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*Note: I don't earn anything from sharing this Asic photo. It is one from the gallery and illustrates the message I share with you today.  One area I set goals in each year is for my physical health each year. This past year I focused on eating cleaner and limiting my sugar and carb intake. I'll continue this goal for 2020 but going to add more specifics. I need to lose weight to have my BMI out of the obese range. My celebration is that in January 2019 I was "severely obese", now I'm only "obese". My goal for December 2020 is to be in the "overweight" range. You might be shaking your head because "healthy" should be my goal yet I understand realistic goals. In order to be "overweight", I need to lose 20 pounds. Yikes! On the flip side, if I could wear a size 10/12 and have muscles instead of fat, I'd be happy with a lower weight loss number. When I look at the "healthy" weight according to the BMI, I think I'd look sick rather than healthy so a better goal is to be tone and wearing a size 10/12 , rather than a number. This is the inner conversation and trouble with setting a reasonable goal. My goal might not be good for you but for me, a reasonable goal would be to drop down in the BMI chart but my ultimate goal is to be healthy and feel better. What is your health and physical goal for 2020?
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 Thus far on the blog I haven't talked about goal setting. Instead, we've looked at choosing a word for the year and a Bible verse. I haven't shared my Bible verse yet, it's coming by the end of the week. As I sit here typing, I recognize I need to put my goals into writing because at this moment, I'm getting nothing done because of the lack of things in writing. I learned at a conference many years ago about the importance, and difference, between a dream and a goal. They use this analogy, it's a dream when all you do is "talk" about it but don't have a plan and aren't really making forward motion to accomplish all your talking about. When you "write" it down, then you can see what you are striving for and make a detailed plan to achieve it. This is where I'm at. I keep "saying" I'm going to do this or that but have been LAZY, yes it's plain laziness, I've been lazy about taking the time to write down my goals and set a plan and schedule to achieve them. This week is a week to focus and get SMART. I have many lists but none with my end goal and the plan, and timeline to reach it. As January starts its downward slide, I'm stepping up and making plans.  If you want to see how I organize to write my goals, I released a book in 2016 to help others, like you. Goal Setting for a Renewed You: Because You Deserve It, is available on Amazon.com. You could order it today and have it in a couple days. Don't wait, take the first step and start making your goals for this new year and a new and renewed you. This book is a springboard and leaves you room to explore who you are and where you see yourself in 1, 5, 10, and 25 years before you set immediate goals. It also has space for you to journal and brainstorm, working through some of the what-if thinking when you start setting goals. After you receive your book and start writing down your goals, and achieving them, take three minutes to write a review on Amazon.com to help others know how much my book helped you. Reviews are priceless gifts to an author and a priceless help to future readers and goal setters. Thank you in advance. What goals will you put in writing today?
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Then I will still rejoice in the Eternal! |  |
Deer have always amazed me. They have a gentle presence and graceful bounds through the fields. As a child, my Dad would take me out with him to "spot" the deer. We used a big spot light (now illegal in most areas) and Dad would drive around the countryside teaching me about deer habitats, feeding habits, and mannerisms. These are memories and lessons I still treasure today.
When my daughter, his only granddaughter was old enough to understand and appreciate these late night trips, disappointment came upon us. The DEC informed my dad it was illegal to "spot" deer. One of my fondest memories couldn't become a family tradition of a father to his daughter then granddaughter because of the few. I won't digress down this road because I want our blog to remain one of hope and positivity.
Here's the deal, not every parent expresses love with hugs and kisses, or long walks. For some, the greatest connections are doing what they love and sharing it with their kids. I'm grateful God created us all differently and uses different things to help us to connect with each other. For me, some of the deepest conversations with my dad occurred while skipping stones into Lake Ontario, spotting deer, or throwing the softball back and forth. If you aren't the snuggly parent or friend, don't apologize. Instead, celebrate your unique abilities and the gifts you have to share with your children and friends. You have a lot to offer and share with those around you.
The lessons, conversations, and memories of spotting deer helped to make me the person I am today and instilled an appreciation of this majestic, strong, and beautiful animal as an adult. Their tracks in the snow remind me of my earthly father and my Heavenly Father. Without knowing it, my Dad helped me recognize the importance and strength found God. God works in mysterious ways, what mystery is He unraveling in your life today?
When my daughter, his only granddaughter was old enough to understand and appreciate these late night trips, disappointment came upon us. The DEC informed my dad it was illegal to "spot" deer. One of my fondest memories couldn't become a family tradition of a father to his daughter then granddaughter because of the few. I won't digress down this road because I want our blog to remain one of hope and positivity.
Here's the deal, not every parent expresses love with hugs and kisses, or long walks. For some, the greatest connections are doing what they love and sharing it with their kids. I'm grateful God created us all differently and uses different things to help us to connect with each other. For me, some of the deepest conversations with my dad occurred while skipping stones into Lake Ontario, spotting deer, or throwing the softball back and forth. If you aren't the snuggly parent or friend, don't apologize. Instead, celebrate your unique abilities and the gifts you have to share with your children and friends. You have a lot to offer and share with those around you.
The lessons, conversations, and memories of spotting deer helped to make me the person I am today and instilled an appreciation of this majestic, strong, and beautiful animal as an adult. Their tracks in the snow remind me of my earthly father and my Heavenly Father. Without knowing it, my Dad helped me recognize the importance and strength found God. God works in mysterious ways, what mystery is He unraveling in your life today?
Embrace who you are and share it with others!
Each year I spend time reflecting on the previous year and pray about the year to come. I select a "word" and Bible verse as my focus for the year. This past year, my word was "renewal" and my Bible verse was actually a few verses. The important part of this process is taking the time to reflect, pray, and look forward.
The word and Bible verse help to keep you focused in the new year. Goal setting is a hot topic this time of the year, heck, I even have a book on goal setting - check it out by clicking here. BUT here's the deal, most people lose sight of their goals before the snow melts in Central New York. So, instead of setting an intense goal, try selecting a word and Bible verse to be your foundation for every decision and move you make in the coming year. Yeah, now this is not only less intimidating, it guarantees success!
I haven't been very good about document my word and verse each year, I wish I had been. If this is your first year doing this, I encourage you to find a place to document both your word and verse so when you look back, you can see how you've grown (or need to grow) by reflecting on words and verses of the past.
I used to make book marks and write the previous year's word and verse on it but as I've switched Bibles, used them as bookmarks, and transitioned from year to year...quite a few have been lost. The ones I have blogs about, are here for you. Click on the links below if you want to see how I've grown and changed over the years. It's nice to have this opportunity.
The word and Bible verse help to keep you focused in the new year. Goal setting is a hot topic this time of the year, heck, I even have a book on goal setting - check it out by clicking here. BUT here's the deal, most people lose sight of their goals before the snow melts in Central New York. So, instead of setting an intense goal, try selecting a word and Bible verse to be your foundation for every decision and move you make in the coming year. Yeah, now this is not only less intimidating, it guarantees success!
I haven't been very good about document my word and verse each year, I wish I had been. If this is your first year doing this, I encourage you to find a place to document both your word and verse so when you look back, you can see how you've grown (or need to grow) by reflecting on words and verses of the past.
I used to make book marks and write the previous year's word and verse on it but as I've switched Bibles, used them as bookmarks, and transitioned from year to year...quite a few have been lost. The ones I have blogs about, are here for you. Click on the links below if you want to see how I've grown and changed over the years. It's nice to have this opportunity.
| PREVIOUS YEAR'S WORDS! 2011 - The First "One Word" and why 2011 - "Faithful" 2012 - "hope" 2013 - 2014 - 2015 - "Courage & Strength" 2016 - 2017 - 2018 - 2019 - Renewal |
On this last day of 2019, I'm set on my word and am praying over a few verses before finalizing my 2020 focus and foundation. My year of renewal helped me with life decisions and with the selection of this year's word and verse. I'm using my year of renewal as the springboard into 2020. I'll share this with you next week.
I encourage you to take time and think about what your word and verse will be for 2020 and I hope you'll share with us once you've made your decision. This helps to solidify your choice and provides accountability. I post my on a white board in our living room, we need the reminders throughout the year to keep the momentum moving us forward. We are human and getting comfortable can be habitual, I don't want to get in a rut...I want to keep growing and being the best version of myself I can be.
I encourage you to take time and think about what your word and verse will be for 2020 and I hope you'll share with us once you've made your decision. This helps to solidify your choice and provides accountability. I post my on a white board in our living room, we need the reminders throughout the year to keep the momentum moving us forward. We are human and getting comfortable can be habitual, I don't want to get in a rut...I want to keep growing and being the best version of myself I can be.
Do you select a word and verse each year?
If so, are you ready to share yours?
If not, what is holding you back?
II'll share my one-word for 2020 on this coming Tuesday, New Year's Eve. Before you learn my one-word, let me share something else. My one-word for 2020 was one of the easiest I've come up with since my first couple years. I think it's because I was invested in my 2019 one-word and verse and through focusing on renewal, the next step was clear.
Through prayer, reflection, and meditation God was able to show me the next step. If I hadn't been as dedicated and obedient to seek God's direction this past year, I may have missed the next step in the journey. As part of my one-word and Bible verse focus for 2020, there is an opportunity before me. I shared it with my husband, unsure of his response but knowing he would be 100% honest and ask good questions. I printed off the information I planned to share so I may be able to answer most of his questions.
Here's the coolest part, I shared my idea and before I could finish he had a question and a statement:
1) This only makes sense and seems like the direction you've been going
2) BUT, you, we, can't invest this kind of money and have you continue to give away your services. If you follow through with this, then you need to charge the going rate
To say my hubby knows me is an understatement. I assured him that pursuing this would enhance my next book and career. With that, full hubby support. We shared the idea with our daughter and she had the same concern as my husband. Now that I know I have their encouragement and support, it's a matter of looking at the monies. It's a BIG investment yet one that would benefit us mentally, physically, and most importantly spiritually for the rest of our lives, even if I couldn't find someone to pay for the service.
On the flip side, just like with my writing, I want to pursue this to be the best version of myself and share this knowledge with others so they can be the best version of themselves too. If you think of me, us, in the next week, please pray for us. We are praying for clarity and clearness from God before committing this type of money. It's a 200 hour and $2,200 to $2,900 investment depending on how I pay. To register by 12/31/19 saves $700, but we'd need to have $2,200 in three days.
We've been praying and talking about this. We won't make a decision in haste, if this is in God's plan then we'll know - as we plan and pray for clarity, your prayers are appreciated. If you listen to my podcast, or have followed the blog for awhile then you go I like to "Keep it Real". The reality is that education and bettering ourselves has a price tag, or two. In addition to tuition and books, there will be overnight stays for the weekend study. We are excited and look forward to how God answers our prayers.
Thank you for joining us in the journey.
Through prayer, reflection, and meditation God was able to show me the next step. If I hadn't been as dedicated and obedient to seek God's direction this past year, I may have missed the next step in the journey. As part of my one-word and Bible verse focus for 2020, there is an opportunity before me. I shared it with my husband, unsure of his response but knowing he would be 100% honest and ask good questions. I printed off the information I planned to share so I may be able to answer most of his questions.
Here's the coolest part, I shared my idea and before I could finish he had a question and a statement:
1) This only makes sense and seems like the direction you've been going
2) BUT, you, we, can't invest this kind of money and have you continue to give away your services. If you follow through with this, then you need to charge the going rate
To say my hubby knows me is an understatement. I assured him that pursuing this would enhance my next book and career. With that, full hubby support. We shared the idea with our daughter and she had the same concern as my husband. Now that I know I have their encouragement and support, it's a matter of looking at the monies. It's a BIG investment yet one that would benefit us mentally, physically, and most importantly spiritually for the rest of our lives, even if I couldn't find someone to pay for the service.
On the flip side, just like with my writing, I want to pursue this to be the best version of myself and share this knowledge with others so they can be the best version of themselves too. If you think of me, us, in the next week, please pray for us. We are praying for clarity and clearness from God before committing this type of money. It's a 200 hour and $2,200 to $2,900 investment depending on how I pay. To register by 12/31/19 saves $700, but we'd need to have $2,200 in three days.
We've been praying and talking about this. We won't make a decision in haste, if this is in God's plan then we'll know - as we plan and pray for clarity, your prayers are appreciated. If you listen to my podcast, or have followed the blog for awhile then you go I like to "Keep it Real". The reality is that education and bettering ourselves has a price tag, or two. In addition to tuition and books, there will be overnight stays for the weekend study. We are excited and look forward to how God answers our prayers.
Thank you for joining us in the journey.
Have you stepped out in faith like this before?
Please share in a comment below.
"God’s blessings follow you and await you at every turn:
For you, the Eternal’s Word is your happiness.
It is your focus—from dusk to dawn.
You are like a tree, planted by flowing,
cool streams of water that never run dry.
Your fruit ripens in its time;
your leaves never fade or curl in the summer sun.
No matter what you do, you prosper."
Psalm 1:1a,2-3
For you, the Eternal’s Word is your happiness.
It is your focus—from dusk to dawn.
You are like a tree, planted by flowing,
cool streams of water that never run dry.
Your fruit ripens in its time;
your leaves never fade or curl in the summer sun.
No matter what you do, you prosper."
Psalm 1:1a,2-3
...I started a journey into the woods to take pictures of deer tracks in the snow and paused to notice the creek. I stood, watched, listened, and enjoyed the moment. The initial goal was to take a picture of a deer's solo tracks on a path in the woods yet in the short walk to take this picture God captured my attention with this scene.
We are like this creek. Regardless of the temperature, weather, and situation...with our eyes focused on God, we keep moving.
The question is this, are you moving with the flow of the water pushing through the ice and debris or are you frozen on the edges, left to watch the days go by? I want to encourage you, "...don’t follow the advice of those who delight in wicked schemes...avoid sin’s highway...and don't let judgment and sarcasm beckon you..." Psalm 1:1b Good things are waiting for you when you let go of the icy edge, remember the first part of this verse, "God’s blessings follow you and await you at every turn".
When we let go and go with the flow, God's blessings are "awaiting you at every turn". The only way we can experience and recognize God's blessings is to change our focus from the icy edge and focus on the forward flow of the water, keeping our eyes, hearts, and minds focused on God and all He's called us to be and do.
We are like this creek. Regardless of the temperature, weather, and situation...with our eyes focused on God, we keep moving.
The question is this, are you moving with the flow of the water pushing through the ice and debris or are you frozen on the edges, left to watch the days go by? I want to encourage you, "...don’t follow the advice of those who delight in wicked schemes...avoid sin’s highway...and don't let judgment and sarcasm beckon you..." Psalm 1:1b Good things are waiting for you when you let go of the icy edge, remember the first part of this verse, "God’s blessings follow you and await you at every turn".
When we let go and go with the flow, God's blessings are "awaiting you at every turn". The only way we can experience and recognize God's blessings is to change our focus from the icy edge and focus on the forward flow of the water, keeping our eyes, hearts, and minds focused on God and all He's called us to be and do.
You have the ability to go with the flow,
when you let Go. When will you let go?
Today's post is a shout out to those looking for ways to give gifts that will not only change a life but also help someone local. During the holidays it's easy to get caught up with the sales and deals but we need to remember to help support the little guys, those of us who strive to have a personal business.
I don't usually do a lot of promoting of my books or other ventures yet as I look to Christmas and keeping it local. I want to share some of the ways you can get goodies for you and those you love this holiday season, and throughout the year.
In addition to by books, which are available on Amazon.com and at The River's End Bookstore...I also am an Avon Representative and an IBO for PURE. Let me tell you more about each of these and how you can place an order.
I don't usually do a lot of promoting of my books or other ventures yet as I look to Christmas and keeping it local. I want to share some of the ways you can get goodies for you and those you love this holiday season, and throughout the year.
In addition to by books, which are available on Amazon.com and at The River's End Bookstore...I also am an Avon Representative and an IBO for PURE. Let me tell you more about each of these and how you can place an order.
INDEPENDENT BUSINESS OWNER
As an IBO, you participate in the compensation plan and incentive programs. You’ll receive a Personal website to promote your business, access to a personalized virtual back office and the ability to earn travel around the globe. You’ll also get a 25% discount off all retail product pricing. Start your business today with an annual fee of $25. Annual renewal fee is $25. You may cancel at any time by emailing salessupport@livepure.com.
PREFERRED CUSTOMER
As a Preferred Customer, you receive a 20% discount off the retail price by enrolling in Autoship. Autoship ensures you get your favorite products delivered to your doorstep every 28 days. As a Preferred Customer, you are eligible to participate in the PAR Program (PURE Autoship Rewards) — a great way to earn free products and exclusive offers. Your AutoShip may be canceled at any time by emailing salessupport@livepure.com.
RETAIL CUSTOMER
As a Retail Customer, you get to enjoy the benefits of all the products offered by PURE. We know you will love them as much as we do.
TO SIGN UP AND START ENJOYING THE BENEFITS OF PURE'S PRODUCTS: CLICK HERE
REFERRED BY
Lisa Buske - US11274179
If getting healthy
isn't your game,
maybe Avon is...
Thank you in advance if you place an Avon order or join my PURE team of healthier living...
Who knows, you might want to freshen up your makeup to highlight your healthier body...
And with that, this blog is done.
Thanks for reading to the end. If you know of anyone looking for a new supplement or company to help them be healthy...share today's blog.
If you know someone looking for an Avon representative, please share this blog and my information - Avon's online ordering is quick and easy, and arrives at your door within 2-3 days.
You don't need to wait for me or to coordinate schedules any longer, you have the power to order when you want without the hassle of making time. Woot Woot!
Our pastor is "hitting it out of the park" this advent with his Advent series on Sunday mornings. He's using Adam Hamilton's book, Not a Silent Night: Mary Looks Back to Bethlehem, as the foundation. I've read the book and recommend it to anyone looking for a new Advent read. It's a different perspective on the birth of Jesus and the days, and years, prior then moving forward to His crucifixion. It's a short book yet full of Biblical truths and insight to make you think differently. If you are in the Lycoming, New York, area and want to hear Pastor Brandin's messages, services are at 9:15 a.m. on Sunday mornings. He's doing a great ob delivery this message.
As I wrote today's blog and shared about this book, I thought it would be nice to hear from all of you. I'm sure there are other Advent books I (and possibly you) haven't read or heard about. Let's encourage each other this Advent and share some of the great readings and books we use to help draw us closer to God during this special time of year. Who knows, you might share the book that brings the encouragement someone needs to make it through this holiday season. Thank you in advance!
As I wrote today's blog and shared about this book, I thought it would be nice to hear from all of you. I'm sure there are other Advent books I (and possibly you) haven't read or heard about. Let's encourage each other this Advent and share some of the great readings and books we use to help draw us closer to God during this special time of year. Who knows, you might share the book that brings the encouragement someone needs to make it through this holiday season. Thank you in advance!
Will you share an Advent favorite or
tradition in a comment below?
So here is the deal, if you follow my website then you go I attended the Montrose Writers' Conference this past July. Instead of absorbing workshops and lectures on nonfiction, I attended ones focusing on fiction. I came home motivated to write my first fiction book.
I won't say this was wasted time because the new interest and desire to write sparked energy to create my writer's cottage, dedicate daily time to write, and taught my brain to think differently when it comes to writing. For my writing friends, do you dabble in other genres or do you stick to only one?
Last week I shared about a reader coming up to me after reading Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey for the first time. She read it a couple weeks ago. One of her comments was, "I liked how you wrote from your perspective and how personal it was, it was as if you were writing specifically to me." I thanked her, and lifted a silent prayer to God. We visited a bit longer and she said she heard I'm writing fiction now. This conversation was interesting because my daughter was there and listening, and offered a quiet chuckle.
Let's just say my fiction writing is NOT very good. For this much, it might just be terrible. My daughter continues to encourage me to "stick to nonfiction", I think she is right. I've been working on my next nonfiction book and can't wait to share a snip it. I asked the ladies from my Bible study to pray for me as they felt led and I look forward to having something for them to read in the Spring.
I enjoy the research and digging deep into the heart associated with nonfiction. Fiction is fun yet a challenge for me. I won't say I'll never write fiction but for now, I'll stick to nonfiction and touching people's hearts in a way God's gifted me. If He wants me to write fiction, He has a lot of work to do within me. My prayer, to write what God has for me to write that will touch and change lives, drawing them closer to Him.
I won't say this was wasted time because the new interest and desire to write sparked energy to create my writer's cottage, dedicate daily time to write, and taught my brain to think differently when it comes to writing. For my writing friends, do you dabble in other genres or do you stick to only one?
Last week I shared about a reader coming up to me after reading Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey for the first time. She read it a couple weeks ago. One of her comments was, "I liked how you wrote from your perspective and how personal it was, it was as if you were writing specifically to me." I thanked her, and lifted a silent prayer to God. We visited a bit longer and she said she heard I'm writing fiction now. This conversation was interesting because my daughter was there and listening, and offered a quiet chuckle.
Let's just say my fiction writing is NOT very good. For this much, it might just be terrible. My daughter continues to encourage me to "stick to nonfiction", I think she is right. I've been working on my next nonfiction book and can't wait to share a snip it. I asked the ladies from my Bible study to pray for me as they felt led and I look forward to having something for them to read in the Spring.
I enjoy the research and digging deep into the heart associated with nonfiction. Fiction is fun yet a challenge for me. I won't say I'll never write fiction but for now, I'll stick to nonfiction and touching people's hearts in a way God's gifted me. If He wants me to write fiction, He has a lot of work to do within me. My prayer, to write what God has for me to write that will touch and change lives, drawing them closer to Him.
Is it okay to try a new genre?
Do you still respect me for abandoning fiction?
One of my favorite kick offs to the Christmas season is Mexico, New York's, Christmas in Mexico. Each year it's a little bigger and better. I alternate between having a table with my books and products, and volunteering with my teacher's union, MACSFA, handing out free books to kids.
This year is a table year. If you need a signed copy of any of my books, you can find me at the Presbyterian Church located on Church Street. There are vendors and crafters at each of the three schools, all the churches, and all the businesses are open. Horse drawn sleigh rides, caroling, food, games, food, and fellowship. It's a great day.
I hope to see you today!
This year is a table year. If you need a signed copy of any of my books, you can find me at the Presbyterian Church located on Church Street. There are vendors and crafters at each of the three schools, all the churches, and all the businesses are open. Horse drawn sleigh rides, caroling, food, games, food, and fellowship. It's a great day.
I hope to see you today!
Check out the Christmas in Mexico Facebook Page
A great way to support local crafters and vendors...
A day full of caroling, shopping, games, food,
a parade, and tree lighting!
  Pantry is located at:  | Join us for the OPEN HOUSE Friday December 6th 2019 5:30 - 8:00 p.m. Normal Pantry Hours  |
We are committed to helping those in need in our community. We rely on grants, subsidies and support from the United States Department of Agriculture, the Food Bank of Central New York, and other charitable groups and government organizations. We also rely heavily on local support from businesses and individuals in the community.
Keeping our pantry running requires thousands of dollars and thousands of pounds of food each month. Regular monetary donations and contributions of food from the community are our lifeblood. We could not function without this support.
Keeping our pantry running requires thousands of dollars and thousands of pounds of food each month. Regular monetary donations and contributions of food from the community are our lifeblood. We could not function without this support.
 Volunteer Although we receive support from the government and community, our pantry is run entirely by volunteers. From ordering food, sorting donations and unloading food trucks, to handling paperwork, filling orders and restocking shelves, we rely on volunteers to make things happen. Our volunteers represent a diverse group: working professionals, craftsmen, young people and retirees all come together to help out. Some volunteers help every week. Others give their time once a month. Many enjoy socializing with like-minded people dedicated to improving their community. Whatever amount of time you can give, we are more than willing to train and welcome you. To inquire about volunteering, visit our volunteer page or contact Martha Sturtz, 315-963-3117. Click here to visit the website |  Make a donation Monetary contributions are always welcome and allow us to buy needed food items at a steeply reduced price from the Food Bank of Central New York. By making a monetary donation, you let us make your dollars go farther. Donations can be mailed to Mexico Food Pantry C/O St. Anne, Mother of Mary, PO Box 487, Mexico, NY 13114-0487. Donations of food are also gladly accepted and can be dropped off during pantry hours. We suggest the following preferred items:
|
If you are in the Mexico, New York area, Friday,
December 6th, 2019...TODAY
5:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Stop in to see the pantry
and leave a donation if you feel led!
The first week in December in Central New York is one of mystery. There are years when yards are green and hints of winter are only felt because of bitter temperatures. Then, like this week, Old Man Winter, rears his head early to remind us Autumn is winding down.
For the first time in awhile, many schools and colleges in our area closed on Monday due to impending weather. I'm thankful to work for a district that waits to make its decision in the morning. I am probably in the minority, of course you can turn off the alarm if you know the night before but in our neck of the woods, a change in wind direction can alter the effects of a storm.
There are so many kiddos in our area who don't have sufficient heat, food, or warm attire that when I sit in the comfort of my warm home, I pray they remain warm until morning when the school bus picks them up. For this reason, it only makes sense to wait until the last possible moment to cancel school.
When I saw the photo in today's blog I saw the space between the trees, the openness and paths to adventure. Some of you might have noticed the trees first. Which did you see? Do you see roadblocks preventing you from walking straight through or do you see adventure of maneuvering around the trees to reach your destination?
What do the trees and open space have to do with calling a snow day? To be honest, probably not much, other than they both offer opportunities to focus on the road blocks or open our eyes to the adventures aWAITing us?
For the first time in awhile, many schools and colleges in our area closed on Monday due to impending weather. I'm thankful to work for a district that waits to make its decision in the morning. I am probably in the minority, of course you can turn off the alarm if you know the night before but in our neck of the woods, a change in wind direction can alter the effects of a storm.
There are so many kiddos in our area who don't have sufficient heat, food, or warm attire that when I sit in the comfort of my warm home, I pray they remain warm until morning when the school bus picks them up. For this reason, it only makes sense to wait until the last possible moment to cancel school.
When I saw the photo in today's blog I saw the space between the trees, the openness and paths to adventure. Some of you might have noticed the trees first. Which did you see? Do you see roadblocks preventing you from walking straight through or do you see adventure of maneuvering around the trees to reach your destination?
What do the trees and open space have to do with calling a snow day? To be honest, probably not much, other than they both offer opportunities to focus on the road blocks or open our eyes to the adventures aWAITing us?
Do you see the opportunities or the road blocks?
This past weekend I had the joy of hearing from a reader. While out listening to one of our favorite bands, Jess Novak and Ben Wayne, someone took time to share she recently read my second book, Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey. Her words were, and still are, a big encouragement to me.
Her mother bought my book at a lawn sale, read it, then passed it on to her. She read the book in a day then was sharing what she read with someone else and has since loaned the book to someone else, who lives in California. This is exciting! She said she started the book and it was so good, she started and finished it in the same day. I'm thankful God used these words to encourage her. She shared with me and how it touched her heart. She was surprised it was at a lawn sale. She plans to keep it when it's returned to her so she always has it and can loan it to others who need encouragement. This is such a compliment to an author.
Some might look at it being in a lawn sale as a loss BUT I view this as a win. Not only did the person who put it in the lawn sale read it (the binding was worn from being read), the woman who bought it read it, her mother read it, and it's now in California with someone else reading it. I'm tickled and overjoyed, all because one person read the book and put it in their lawn sale, three more people have read the book that might not have otherwise. God works in mysterious ways and at lawn sales. Go God!
Her mother bought my book at a lawn sale, read it, then passed it on to her. She read the book in a day then was sharing what she read with someone else and has since loaned the book to someone else, who lives in California. This is exciting! She said she started the book and it was so good, she started and finished it in the same day. I'm thankful God used these words to encourage her. She shared with me and how it touched her heart. She was surprised it was at a lawn sale. She plans to keep it when it's returned to her so she always has it and can loan it to others who need encouragement. This is such a compliment to an author.
Some might look at it being in a lawn sale as a loss BUT I view this as a win. Not only did the person who put it in the lawn sale read it (the binding was worn from being read), the woman who bought it read it, her mother read it, and it's now in California with someone else reading it. I'm tickled and overjoyed, all because one person read the book and put it in their lawn sale, three more people have read the book that might not have otherwise. God works in mysterious ways and at lawn sales. Go God!
Thank you to all my readers!
Thanks for letting me know what you like
and a HUGE THANKS for leaving
a review on AMAZON!
Keep reading...
More to come in 2020!
Last week I received a text from a friend who lives in Florida: "Lisa, I am sending you something. It won't fit in your mailbox. When I saw it, I instantly thought of you. My friend made it...I hope you like it. Love to you..."
I must confess, the anticipation ignited and I couldn't wait. I had no idea what it was. This afternoon my Dad called me while I was tutoring, "Your package arrived!" After tutoring I went to my Dad's house, text my friend, and then opened the package while on the phone with her. Once open, I had tears in my eyes. This photo doesn't do justice for this painting yet the message it brings is still visible.
The first thing I thought, "This is Heidi and I when we reunite one day.", then my friend shared, "I saw this and thought of you and Heidi." The dampness in my eyes quickly turned into tears of joy, love, and hope. As she shared about seeing this painting and her first thoughts, I kept staring at it. The beauty captured combined with the love and friendship that came with the gift remind me of how precious time, friendship, and hope is.
We spent half an hour or more visiting, catching up, and enjoying each other's company. We wrapped up our conversation and I hit the "end" on my phone yet I couldn't stop staring at the painting. It entranced me, and still does. I don't know if it's the that I thought of Heidi as soon as I saw it, or was it that not only had I thought of Heidi but so had my friend. My friend said when she saw it, she thought of the bond, love, and sisterhood between Heidi and I. It doesn't matter why, all that matters is that God used my friend to bring me hope in the very moment I needed it the most. God knows what we need, when we need it. He used my friend, and her friend (I don't know the artist's name) who painted it, as messengers to me. For this, I'm very thankful today.
I must confess, the anticipation ignited and I couldn't wait. I had no idea what it was. This afternoon my Dad called me while I was tutoring, "Your package arrived!" After tutoring I went to my Dad's house, text my friend, and then opened the package while on the phone with her. Once open, I had tears in my eyes. This photo doesn't do justice for this painting yet the message it brings is still visible.
The first thing I thought, "This is Heidi and I when we reunite one day.", then my friend shared, "I saw this and thought of you and Heidi." The dampness in my eyes quickly turned into tears of joy, love, and hope. As she shared about seeing this painting and her first thoughts, I kept staring at it. The beauty captured combined with the love and friendship that came with the gift remind me of how precious time, friendship, and hope is.
We spent half an hour or more visiting, catching up, and enjoying each other's company. We wrapped up our conversation and I hit the "end" on my phone yet I couldn't stop staring at the painting. It entranced me, and still does. I don't know if it's the that I thought of Heidi as soon as I saw it, or was it that not only had I thought of Heidi but so had my friend. My friend said when she saw it, she thought of the bond, love, and sisterhood between Heidi and I. It doesn't matter why, all that matters is that God used my friend to bring me hope in the very moment I needed it the most. God knows what we need, when we need it. He used my friend, and her friend (I don't know the artist's name) who painted it, as messengers to me. For this, I'm very thankful today.
What, or WHO, are you thankful for today?
Hey there! How is everyone doing? For those enjoying the weekend rest and relaxation, what do you plan to do today to refresh yourself mentally, physically, and spiritually this weekend?
If you are looking for a new podcast, check out mine, One Sister's Journey: Keeping it Real (powered by Anchor FM). It's available on more than a dozen podcast apps.
On Fridays I try to do a different series and that is VERY FAITH BASED. My faith is within all my podcasts yet Friday is dedicated to sharing a message, usually a series. My recent series on Fridays is focusing on The Lord's Prayer. Check it out today - you can go back and start with the first one - taking a closer look at this prayer, verse by verse.
What is your favorite podcast? Share its name and link in a comment below - why is it your favorite and what is it about? Happy listening!
If you are looking for a new podcast, check out mine, One Sister's Journey: Keeping it Real (powered by Anchor FM). It's available on more than a dozen podcast apps.
On Fridays I try to do a different series and that is VERY FAITH BASED. My faith is within all my podcasts yet Friday is dedicated to sharing a message, usually a series. My recent series on Fridays is focusing on The Lord's Prayer. Check it out today - you can go back and start with the first one - taking a closer look at this prayer, verse by verse.
What is your favorite podcast? Share its name and link in a comment below - why is it your favorite and what is it about? Happy listening!
What do you like best about my podcast?
Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love,
for I have put my trust in you.
Show me the way I should go,
for to you I entrust my life."
Psalm 143:8 NIV
One of the joys experienced the past two Saturdays was the quiet of the roads and the beauty of the sunrise. Life offers us opportunities to choose. I had a choice to pull over and absorb this beautiful sight or continue bugging down the road. I chose to pause. In life, we need more opportunities to pause and enjoy the beauty of nature around us. One of the books I'm working on now focuses on slowing down and being more mindful of the opportunities and beauty placed before us.If you need to leave five minutes earlier, it will be worth it. Give it a try.
What did you notice on your commute?
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