the night.
Though sad fate our lives may sever
Parting will not last forever,
There's a hope that leaves me never,
All through the night.

I can hear Pat bursting into song as she reads those words.

G'night everyone!

Hi everyone.  I see I am first here on this Thursday morning.  We are expecting another nice day with the temperature in the mid-60s.  It wasn't quite as warm yesterday as the day before and we kept the house closed as the pine pollen is covering everything now and we don't need to be breathing it and having it get on everything.  Our cars now have a yellowish appearance from the pine pollen.  Other pollens are also very high and lots of people are suffering.

We had a nice choir practice last evening and are working on some wonderful music, including a new piece that has recently been added to our library that has a beautiful message and a beautiful melody.  The only thing is that it is a bit difficult for the bass voice to stay in the upper range for a long time and this piece requires that in the final stanza. 

I did get all of my Senior Golden Game applications processed and today will print out the certificates of participation for each application and then will be done with this until I get the last batch.  I was able to find that there was a paper jam in my laser printer and it is now working well, which is a big relief.

I have a quiet day planned today with nothing I know of on the schedule after coffee and perhaps walking a bit at the gym.  Pat has a doctor's appointment but doesn't need me to accompany her as it is a routine appointment type appointment.

Etta Sue, hope you got missed on the snow.  I see that there was a bad tornado in Pennsylvania over night and lots of snow in the NE.  Do hope Jeanne isn't snowed in again.

I remember when Ivalou and I were in Louisiana in the spring and the pine pollen.  We don't have that here.  We have mostly maple and oak trees.  Then the Love Bugs!  What a mess they are, too! 

I went to Bible Study, Wednesday Night Live, last evening.  Steve dismissed us right at 8pm.  I was pretty much first to leave the church.  It wasn't raining but when I got in my car, there were a few drops on the windshield.  About a mile from the church it was hailing!!  Marble size hail.  Then it started raining real hard.  I pulled into my garage and waited until a song was done on the CD I was listening to.  I opened the car door and the noise was terrible.  Metal garage so all that rain was really loud.  Plus sirens at Lapel was going!  I checked my Droid and had a voice mail.  It was Tony telling me there were bad storms in my area.  So I called him and he said there were storms in central Hamilton County, my county, and I am east central.  When the rain slowed down and I came on in the house.

I settled down to watch 'Survivor' which was recorded at 8pm.  Weather broke in saying a tornado was predicted between Lapel and Hardscrabble and heading to Pendleton.  We are in that path.  Then Ivalou called me and said our niece called to see how we were and said she had spotted a tornado from her front window and went to the basement.  That is 1.5 miles away. 

As far as I know, no tornado touched down but on the 11pm news, they were showing damage to homes and trees in Noblesville.  Showed one house with vinyl siding and about a 3-inch diameter limb stuck in the siding!!  Gazebos blown away.  Carports blown off.  Roofing and eaves gone!  One house the whole side was blown off and you could see the studs in the attic area! 

So I thank God for saving my family and I.  Today I see no damage around my house or Ivalou's.  BUT yesterday afternoon it was 72 degrees.  Right now it is 32 degrees!!  Whew! 

Kitty was going to take me for my eye exam today but she just called and said that her husband is sick...she thinks sinus drainage and maybe sick from eating chicken that wasn't completely done last night.  We were going to go swimming but I may not do that now!  I don't like to come back out with damp hair when it is this cold. 

I sure am praying this eye exam tells me that my right lens is completely wrong on these glasses.  No matter where I look, the right lens/eye is fuzzy! If not, I think I will wear a patch over the right eye...then I could see!

Wow, Etta Sue, what a harrowing evening you had.  So glad you are safe, and had no damage to your or your sister's property.  Thank you, God.

Larry, glad you got the lion's share of the applications and certificates processed.  I'm sure the organization appreciates all you do for them.  You are a blessing!

I took my painting buddy Dee to breakfast this morning.  Called my sis Shirley and my daughter Kerri.  Got packed for the overnight trip to Salina.  Next on the agenda is Beth's care plan, and seeing about Mom.  Then just after lunch, we (sr. director and husband and I) will be leaving for Salina, the Bee is in the morning, we will return home tomorrow afternoon.  Pray for me!

Okay, kids, keep things running until I get back!   :)

We didn't get the 8 inches.  In fact, we didn't even get the 1 inch.   :D  We did get, and do have, the 15-20 degree below average temperature.  But reading Etta Sue's description of what went on around her I can't complain!

Good luck, Janet, at the spelling bee.  I'll be praying for our success tomorrow.   :thumbsup:

Larry, I'm glad your printer problem was only a paper jam that you were able to fix.  Do you use a database or spreadsheet program for the applications, etc?

The sun is still shining.  The radio station up here gives the temperature , then gives the wind chill.  Today they said the temp was -13*C, but it felt like -7*C with the sun shining!  That is so unusual.  We are enjoying the sun I must say.

Larry it is a nuisance when the paper jams, and not always easy to fix.

Janet I pray you do well at the Bee!

My physio therapist wants me to schedule the surgery on my other shoulder..  Not sure About that,  If I do go for it it will have to wait till at least September.  I really would like my summer free.  He keeps pushing me with the exercises.  I guess that is a good thing.  My range of movement improves every week.  Now to get strength back!

Must go  talk later.

Well, just got back from physical therapy.  Trying to get my legs more limber.  She really worked me over today.  At one point I thought I was going to fall flat on my face.  Thankfully, I didn't, but it was scary for a minute.

It's been raining here.  A lot.  It's up above normal for this  date, and  it doesn't look likes it's going to quit any time soon.  All the snow packs and all the reservoirs are loaded.  Thanks be to God's mercy for that! It isn't cold, just wet.

All Through the Night!

What a lovely piece, Judy.  We'll have to see if we can find the music for it.

Etta Sue, that Japan, Before and After is certainly eye opening.  Wow! 

Al Sorry you had a rough time in Physio.  It can be a rough fo but ultimately they do help ....if you don't fall on your face!

John is home unexpectedly.  Only thing is he will be going out on  Sunday.  Oh well can't have it both ways can we,

Night all

Good Morning World!!!  What a beautiful sunny day we have here.  The snow is exporting, rather than melting. The 2 dogs love being outside, they hesitate to come in.  Cimi on the other hand hesitates to go out.  She is really showing her age, 11 this year.

I have physio again today, I wonder what he will throw at me today.  It is always an adventure. Sometimes a painful one, always challenging my shoulder.  I have come to love the ice at the end of the session.

I had better finish up here and get ready to go.

Sunny and cold here, too, Judy, and the snow is slow in leaving.  But I do have one area in the back yard where I can actually see bare ground - over the leach field drain.  That's good in two ways - tells me the snow will go sooner or later, and praise God, the septic system is working.

John and I have had fun watching the deer graze in the field about a good half maile away from us.  I can't see them without glasses.  They look like they are having a good meal.  We are seeing a lot of deer these days. they are pretty skinny, makes me wonder how many dies in the harshness of this year's cold.

Have a great day Jeanne

Hi everyone.  It is chilly here this morning, only 43 degrees, but nice and sunny and suppose to warm up.  We had only six men at the senior center this morning for coffee but still have a nice time.

The lady I work with on the Golden Games is to come by later this morning for the applications I have processed and has about 20 more, which apparently will be the last ones.  I am hoping she will have time to check them while she is here and I can process the others for her so that phase will be done and we can run the reports for these games.  The next phase will be after the games are underway to post the winning scores and later the pictures that may be taken at the various events.  Jeanne, I use Microsoft Access as the database program and it works very well.  My son created the program for us several years ago.  I also use the Microsoft Publisher program for the certificates.

Etta Sue, sure glad the storms missed your immediate area.  I always worry when it is very warm and then there is a sudden drop in temperature if there are any storms headed our way.

Janet, I am pulling for you in your spelling event today.  Will be looking forward to your report that you are the champion.

Judy, sure glad your shoulder is getting better each day.  Healing just takes time and effort.  Glad that John is home for a few days.  Didn't understand your statement about the snow "exporting". 

Al, hope the therapy helps you walk better.  Glad you didn't fall as sure don't need that.

Hope to have a leisurely but productive day today.

Well, it's STILL raining.  Had a hailstorm for a few minutes earlier.  It was heavy for about 3,4 minutes.  Supposed to rain all week.

I wonder if Janet will be the Queen Bee of the Spelling Bee!   ::)

The eye exam went well.  I don't have any eye problems that cause watery, itchy eyes so he gave me drops for dry eye.  They seem to help already! 

Then he said that my prescription for my old glasses are fine...he could tweak at little with new lenses but he didn't think it was necessary!  I told him...but I can't see out of my right lens!  You checked without my glasses on but not with them on.  So he had David check the glasses.  I have progressive lenses and he said....no wonder you can't see right...the centers aren't correct.  I agree.  Then he said he could help me pick out new glasses and he guaranteed they would be right.  Or I could wait a year and maybe my eyes would really change.  No, I told him, I didn't think I could wait a year without seeing right.  So I am getting new glasses in 6-7 days. 

Also my eyes were dilated.  I asked how long that would last since I was driving.  Two hours.  I should have known it would be longer than that.  I ate lunch...then driving was iffy.  I stopped at Best Buy...still iffy.  Then stopped at Big Lots...still iffy but decided to take the back way home.  I'd say I was dilated at 11:30am and when I got home at 3:30, I was still dilated.  I took a nap and was okay!

Today Ivalou has rehab at 2:30...to late to eat lunch and too early for dinner...so will probably go to rehab and come back home.  A first for us!   :roflBig:

 :)   Hi Gord here and my wife and I are both heading out to physio also and then going to see our grandson's as they are going away for the weekend I will get back on later by for now.  Gord. :)

Larry even spell check didn't pick that up.  I meant evaporating....Duh  :uglystupid: :uglystupid:

Al isn't rain good for California?

Ice has become my best friend.  After working at PT it really settles down the shoulder. 

John and I have the evening free, no teens, so it is date night!

Judy - indeed rain is super good for California!  I am no complaining, especially against our Lord's blessed government of His earth.

 :) Good evening to all.   My wife and I both went for our physio treatment and when we got there we had a mix up of ti,es so that was a bit of a pain.  So then the rest of the day we went to get our med's and then went to see our beautiful grandson's as they were going away for the weekend and we had a good time with them. :thumbsup:

Could you all please pray for my youngest sister-in-law as she is very sick, She is the one who has physic fibrosis and is in Duke Hospital in N.C. U.S.A.  she is having a very hard time breathing as her lower left lung has pneumonia and she may have a cracked rib and she called me at around 6-a.m. this morning to ask for prayer so please do pray for Lori and her husband is Brian I thank you .

We have a busy weekend as it is the weekend that the choir that I sing in has a concert north of Toronto and again if you could say a prayer for all that take part as we come many miles to take part.  Most of all that the people that come will here the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Have a wonderful weekend and may the Lord richly bless you all.  Gord and Noreen :cp:

Janet:  Wishing you a good & great Spelling Bee!!!!

Judy:  Have you ever heard that song sung by a huge choir?  Lots of baritones in the choir - I remember it from years ago & it was just amazing.  

Gord:  Prayers for your sis-in-law for rest and her breathing to be eased.  Oh, and grands are the gifts we can love forever.  

Al:  Sure do hope and pray that the physical therapy will be of help for your legs.  It sounds logical as they do need circulation.  Sorry about your feeling so sapped in strength from that session and I hope it gets better and better for you.  Hail at your house?  Wow - sounds like a Denver storm. 

We have put on many miles this week and about to stay put because a cousin is arriving Sunday and after they leave friends will show on Wed. just for lunchtime.  I think that may be the end & we are organizing things to head home in about a week.  Anxious to see the family and friends & get back to the best bible study ever.  

Another bright, sunny, windy and cold day.  But it should start to get warmer about the middle of next week - but with snow showers.   :D

Gord, prayers are being said for your sister-in-law.  Also for travel mercies and blessings on your choir concert.

Hi everyone.  It is a gloomy day and we expect to get some rain and perhaps some storms later today.  

I am just back from coffee and will soon leave to go to a meeting and then have the rest of the day to myself.  Pat is busy finishing hand sewing the binding to the quilt she has made for her good friend and will take it to her tomorrow as that is the friend's birthday.  She has spent many hours working on this quilt so it is certainly a gift of love for her friend.  

I am looking forward to watching a couple of good basketball games late this afternoon and early evening.  The games I watched yesterday really were not very good as they were not competitive with one team getting many points ahead.  

Carol, getting home will probably seem very nice.  Always fun to go but equally nice to get back home.

Gord, wish I could hear your concert.  I love to hear large choirs sing.  So sorry to hear of the illness of your sister-in-law.  I don't think I have ever heard of that illness but it sounds very serious.  Duke has a very good reputation as a treatment center and I hope they can help her.

Judy, thanks for the explanation and it makes sense now.  You had me scratching my head.

Etta Sue, glad you getting new glasses that will correct the problem you have been having.  It sounds like someone didn't measure correctly in fitting your glasses.

Al, I sure don't like to hear hail.  Glad it didn't last too long.

Good morning....for a little while. 

Bright and sunny here in central Indiana.  But ....always a but, isn't there?...it is right at the freezing point!  It looks warm and comfy but a heavy jacket would be needed to go outside since the wind is blowing also. 

Larry ~ I feel the same way when I crochet an afghan for someone...a lot of love goes in every stitch.  People who don't do crafty things, don't realize how much time goes into a project.  And I like to hear hail...just don't like the damage it may or may not do.  Looking out and seeing little balls of ice is cool!

Jeanne ~ I will send warm weather your way...after we receive it.  Seems that what we have here, you eventually get.  It also seems it worsens as it goes east.  Sorry about that!

Carol ~ We are always anxious to get away but more anxious to come back home.  I know you have missed your kids and grands so that will be a joy to see them again when you return to Colorado.

Gord ~ As soon as I read about Lori, I said a prayer for Lori and Brian.  Thanks for letting us know about her and keep us informed.  Sounds like you and Noreen are doing better, too.

Al ~ Rain is good anywhere.  It just seems that we wonder, 'What is God thinking to send so much at once?'  If we could only contain it and send it to places that really need it! 

JudyB ~ I was wondering what exporting snow meant also.  So glad Larry asked what it meant.  Evaporating makes more sense.  Thanks for the explaining.

Today is a do-nothing day!  Yay!  Since I have Starz free for three months, I hope to find a movie to watch this afternoon while crocheting. 

Please pray for our little retreat to Nashville, Indiana, this coming Thursday, Friday and Saturday.  Pray for safe travels since it is about 2 hours away.  We have some new attendees and we are praying that they enjoy the retreat and the company of their sisters in Christ.  And for me, pray that I don't spend too much money since I can 'shop' this year and not have to hunt for restrooms around every corner!

I guess Judy, you wish that the snow was being "exported"!  



We have a very sad situation on Photography Cafe (http://www.photography-cafe.com/forum/index.php?topic=15088.0) with one of our long time members reaching near to the end of his life with Oesophagus Cancer.  How sad!  I don't believe that he knows my Savior and this is what makes it so sad.







BUT....





We had a happy situation on there today!

One of OUR members from here at Christian Photographers got this:

Got this in my email and just had to share it with you all!




Wrong  Funeral

THIS IS CUTE, THE  OPENING PARAGRAPH MAKES THE PROPER STATEMENT TO SET THE MOOD. AND WE THINK GOD DOESN'T TALK TO US.....



Consumed by my loss, I didn't notice the hardness of the pew where I sat. I was at the funeral of my dearest friend - my mother. She finally had lost  her long battle with cancer. The hurt was so intense; I found it hard to breathe  at times. Always supportive, Mother clapped loudest at my school plays, held box  of tissues while listening to my first heartbreak, comforted me at my father's  death, encouraged me in college, and prayed for me my entire life.  When  mother's illness was diagnosed, my sister had a new baby and my brother had  recently married his childhood sweetheart, so it fell on me, the 27-year-old  middle child without entanglements, to take care of her.  I counted it an  honor. 'What now, Lord?'  I asked sitting in church. My life stretched out  before me as an empty abyss. My brother sat stoically with his face toward the  cross while clutching his wife's hand.  My sister sat slumped against her husband's shoulder, his arms around her as she cradled their child...  All so deeply grieving, no one noticed I sat alone. My place had been with our mother, preparing her meals, helping her walk, taking her to the doctor, seeing  to her medication, reading the Bible together.   Now she was with the  Lord.  My work was finished, and I was alone.  I heard a door open and  slam shut at the back of the church.  Quick footsteps hurried along the  carpeted floor....

An exasperated young man looked around briefly and  then sat next to me. He folded his hands and placed them on his lap. His  eyes were brimming with tears. He began to sniffle. 'I'm late,' he explained,  though no explanation was necessary.  After several eulogies, he leaned  over and commented, 'Why do they keep calling Mary by the name of '  Margaret?'' 'Because, that was her name, Margaret.  Never Mary, no  one called her 'Mary,'' I whispered.  I wondered why this person couldn't  have sat on the other side of the church.  He interrupted my grieving with his tears and fidgeting. Who was this stranger anyway?

'No, that isn't  correct,' he insisted, as several people glanced over at us whispering, 'Her  name is Mary, Mary Peters.'  'That isn't who this is.'  'Isn't this  the Lutheran church?'  'No, the Lutheran church is across the street.'  'Oh.'  'I believe you're at the wrong funeral, Sir.' The solemnness  of the occasion mixed with the realization of the man's mistake bubbled up  inside me and came out as laughter.  I cupped my hands over my face, hoping  it would be interpreted as sobs. The creaking pew gave me away.  Sharp  looks from other mourners only made the situation seem more hilarious.  I  peeked at the bewildered, misguided man seated beside me.  He was laughing;  too, as he glanced around, deciding it was too late for an uneventful  exit.  I imagined Mother laughing.  At the final 'Amen,' we darted out  a door and into the parking lot. 'I do believe we'll be the talk of the town,'  he smiled.  He said his name was Rick and since he had missed his aunt's funeral, asked me out for a cup of coffee.

That afternoon began a  lifelong journey for me with this man who attended the wrong funeral, but was in  the right place.  A year after our meeting, we were married at a country church where he was the assistant pastor. This time we both arrived at the  same church, right on time...

In my time of sorrow, God gave me  laughter.  In place of loneliness, God gave me love.   This past  June, we celebrated our twenty-second wedding anniversary. Whenever anyone asks  us how we met, Rick tells them, 'Her mother and my Aunt Mary introduced us, and  it's truly a match made in heaven.'

If you Love God for all the marvelous things he has done for you, send this on to others.

REMEMBER, God doesn't make mistakes. He puts us where we are to be.

And the most important line in that story is:  REMEMBER, God doesn't make mistakes.

Cute story Pat I enjoyed reading it.

Good almost afternoon from Oregon, Only 10:37 here.  I have been busy  working on a crocheted  afghan for my grand daughter and doing artwork in PSP and Photoshop, plus being busy around the house and with the animals. I've had a couple of very painful days with my hand and wrist but found a solution to that  problem.

Janet how did you do at the  spelling bee?

Al how is Marbeth?

Etta Sue we have had enough of the rain  here in Oregon, We have rain and sun, just enough  of a break in the rain to take the dogs for their walks every day.

Congratulations to Gary on the photo.

I've put in a very, very important Announcement regarding the Future of the Christian Photographers website and I would like everyone to please read it and take part in the poll.

CLICK HERE (http://www.christianphotographers.com/community/index.php?topic=11620.0)

This is something a friend sent me and I wanted to share it with you.  Most of us will never have the opportunity to visit the Sistine Chapel at the Vatican in Rome.  Just move your mouse around and you can view a 360 degree view, including the ceiling.

http://www.vatican.va/various/cappelle/sistina_vr/index.html (http://www.vatican.va/various/cappelle/sistina_vr/index.html)

Pat, what a nice story.  So sorry to hear of the individual on Photography Cafe suffering with the terminal cancer. 

That's some site, Larry!  I've put it on Photography Cafe.  I'm sure some will enjoy it there.

Hello Everyone,

Hoping everyone is well.      The weather has been nice and sunny but cold.      I was doing a demo for Goji juice and Goji/Acai juice.     I also did a demo for Maca Powder in almond milk and Acai Powder in yogurt.       Many people don't know what maca is and I had to explain where it comes from and what it does.     

Love Ruthie ;) ;)

Glad to see you home, Ruthie!  Hope you had a nice day down there.

Hi, friends, I'm peeking in the back door once again. :)

Etta Sue, your comment about hearing the rain reminded me of when my son was about 2 years old. Because of problems with illness, he was a bit thin with huge blue eyes.

He had fallen asleep in the van as we were going home from church. I made the decision to crack the windows and let him sleep peacefully. Well, seemingly out of nowhere a storm popped up with hail and big drops of rain. I stood at the garage door, anxious for his reaction.

Since he was totally absorbed with eyes turned upward and his little mouth formed into an "O" in amazement, I decided to get him when this finished subsiding. So, when I hurried out to scoop him into my arms, he hugged me tight, then looked upwards again, pointed his finger upward and said"

MOMMY! i JUS' HEARD GOD WALKIN' ON THE WOOF!"

Such wonderful words from a toddler and quite meaningful to his parents.

My God richly bless all who come here. - Ruth Ann

Ruth Ann ~ Very cute story.  Similar story with my son and 3 weeks younger niece here at this house.  Tony and Lezlie were ruff-housing,  running through the house at ages 3-4.  In the hall by the bedrooms is an attic access in the ceiling.  We have had nothing but styrofoam over the opening.  The day was windy and the wind coming through the vents in the roof were making the styrofoam rattle.  Lezlie and Tony stopped in the hallway.  Lezlie said, 'We better be good.  That's Jesus up there!' 

I am ready for church and I must say, the winter clothes came out of the closet again!  It is only 23 degrees this morning!  Brrr! 

After church today we are having a catered dinner.  Then tonight is Small Groups.  Busy day! 

Morning all.  John and Elizabeth have gone to church, Kassie is in North Bay babysitting.  Really rough night last night.

Never the less today is the Lord's Day.  Palm Sunday.... And here is the story behind a hymn writer.

Hosanna, Loud Hosanna

The next day, the news that Jesus was on the way to Jerusalem swept through the city. A huge crowd of Passover visitors took palm branches and went down the road to meet him.

John 12:12 NLT

From Olivet they followed mid an exultant crowd the victor palm branch waving, and chanting clear and loud; the Lord of men and angels rode on in lowly state, nor scorned that little children should on His bidding wait.

Hosanna, Loud Hosanna by Jeannette Threlfall (1821-1880)


Praising her victorious Savior

Today is Palm Sunday. The triumphal entry into Jerusalem was the scene of a curious exchange between Jesus and the religious leaders of the day. A crowd was following Jesus, waving palms and singing, "Hosanna!" This term, literally meaning, "Lord, save us!" was also a cry of praise.

This crowd included a number of children, no doubt caught up in the excitement of the day. The leaders asked Jesus to tell the children to stop such singing. Certainly Jesus wouldn't want innocent kids to be guilty of blasphemy. "Do you hear what these children are saying?" they asked Jesus.

Yes, Jesus said, quoting Psalm 8:2, "From the lips of children and infants you have ordained praise." (Matthew 21:16)

You might think that Jeannette Threlfall had many reasons not to praise God. Orphaned young, shuttled among relatives, she was injured in an accident and became an invalid. Yet she remained cheery and faithful, penning many Christian poems and hymns. Her life was a cry of hosanna! to her victorious Savior.

We don't have the music for this hymn but here are the words.

Hosanna, loud hosanna, the little children sang;
Through pillared court and temple the lovely anthem rang.
To Jesus, who had blessed them close folded to His breast,
The children sang their praises, the simplest and the best.

From Olivet they followed mid an exultant crowd,
The victor palm branch waving, and chanting clear and loud.
The Lord of men and angels rode on in lowly state,
Nor scorned that little children should on His bidding wait.

"Hosanna in the highest!" that ancient song we sing,
For Christ is our Redeemer, the Lord of heaven our King.
O may we ever praise Him with heart and life and voice,
And in His blissful presence eternally rejoice!

That is a beautiful hymn!

Palm Sunday is April 17th this year.

Yes John told me that....but my Promises said it was this week.  Someone is mixed up, but, as Al said that is a beautiful hymn, one not well known.

As one week ends another begins.  And we move to a new "Thoughts" : Click Here (http://www.christianphotographers.com/community/index.php?topic=11622.msg161714#msg161714).