Encourgament, Blessings and Praise...and potentially a list of best and worst bathrooms.

I think I logged in over 1600 driving miles last week! Between trips to Florida and surrounding areas to trips to Mississippi in preparation for the estate sale and the sale itself. I feel confident enough to publish a brochure of the 10 best and worst places to stop for bathroom breaks in Alabama and Mississippi, though I won't.
In addition to those trips I also went to the University of Alabama with my son, "Bama" to run a few errands and turn in some things before he leaves for college on Friday of this week. Sister Sledge and J Smooth will return to school on Thursday of this week, with meet the teacher days dotting the upcoming week. It's been a busy few weeks! Can you believe that summer (as me and my kids know it) is already winding down? I really hate it, because aside from all the tattling and name calling, pushing and shoving, I do enjoy my kids being home. I really do.
Though I do get a chuckle from this commercial:



Today I was paid a visit by one a fellow blogger, who I like to call friend, Teresa of Grammy Girlfriend. Teresa left this comment, "Always love my stops at your blog....and the music makes me smile....Have a happy Sunday." It made me think, of the simple things in life that can offer smiles. Teresa gave me one today. I jumped over to her blog to let her know and came across a post she has written on Encouragement. She added another (updated) paragraph on her post because she didn't want to "come off as though she had it all". I had this to say back to her,

"Teresa, You are a person that always offers friendship and encouragement, but I don't think at all you come off as someone who is better than anyone (by thinking that they have it all together all the time). I think life and the situations in it are managed through faith and having a positive attitude. Sure, it isn't always obtained, for we all have moments where we are weak, for we are human, but after the pity party (and make it short) dust yourself off and get back in the saddle of life. I relate so much to you in the sentence " I do good in the Big Things...I do a little less than Great in the little things". That is so me. I get so frustrated at little things that sometimes set me off, such as someone who is rude and the big things I am a rock. I also think that through trails we grow as people and we grow in our faith and relationship with not only God but one another. It's through encouragement and support that our relationships deepen and strengthen. And in all those situations that are not good ones, we must stop and think...what is the ray of light in the darkness? Where is the rainbow? Make a positive from a negative.I find so much encouragement from your post...and you. Thanks friend!"

I receive so much encouragement from your visits here to Bloggeritaville. Yes, YOU, my friend, the very one reading this. I have shared this already, but it applies...there are times I feel like I am constantly running attempting to get things accomplished and coming up short. But when I sit down at my computer for a breather, I always find encouragement when I see that you have visited Bloggeritaville and took time to leave a comment or an email. It's like a hug. I feel guilt, as though I have come up short these days in spreading myself around but I promise that after next week, when all of my children are in school I hope to feel less like, (my mom's expression) for lack of a better comparison, "a turd in the toilet bowl". True, it's not a joyful image to conjure up, but life isn't always sugar coated, and often times these days I DO feel as though I am circling round and round just trying to stay afloat. LOL! And one has to laugh. In the grand scheme of things, I have little real worries, for God blesses me each day. I think it's important to stop, and listen. Be still and listen. And count our blessings.I think it is good to count our blessings everyday.

Speaking of counting blessings, I have a praise report..... (my children's friend) Garrett came through brain surgery wonderfully. Doctors are watching a little "something" but feel as though it is swelling. Thank you all for your prayers, and please continue to pray-for he still has a road ahead of him in healing and getting to full speed.

I want to thank my friend Jennifer, Dust Bunny Hostage for asking her readers to pray for Garrett. A prayer chain for Garrett...for where a link alone is weak, many together it is strong. Thank you, Jennifer for your friendship and constant example of christian love and acceptance. I am blessed for knowing you and honored to call you my friend.

I just thought I would publish a rare weekend post.
Just some thoughts I had to ramble off.

I do want to encourage you to visit Teresa's blog. Right now she is hosting her own giveaway, which is valued at over $100.00. And as if that isn't enough, she is also hosting a blog carnival of giveaways, but some very giving bloggers. All you have to do is visit Teresa's blog for details.

Be sure to come back tomorrow. I still have lots to say about the experiences that were made of all those driving miles. And there are many. LOL.
Wishing you a wonderful Sunday!
Praise God!

Easter

(POSTED EARLY FOR REMEMBRANCE OF GOOD FRIDAY/HOLY WEEKEND. Click on the picture for a closer look)


I found this interesting:

And "He who sits on the throne said, "Behold, I am making all things new,"...Revelation 21:5 Why did Jesus fold the linen burial cloth after His resurrection? The Gospel of John (20:7) tells us that the napkin, which was placed over the face of Jesus, was not just thrown aside like the grave clothes. The Bible takes an entire verse to tell us that the napkin was neatly folded and was placed at the head of that stony coffin.
Early Sunday morning,while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and found that the s tone had been rolled away from the entrance. She ran and found Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved. She said, 'They have taken the Lord's body out of the tomb, and I don't know where they have put him!'Peter and the other disciple ran to the tomb to see. The other disciple out ran Peter and got there first. He stooped and looked in and saw the linen cloth lying there , but he didn't go in. Then Simon Peter arrived and went inside. He also noticed the linen wrappings lying there, while the cloth that had covered Jesus' head was folded up and lying to the side.
Is that important? Absolutely! Is it really significant? Yes! In order to understand the significance of the folded napkin, you have to understand a little bit about Hebrew tradition of that day... The folded napkin had to do with the Master and Serva nt, and every Jewish boy knew this tradition. When the servant set the dinner table for the master,he made sure that it was exactly the way the master wanted it. The table was furnished perfectly, and then the servant would wait, just out of sight, until the master had finished eating, and the servant would not dare touch that table until the master was finished.
Now if the master was done eating, he would rise from the table, wipe his fingers and mouth with that napkin and toss it on to the table. Theservant would then know to clear the table. For in those days, the wadded napkin meant, 'I'm done.' But if the master got up from the table, and folded his napkin, and laid it beside his plate, the servant knew that the folded napkin meant, 'I'm not finished yet.' The folded napkin meant, 'I'm coming back!'

May your Easter Blessings be abundant.
May you be reminded not just on Easter, but in everyday, the sacrifice made to promise you Life Everlasting.
May we remember HIM.

In the Face of a Child, There is God.

I was visiting my blogger friend, Jenny's blog, called Jenny Hope. She had a very touching story of becoming aware of the people around you, their specific needs. Her story was based on the trails and adversity she faced in her childhood and as a young adult.
I shared this story with her from my time today at the Skating Rink.....

What a story, Jenny. I am sorry you had to endure such things, but at the same time I am so glad that you have been able to turn it around into a positive. You never know what someone else might be going through.I took my daughter roller skating today for her birthday. I took a group of 4 girls. I had on my skates (one of the only adults there wearing any). A huge crowd of day care children came in. There was this one little girl that kept coming over to me. Bless her, she was probably my daughters age (10), but I will bet 275 pounds. I was greeting parents and she would come over to me and ask me to show her how to skate. The first time, I looked around a tiny bit annoyed because I was trying to greet parents and spend some one on one time with Sledge. I told her, "I will later honey".
Later I was skating by and she stuck out her leg, I almost ran over it. I looked down and there she was smiling. "Will you help me". In my mind I heard my conscience, "You promised". I did indeed. Again, I wanted to be there fully for my daughter. It is the rare moment that I get to totally have quality time with her alone (no brothers or dad to share). And it was her special day. I thought though, God is in the face of this child. Would you tell him to wait?
Certainly she has been ridiculed in life because of her weight. No one was there to help her learn how to skate. I never saw any adults on the floor or a chaperon or group leader for which she came with. I took her hand and helped her up. With her hand in mine, we skated-or tried our best to. She never did get the jest of it, no matter how many times I demonstrated. When she fell, I could feel my hip pulling to keep myself upright (my hips still hurts) but she had her hand completely secure into mine (Secure. I wondered if she ever felt security, like I have always been blessed to feel in my lifetime) and we tried time and time again to teach her to skate.
My heart ached for her. So alone in this massive crowd of people. I wondered to myself what her life was like. Maybe the best I can imagine it being, perhaps not. Perhaps my hand in hers was the closest thing she has felt to affection in some time. Perhaps no one had time for her-just as I didn't initially. Perhaps she just wanted someone to see her. To know she was there. You just never do know what someone may go through. Sometimes it is good to let down our guard and take notice, to be aware of those around us in this rush, rush world. Though painful for you (Jenny), I am glad you mentioned it. I am sorry for your pain as a child, but I think it a good reminder to those who might need it.
As for the child at the rink, she fell down one to many times, hurting herself a little (not crying) and I helped her off to the side and told her to rest awhile. I was so afraid she would fall on the rink and get run over. There were so many people there, I lost track of the child and didn't see her again. But I feel led to pray for her. And I will.
Thanks Jenny, for always sharing of yourself and the love of God-it can be found even on this blog. I always enjoy my visit.

Today's blessing over the meal, by Bama.

"Dear God,
Thank you for this food.
Thank you for the hands that prepared it.
Thank you for this day.
Thank you for our health.
In Your Name,
Amen."

Tips for an exceptional, Superb & Powerful Life

1. Take a 10-30 minute walk every day. And while you walk, smile. It is the ultimate antidepressant.

2. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day. Buy a lock if youhave to.

3. Buy a Tivo (DVR), tape your late night shows and get more sleep.

4. When you wake up in the morning complete the following statement, 'My purpose is to________ today.'

5. Live with the 3 E's -- Energy, Enthusiasm, and Empathy.

6. Watch more movies, play more games and read more books than you did last year.

7. Always pray and make time to exercise.

8. Spend more time with people over the age of 70 and under the age of Six.

9. Dream more while you are awake.1

10. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less foods that are manufactured in plants.

11. Drink green tea and plenty of water. Eat blueberries, wild Alaskan salmon, broccoli , almonds & walnuts.

12. Try to make at least three people smile each day.

13. Clear your clutter from your house, your car, your desk and let new and flowing energy into your life.

14. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip, energy vampires, issues of the past, negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead, invest your energy in the positive present moment.

15. Realize that life is a school and you are here to learn. Problems are simply part of the curriculum that appear and fade away like algebra class.......but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime.

16. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like acollege kid with a maxed out charge card.

17. Smile and laugh more. It will keep the energy vam pires away.

18. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.

19. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.

20. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.

21. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

22. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.

23. Don't compare your life to others'. You have no idea what their journey is all about.

24. Ladies - Go on and burn those 'special' scented candles, use the 600 thread count sheets, the good china and wear our fancy lingerie now. Stop waiting for a special occasion. Everyday is special.

25. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.

26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words: 'In five years,will this matter?'

27. Forgive everyone for everything.

28. What other people think of you is none of your business.

29. Time heals almost everything. Give time, time!

30. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.

31. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friendswill. Stay in touch with them.

32. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.

33. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need. God provides remember?!

34. The best is yet to come. (in Heaven)

35. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up

36. Do the right thing!
37. Call your family often.

38. Each night before you go to bed complete the following statements: 'I am thankful for __________.' Today I accomplished _________.

39. Remember that you are too blessed to be stressed.

40. Enjoy the ride. Remember that this is not Disney World and youcertainly don't want a fast pass. You only have one ride through life so make the most of it and enjoy the ride.

LIVE, LOVE, LAUGH. LIFE'S A GIFT ... UNWRAP IT! Have a Blessed day.

~Photography by Leigh

A Daily Prayer

I hate forward emails. But as I almost deleted this one, I got to reading it and I loved this prayer.

Dear Lord,
I thank you for this day. I thank You for my being able to see and to hear this morning. I'm blessed because You are a forgiving God and an understanding God. You have done so much for me and You keep on blessing me. Forgive me this day for everything I have done, said or thought that was not pleasing to you. I ask now for Your forgiveness. Please keep me safe from all danger and harm. Help me to start this day with a new attitude and plenty of gratitude. Let me make the best of each and every day to clear my mind so that I can hear from You.Please broaden my mind that I can accept all things. Let me not whine and whimper over things I have no control over. Let me continue to see sin through God's eyes and acknowledge it as evil. And when I sin, let me repent, and confess with my mouth my wrongdoing, and receive the forgiveness of God. And when this world closes in on me, let me remember Jesus' example -- to slip away and find a quiet place to pray. It's the best response when I'm pushed beyond my limits. I know that when I can't pray, You listen to my heart. Continue to use me to do Your will. Continue to bless me that I may be a blessing to others. Keep me strong that I may help the weak. Keep me uplifted that I may have words of encouragement for others. I pray for those who are lost and can't find their way . I pray for those who are misjudged and misunderstood. I pray for those who don't know You intimately. I pray for those who will delete this without sharing it with others. I pray for those who don't believe. But I thank you that I believe. I believe that God changes people and God changes things. I pray for all my sisters and brothers. For each and every family member in their households. I pray for peace, love and joy in their homes that they are out of debt and all their needs are met. I pray that every eye that reads this knows there is no problem, circumstance, or situation greater than God. Every battle is in Your hands for You to fight. I pray that these words be received into the hearts of every eye that sees them and every mouth that confesses them willingly.
This is my prayer. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Prayer for the Day

Each and everyone one of us are going through tough times right now,but God is getting ready to bless and use you in a way that only He can. Keep the faith. Prayer is powerful, and prayer is one of the best gifts we receive. There is no cost but the rewards are great. Let's continue to pray for one another.
The prayer:
Father, I ask You to bless my friends, relatives and those that I care deeply for, all of those who are reading this right now. Show them a new revelation of Your love and power. Holy Spirit, I ask You to minister to their spirit at this very moment. Where there is pain, give them Your peace and mercy. Where there is self-doubt, release a renewed confidence through Your grace. Where there is need, I ask you to fulfill their needs. Bless their homes, families, finances, their goings and their comings.In Jesus ' precious name.
Amen.

Great Post By Jim Dunaway

A great post by local Birmingham Sports reporter, Jim Dunaway, on his blog:
http://blog.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.ListAll&friendID=173893549&MyToken=a47c54b6-6b8f-478b-8ad4-ecfcc5a65a71ML
How great thou art!

Prayer

A Prayer for Today
Father in Heaven, I worship You today. You are the good and faithful God. Thank You for loving me. Thank You for accepting me. Thank You for working in my life today. I bless You today. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Know and Tell Friday 3

If you are new to blogging or this meme, all you have to do is just answer the questions either in my comment section, or answer the questions on your own blog. If you answer the questions on your own blog, make sure to leave a comment on my blog to let everyone know to come to your blog and check out your answers (wow, that was a weird sentence...my blog, your blog, my blog)...

Also, please feel free to copy and paste the green "Know & Tell" button if you would like to post it with your answers. A plea to those of you who may visit my blog, but do not normally comment (I do that too on several blogs)...let today's post be the first one you comment on... I would love to read your answers to my questions... I am so super social that way...the more the merrier :)

Question 1 What is your favorite fairy tale? Ugg....I really don't have one, other than to say the one where I got my prince. I know that is so cheesy though.

Question 2 If you could be guaranteed a spot on the reality show "Survivor", would you go? I thought about this one when I saw the commercial that they are having tryouts at Susan Shein in Bham. I would go, just to do it and be able to travel somewhere and learn about another culture. But I know I would be voted off. It would be a great way to lose weight but I'd be voted off because you wouldn't find me eating bugs or meat. I would also cry indeed with all the backstabbing. I don't know that I could stomach that either.

Question 3 Meanest thing you ever did to a sibling??? I know.... what kind of question is this :) I recall me and my brother getting in to a fight and I threw his electric train engine and it broke. I felt bad and still hear about it to this day. I think I was about 8 or 9.

Question 4 Best Fashion Era... I love the fashions from the 40's. They are so feminine.

Question 5 Have you ever skipped to the end of a book before you finished reading the book? Yes, one time... I attribute this to my lack of patience... it really ruined reading the rest of the story for me so I didn't do it again.

Bonus Questions

Question 6 What's the most humanly impossible thing you will ask God to do this year? World Peace. We cannot seem to find that.

Question 7 What is one thing you could do this year to increase your enjoyment of God? I would say spend time with Him through prayer. Prayer is so powerful and so fulfilling.

Keeping Faith

(Photo from rickandbubba.com)

I think Bubba said it best this morning, "We all take the time to get our finances in order, our bills in order, our homes...but it doesn't mean a thing if we don't have our spiritual investments in order. (no, it doesn't mean a thing). In all this, look in the mirror and change your life. Don't let Bronner's life be in vain, make a change in yourself today."

It's true. At the risk of sounding "to preachy" this morning, We all take for granted how short life is, our relationships with those we care about. We get caught up in the day to day and forget that there may not be a tomorrow on this Earth. We live in a world of uncertainty. One that was created in perfection but now is in tainted by Satan's works :turmoil, sin, divorce, moral failures, war, tragic world loss, handicaps,disabilities, deformities, etc. The world is broken today, not whole as it once was. It is a sad reality looking at it all, so I think we have become accustomed to it all, numb is probably a better word. We do not even give these things a passing glance at times. But when we stand in the midst of a storm, one that continues to rain upon us, one where we cannot find the way out of the storm, we feel defeat. Broken. We must look to the only One that can calm the seas, stop the rain, heal the broken hearted. The One that forgives all of our sins, if we ask Him to. We must all make the choice.

The Lord will guide you continually
And satisfy your soul in drought,
And strengthen your bones;
You shall be watered like a garden,
And like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail.
Isaiah 58:11

"Perhaps because our brokenness brings us to the end of ourselves, it is here, in these jars of clay that we offer up to his very special grace, that God's all surpassing power is make known and he, indeed, makes us stronger i our broken places." Verdell Davis

It is true. God says, "I will be with you whenever, where ever, and forever". We must submit and hear the word of the Lord and know that at is His will. For everything there is a reason, a reason that we may never know the answer to. But I know in my heart that the Burgress family are strong in their faith. That they can and will (in lieu of flowers they have created a memorial fund to give back to ministries in honor of Bronner) use this to minister to others. I feel certain that they will.

Years ago, before the birth of Bronner, I had the pleasure of photographing the children of "Rick and Bubba Show" for a magazine that I was working for. I learned alot in that time (3 separate meetings for the story) What I took from that experience was that these children were so loved. There were fleeting moments of chaos and disorganization, but it was all on the children's agenda. They were the focus of the lives of these families. The parents had such patience and love, as we do as parents. I know that Bronner's life was full at even an age of two. Full with love and devotion.

And so, go out today and love your children, squeeze them a bit tighter, tell them how much they mean to you, do this with all of your relationships. Don't get caught up in the possibility of tomorrow, live for today. Let God into your life. And live. Truly Live so that you can be an example to others. Let the way you live be your testimony. Be positive, let go of resentment and pride. Live. Ok, now I will step off of my little box but not before this final scripture,

Wait on the Lord;
Be of good courage,
And He shall strengthen your heart;
Wait, I say, on the Lord! Psalm 27:14

This from the web site:

There will be a memorial service Tuesday at 2:00PM at Shades Mountain Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested a donation be made to the Bronner Burgess Memorial. This donation will be used by Rick & Sherri to create a memorial fund to give back to ministries in honor of Bronner. Click here for more information on making a contribution! To send your condolences to the family, please send those to prayers@rickandbubba.com.

Click for Video of Bill "Bubba" Burgess speaking of the tragedy.

Additionally, a wonderful testimony of the crusader of Christ that Rick Burgess is, even in the face of tragedy, go to scottdawson.org and click on strength to stand conferences for a video message from Scott Dawson regarding Rick Burgess.

Prayer Request

Sadness is felt this morning as many have learned of the news of the loss of local radio DJ, Rick Burgess' 2 year old son, Bronner. Those across the south will know Rick as half of the talk show "Rick and Bubba". The web site issued the following statement:

We ask that you bathe Rick, Sherri, and the entire Burgess family in prayer as they deal with the loss of their youngest son, Bronner Burgess. We all are grieving together in this terrible loss. The Burgess's want to give all Honor and Glory to GOD for the many blessings He has given us, especially the life of Bronner Burgess. And while we do not understand, we know who is in charge and His will be done in life and in death.

He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. 1 Thessalonians 5:10

I cannot begin to imagine the pain that they are feeling. Please join me in praying over this family. May they feel the presence of the Lord and may God give them peace.
http://www.rickandbubba.com/

Opened and Closed Doors

I didn't write the below in italics but it is something that I take heed to often. I have written before of how turbulent times and times when we might feel prayers have gone unanswered by the Lord are actually situations in which we must wait and be patient for God's plan. It might not be OUR plan but it IS the ultimate plan. I think of these times as a growth period for me as a Christian. What does God want me to learn from this? How can I use this experience to be beneficial?
Between the years of Sledge's birth and Smooths, Big Daddy and I felt it time to add to our family. We so wanted another child for our flock, er who am I kidding,"circus". Three times I became pregnant only to loose the baby each time. It was a very sad experience but I didn't dwell on it. I knew that God had other plans. It was my faith that kept me positive. I knew that I had to surrender to the Lord. Surrender. It can be a hard thing to do, but we as Christians must accept that all is in the hands of the Lord. And so, the following message.....

We need to learn to thank the Lord for closed doors just as much as we do for open doors. The reason God closes doors is because He has not prepared anything over there for us.
If he didn't close the wrong door we would never find our way to the right door. Even when we don't realize it, God directs our paths through the closing and opening of doors . When one door closes, it forces us to change our course. Another door closes; it forces us to change our course yet again.
Then finally, we find the open door and walk right into our blessing. But instead of praising God for the closed door (which kept us out of trouble), we get upset because we 'judge by the appearances.'
And in our own arrogance, or ignorance, we insist that we know what is right.
We have a very present help in the time of need that is always standing guard. Because He walks ahead of us, He can see trouble down the road and HE sets up road blocks and detours accordingly. But through our lack of wisdom we try to tear down the roadblocks or push aside the detour signs.
Then the minute we get into trouble, we start crying.
'Lord how could this happen to me?'
We have got to realize that the closed door was a blessing.
Didn't He say that 'No good thing will He withhold from them that love Him?'

If you get terminated from your job - don't be down, instead thank God for the new opportunities that will manifest themselves - it might be a better job, or an opportunity to go to school. If that man or woman won't return your call - it might not be them, it might be the Lord setting up a roadblock (just let it go).
One time a person had a bank he had been doing business with for many years tell him 'NO' for a $10,000 loan. The Lord led him to call another bank.
That bank approved a $40,000 loan for him at a lower interest rate than his own bank had advertised.
I'm so grateful, for the many times God has closed doors to me, just to open them in the most unexpected places. 'The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and He delights in his way.' (Psalms 37:23)
The Mountain top is glorious, but it is in the Valley that I will grow!
Always Remember God gives you...
Enough Happiness to keep you Sweet
Enough Trials to keep you Strong
Enough Sorrows to keep you Human
Enough Hope to keep you Happy
Enough Failure to keep you Humble
Enough Success to keep you Eager
Enough Friends to give you Comfort
Enough Wealth to meet your Needs
Enough Enthusiasm to make you look forward Enough Faith to banish depression, and Enough Determination to make each day a better day than the last.
Life must be lived forward but can only be understood backwards.
Commit to the Lord in whatever you do and your plans will succeed.
Proverbs 16:3)

Rules From God

For the New Year...a nice reminder of how to start the year and everyday.....
1. Wake Up !! Decide to have a good day. "Today is the day the Lord hath made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." Psalms 118:24
2. Dress Up !! The best way to dress up is to put on a smile. A smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks. "The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at outward appearance; but the Lord looks at the heart." I Samuel 16:7
3. Shut Up!! Say nice things and learn to listen. God gave us two ears and one mouth, so He must have meant for us to do twice as much listening as talking. "He who guards his lips guards his soul." Proverbs 13:3
4. Stand Up!!... For what you believe in. Stand for something or you will fall for anything.. "Let us not be weary in doing good; for at the proper time, we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good..." Galatians 6:9-10
5. Look Up !!... To the Lord. "I can do everything through Christ who strengthens me."
Philippians 4:13
6. Reach Up !!... For something higher. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not unto your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him, And He will direct your path." Proverbs 3:5-6
7. Lift Up !!... Your Prayers. "Do not worry about anything; instead PRAY ABOUT EVERYTHING." Philippians 4:6
God answers Knee-Mail

The Reason for the Season

................................................................“Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.”- Luke 2:11-14

Merry Christmas to All.

May there be Peace on Earth.

~Leigh

Brown Bag Christmas Story~copied

(Copied, author unknown )
Faith is what it is all about.

When I asked our newlywed Sunday School class to share a favorite Christmas story, Carrie Fuller said, "Our family has one we call the 'brown bag Christmas.'" When she finished, I had to hear more. Two days later, I called a member of her family for more details.It was the early 1930s during the Dust Bowl days of Kansas, in the heart of the Depression. The Canaday family---Mom, Dad, 7 children---were having a tough time existing, so there would be no luxuries at Christmas that year. Mom told the children to go outside and find a Christmas tree and decorate it. After a lengthy search, they returned with a dead branch, the only thing they had been able to find. They stood it up in a bucket of sand and decorated it with pieces of paper tied with string. Little Judy, almost four, did not know how a Christmas tree was supposed to look, but somehow she knew it was not like that! As Christmas approached, the Canaday children, like children everywhere, pestered Mom and Dad about what presents they might get under their "tree." Dad pointed out that the pantry was bare, that they did not have enough to live on, and there certainly would be no money for gifts. But Mom was a woman of faith and told her children, "Say your prayers. Ask God to send us what He wants us to have." Dad said, "Now, Mother, don't be getting the children's hopes up. You're just setting them up for a disappointment." Mom said, "Pray, children. Tell Jesus." And pray they did.
On Christmas Eve, the children watched out the window for visitors, but no one came. "Blow out the lamp and go to bed", Dad said. "Nobody is going to come. No one even knows we're out here." The children turned out the lamp and got in bed, but they were too excited to sleep. Was this not Christmas? Had they not asked God to send them the presents He wanted them to have? Did Mom not say God answers prayer?Late that night, when one of the children spotted headlights coming down the dirt road, everyone jumped out of bed and ran to the window. The commotion woke up Mom and Dad. "Don't get excited, children," Dad said. "They're probably not coming here. It's just someone who got lost." The children kept hoping and the car kept coming. Then, Dad lit a lamp. They all wanted to rush to the door at the same time, but Mr. Canaday said, "Stay back. I'll go." Someone got out of the car and called, "I was wondering if someone here can help me unload these bags." The children dashed out the door to lend a hand. Mom said to her youngest, "Stay here, Judy, and help Mom open the bags and put up the gifts."A deacon from the church in town had gone to bed that Christmas Eve, and lay there tossing and turning, unable to get the Canaday family off his mind. Later, he said, "I didn't know what kind of shape you folks were in, but I knew you had all those kids." He had gotten up and dressed and went around town, rousing people from their sleep to ask for a contribution for the Canaday family. He filled his car with bags of groceries, canned goods, toys, and clothing. Little Judy got a rag doll which remained her favorite for years.With so much food, Dad wanted to have a Christmas feast, to spread it all out and eat as they had never eaten before. Mom, ever the caretaker, said, "No, we need to make this last." And it did last, for weeks.The next Sunday, Mrs. Canaday stood in church and told what the members ~~ and one deacon in particular ~~ had done for her family. There was not a dry eye in the house.Years later, the oldest sister Eva wrote up this story about her family for a school project. Eva said, "We were so thrilled by all the wonderful things in the bags, for a while ;we lost sight of the most special gift. The best gift that Christmas was not in brown bags at all. It was Mom's faith, as she taught her children to bring their needs to Jesus and trust Him to meet them. And a Dad's love that wanted only to protect his children from hurt and disappointment."When Carrie finished telling her story, she added, "Little Judy is my wonderful grandmother." Today, Judy Canaday Dryden lives in Sanger,Texas. As she relived this event from seventy years ago over the phone, one could hear the tear in her voice and feel her pride in being the recipient of such a precious heritage from her mother and father.At Christmas, we celebrate praying mothers and caring fathers and believing children. We give thanks for sensitive deacons and generous friends and sleepless nights. And we praise God for the hard times that teach unforgettable lessons, stories of faithfulness that get told and retold through the years inspiring each new generation to place their faith in a loving Savior.

Christmas in Heaven

I got this from my neighbor and many of you may have seen it. It is a great gift (on pretty paper and framed) for anyone who has had a loved one go onto Heaven this year.

Christmas In Heaven

I see countless Christmas trees around the world below with tiny lights, like Heaven's stars, reflecting on the snow. The sight is so spectacular. Please wipe away the tears, for I am spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year. I hear the many Christmas songs that people hold so dear. But the sounds of music can't compare with the Christmas choir up here. I have no words to tell you, the joy their voices bring, for it is beyond description, to hear the angels sing. I know how much you miss me, I see the pain inside your heart. But I am not so far away, we really aren't apart. So be happy for me dear ones, you know I hold you dear. And be at peace to know that I'm spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year. I sent you each a special gift, from my heavenly home above. I sent you each a memory of my undying love. After all, love is a gift more precious than pure gold. It was most important in the stories Jesus told. Please love and keep each other, as my father said to do. For I can't count the blessing or love he has for each of you. So have a Merry Christmas and wipe away the tears. Remember, I am spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year!

The Christmas Guest

Every Christmas that I can recall from memory, as a child I would go into my mother's dresser and pull out a newsletter that we received in the mail from a local church. I anticipated listening to a particular story that was in it, "The Christmas Guest"every Christmas Eve, as was tradition. Today I love to gather my own children around the fireplace before Christmas, sip from cups of piping hot chocolate while sitting in our coziest of jammy's and read the story to my children. It is one of those Christmas traditions that is so special. It really makes you stop and think about what Christmas-and life itself-is really about.

Don't miss the very things that are in front of you. God's presence (and "presents" ) is everywhere. I hope that this story touches you. Print it out, preserve it in your dresser or Christmas box and perhaps it will become a tradition with your family too. I hope that every year you will think of how blessed we are to have one another. We are so rich, I don't mean monetarily but in the things that matter most.

Merry Christmas.
Leigh

Luke 2:14
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

The Christmas Guest

It happened one day, near December's end Two neighbors called on an old friend. And they found his shop so meager and lean, Made joyful with a thousand bows of green.A nd Conrad was sittin' with face a shining when he suddenly stopped as he stitched a twine. And he said "Oh friends at dawn today,When the rooster was crowing the night away the Lord appeared in a dream to me", and said "I am coming your guest to be."So I've been busy with feet a stir, A strewing my shop with branches of fir. The table is spread and the kettle is shined and over the rafter the holly is twined. Now I'll wait for my Lord to appear and listen closely so I will hear his step - as he nears my humble place, And I open the door and look on his face.
So his friends went home and left Conrad alone. For this was the happiest day he had known For long since his family had passed away­ and Conrad had spent a many a sad Christmas day. But he knew with the Lord, as his Christmas guest, This Christmas would be the dearest and best. So he listened with only joy in his heart, and with every sound he would rise with a start and look for the Lord to be at his door -Like the vision he'd had a few hours before.
So he ran to the window, after hearing a sound.But all he could see on the snow covered ground Was a shabby beggar whose shoes were torn And all of his clothes were ragged and worn. But Conrad was touched and he went to the door, And he said, "You know your feet must be frozen and sore".I have some shoes in my shop for you and a coat that will keep you warmer too. So with grateful heart the man went away but Conrad noticed the time of day-­and wondered what made the Lord So late and how much longer he'd have to wait.
When he heard a knock he ran to the door But it was only a stranger once more.A bent old lady with a shawl of black With a bundle of kindling piled on her back. She asked for only a place to rest­But that was reserved for Conrad's great guest. But her voice seemed to plea - Don't send me away. Let me rest for a while on Christmas day. So old Conrad brewed her a steaming cup and told her to sit at the table and sup. But after she left he was filled with dismay, For he saw that the hours Were slipping away ­and the Lord hadn't come as he said he would. And Conrad felt sure he'd misunderstood.
When out of the stillness he heard a cry –
"Please help me and tell me where am I."So again he opened his friendly door,and stood disappointed as twice before. It was only a child who had wondered away, and was lost from her family on Christmas day. Again Conrad's heart was heavy and sad­ -But he knew he should make the little girl glad. So he called her in and he wiped her tear, and quieted all her childish fears. Then he led her back to her home once more.
But as he entered his own darkened door,He knew the Lord was not coming today­ -For the hours of Christmas had passed away. So he went to his room and knelt down to pray. And he said "Dear Lord, why did you delay?" "What kept you from coming to call on me. For I wanted so much your face to see."When soft in the silence a voice he heard ­"Lift up your head for I kept my word. Three times my shadow crossed your floor­and three times I came to your lowly door. I was the beggar with bruised, cold feet,and I was the woman you gave something to eat. Three times I knocked and three times I came in. And each time I found the warmth of a friend. Of all the gifts love is the best. And I was honored to be your Christmas guest."

Another Jesus?

(Photo is of "Molly's Manger set" taken by Leigh)

This story was sent to me by my friend Mary. It will warm your heart - take a minute to read.......
What a beautiful story and shows how God works in mysterious ways.
If you have read it before, you probably won't mind reading it again.
May the Lord bless each and every one of you and bring you peace.

(Forgive the misuse of capital letters. I just cut and pasted. I wasn't about to retype it.)

About a week before Christmas, our family bought a new nativity scene.
When we unpacked it, we found two figures of the Baby Jesus. "Someone Must have packed this wrong," mother said, counting out the figures. "We Have one Joseph, one Mary, three wise men, three shepherds, two lambs, a Donkey, a cow, an angel and two babies. Oh, dear! I suppose some set Down at the store is missing a Baby Jesus because we have two." "You two run back down to the store and tell the manager that we have an Extra Jesus. Tell him to put a sign on the remaining boxes saying that If a set is missing a Baby Jesus, call 7126. Put on your warm coats, it's freezing cold out there."The manager of the store copied down mother's message and the next time They were in the store they saw the cardboard sign that read, "If you're Missing Baby Jesus, call 7126." All week long we waited for someone to call. Surely, we thought, someone
Was missing that important figurine. Each time the phone rang, mother Would say, "I'll bet that's about Jesus," but it never was. Father tried to explain, there are thousands of these scattered over the Country and the figurine could be missing from a set in Florida or Texas
Or California . Those packing mistakes happen all the time. He suggested We just put the extra Jesus back in the box and forget about it."Put Baby Jesus back in the box! What a terrible thing to do" we Children said. "Surely someone will call," mother said. "We'll just keep The two of them together in the manger until someone calls." When no call had come by 5:00 on Christmas Eve, mother insisted that Father just run down to the store to see if there were any sets left. "You can see them right through the window, over on the counter," she
Said. "If they are all gone, I'll know someone is bound to call Tonight.""Run down to the store?" father thundered. "It's 15 below zero out There!" "Oh, Daddy, we'll go with you," Tommy and Mary began to put on Their coats. Father gave a long sigh and headed for the front closet. I can't believe I'm doing this," he muttered. Tommy and Mary ran ahead as father reluctantly walked out in the Cold. Mary got to the store first and pressed her nose up to the store Window. "They're all gone, Daddy," she shouted. "Every set must be Sold." "Hooray," Tommy said, "The mystery will now be solved tonight!" Father heard the news still a half block away and immediately turned on His heel and headed back home.When we got back into the house we noticed that mother was gone and so Was the extra Baby Jesus figurine. "Someone must have called and she Went out to deliver the figurine," my father reasoned, pulling off his Boots. "You kids get ready for bed while I wrap mother's present."
Then the phone rang. Father yelled, "Answer the phone and tell 'em we Found a home for Jesus." But it was mother calling with instructions for Us to come to 205 Chestnut Street immediately, and bring three blankets, A box of cookies and some milk."Now what has she gotten us into?" my father groaned as we bundled up Again. "205 Chestnut. Why, that's across town. Wrap that milk up good In the blankets or it will turn to ice before we get there. Why can't we All just get on with Christmas? It's probably 20 below out there now. And the wind is picking up. Of all the crazy things to do on a night Like this." When we got to the house at 205 Chestnut Street it was the darkest one On the block. Only one tiny light burned in the living room, and the Moment we set foot on the porch steps, my mother opened the door and Shouted, "They're here, oh thank God you got here, Ray! You kids take Those blankets into the living room and wrap up the little ones on the Couch. I'll take the milk and cookies."
"Would you mind telling me what is going on, Ethel?" my father asked. "We have just walked through below zero weather with the wind in our Faces all the way." "Never mind all that now," my mother interrupted. "There is no heat in this house and this young mother is so upset she Doesn't know what to do. Her husband walked out on her and those poor little children will have a very bleak Christmas, so don't you complain. I told her you could fix that oil furnace in a jiffy." My mother strode off to the kitchen to warm the milk while my brother
and I wrapped up the five little children who were huddled together on the couch. The children's mother explained to my father that her husband had run off, taking bedding, clothing and almost every piece of furniture, but she had been doing all right until the furnace broke down. "I been doin' washin' and ironin' for people and cleanin' the five and dime," she said. "I saw your number every day there on those boxes on the counter. When the furnace went out, that number kept goin' through my mind -- 7162, 7162. Said on the box that if a person was missin' Jesus, they should call you. That's how I knew you were good Christian people, willin' to help folks. I figured that maybe you would help me, too. So I stopped at the grocery store tonight and I called your missus. I'm not missin' Jesus, mister, because I sure love the Lord. But I am missin' heat. I have no money to fix that furnace." "Okay, Okay," said father. "You've come to the right place. Now let's see. You've got a little oil burner over there in the dining room. Shouldn't be too hard to fix. Probably just a clogged flue. I'll look it over, see what it needs." Mother came into the living room carrying a plate of cookies and warm milk. As she set the cups down on the coffee table, I noticed the figure of Baby Jesus lying in the center of the table. It was the only sign of Christmas in the house. The children
stared wide-eyed with wonder at the plate of cookies my mother set before them.Father finally got the oil burner working but said, "You need more oil. I'll make a few calls tonight and get some oil. Yes ma'am, you came to the right place," father grinned. On the way home father did not complain about the cold weather and had barely set foot inside the door when he was on the phone. "Ed, hey, how are ya, Ed? Yes, Merry Christmas to you, too. Say Ed, we have kind of an unusual situation here, I know you've got that pick-up truck. Do you still have some oil in that barrel on your truck? You do?" By this time the rest of the family were pulling clothes out of their closets and toys off of their shelves. I t was long after our bedtime
when we were wrapping gifts.The pickup came. On it were chairs, three lamps, blankets and gifts. Even though it was 30 below, father let us ride along in the back of the truck.No one ever did call about the missing figure in the nativity set, but as I grow older, I realize that it wasn't a packing mistake at all. Jesus saves, that's what He does.

Four Words-Knowing Your Catholicsm

My son, for the first time last night, attended a catholic church service with a friend of his, "Lex". My husband's side of the family is predominately catholic, although we are not. While we have not attended a mass as a family, we have taken the entire family to other events as we escort Big Daddy's grandmother to a few of them. Last May it was "Family Day", a wonderful celebration with delicious food, bingo, music, games, even beer! All free. It was a carnival atmosphere. On the way home, I told my husband that we needed to convert, if only for the parties alone (smile).
So last night, Brock and Lex went to church together. A couple hours later, Brock called me to tell me he was on the way home. I asked if he had a good time. "Yes! It was alot of fun. But they started chanting a prayer and crossing and I didn't know what to do. I just waved my hand in front of my face". I laughed.
When Brock and Lex got home, I laughed again when I told Lex what Brock had said. He said, "Brock, this is what my dad told me.....Head, testicles, watch, wallet." "Excuse me?", said Brock as he almost spit his coke through his nose. "Yeah, head, testicles, watch, wallet.", Lex explained, " That is a good way to remember where to go when you are crossing yourself." Lex then went on to try and teach Brock and I the Hail Mary. We have less than half memorized. We will continue to work on it. We will need to for our conversion ceremony. LOL. See you at the next function.