tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14436484006371947422024-03-23T06:16:27.002-04:00Joyfull Livingfinding joy in the everyday moments of life.Joyfullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09661193900261452475noreply@blogger.comBlogger1522125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1443648400637194742.post-60966890107836567962023-08-09T06:43:00.001-04:002023-08-09T06:43:00.138-04:00Relationships and Redemption<p style="text-align: justify;">In every friendship or relationship, there is a common hope that they will grow and flourish. There is something inside of us that longs for a 'happy every after' story. We dream about it and work to make that happen.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">But in reality, relationships are a challenge. The bridging of values, lifestyles, interests and sacrificing for another are simply hard things to do! No matter how much we dream of the perfect fit, some relationships will not endure the stress. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">When differences appear and tensions arise, prayer can change situations, attitudes and ourselves. For the Christian, we know God can transform, change, heal. We cannot change others, but prayer opens us the door for God to step in and answer. God desires transformation, but does not demand it. The gift of free will allows us to choose to say Yes or No to Him. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Romans 12:18 says,<b><i> “If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.”</i></b></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhOic9NiB3lfW6GOwrNCVyW65DxykVO1LXFKfW1Gu-GjAoTDSTU3WQTVe5nl5Ldt6RaAMturecpvK_4GhSXeEAgH26YcMpm7EIQJjN6CLow0iSnJUbYlQJyfuRrxRSln5-SYxtP9Wvdq-EtxbeHJsMK0jwamCSLi8fzEy8abRfjjeycyY3XvLjD_aI7q4SV" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhOic9NiB3lfW6GOwrNCVyW65DxykVO1LXFKfW1Gu-GjAoTDSTU3WQTVe5nl5Ldt6RaAMturecpvK_4GhSXeEAgH26YcMpm7EIQJjN6CLow0iSnJUbYlQJyfuRrxRSln5-SYxtP9Wvdq-EtxbeHJsMK0jwamCSLi8fzEy8abRfjjeycyY3XvLjD_aI7q4SV=w320-h320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><p>Take notice of the first two words: “If possible …”</p><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">This implies that sometimes you can do what’s necessary to have peace, but if another person isn’t willing or isn't capable of working toward peace, sometimes it isn’t possible to live at peace with them.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Unless two people in a relationship are humbly willing to come together and do the work, sometimes we have to learn to move on when a relationship doesn’t.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Even if your situation doesn’t allow for relationship reconciliation and you find yourself saying a necessary goodbye, redemption with God is still yours for the choosing.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>God can redeem your life, even if damaged human relationships don't come back together. </b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Reconciliation or not, God will breathe redemption into the shattered pieces of your story and create something new and more beautiful than ever before. In His way. In His timing.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgftnLf_4Fb6ucc73hhMEaVnq78HCC3fP8Z3e15RayTd8Vcs47tiSLsnCtkBY93u6vh-HuXBvqeRSUqj7O8yTRvVgEuYnao6SpzkMZzzTA9jjy0dyMxSWKUp9-8rgBIJnr6wJEZwLEKt1S5uGY-bl3EzBKxGSiQx5wRmDSUhgO31BV7wDp1W4oX4DkzpA00" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="626" data-original-width="626" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgftnLf_4Fb6ucc73hhMEaVnq78HCC3fP8Z3e15RayTd8Vcs47tiSLsnCtkBY93u6vh-HuXBvqeRSUqj7O8yTRvVgEuYnao6SpzkMZzzTA9jjy0dyMxSWKUp9-8rgBIJnr6wJEZwLEKt1S5uGY-bl3EzBKxGSiQx5wRmDSUhgO31BV7wDp1W4oX4DkzpA00=w400-h400" width="400" /></a></div><p></p>Joyfullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09661193900261452475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1443648400637194742.post-27389444478615794412023-08-02T13:20:00.004-04:002023-08-02T13:54:34.523-04:00Silence, Solitude, Sweat<p style="text-align: justify;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhmEQcX7_YcQIbOCeculYvcBQr1WMDhB6WCZ5k0OAByAKxvNSmJo6o7Joe4_hl7VAmnCPDO_NEarIY33PMlW6syCMzMmxBdxge-AtH2YgToyWgX1e30CkmCaTikI_vDkS2bOSuTv1_goW1lu311Kx-ZA7v6eiJxulkMw2Ej9RniPjetrLr3NU1pJ2oeyWu4" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2160" data-original-width="3840" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhmEQcX7_YcQIbOCeculYvcBQr1WMDhB6WCZ5k0OAByAKxvNSmJo6o7Joe4_hl7VAmnCPDO_NEarIY33PMlW6syCMzMmxBdxge-AtH2YgToyWgX1e30CkmCaTikI_vDkS2bOSuTv1_goW1lu311Kx-ZA7v6eiJxulkMw2Ej9RniPjetrLr3NU1pJ2oeyWu4=w640-h360" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />I am a habit runner. Not a running fanatic, not a competitive runner, but one that knows if I don't run at all, the ability to run will vanish.<p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">A habit runner does the same things, the same way, almost every run! My routine consists of a regular running day with a regular running route. Part of the routine involves listening to podcasts. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Recently, I've been aware of the value of practicing stillness and quietness. There is always noise around us, but to find inspiration and soul searching, requires a deliberate attempt to find quiet times and places. A new practice I found was during morning walks, leaving the ear buds at home and simply walking and talking to God. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhoiHndwN-K5snRbPR5x9WviGU77exUDzBjWuRhFt06RWxFqL4e6PRKZnzdIPvcFtnxnUlppxpK03XjZ3x3MAapZ99kyVZsw_K4JuWX5mbBt1Yv8sexGD3S-nkW-8Iuh155b4QWnGua8lay6J_2vKQGR9F3CP2OOLiOC_h2_5CRa4Sv1LXUesOpX2ZJb2AA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="281" data-original-width="387" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhoiHndwN-K5snRbPR5x9WviGU77exUDzBjWuRhFt06RWxFqL4e6PRKZnzdIPvcFtnxnUlppxpK03XjZ3x3MAapZ99kyVZsw_K4JuWX5mbBt1Yv8sexGD3S-nkW-8Iuh155b4QWnGua8lay6J_2vKQGR9F3CP2OOLiOC_h2_5CRa4Sv1LXUesOpX2ZJb2AA" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">A recent morning found me preparing for a run, but with a new phone, the Bluetooth ear buds would not connect. The old fashioned wired ear phones would not fit in the new phone. Minutes passed trying to get this to work. The first thought was I cannot run without something to listen to, but this was run day and the only day to get it in! </p><p style="text-align: justify;">A new plan was to pray while running, so off I went. Beautiful morning, heart ready to pray outload, but I soon realized I couldn't' talk and run at the same time! Decided to continue on and try a different way and soon fell into the soothing sounds of birds singing and feet hitting the pavement. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Soon, inspiration began flooding my soul. Thoughts, ideas and parallels of life began forming. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">One recurring inspiration contrasted different kinds of run with how to embrace life challenges, projects or seasons</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Most new ideas begin with<b> Excitement. </b>We love something <b>Fresh,</b> something <b>New</b>.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">In life or during a run, we begin at a good speed with good energy. The finish line or completion is still a ways ahead, but the burst of inspiration creates energy.</p><p>Another phase is <b>Building or Continuing.</b></p><p>In a run or moving towards a goal, the newness will wear off, and energy begins to wane a little bit. This is a great time to find a good pace to keep. A mind set of determination to continue will combat the tinges of fatigue that hinders advancement. Keeping strong, eyes on a place to land is where determination is needed. </p><p><b>Endurance</b></p><p>When fatigue or challenges slow us down, this is the time to keep the goal in sight, move slower, but keep moving steady, and focus on each step. Being consistent and not allowing excuses or reasons to stop you will propel you to reach your place. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi53ipXdLNbFhiS0H5Mr1poBeW61sWlTUo9xCYu0uQz7rvQd2_x3Jlvd7H_MIGCIuQeTCCAXB-n1r5LncX1RDGi3pNTqrJ82-F0Gi4snkJvwLzvAH_g58-Qbr1V2GVv13Q_psh9RePW768t2x2gazcwuXafEuQOzzUGQsyOL_pO7C6w8HMpt306ew2P6GI9" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="700" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi53ipXdLNbFhiS0H5Mr1poBeW61sWlTUo9xCYu0uQz7rvQd2_x3Jlvd7H_MIGCIuQeTCCAXB-n1r5LncX1RDGi3pNTqrJ82-F0Gi4snkJvwLzvAH_g58-Qbr1V2GVv13Q_psh9RePW768t2x2gazcwuXafEuQOzzUGQsyOL_pO7C6w8HMpt306ew2P6GI9" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><p>My earbuds began working for this week's run, but the lesson I learned will stay with me awhile! Hope this encourages you to find value in: </p><p><b>Silence</b></p><p><b>Solitude </b></p><p><b>Sweat</b></p><p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEguFF0X_ifLDPRrRA9vtD4aNBTIzp--mv4kpSXhjuorqBcItjqd_GINrn9iR0x8N5k0aYodStQ5KeRxuZbX6qtbAy612t-_5vJWZjwxavuvsPQ9Nm0PvqJP6mIcUPMb-si2vskgv89wv7kQCCmvZYf7D6HWCvSv68PCRD8-FEJkdsF1_huWuu2d-J4LCDX5" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="705" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEguFF0X_ifLDPRrRA9vtD4aNBTIzp--mv4kpSXhjuorqBcItjqd_GINrn9iR0x8N5k0aYodStQ5KeRxuZbX6qtbAy612t-_5vJWZjwxavuvsPQ9Nm0PvqJP6mIcUPMb-si2vskgv89wv7kQCCmvZYf7D6HWCvSv68PCRD8-FEJkdsF1_huWuu2d-J4LCDX5=w293-h400" width="293" /></a></b></div><b><br /><br /></b><p></p>Joyfullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09661193900261452475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1443648400637194742.post-16883670256145490992023-06-28T15:50:00.001-04:002023-06-28T15:50:08.393-04:00"This Is Me" - Chasing Beauty<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjHxYmu8ZsC0nOCI-ZO1QQXJLvCZBrMEvSZIReXqwMvuu5kL2WtvDJpHWk2Pm0FhjD64i1O1afSkhHldwf7XEVav8sXoNhShLNcWMHWGen-aaUFXU09jkGSnCjFhsi666Q56u4OlFzfhjH5Z2CyGbYTlXiKotCbSTWqt4jE3tDZ5TKm6x04Nz0YaAH9kS3C" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjHxYmu8ZsC0nOCI-ZO1QQXJLvCZBrMEvSZIReXqwMvuu5kL2WtvDJpHWk2Pm0FhjD64i1O1afSkhHldwf7XEVav8sXoNhShLNcWMHWGen-aaUFXU09jkGSnCjFhsi666Q56u4OlFzfhjH5Z2CyGbYTlXiKotCbSTWqt4jE3tDZ5TKm6x04Nz0YaAH9kS3C" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>Sometimes, we just want a deeper peek into someone's life! I am all about the details, the more the better! When we learn things about others, we are bound to find a connection and share a common thread. That is how friendships deepen.</p><p>It is a true joy to share an encouraging word for women here on the blog, but transparency and opening up real life experiences offer an avenue to connect deeper. </p><p>So, today is the first<b> "This Is Me"</b>' post. A real life story from the week about the quest for beautiful hair!</p><p>As I age, my grey hair seems to multiply! It is not a devastating issue, but one that is becoming a bit harder to control. For years I've used quick and easy products to cover the grey without doing anything permanent. This has worked for a long time. Then I moved to a semi-permanent solution and found a product I loved. Easy to use with great results. Now it is hard to find. </p><p>Stumbling upon a clearance rack this week, was a box of hair color in a beautiful shade for $5.00! It was permanent, but I decided to give it a try. With the box opened and directions pulled out, I began carefully following the process. Feeling confident, I lathered up the solution, which at the time had no color. After the setting time, I returned to the sink and found deep dark color spots on the bathroom floor, rug and even on my toes! Apparently, not careful enough! </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEisY7wPWfGLRilBnzBAGlczu_tbeUt3i_L753TjSP5L2t5LWNV8BEg8OIJAu0EJev1Z8e07tqUqtzYzK5jeKfVt8hFNdiRqG26FJQq3YuNSICHfZ1I1Gr9eyAQur5Iv1fxYknCSPL3OSKkTKd1sO9hAeqMT6L_jHM_9s90rArQETmz6Smr_FCdTw0Zbyzdd" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEisY7wPWfGLRilBnzBAGlczu_tbeUt3i_L753TjSP5L2t5LWNV8BEg8OIJAu0EJev1Z8e07tqUqtzYzK5jeKfVt8hFNdiRqG26FJQq3YuNSICHfZ1I1Gr9eyAQur5Iv1fxYknCSPL3OSKkTKd1sO9hAeqMT6L_jHM_9s90rArQETmz6Smr_FCdTw0Zbyzdd=w150-h200" width="150" /></a></div><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">But the hair color is beautiful and next time, more caution will be used!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I read something sweet this week. As women, we love beautiful things. For ourselves, our homes, for taking in all around us. </div><span><a name='more'></a></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><p></p><p></p><blockquote><p><i>Beholding beauty transforms us, rearranges the mental furniture of our minds and makes us want to be beautiful. </i></p><p><i>Jesus is the one who can transform us to reflect His radiance and beauty into the world. As the Spirit of God whispers our names and calls us to Jesus, God is saying “Come and see how beautiful I AM. Let My beauty wash over your scars and flaws. </i></p></blockquote><p> <span></span></p><!--more--><p></p><blockquote><p>Jesus can bring a beauty to our lives that does much more than cover up. His grace and beauty transforms us! </p></blockquote><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjLeWFPTYka6V-yHAF_R5VK5UcF35z2CFClQKQZBKxiOAX1pMCopQXdwRHMcPqyfYK0yzQw_FYJ-Ozgnjt4gOuFuauskg1_xQtoVjIkTy0e_PUscUw3qbsjV1rUiz3xFU0zQfrM-q2Vpqo4Pc1hey6qhMGkc0sswOaJ-NAs_n62oMFLfP4oQnuvUOsWJGM7" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjLeWFPTYka6V-yHAF_R5VK5UcF35z2CFClQKQZBKxiOAX1pMCopQXdwRHMcPqyfYK0yzQw_FYJ-Ozgnjt4gOuFuauskg1_xQtoVjIkTy0e_PUscUw3qbsjV1rUiz3xFU0zQfrM-q2Vpqo4Pc1hey6qhMGkc0sswOaJ-NAs_n62oMFLfP4oQnuvUOsWJGM7=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p></p>Joyfullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09661193900261452475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1443648400637194742.post-33921759524389456082023-06-21T06:00:00.001-04:002023-06-21T06:00:00.140-04:00Stumbling on Resilience <p style="text-align: justify;"> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh2J3QXrefLQNvSOvDToXZR9eIUi2B9c2tV9vvsp_NJjp6RgAP_-sodulDLPRDO-KD3ovX4ddyNdL3P65AcJJMmp1WdJ5ZAmDdsVZkVAqPK2q9TBOHQ6bm7SxSq2qE0aeWbAJtYEKNLNoMFL16VVMleo06SkSPAodE2Uwv89i-EVmiq9G5JIvN3wc3qWmte" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh2J3QXrefLQNvSOvDToXZR9eIUi2B9c2tV9vvsp_NJjp6RgAP_-sodulDLPRDO-KD3ovX4ddyNdL3P65AcJJMmp1WdJ5ZAmDdsVZkVAqPK2q9TBOHQ6bm7SxSq2qE0aeWbAJtYEKNLNoMFL16VVMleo06SkSPAodE2Uwv89i-EVmiq9G5JIvN3wc3qWmte=w400-h400" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">I love jumping into new things! Something will capture my attention and I dive in, often without looking deeply into it or evaluating whether it will be useful for me. New things inspire me, new months, seasons, books etc. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">An email came in from one of my favorite authors -<b> Time Warp Wife</b>. A ladies study was going on about <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Virtues-Proverbs-31-Woman-Bible/dp/198898419X?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_w=6k72r&content-id=amzn1.sym.5724bc92-619d-4597-ac96-996c3c19e6c4&pf_rd_p=5724bc92-619d-4597-ac96-996c3c19e6c4&pf_rd_r=AJHEB8DRVJA6EBFWJ7JC&pd_rd_wg=ZthMb&pd_rd_r=46ae22e8-9361-4cde-b25f-269c0f7be09f&linkCode=sl1&tag=timewarpwifem-20&linkId=b3ae529301e8cdc695eacdf9e93cd17c&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl" target="_blank">"The 7 Virtues of a Proverbs 31 Woman."</a> I immediately bought the book and joined the study! It didn't matter that I would already by 3 lessons behind, I saw it, liked it and joined in!</p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgGmTP1hABd7x-hBGHfGQKEbtEC6AIcka6ZqtZKfy2uVUSBg4YEpprPcSGRVumWu9BO6mTKx-kdqhFqEkseLbiW8Y7lX1YUYAkide9s5g8Ga_OR5uN3cj_ZQseEJVzMgJXdbDHcycnBm2hotB31DZbYZ8NfwFBhhKMGV-X0vgpU4XqDNDI6OBeUyqYuD5vn" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="857" data-original-width="600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgGmTP1hABd7x-hBGHfGQKEbtEC6AIcka6ZqtZKfy2uVUSBg4YEpprPcSGRVumWu9BO6mTKx-kdqhFqEkseLbiW8Y7lX1YUYAkide9s5g8Ga_OR5uN3cj_ZQseEJVzMgJXdbDHcycnBm2hotB31DZbYZ8NfwFBhhKMGV-X0vgpU4XqDNDI6OBeUyqYuD5vn=w280-h400" width="280" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Once the book arrived, I knew it would be better to slow down and start at the beginning. I set the book aside, but still receive the weekly emails. .</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Whatever week the study is on(!), the topic is <b>Resilience.</b> This is the ability to adapt to difficult or stressful situations, emerging stronger on the other side. A virtuous woman might not have the ability to solve her problems, but she has faith in the One Who does. She knows that every broken piece of her life is safe in the hands of her Savior and Lord. She knows that God specializes in miracles. He replaces the stench of death with life and gives hope where all hope is lost. Because of this unshakeable faith, she can laugh without fear of the future.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Resilience comes from friction - from stress or circumstances that may be hard. These times will come in our lives, we cannot change that.<b> BUT, we can control our response.</b> When we go through hard times, we can either get bitter or better. This captures the heart of resilience. The idea that we have a choice in how we respond to the trials we face is profound and empowering.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">But as we choose to trust God to walk us through, we understand we need God’s strength, His guidance, His enduring love to help us through the storms. But He alone is the source that can bring us to the good on the other side as well as walk with us every step of the way. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Resilience is dependent on the choices we make. We can either lean into God, using our trials as opportunities to grow through adversity, or we can choose to let adversity embitter us. There’s something beautifully resilient, deeply faithful, and remarkably hopeful in the choice to be better, not bitter. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p>Joyfullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09661193900261452475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1443648400637194742.post-76318379812471108632023-06-15T06:02:00.003-04:002023-06-15T08:46:12.230-04:00Father's Day Week - Tragedy to Triumph<p style="text-align: justify;">The week of June 9 - June 17, 1989 is a week forever etched in my story. It is where I experienced my greatest loss as well as the greatest gain in my life. Looking back even now, 34 years later, the variance of emotions from mourning to hope in the span of a few days still astounds me. But it is a story of God's grace that alone can bring tragedy to triumph. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">The circumstances surrounded 2 of the most powerful influences in my life - my father and my husband. June 9, my father was tragically killed. Although I never doubted for a moment of his love for me, my father made some devastating life choices that brought painful consequences to his family. He gave me a lifetime of fatherly advice, but set an example before me of a path I would take great strides to avoid. Choosing a lifestyle of sin and darkness can quickly escalate and overtake ones life. Priorities, habits, relationships can be left behind to follow the irresistible call of addiction. As Father's Day weekend is approaching, I am able to reflect with gratitude the treasure of knowing a father's unconditional love but mourn the losses that took his life. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">This tragedy happened just 8 days before my wedding. Ceremony plans had been months in the making and our family agreed to continue on with the event as planned. Although the tragedy of my father's death was forefront in our minds, a celebration of love gave a beautiful distraction from the grips of grief. That day, our family got a glimpse of grace. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Suz7eaYotQCh1JQyj1FdshArWX7ZQX9-eZbQIKB9HA5BTpsqJ9C2iqWTJPZNVRGoQf6Vr_G5tBeDXrBgzZr9qvjNbw475HV77PL7ehRW9fw_XgSKgNHVak07av7gBmy1u93IQpSKehHpFlbjZEK7j7v24_COzq8HoyDjxakRnwPjwcShUT3UPv6lUw/s1008/Joyce%20Photos.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1008" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Suz7eaYotQCh1JQyj1FdshArWX7ZQX9-eZbQIKB9HA5BTpsqJ9C2iqWTJPZNVRGoQf6Vr_G5tBeDXrBgzZr9qvjNbw475HV77PL7ehRW9fw_XgSKgNHVak07av7gBmy1u93IQpSKehHpFlbjZEK7j7v24_COzq8HoyDjxakRnwPjwcShUT3UPv6lUw/w400-h286/Joyce%20Photos.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEifsaldEBdM8HVQ2KgDCG0LzPytU4kZ2hvydxRjpCwZMoJWacJGgNP5ETSFZTbajn40vLMhP7Y2CmuCtLEKcuK8KD7R5ExG-CSuSGW0xnCCHEoY0A_yDWXH2-Cl9pXqI70455SAYsUYWkyXrGUqkDO2Dgs5OA5Q6CvkNL_T5pkdpN7ioiqmu9ZIFxQWwQ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="984" data-original-width="752" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEifsaldEBdM8HVQ2KgDCG0LzPytU4kZ2hvydxRjpCwZMoJWacJGgNP5ETSFZTbajn40vLMhP7Y2CmuCtLEKcuK8KD7R5ExG-CSuSGW0xnCCHEoY0A_yDWXH2-Cl9pXqI70455SAYsUYWkyXrGUqkDO2Dgs5OA5Q6CvkNL_T5pkdpN7ioiqmu9ZIFxQWwQ=w305-h400" width="305" /></a></div><br /><span style="text-align: justify;">Another celebration takes place this weekend - our 34th wedding anniversary. A marriage, not perfect by any means, but a source of joy, commitment, faithfulness and sacrifice. My husband entered the role of my greatest influence. Once a Daddy's girl and now a wife, the difference was being led in the ways of integrity and godliness. Faith, values and integrity guided our choices as we began our new life. God knew exactly what I needed and my husband is more than I could ever have imagined. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Enq_r5WQmtXCTMZ4Vecl5LiuAsj61UrhhkNe0lBwMgFy9eICva6hYd2s4WGCac9mr5IwUiNd_4Age11wSL3mTaddKkdho0gu4W88T_VN_MTFZVyqZKlXw8C5JBGIZBTTBEgy3i11rNahQoZ0O53YCQxtqtPxDBuFiNf89HGjsoJ5dmzV32sgWzsrpA/s2238/20230524_111439(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2238" data-original-width="1679" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Enq_r5WQmtXCTMZ4Vecl5LiuAsj61UrhhkNe0lBwMgFy9eICva6hYd2s4WGCac9mr5IwUiNd_4Age11wSL3mTaddKkdho0gu4W88T_VN_MTFZVyqZKlXw8C5JBGIZBTTBEgy3i11rNahQoZ0O53YCQxtqtPxDBuFiNf89HGjsoJ5dmzV32sgWzsrpA/s320/20230524_111439(1).jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvPygj015X3dbb5sX_g22U5KFlkbpeLXSfmoP3NMmN9uhMG4P46oL3q8tVUtnqUY3OPfTAsKCjx1xYV0nBeN407gDlkqvDIAffBeQb_FPJoX5Pl32G6lKrVY0tC4aoiRa4-nTNFEyEP797mdD6NIrkquB71VoF4OrAYvUmzoYs87hg7s3oQw8pOboXEw/s2048/334055238_6268676489843102_5992873726798946194_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvPygj015X3dbb5sX_g22U5KFlkbpeLXSfmoP3NMmN9uhMG4P46oL3q8tVUtnqUY3OPfTAsKCjx1xYV0nBeN407gDlkqvDIAffBeQb_FPJoX5Pl32G6lKrVY0tC4aoiRa4-nTNFEyEP797mdD6NIrkquB71VoF4OrAYvUmzoYs87hg7s3oQw8pOboXEw/s320/334055238_6268676489843102_5992873726798946194_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: justify;">The fruitfulness of our marriage produced 3 sons. My view of fatherhood dramatically changed as through the years I watched my husband love our boys unconditionally. With high expectations, he modeled a life of discipline, self control, sacrifice, faith and integrity. He is leaving a godly legacy and daily projects the model of a godly father. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIFQs5d1M6KUUNFF0jKfGIHBmUukdMfgyN6Aw1VaO8s3s8-FFZ62ZZAkM_hf5pS7a0RaAoHyMSTa5SqFU29uu12xh4H2z2eC7uH3azEYkMpzxN15fJhsv52mMEYVIgl9Bl2O__XK5bnwgpsj3MCmpjYZtFI4iOKb4IJx7UJ1tMpytoWUj0lPXCO_DYng/s3600/IMG_3577.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2400" data-original-width="3600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIFQs5d1M6KUUNFF0jKfGIHBmUukdMfgyN6Aw1VaO8s3s8-FFZ62ZZAkM_hf5pS7a0RaAoHyMSTa5SqFU29uu12xh4H2z2eC7uH3azEYkMpzxN15fJhsv52mMEYVIgl9Bl2O__XK5bnwgpsj3MCmpjYZtFI4iOKb4IJx7UJ1tMpytoWUj0lPXCO_DYng/w400-h266/IMG_3577.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: justify;">Triumph comes through the process of healing. Mourning is a vital part of the process of finding peace. Many tears, anguish and hard emotions were present and often overwhelming at first. Walking through them, taking steps forward and reflecting on the hand of God leading the way, gave peace, comfort and strength. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Tragedy will always be a part of my life story. But triumph comes when the story is told from the viewpoint of hope and comfort. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">2 Corinthians 1:3-5 is my story:</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. </i></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">This week still brings up an overload of memories and emotion, But hope and gratitude are what fills my heart. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhgV45K9eWv0Hd2AM2FLYJpAHKglM2w0cU3UM018-QgSHGwJY9xotBTU588DlA1yg8BRUbXSbsZqAaIn5qFjmsmoZoJerNCHIQZBN75MlGTXpV9W-aHINEEVpy95ASVQR1TpAKLdcuzVw6GzF2q2pBmzugeTfqbX9TnKzwoWQKl-Z0HHbC8J9xz7LzDXQ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhgV45K9eWv0Hd2AM2FLYJpAHKglM2w0cU3UM018-QgSHGwJY9xotBTU588DlA1yg8BRUbXSbsZqAaIn5qFjmsmoZoJerNCHIQZBN75MlGTXpV9W-aHINEEVpy95ASVQR1TpAKLdcuzVw6GzF2q2pBmzugeTfqbX9TnKzwoWQKl-Z0HHbC8J9xz7LzDXQ=w400-h400" width="400" /></a></div><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><i><br /></i></b></p>Joyfullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09661193900261452475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1443648400637194742.post-54127014473096217602023-06-14T06:30:00.001-04:002023-06-14T06:30:00.145-04:00Practical Ways to Help a Friend in Need<p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://drmichellebengtson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/20-Practical-Ways-to-Help-a-Friend-in-Need-pin-2-w.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="533" height="400" src="https://drmichellebengtson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/20-Practical-Ways-to-Help-a-Friend-in-Need-pin-2-w.jpg" width="267" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">What do you do when you hear a dear friend is sick or suffering? Immediately, we want to help, to 'do' something. As we ponder ways we can offer help, perhaps our insecurity, feeling of being unprepared or ill equipped can paralyze us and we end up doing nothing. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">We can make a difference in the lives of your loved ones when they need it most when you know how to help.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">But often, when we don’t know what to do, or what to say, we make the mistake of doing nothing at all. But it’s during those times that our presence or lack thereof is felt the most.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">When a friend is going through a challenging time, our acts of love and presence can bring healing and hope. Check out these 20 meaningful and practical ways to help a friend in need shared by Dr. Michelle Bengston: </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Practical suggestions for helping a friend in need</b></p><p></p><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>Ask your friend, “How can I most be of help to you today?”</li><li>Pick up the phone and call to check in. Just leaving a cheerful voicemail letting her know you are thinking of her helps.</li><li>Send a text message asking her how she is.</li><li>Offer to call or come over to pray with her.</li><li>Bring a meal to the home.</li><li>Offer to take her children out after school to keep the house quiet.</li><li>Bring a fun comedy movie and snacks over as a diversion.</li><li>Send a handwritten note in a cheerful card.</li><li>Take a load or two of her laundry back to your place to do, and return clean and neatly folded.</li><li>Bring or send a bouquet of beautiful cheerful flowers.</li><li>Leave her an uplifting message on social media for her to find that lets her know you remember her and what she likes.</li><li>Schedule a coffee date, and if she can’t go out for the coffee, bring the coffee to her.</li><li>Take her to the doctor.</li><li>Write out and send her a box of encouraging scripture.</li><li>Hold her hand or offer a heartfelt hug. The human touch offers tremendous healing properties.</li><li>Walk her dog for her.</li><li>Clean her house.</li><li>Bring her your recent most favorite read.</li><li>Supply her with her favorite chocolate.</li><li>Sit quietly with her so she isn’t alone.</li></ol><p></p>Joyfullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09661193900261452475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1443648400637194742.post-27649043014202187732023-06-07T12:20:00.004-04:002023-06-07T12:20:34.004-04:00Wednesday Word - Perseverance, Character and Hope<p style="text-align: center;"><b><i></i></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i><a href="https://ifgcgbg.files.wordpress.com/2016/02/07532ba03013495e96f35fca14cc276c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="710" data-original-width="650" height="400" src="https://ifgcgbg.files.wordpress.com/2016/02/07532ba03013495e96f35fca14cc276c.jpg" width="366" /></a></i></b></div><b><br /></b><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><i> Romans 5:3-5</i></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><i> And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.</i></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">This verse is part of my weekly Sunday School lesson. I'll be the first to admit in the past I have 'cherry-picked' this verse. Meaning I have taken the good parts and pondered them, and discarded the parts I don't like so much! </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Perseverance, character; and character, hope</b>: This is a golden chain of Christian growth and maturity. One virtue builds upon another as we grow in the pattern of Jesus.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"> Most every Christian wants to develop character and have more hope. These qualities spring out of perseverance, which comes through tribulation. We may wish to have better character and more hope without starting with tribulation, but that isn’t God’s pattern and plan.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Three things we can take from these verses:</p><p style="text-align: justify;">1. God does not waste our pain. God is able to take our pain and purify us. Our trials are a process, they may feel overwhelming, but we travel THROUGH them, and God is always walking beside us. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">2. Endurance wrought by suffering leads us to proved character. God's greatest goal, His unrelenting aim and passion is to form Christ in us.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">3. Proven character produces hope because the love of God is poured out into our hearts.<b> Hope has a name and it is Jesus. </b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"> Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">God lovingly enters our suffering. Our hope is not a mere wish, but an assurance because God through the Holy Spirit is pouring His love into our hearts. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Therefore we say – soberly, reverently – we say about tribulation,<i> “Lord. I know You love me and carefully measure every trial and have a loving purpose to accomplish in every tribulation. Lord, I won’t seek trials and search out tribulation, but I won’t despise them or lose hope when they come. I trust Your love in everything You allow.”</i></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Now hope does not disappoint: The hope that tribulation builds in us is not a hope that will be disappointed. We are assured of this because God has proved His intention to complete His work in us – the proof being the love of God… poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">As we grow, may we keep our eye focused on God's promises. When times are hard, God can create something beautiful. </p>Joyfullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09661193900261452475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1443648400637194742.post-59520238924968638922023-06-02T09:18:00.001-04:002023-06-02T09:18:38.971-04:00We All Just Want to Belong<p style="text-align: justify;"><b> </b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiF1ntYBauZqLgBQSs8FQUbIBRet1VPEg6moPXt6omIdC4JJXMOw-AUTVzoWi6pf66AENOCPr_xpKP1LNvcwhkJaKDlEwrvfun_iJMpxn9igRCPODA5F59euwdy5MsktqZP4_d2_Re8iKSR5gYGuM1USdsPucWmNfcOR9yC-9HdamOldOIjp7VoQmTTLA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiF1ntYBauZqLgBQSs8FQUbIBRet1VPEg6moPXt6omIdC4JJXMOw-AUTVzoWi6pf66AENOCPr_xpKP1LNvcwhkJaKDlEwrvfun_iJMpxn9igRCPODA5F59euwdy5MsktqZP4_d2_Re8iKSR5gYGuM1USdsPucWmNfcOR9yC-9HdamOldOIjp7VoQmTTLA" width="240" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Belonging</b> -<i> the beautiful place where we know we are loved, valued and a place is made just for us.</i></p><p style="text-align: justify;">In every heart lies the desire to belong. Belonging fills the heart with peace, security and joy. Knowing there is a place we fit and are able to receive and contribute brings a sense of fulfillment.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Belonging is our primary human need. Beyond food and shelter, nothing promotes human flourishing like having a people and place of belonging.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">When the peaceful feeling of belonging is challenged, our emotions can quickly rise up. The quest to belong fuels the intense reactions to whatever threatened our sense of belonging. Simple things such as being overlooked with an invitation, a thoughtless word aimlessly directed or distracted reactions from others can threaten the sense of belonging and quickly send us spiraling. Our emotions fill us with ways to react and if we are not careful can consume us and bring harm to relationships. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">A better solution to treasure and cherish those spaces of belonging is to simply pause and identify the threat and evaluate if is it real or perceived. Our minds and imaginations can fool us! Before our first reaction which usually is a defense - what is the truth and how can we allow truth to prevail?</p><p style="text-align: justify;">For the Christian, we know that in Christ, we can find true belonging: True belonging is being fully known and being fully loved.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgTuEOtm7N2Bzd9gSNuuVP1mo0-f3PqP3CwIoE-Ee51AQkUGZHoxWvdUXdKpA8tH5Xk7mSzL3mx-8U7k1gY40Czfoo3OfjWELv00fJmK-ccWBHjyZeZP5nr_WiU6g8BuHCeDF_iDx1vd6Ju9F5SG90hGRP8aKh8yzfeIPBAtl1PR0FATHyj_gVxhvpLRw" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgTuEOtm7N2Bzd9gSNuuVP1mo0-f3PqP3CwIoE-Ee51AQkUGZHoxWvdUXdKpA8tH5Xk7mSzL3mx-8U7k1gY40Czfoo3OfjWELv00fJmK-ccWBHjyZeZP5nr_WiU6g8BuHCeDF_iDx1vd6Ju9F5SG90hGRP8aKh8yzfeIPBAtl1PR0FATHyj_gVxhvpLRw" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">A current study I am involved in shares about God as Father: <br /><i>"God as Father reigns with providential care over His universe, His creatures, and the flow of the stream of human history according to the purposes of His grace. He is all powerful, all knowing, all loving, and all wise. God is Father in truth to those who become children of God through faith in Jesus Christ.<b> He is fatherly in His attitude toward all men."</b></i></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Biblical insight into how and where we belong brings us full circle. When we belong to God, our longings are fulfilled and we can then fully belong and dedicate offering to others. Contributing to the good of others is a source of fulfillment and guards us against the dangers of emotional guardship. When we take the focus off our own need for belonging, and create space for others to belong, we find ourselves surrounded by those happy to have us in their lives.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">In Christ, we can find true belonging, for true belonging is being simultaneously fully known and fully loved. When we’re secure in Christ, we’ll be established and rooted in how He has made us, and we will belong to Him.. We can become who we were meant to be—fully adopted and secure children of God. We “come home” to ourselves in this significant sense. The layers of protection that have surrounded us like shells can begin to fall away, and true spiritual transformation can begin.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">We belong not to ourselves but to God, and through Him, to Hs people. At long last, our search for true belonging can have a happy ending. In Christ and among His people, we’re fully known and fully loved.</p>Joyfullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09661193900261452475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1443648400637194742.post-60040096307771266462023-01-04T07:32:00.005-05:002023-01-04T07:38:55.190-05:00A Blank Page - A Great Way to Fill It<p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz9TvIXddLs3De-Z6X5Ud3cxyAaBQVSRVCDErhWpQRmoVpsxNa7GURJDWN6yB27snqKpyoWXp_6UqAOcMBGoAA2CXaSPTwkHTSz_zch9jyH-ndl4uYjeZ1gjnkPWr6PAvy_NuCiFeuZBvzh2CIAxbPuBEY_9NB-BCTVLnevL1eO3dkqHR2A39eQn4kPg/s1024/COffee.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="819" data-original-width="1024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz9TvIXddLs3De-Z6X5Ud3cxyAaBQVSRVCDErhWpQRmoVpsxNa7GURJDWN6yB27snqKpyoWXp_6UqAOcMBGoAA2CXaSPTwkHTSz_zch9jyH-ndl4uYjeZ1gjnkPWr6PAvy_NuCiFeuZBvzh2CIAxbPuBEY_9NB-BCTVLnevL1eO3dkqHR2A39eQn4kPg/w400-h320/COffee.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />A blank page - that is the first view of a new blog post. It has been a while since I have faced the blank page of my little blog! A blank page can bring a variety of emotions - emptiness, anxiety, pressure to perform or emotions such as inspiration, encouragement or simply bursting to share something.<br /><br />But there is always something fresh and exciting about the blank page of a New Year. Happy 2023! This is always a time in my life where inspiration and plans are formed and ready to be implemented for greater change. <br /><br />Aspirations may start strong, but alone do not make a difference. It takes consistency to create change. The changing or adding small habits is a key to great changes.</div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">A habit that has been beneficial in my life for many years is rising early. It began when the children were small and was the only pocket of time I had to myself. Through the years, mornings have become my favorite time of the day. Now that my husband and I are empty nesters, we go to bed early and rise early. The pocket of alone time has greatly increased, but still must be utilized for maximum potential. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">The first part of the day is the most important time of the day. Investing in this time is a single discipline that will reap multiple rewards. This time sets the tone for the day - it is a blank page ready to be filled and what we choose to put into our minds during this time determines the path of the day. It is a vital part to begin a good day.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>BECOMING AN EARLY RISER AND WILL TRANSFORM YOUR LIFE</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Biologist Christoph Randler’s research shows that those ‘whose performance peaks in the morning are better positioned for career success.’ When you get up at a certain time say 6:30 AM, you will also fall asleep at a certain time say 10:00 PM. Once you have set this schedule in the new year, your mood, productivity, and energy are enhanced.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">The habit of being an early riser will transform and empower you by having more time for yourself, getting a good night’s sleep, and experiencing all the cycles of sleep, beautiful skin, maximizing productivity, better mental health, and time management.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">The Bible encourages us to <i>"seek first the kingdom of God".</i> Beginning the day in God's Word and prayer establishes the day upon the rock of His truth. Time spent with God, before turning our attention to the demands of the day, gives true purpose to the day. When our mind is peaceful and receptive to insight and inspiration we are able to take on the day with confident assurance. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">If you want to change your life, change your habits. The fastest way to do big things is to consistently do the small, right things. Rising early is a great habit to begin this new year! </p>Joyfullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09661193900261452475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1443648400637194742.post-38525822324196867682022-07-18T07:47:00.001-04:002022-07-18T07:47:00.171-04:00Go Till the Rest<p> During my weekly Tabata class the sound of these words occur several times - <b>3,2,1 Begin. </b></p><p>Tabata is a fitness routine consisting of 20 second intervals of heart pumping cardio exercise, a 10 second rest and then 20 seconds of a strength exercise.</p><p>Computer voices countdown to the beginning -<b> 3,2,1 Begin</b> and then count down the ascent -<b> 3, 2,1 Rest. </b>In between the counts, our bodies are pushed to the limit, but we eagerly await that countdown to rest. </p><p>Physical fitness is an investment and the purpose of each class is to become stronger. Going in and simply going through the motions will bring very little change or improvement. </p><p>Recently, one of the ladies in class encouraged us as we awaited the countdown -<b> keep going till you hear 'rest'.</b> Usually, we would end the specific exercise as the countdown began, but she encouraged us to continue the movement past 3, 2 and even 1, until we heard <b>REST.</b> </p><p style="text-align: justify;">It probably amounted to 1 extra second, but the concept was huge. <b>Go to the end and then go one more step. Give it all you got, and then a tiny bit more. </b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">What if we embraced this concept in our daily lives? Do a good job, then a bit extra. Be thorough, extend yourself, give kindness, grace and embrace a spirit of excellence. Don't stop just because you can, but take one more step. That is how we make a difference! </p><p style="text-align: justify;">For the Christian, Jesus talked about a second mile. <b>"And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two." Matthew 5:41</b></p><p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhgpXDhaAqhC-0A41zy75dFl2tkgDvk7YdDh09t1kYXz_LdKBXdait3p-q0Rg4s34gaSO-t_OgxuGuuh_CKxjCYpwia62kc497xWKcaib3EVlyRflrEelssfanT_SP0ObLTssYJ92JVBzYpasdX0yeDxVBTGDLQ8UBhYGO0YHH7lo8FDzzDqY31GIp9DA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhgpXDhaAqhC-0A41zy75dFl2tkgDvk7YdDh09t1kYXz_LdKBXdait3p-q0Rg4s34gaSO-t_OgxuGuuh_CKxjCYpwia62kc497xWKcaib3EVlyRflrEelssfanT_SP0ObLTssYJ92JVBzYpasdX0yeDxVBTGDLQ8UBhYGO0YHH7lo8FDzzDqY31GIp9DA=w400-h400" width="400" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">As a rule, the average person seeks to do less than he is asked to do. In a day of great underachievement in our society, being a second-mile Christian could have a positive effect on others. Christians should never be known as those who do as little as possible or less than what is required. This attitude adjustment is greatly needed among those who profess to know Christ as Savior. Too many want to leave the work for someone else to do. Too often we are more concerned with our personal agenda rather than serving others, which should be our priority. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">When we learn to listen to our Lord’s still, small voice—-when we learn to obey it and rely on His indwelling strength—only then can we consistently do second mile kinds of things. And when we do—people around us see not US—but Jesus Himself. Mel Blackaby writes, <i>“The difference between the first mile and the second mile is a million miles. On the first mile you can stand on your own. You see what YOU could accomplish but nothing more. The second mile looks much different. You’re no longer alone but you can take your stand WITH Christ. You demonstrate that you’re more than a good person; you’re a child of God. As a result people see something different in you—the love of God. The difference is clear: The world sees US on the first mile; they see Christ on the second.”</i></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Let's make the conscious choice each day to finish strong and then go one more step!</p>Joyfullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09661193900261452475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1443648400637194742.post-71297632627709089712022-07-11T14:17:00.000-04:002022-07-11T14:17:03.197-04:00Overflow<p><i> "Overflow might look messy when gas is spewing out of a tank, but when God fills us to overflowing, it's beautiful, because we're no longer rationing our energy for ourselves and everyone who needs us. We have plenty to give when we are overflowing."</i></p><p>This was from my devotion as I began a new week and the topic was refilling, trust and being still. God wants us to be beyond full, not hovering right above empty, but refilling our souls is a process that requires us to be still and trust. </p><p>What was significant about this new week is that I was on forced rest. A scratchy throat, slight cough and then a positive test result had me settled safely at home for the next few days. My first response was "I don't have time for this", but maturity has taught me, when you can't fight against something, lean in, listen and learn what God is trying to say. </p><p>So the week began, at home with a stretched out devotion time and words that filled my heart with a desire for Him to fill my cup to overflowing. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgf7JxASaHW4uYROl0T2oD4b6nwRMzMrNfHVJQl6oyyCOJ8zgWDDcQwW70BJWP8TkmF-Ql-qTN4wLihWTtsrLAu3dRY_N2c6LkhnjTXE-XLUNY-g2r6wMvauDx8iEXsHQKWiHWDA9dpaY2Lsh_oXn_zNhn81H4At7ejeBl_3tOhm2Ha0NJ9u9VFBvI0hA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="667" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgf7JxASaHW4uYROl0T2oD4b6nwRMzMrNfHVJQl6oyyCOJ8zgWDDcQwW70BJWP8TkmF-Ql-qTN4wLihWTtsrLAu3dRY_N2c6LkhnjTXE-XLUNY-g2r6wMvauDx8iEXsHQKWiHWDA9dpaY2Lsh_oXn_zNhn81H4At7ejeBl_3tOhm2Ha0NJ9u9VFBvI0hA=w400-h400" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">This verse comes from the familiar passage of Psalms 23. In there, David is using this expression to help us understand the abounding and overflowing nature of God’s presence, provision, protection and power. God’s blessing upon David wasn’t just for his life but it was designed to spill over so it could bless others. It is the same with you.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">God’s channel of blessing is not so that you can hoard it and keep it to yourself. He provides, and the overflow of his provision is designed to be poured out to others. It also is a reminder that God’s supply will never run dry. God has more than enough to help you regardless of your situation. His presence has no boundaries. His provision has no expiration. His protection can’t be penetrated. His power has no equal.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">We are blessed to be a blessing, to have hearts full of God's goodness that everyone we come in contact with recognizes His attributes - love, peace, joy. May we take time daily, to be filled with God's Word, pray, believing He has a good plan and purpose for our lives and listen to how we can be a blessing to others. When that sounds overwhelming....stop and let Him refill you! </p>Joyfullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09661193900261452475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1443648400637194742.post-7021210156544889132022-05-31T19:34:00.004-04:002022-05-31T19:34:44.290-04:00Unshakeable Trust<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>May 31</b> - I knew I had not posted here on the blog for a while, but when I logged on, it was a shock to see January was the last post - that is 6 months ago! A lot has happened in the first part of 2022, but there are several posts that were began but never shared. Although late, am going to share of few things on my heart from early 2022.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>January 2022</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj6e7SsVid-A8IHairt9seVdm-cOpPeba8sxOGQ5tPaNZJqe5lbl22eO7vu-w2RtjGV_CJNc6k_JQ9F2FI1AV3cNCn5kfBTinfqhsYVlZ2xYD7QBFBqxVSWozqrr3bTYTcZeAwxKwzsMS_MvT5Wtb5k80_oZA7nkF7ZsnUxDe-HiPmalGzKvflG0J0HwQ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="206" data-original-width="245" height="337" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj6e7SsVid-A8IHairt9seVdm-cOpPeba8sxOGQ5tPaNZJqe5lbl22eO7vu-w2RtjGV_CJNc6k_JQ9F2FI1AV3cNCn5kfBTinfqhsYVlZ2xYD7QBFBqxVSWozqrr3bTYTcZeAwxKwzsMS_MvT5Wtb5k80_oZA7nkF7ZsnUxDe-HiPmalGzKvflG0J0HwQ=w400-h337" width="400" /></a></div><br />As we enter the first week of the New Year, it has been a challenge for many in my community. We have experienced a broad range of events that had us volleying on the emotional spectrum from joy to grief. <p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">In seven days, we attended 3 funerals and 1 wedding. 2 of the funerals were honoring young persons lives. Death is never easy to understand or prepare for, but a tragic and sudden loss can bring such an emotional shock. Both funerals of the young people were true celebrations of a young life, well lived. In the midst of sorrow, hope was found that they were Christians and now living in heaven. Peace and comfort flowed from the Lord as well as numerous family and friends. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Through the year, each of us will experience things that threaten to shake us, leave us unsettled, unexpected situations that make us feel shaky and vulnerable. </p><p>But now is a time for calm resolve and trust in the Lord. When we take the Word of God and fill our hearts with it, a hope and foundation is formed. Truth is a fortress that keeps us secure. </p><p>Psalms 62 is a powerful Scripture that reminds us to place our hope and refuge in God.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>Psalms 62:5-8</b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>My soul, wait silently for God alone, For my expectation is from Him.</b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b> He only is my rock and my salvation; He is my defense;</b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>I shall not be moved. In God is my salvation and my glory;</b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>The rock of my strength, And my refuge, is in God.</b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b> Trust in Him at all times, you people; Pour out your heart before Him;</b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>God is a refuge for us. Selah</b></p><p>A recent devotion addressed the familiar, but inaccurate quote -<i> "God will never give you more than you can handle."</i> We often comfort ourselves and others with that phrase. But, truthfully, if we never faced hardships which we could not handle on our own, we wouldn't need God. We would rely on self. </p><p>The truth is, we will face difficulty, but we need to land on this truth:<b> God will never give us more than HE can handle, and He can handle anything on earth or in heaven. </b></p>Joyfullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09661193900261452475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1443648400637194742.post-11030123826725092312022-01-07T12:53:00.000-05:002022-01-07T12:53:28.982-05:00The Race of a Lifetime<p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/542d5464e4b0b8e6564c9982/1546515705993-RAQ8B69VVZNSWSKGPZJJ/timothy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="645" data-original-width="800" height="323" src="https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/542d5464e4b0b8e6564c9982/1546515705993-RAQ8B69VVZNSWSKGPZJJ/timothy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: justify;"> The New Year often brings aspirations of a healthier version of ourselves. We look closely at our nutrition habits and exercise habits and note some changes that need to be made. Goals may be set and some effort begin to get us on track. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">As those habits become rooted in us, results will start to show. This can be a time where we begin to coast a bit, to just do what is necessary to maintain. But strength in any area doesn't come through coasting, it comes as we push through the hard areas.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>"Strength doesn't come from what you CAN do, it comes from doing what you thought you COULD NEVER do."</i></b> </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Just as our physical muscles need to be stretched and strengthened, our spiritual muscles need it even more. This is the time of year we often dream and envision godly characteristics we long to see in our lives. Christ has provided all we need to succeed in godly living, but the action choices are ours to make. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGoPDf-T-F4cckvrV-I2hTi7MY5v173gS1NXzAkhgUK8pfnJeOewmPv00kmwH7CvOjDgvAPGt4rja6tt01Sb74fd4mKy34Nwm1IjcP7EW9lNq_70yv03J7WYSRzHb9JKxoYmwuJmef08M/s640/blogger-image-831093514.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="339" data-original-width="640" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGoPDf-T-F4cckvrV-I2hTi7MY5v173gS1NXzAkhgUK8pfnJeOewmPv00kmwH7CvOjDgvAPGt4rja6tt01Sb74fd4mKy34Nwm1IjcP7EW9lNq_70yv03J7WYSRzHb9JKxoYmwuJmef08M/w400-h213/blogger-image-831093514.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: justify;">Choices bring results. Think of an athlete in intense training. The opposing sides of growing stronger and getting flabbier and weaker cannot happen. Intentionally growing closer to God, stretches the distance further away from sin. </span></div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Every Christian has entered a race. It is the race of a lifetime. It should dominate your mind and occupy your waking moments. It should become the central focus of your existence and what you live for. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">You have been chosen. God Almighty has picked. He has chosen you to run the race of a lifetime. Imagine the thrill if an Olympic committee knocked on your door selecting you to represent our country? Imagine, God knocking on the door of your heart selecting you for his team. If you have trusted in Jesus Christ God has done just that.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>"Run in such a way that you may win" (1 Cor. 9:24 HCSB). </i></b>Winning this race is not beating the other runners. The prize is becoming a spiritual champion. A spiritual champion is one sold out to Jesus, straining to become more like him everyday. The finish line of faith is a life that is more Christian today than yesterday. The goal is not perfection, but progress.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Winning this race will require great endurance, perseverance, patience, and resolve. Victory necessitates that we run with undying persistence and steadfast endurance until we arrive at the finish line victorious. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">The single most important principle for running the race toward becoming a spiritual champion is: <b>Spiritual transformation is not a matter of trying harder, but of training wisely.</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">We arrange our life around certain disciplines that help us gain power and strength to become more like Jesus each day, to live a life as Jesus taught and modeled. The activities of prayer, Bible Study, worship, service, evangelism, stewardship are among the needed the disciplines for running the spiritual race.</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li style="text-align: justify;"><b>Prayer:</b> How often are you talking with the Father each day?</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><b>Bible Stud</b>y: Are you engaged in a regular time of Bible reading, devotion, and study?</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><b>Worship:</b> Are you praising the Father in regular times of worship?</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><b>Service</b>: How are you using your gifts to serve God and his people?</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><b>Evangelism</b>: Have you spoken to someone recently regarding his or her relationship with God?</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><b>Stewardship:</b> Are you investing regularly and consistently in God's church with your time, talents, and financial resources?</li></ul><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">The secret to winning the race, to truly live a Christlike life, is to order our lives around those activities, disciplines, and practices that were modeled by Christ, in order to accomplish through training what we cannot do by trying.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Will you purpose this year to engage in the physical and spiritual consistent choices and disciplines to be a champion?</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p>Joyfullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09661193900261452475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1443648400637194742.post-31688401710020648852022-01-01T09:16:00.007-05:002022-01-05T08:06:17.748-05:00New Year, New Purposes, Nothing Is Ever Wasted <p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9EZrND-ERng9s_048M232RMejmprRkOEIADNbipWlA2ge1F2StDLfLOwtQhoDufQlUPzo62Nq1CPqkJPsYwYD1_6ul28GI35GU5NDQAHalffm55wZTF_c7iLNMXP_G58f6tuD6jqsEJj8/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="500" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9EZrND-ERng9s_048M232RMejmprRkOEIADNbipWlA2ge1F2StDLfLOwtQhoDufQlUPzo62Nq1CPqkJPsYwYD1_6ul28GI35GU5NDQAHalffm55wZTF_c7iLNMXP_G58f6tuD6jqsEJj8/" width="240" /></a></div><br /> The blog "Joyfull Living" has been around a long time! It began as a creative outlet to cherish and record the moments of a growing family. As the seasons of life changed through the years, so did the vision for the blog. It began to center around the countless women who daily face the challenges of life and how 'joy' could be a force that carried us through those challenges. Instead of focusing on the seemingly endless days filled with required tasks of home, family and work, strength could be found as we searched daily for joyful moments. <p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">In 2022 I want to embrace another aspect to the blog that at first doesn't seem very 'joyfull', but when looking beyond circumstances, a deep abiding joy can be found. Joy isn't just an emotion and it is not based on feelings or circumstances. In hard times, 'the joy of the Lord is our strength' and in experiences that threaten to overwhelm us - God will see us through and bring a purpose to our pain. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">This year, I plan to share hope and strength that can be found in the midst of difficult circumstances. As a former crime victim - having lost my father due to a fatal shooting, I understand the pain of grief and trauma. Being a victim, however difficult the situation, does not define who we are. These events happen to us and are often devastating, but there is a journey to walk through these valleys and a light on the other side. Things will never be the same, but as we journey the path of pain, we can find peace and purpose. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">My story happened many years ago and the journey of healing has came to pass. It is now in the empty nest season of life, opportunities to share the comfort and peace from God have arrived. God brings comfort into our lives to help us heal, but also eventually to share that comfort with others. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>II Corinthians 1:3-4 "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God."</i></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg16a4dG1INOWUA-FuzFyeyUb9x6_DgCu8xhgVhOfNXeGE7o36sII-j5ac0_YM-7bFHoQjFBAaNNEnP8NpTU-vSfBwmPqKlFsLE_bQaD3Xejg2lcyry7KVbq5yazxATi4ow9g5FrK7VnxdL/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg16a4dG1INOWUA-FuzFyeyUb9x6_DgCu8xhgVhOfNXeGE7o36sII-j5ac0_YM-7bFHoQjFBAaNNEnP8NpTU-vSfBwmPqKlFsLE_bQaD3Xejg2lcyry7KVbq5yazxATi4ow9g5FrK7VnxdL/w400-h400/image.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br /></div>A resource of provides hope and help in times of grief and pain in<a href="https://www.nothingiswasted.com/" target="_blank"> Nothing Is Wasted.</a> This is a ministry I am a part of that exists<i> to help you navigate your trauma, tragedies, and major life transitions and find purpose in your pain. They provide content that inspires, community that encourages, and coaching that empowers you to walk through your valley well and come out on the other side equipped with a renewed sense of meaning and purpose.</i><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Through the New Year, I will be sharing from the resources Nothing Is Wasted offers. If you are struggling or have previously struggled with pain, loss or grief, I hope you will follow this series here on the blog. Look for the <a href="https://joybright.blogspot.com/search/label/Pain%20to%20Purpose" target="_blank">Pain to Purpose</a> tags. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Know that pain is the common denominator of life and is the unifying human emotion. In the midst of our deepest pain, God can bring His goodness. His comfort can wrap around us to comfort us in our greatest moments of despair. No matter what we experience, we can still live a life of meaning. It is a process and a journey, but my prayer is for us to understand that God is good and His plans and purposes can be trusted. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMqYhDJ5tOya6PJQRyzOieuTo52uKDw2yoPqs2Da67TSMkEKa9J-S3-GlSEAKexpzGesK_IH0Q1zomT1oiM5cPGUfOO5yhueEtOyIV3MugtBszZy8gfn92carSLLtw3DNML01DyTD4RwWK/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="593" data-original-width="863" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMqYhDJ5tOya6PJQRyzOieuTo52uKDw2yoPqs2Da67TSMkEKa9J-S3-GlSEAKexpzGesK_IH0Q1zomT1oiM5cPGUfOO5yhueEtOyIV3MugtBszZy8gfn92carSLLtw3DNML01DyTD4RwWK/w400-h275/image.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><p></p>Joyfullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09661193900261452475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1443648400637194742.post-72077197483399327072021-12-29T15:16:00.001-05:002021-12-29T15:16:04.899-05:00The Week of Looking for Great Things<p style="text-align: justify;"> It's almost Happy New Year! This week of the year always feels like a week held up in suspension. It is the last week of the year, Christmas has past, and a new year will begin in a few days.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">This is a great week for reflection over the past year's accomplishments, memories, situations and/or crisis that were walked through. Pondering the good times, identifying things looking back we may have handled differently. We may have seen choices and consequences, striving and achievements, victories or simply living each day. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">While the memories are fresh in our minds, we have new year of opportunity just within our reach. The freshness of the new year calls us to ponder what could be. What are new habits we would like to see in our lives, what opportunities do we want to embrace or what can we focus on to make a difference in our realm of life. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">This is a perfect time to evaluate where we are going in life and if are we on the best track. What would it take to improve? What do we need to change or redirect?</p><p style="text-align: justify;">The first step begins with a plan in our mind by asking, what would we like to see develop in our life? A step of action whether a plan or a move to improve come next. What we practice daily is what becomes a habit, which becomes a part of our character. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">For the Christian, our motivation is to look and act more like Christ. With an open heart and a study of God's Word, step by step we are changed into His likeness. Each day can bring the freshness of a New Year. Each time we pursue the best choice, molds our character to be like Him. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">May 2022 find us looking expectantly to Jesus to fill our hearts, homes and lives with the beauty of His blessings. </p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b><i>God is still working on you. Instead of making New Year’s resolutions, make a list of things you believe God will do in your life if you just let Him. </i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div style="text-align: start;"><span style="color: #050505; font-family: Segoe UI Historic, Segoe UI, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYlQDXFFmaCCJb7LLr7wpbf-hwF1Hbk67dTvKJRwBGYYxXR9BxWf4z5xX_990FBrxATIz31o3Wka18GqtJQfmWZzp8Nq0KNEJrsxXV0l2xYcxX2QPQGXxYzOZBZ4wNrzhcdAkrz4nhiav3/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="788" data-original-width="940" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYlQDXFFmaCCJb7LLr7wpbf-hwF1Hbk67dTvKJRwBGYYxXR9BxWf4z5xX_990FBrxATIz31o3Wka18GqtJQfmWZzp8Nq0KNEJrsxXV0l2xYcxX2QPQGXxYzOZBZ4wNrzhcdAkrz4nhiav3/w400-h336/image.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /></span><p></p>Joyfullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09661193900261452475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1443648400637194742.post-78601136774814882062021-12-19T15:05:00.007-05:002021-12-19T15:05:57.209-05:00Putting Self on a Shelf<p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAgcFL66OHIsz1hhveoN66xp87PvCP4v8JbrfSVE5GYl5o03h5rmoeTUlfPDdFuQ8melFUZQY6fYaWSraA7uWvX0t7eU1KWBHxiA_mwVu3wNO5lTXpK0_BS74Efhq85hbaSE80DIk-bLus/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAgcFL66OHIsz1hhveoN66xp87PvCP4v8JbrfSVE5GYl5o03h5rmoeTUlfPDdFuQ8melFUZQY6fYaWSraA7uWvX0t7eU1KWBHxiA_mwVu3wNO5lTXpK0_BS74Efhq85hbaSE80DIk-bLus/w213-h320/image.png" width="213" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"> When the '<i>Elf on a Shelf"</i> became popular, my boys were too old to appreciate the fun having an elf appear in the home in a variety of places and poses! I still have "Elfie", but he stays in one place the entire Christmas season!</p><p style="text-align: justify;">A recent devotion I read talked about putting<b> "Self on a Shelf"</b>. There isn't anything wrong with having traditions and doing fun things, even things that necessarily don't have a spiritual aspect, but I don't want to spend so much time on trivial things at Christmas that I miss really showing the love of Jesus through my life. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Selfless living should be the focus of what Christmas is about for us as Christians. Not living for ourselves but for the Christ who came to be born, live, and die for us. Self shouldn't have any part in us as Christians. If we are really going to celebrate Jesus and why He came we are going to have to follow His example. He ministered. He served. He was humble. He put <b>Self on a Shelf.</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">We all have self and natural selfish tendencies. We are all born
with sin and with our selfish ways but when we become a Christian, we
have to do something with it. We have to put it on a shelf. We have to let
it go. We have to not let it continue to dominate our choices and actions. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhMuwFFa_7Nip6Oe4GTEWYY9ar9zAPL0zr49OvAhYC8Uhl6zAWZliUkaZrfUIjJX-sbtMDhkCA5l8YUS7O2PkfVQ3VZ-QuTPEQrUFmedDzgchSjT2ZfZT_gGXpw_Xc1yRi4EOanSqiopNy9U9RN8XXGgqps-R58jcPUYcFGtVVjXNGI6wssqyFOJKc6qQ=s940" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="788" data-original-width="940" height="335" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhMuwFFa_7Nip6Oe4GTEWYY9ar9zAPL0zr49OvAhYC8Uhl6zAWZliUkaZrfUIjJX-sbtMDhkCA5l8YUS7O2PkfVQ3VZ-QuTPEQrUFmedDzgchSjT2ZfZT_gGXpw_Xc1yRi4EOanSqiopNy9U9RN8XXGgqps-R58jcPUYcFGtVVjXNGI6wssqyFOJKc6qQ=w400-h335" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">What if we as Christians, purposed to put our <b>Self on a Shelf</b> even just for
Christmas? Maybe we could have 12 days of Christmas without self. Can
you imagine the change in the world? Can you imagine the impact for
Christ that would have? What a beautiful world it would be!</p><p style="text-align: justify;">When we begin to put self away, then Christmas will become more real to us. The wonder, the joy, peace and love that flows from our Savior to all those around us. We behold the Lord Jesus and as we adore Him, His love molds us to be more like Him. That is the true meaning of Christmas - Behold our King! </p>Joyfullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09661193900261452475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1443648400637194742.post-1194918588806170612021-12-16T11:06:00.002-05:002021-12-16T11:06:22.684-05:00When the Holidays Are Hard<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJCLEswhYHm2BugbhC5GLUO46crkxyx5LHlcwZ0YMMDful7aA-bgIrOtXOOUrkdaMHxEdBLfs8TYjuGzi1sE86OreO5ZFNa7Mi_yaCWDwhuQ2mn1dsJRunNz-Z6FFzuCAmXYm3Lyx6pVmF/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJCLEswhYHm2BugbhC5GLUO46crkxyx5LHlcwZ0YMMDful7aA-bgIrOtXOOUrkdaMHxEdBLfs8TYjuGzi1sE86OreO5ZFNa7Mi_yaCWDwhuQ2mn1dsJRunNz-Z6FFzuCAmXYm3Lyx6pVmF/w213-h320/image.png" width="213" /></a></div><br /><span style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: justify;">It is less than 10 days until Christmas and the excitement and activities are going full speed. Most of us are filled with anticipation and preparation of time with family, food and sweet fellowship. </span></div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">This is also a year that we are probably are acquainted with or a part of families that are struggling with grief. The loss of a loved one is always painful, but the holidays seem to magnify the feeling of loss. There is a huge, gaping hole in hearts, homes and families. The traditions and events that can add so much joy and meaning to the season are punctuated with painful reminders of the person we love who is not here to share in it. Traditions will be different, there is an empty spot at the table and it becomes apparent, things will never be the same.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">For those who’ve recently lost someone they love, the holidays can seem more like something to survive than to enjoy. While those of us who surround grieving people can’t fix the pain of loss, we can bring comfort as we come alongside those who hurt with special sensitivity to what grief is like during the holidays. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Here are 5 truths that can help us remember how to be sensitive and grasp a perspective from those who are in the process of grieving.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>1. Even the best times are punctuated with an awareness that someone is missing.</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">When you’ve lost a member of your family, even the best of times are painfully incomplete. Someone is missing. Even the best days and happiest events are tinged with sadness. Wherever you go, the sadness goes with you.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>2. Social situations are hard.</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Crowds are difficult when you’re grieving. Small talk can be unbearable when something so significant has happened. Meeting new people will likely bring questions about family. To walk alone into a room full of couples when your spouse has died, or into an event filled with children when your child has died, can be a soul-crushing reminder of what you have lost. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">If you’ve invited someone in the midst of grief to your holiday event, let them know that you understand if it seems too hard at the last minute and they have to cancel, or that they may only be able to stay for a short time.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">If you’re going to an event, give a grieving person a call and ask if you can pick her up and stick with her throughout the event for support. When you come upon a grieving person at a holiday social event, let him know that you are still thinking about the person he loves who has died, and invite him to talk about his memories with that person. Don’t be afraid to say the name of the person who has died. It will be a balm to the grieving person’s soul.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>3. Extended family can be awkward and uneasy.</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Grief is often awkward — even, and perhaps especially, with those to whom we’re closest. Good, open communication can help eliminate some of the awkwardness and unrealistic expectations. Be open to ask about their expectations when they’re with family. And if they have a strong desire for their loved one to be remembered in a certain way, combined with a fear that it may not happen, you might encourage and help them to write a letter to their family in advance stating clearly what would bring comfort, rather than expect that their family will instinctively know. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>4. Tears are not a problem.</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">For most of us, grief tends to work itself out in tears — tears that come out at times we don’t expect. Sometimes grieving people sense that people around them see their tears as a problem to be solved — that tears must mean they aren’t doing very well with their grief. But it makes sense that the great sorrow of losing someone we love would come out in tears. Tears are not the enemy. Tears do not reflect a lack of faith. Tears are a gift from God that help to wash away the deep pain of loss.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">It is a great gift to let grieving people know that they don’t have to be embarrassed by their tears around you — that they are welcome to cry with you. An even greater gift is to shed tears of your own over the loss of the person they love. Your tears reflect the worth of the person who died and assure them that they are not alone in missing that person.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>5. It can be hard to remember why Christmas should be so merry.</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Grieving people around you feel the weariness of life and death in this world and wonder how anyone around them can rejoice. They are in desperate need of the reality of Christ to break through their loneliness and despair. Prayerfully and graciously look for the opportunity to share with them the comfort and joy to be found in the coming of God himself in Christ to rescue us.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">This is our great hope at Christmas, and the hope we have to share with those who are grieving at Christmas — that “yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.” The Christ who came as a baby and died as our substitute will one day return to consummate his kingdom. And when he does, <b><i>“He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore” (Revelation 21:4).</i></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><i></i></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYth28uPYTdVrdVRiXvbvoaR18UzFlkSRGvdgRc6YUJCIT0nZMKVx5H2r6a5Vmv4yYmjZO000FioP5KjdP4XLAFVYnPpET0Tg-qPE78SkdZFyP121HtBrksZ0RBxoGyNDdO9QzaabOBoGU/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="600" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYth28uPYTdVrdVRiXvbvoaR18UzFlkSRGvdgRc6YUJCIT0nZMKVx5H2r6a5Vmv4yYmjZO000FioP5KjdP4XLAFVYnPpET0Tg-qPE78SkdZFyP121HtBrksZ0RBxoGyNDdO9QzaabOBoGU/w400-h210/image.png" width="400" /></a></i></b></div><b><i><br /><br /></i></b><p></p>Joyfullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09661193900261452475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1443648400637194742.post-80060604559388808392021-12-03T07:52:00.005-05:002021-12-03T07:52:55.083-05:00Great Expectations<p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM84432ytqjswHEbWz7H2QZdaRV6f3-riG6cDWX7K4Gz5WbN_Ipv6h-YBvXHfMm39XW8rcbTuWcakerNtEVp9Br2gt7v0HLfjiBa7VB_ju3jfx0oJK-yfdCXRcwEKtWNaQ2RxDSIKCds1t/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="400" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM84432ytqjswHEbWz7H2QZdaRV6f3-riG6cDWX7K4Gz5WbN_Ipv6h-YBvXHfMm39XW8rcbTuWcakerNtEVp9Br2gt7v0HLfjiBa7VB_ju3jfx0oJK-yfdCXRcwEKtWNaQ2RxDSIKCds1t/" width="240" /></a></div><br /> For many centuries, the Church has identified the beginning of the Christmas celebration with a time of reflection and expectation called Advent.<p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">The word Advent means "coming" or "arrival" and, when used in conjunction with Christmas, reminds us of the anticipation and expectation held over hundreds of years by the people of Israel for their Messiah and promised King.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">As we enter the Christmas season, there is an air of expectancy all around us. But it has transitioned from the traditional Advent - to one filled with expectancy of the things the season holds - the beauty of lights and sounds, time with family, gifts. Christmas is coming and we often get lost in the preparations and our expectations fades. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">But Christmas is a magical time, there is a song in the air, if we allow it, the atmosphere changes. Christ has come into the world and we celebrate His birth! </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><i><b>Luke 1:78-79 " Through the tender mercy of our God, With which the Dayspring from on high has visited us; To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, To guide our feet into the way of peace."</b></i></p><p style="text-align: justify;">When we allow the hope which can be described as <i>' to wait for God hopefully, expectantly.</i>' to fill our hearts, things change. A spark of light fills the darkness. <br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Our world and our lives can have spots of darkness - trials, death, crisis, sickness, loneliness, fear, betrayal to name a few. These can threaten to overwhelm us. But our God, is a God of Hope. When we look expectantly at Him, Hope Himself will carry you through.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkMYQ5Dbyb4PxmVVdVMKPqq_ZfRb2Dus0MGCR2hL377JXU5yonKm6ugsrMxOKFoQeVbc0u3uaKJM0_2j7GpTEeoejIdoOZ-27dP12NJdf7NPvaGwF8DuHRphZJpAXE-mSkSM15m0qxeiiF/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkMYQ5Dbyb4PxmVVdVMKPqq_ZfRb2Dus0MGCR2hL377JXU5yonKm6ugsrMxOKFoQeVbc0u3uaKJM0_2j7GpTEeoejIdoOZ-27dP12NJdf7NPvaGwF8DuHRphZJpAXE-mSkSM15m0qxeiiF/w400-h400/image.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />Hope - a confident expectation that God is with us changes everything. If things feel hopeless, look to God, find hope in His Word and allow the expectation that He has good planned for you.<p></p><p><b><i>Romans 15:13 "Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." </i></b></p><p> Advent reminds us that our hope is in Jesus Christ, and our hope is not in vain.</p>Joyfullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09661193900261452475noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1443648400637194742.post-54646591949002433252021-11-18T08:41:00.007-05:002021-11-18T08:50:51.958-05:00Savor the Season<p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj80nJT_-yP7I_co4aP0GPSN_VhQAP_taFkPPYZju153Fl5ZI_5jz93EZYPney-T5BXd7__VulrzIsj0KKrrsDoF-KFOPF8SdXUzqKWwyWgZoJWnlMc7uiPepIy6bTZ3GWcN1FurcJTyr3g/s800/thanksgiving-greeting-card-tahnksgiving-banner-bright-colorful-leaves-autumn-foliage-vector-illustration-thankful-grateful-154675013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj80nJT_-yP7I_co4aP0GPSN_VhQAP_taFkPPYZju153Fl5ZI_5jz93EZYPney-T5BXd7__VulrzIsj0KKrrsDoF-KFOPF8SdXUzqKWwyWgZoJWnlMc7uiPepIy6bTZ3GWcN1FurcJTyr3g/w320-h320/thanksgiving-greeting-card-tahnksgiving-banner-bright-colorful-leaves-autumn-foliage-vector-illustration-thankful-grateful-154675013.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /></div><div>We've welcomed November and watched as it moves quickly along! One week from today is Thanksgiving - which switches our lives into holiday mode for the rest of the year.</div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Looking ahead, we know these days will be filled with more activity, more tasks, busyness and a shift from our normal routines.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">When we look at the holidays from that perspective, it makes my heart rate increase and an anxious feeling begin in stomach! But as a Christian, I know there is a beauty in savoring the season when I remind myself that these days can be filled with peace and joy instead of dread and anxiety.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Thanksgiving and the Christmas season are opportunities to sit and ponder the blessings of God. We begin by counting our blessings and thanking Him for them. This often requires us to look past our pain, struggles and situations and look for a spark of hope, a tiny thread of something good we can grasp. When we look, we can always find something good and something to be thankful for.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">This season offers opportunities to offer kindness, love, hospitality and grace to friends and family. If we begin to settle in our heart to savor the season first, we won't get wrapped up in all the things we have to do, but enjoy what the blessing of these holidays represent. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">I have found in my life, especially in the empty nest years, the greatest joy comes from simply being with loved ones. Sharing food, conversation, welcoming others to join us creates a fullness and contentedness of God's blessings flowing all around.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Will you join me in preparing to savor the season this year? To purpose to sit with the Lord and remember His goodness, reflect on His faithfulness. Begin each day by seeking a gift He has given to us. Look for His love and how daily, He loads us with blessings. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1lCWRzDwAVIgxV5EbTl1PaB3kHwRw92cBEfP-uH8l9nvOMxqQKB14TllO5apfCMYpyxkKOEblBMZTpL29SboXeGfic1aOCSQhf6bp_ML25naOwb6fuT1hY9LMQLEgLjTU7CUMbPjd6isO/s1200/Day21-thankfulness.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="630" data-original-width="1200" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1lCWRzDwAVIgxV5EbTl1PaB3kHwRw92cBEfP-uH8l9nvOMxqQKB14TllO5apfCMYpyxkKOEblBMZTpL29SboXeGfic1aOCSQhf6bp_ML25naOwb6fuT1hY9LMQLEgLjTU7CUMbPjd6isO/w400-h210/Day21-thankfulness.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><p></p><br />Joyfullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09661193900261452475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1443648400637194742.post-18851853837025784122021-10-31T16:33:00.001-04:002021-11-18T08:20:20.981-05:00Nothing Like November<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgykK5JGeKPzz9_LH59uXxn0zeemmymW-p6uw3vqsI_X-V2YcwMCLFDKYhrAZGRM1jq1fr0RLVAYikGvD9W8_ZuazAVEOmg7ncm-QSUIQFQDVIPiCLYGK8k8J7CNDtlkH0_MoghZuOhmrmB/s800/HD-wallpaper-hello-november-november-hello-leaves-2019-pumpkins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="557" data-original-width="800" height="279" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgykK5JGeKPzz9_LH59uXxn0zeemmymW-p6uw3vqsI_X-V2YcwMCLFDKYhrAZGRM1jq1fr0RLVAYikGvD9W8_ZuazAVEOmg7ncm-QSUIQFQDVIPiCLYGK8k8J7CNDtlkH0_MoghZuOhmrmB/w400-h279/HD-wallpaper-hello-november-november-hello-leaves-2019-pumpkins.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">A trip to the mountains makes fall come alive for me! The area we live in doesn't provide much change of the seasons through weather or scenery. I do my best to bring on the fall atmosphere in my home through scent, sight and taste, but my efforts only go so far.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">We just returned from a trip where fall was truly experienced! A log cabin on the banks of a river, streets lined with the beauty of brightly colored changing leaves, walks along a lake, mountain drives and fresh, cool air. This is what fall looks like! It brings life to the soul!</p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC-xPHGhA0zZOHlWqNCuhrIqmtDnuxePUhAqG40zKSkzkkcPvntN-l-caBypWDwSdDl63okf5CIB2-w2TIba3JAoo1GRnWD41Nft3lG2qlR1t88l_kJWdJuME1UdkgKLCzLmQpGzAbMGZP/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC-xPHGhA0zZOHlWqNCuhrIqmtDnuxePUhAqG40zKSkzkkcPvntN-l-caBypWDwSdDl63okf5CIB2-w2TIba3JAoo1GRnWD41Nft3lG2qlR1t88l_kJWdJuME1UdkgKLCzLmQpGzAbMGZP/w300-h400/image.png" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoyVdR8f2rqebNPKtQVt7NZDII8fTInVnfKBH6mCfPf1ogmg0nttomdC6dZmRojndKxQsnT39sQtkDHqN1dHNP5ITfp-vAOUHe3BCh0sfxrFIzYAl6mcUhAoppWYnxYA1_4kb6c83S16GG/s2048/250324658_10220450092027847_8293269871530940432_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoyVdR8f2rqebNPKtQVt7NZDII8fTInVnfKBH6mCfPf1ogmg0nttomdC6dZmRojndKxQsnT39sQtkDHqN1dHNP5ITfp-vAOUHe3BCh0sfxrFIzYAl6mcUhAoppWYnxYA1_4kb6c83S16GG/w300-h400/250324658_10220450092027847_8293269871530940432_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9u7lgQ3S7ih5-LRk3k_32-LLo59G5owXsRwTTo1snCYji7ofYAzheww9X88Hq4oP7AjZ7OAMVJhYn4jsbcAsgeyUL0R7U1prwFNP6BGeOk6Rnq4itnBxhP-B6YF8XRf1JJJng88RJ-pUM/s2048/251847046_10220450089987796_6392760516887311113_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9u7lgQ3S7ih5-LRk3k_32-LLo59G5owXsRwTTo1snCYji7ofYAzheww9X88Hq4oP7AjZ7OAMVJhYn4jsbcAsgeyUL0R7U1prwFNP6BGeOk6Rnq4itnBxhP-B6YF8XRf1JJJng88RJ-pUM/w300-h400/251847046_10220450089987796_6392760516887311113_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><p style="text-align: justify;">Today is November 1 - and this month brings a beauty all its own - the beauty of<b> Gratitude.</b> Like my fall mountain experience, November truly captures a spirit of gratitude as we turn our minds and plans towards the Thanksgiving holiday.</p><p style="text-align: left;"></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Gratitude is a mind shift that moves us to thankfulness. We are reminded and think on the blessings we have and thank God for all His goodness to us. Here are a few benefits that gratitude brings</p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHtuytLJ6MoPmbheWrqiROdY25n_GOhedo6Qie2tfNMie5UKXfCCUBgWYY75zNB7rkep8GuTCsRJjTaKD_-3m-ePoFpLykNIz4yYEz5-K7dCOJ1ChUT-tio8_kACCFY7P1FBxoWmO2dHNJ/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHtuytLJ6MoPmbheWrqiROdY25n_GOhedo6Qie2tfNMie5UKXfCCUBgWYY75zNB7rkep8GuTCsRJjTaKD_-3m-ePoFpLykNIz4yYEz5-K7dCOJ1ChUT-tio8_kACCFY7P1FBxoWmO2dHNJ/w400-h400/image.png" width="400" /></a></div></div><br /><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Gratitude glorifies God.</b> Our gratitude glorifies God as we exalt not the gifts, but the Giver. Gratitude helps us realize all we have comes not because of us, but from God.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Gratitude helps us see God</b>. Gratitude opens our spiritual eyes. There’s a beautiful cycle in giving God thanks: the more we thank Him, the more we see Him working in us and around us. Gratitude helps us sense God’s presence, His personal care and His perfect timing.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Gratitude brings peace.</b> Count your blessings. Gratitude helps us see that God’s hand is all over our circumstances. And God tells us when we give him our thanks, He gives us supernatural peace.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Gratitude leads to joy</b>. The overflow of gratitude is joy. Realizing God’s abundant goodness, even in the hard, is a gateway for joy. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">The Bible talks so much about thankfulness. It is one of the most powerful feelings God has given us the capacity to experience. Gratitude gives us greater joy and meaning and enhancing our spiritual lives. Gratitude impacts every area of our lives.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Please join me this month of seek and identify something each day that you are thankful for. May our lives be filled with Thanks and Giving!</p>Joyfullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09661193900261452475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1443648400637194742.post-77707251970598793442021-10-19T12:49:00.000-04:002021-10-19T12:49:06.167-04:00Spreading Fragrance<p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlNnXOe4dfC2D3LhUpBCnrKgCqTJ_jFP7r-JGSWfxfYc_qPcTrnmLgaxI1xXem7RTPsEjHkYVh4dBkVPTJ44Z3G2Hdzh8NOukj2OYGVA50ichvbfBxFdmra4JIWAbUtU37UUyjK31xrsYX/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1632" data-original-width="2048" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlNnXOe4dfC2D3LhUpBCnrKgCqTJ_jFP7r-JGSWfxfYc_qPcTrnmLgaxI1xXem7RTPsEjHkYVh4dBkVPTJ44Z3G2Hdzh8NOukj2OYGVA50ichvbfBxFdmra4JIWAbUtU37UUyjK31xrsYX/w400-h319/image.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"> I was the first person to arrive at the early morning group fitness class. The trainer greeted me with a smile and comment "you smell good" and asked what I had on. She probably didn't realize that was one of the greatest compliments I could receive!</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Scent is my love language! Growing up, due to my mother's severe allergies, we lived truly unscented lives. We used unscented soap, shampoo, laundry soap etc. Anything with the slightest amount of fragrance gave her a severe headache. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">When I got married and began keeping my own home, scent truly exploded! I deliberately look for the strongest scented personal and home products. There are scented plugs in the walls, candles, wax melts and diffusers always providing home fragrance. My laundry is clean and freshened with scent boosters. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">What was funny about the comment from my trainer, was that I didn't have any scent on. The fragrance simply lingered from my clothes and self. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">My scent fascination is biblical!! I love the verse in <i><b>2 Corinthians 2:14-15 "Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place. For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing."</b></i></p><p style="text-align: justify;">God permeates our lives with the fragrance of the knowledge of Christ. Everywhere we go, our lives should demonstrate to others that Christ is victorious. As unbelievers observe our lives, they should become aware of the victorious power of Christ. As other Christians witness the victory Christ gives us over our sin, they can rejoice in the triumph of their Lord and gain confidence that Christ will bring victory in their lives as well.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">The most compelling evidence that Christ is alive and triumphant is His activity in the lives of His people. It is a privilege to be the fragrance of Christ by which others learn of God’s life-changing power over sin. Your life ought to be convincing proof that God continues to work powerfully in the lives of His people.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Your fragrance is comprised of your habits - personal hygiene, clothes care etc. What you do sticks to you! The fragrance of Christ comes from our relationship with Him. When the Word of God is continuously put in our heart, we pick up the 'scent', the characteristics, attitudes and words God has spoken. His grace adorns us and permeates our lives. This makes for a beautiful lingering aroma that speaks of God's love to those we come in contact with. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCAYAi8n5e4i2bvEQunnaGj7BXuTEgDUDkKgJovTW2uTj8nHDm9E70cNoziZWQUBYh4ZVf1DvLPlfVqIGrM2F4KlL7q_0l17RISfFjtqsWFeUyjaKrS8lU1SASXL_bqTiOkq20_ZKJM4wE/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="263" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCAYAi8n5e4i2bvEQunnaGj7BXuTEgDUDkKgJovTW2uTj8nHDm9E70cNoziZWQUBYh4ZVf1DvLPlfVqIGrM2F4KlL7q_0l17RISfFjtqsWFeUyjaKrS8lU1SASXL_bqTiOkq20_ZKJM4wE/w263-h400/image.png" width="263" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p>Joyfullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09661193900261452475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1443648400637194742.post-35732446246366434552021-10-01T06:04:00.002-04:002021-10-01T06:52:05.674-04:00The Power of Soft Answers <p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinmMX673Kv6leAq40TR_XbEpf8iTa8HX7Wfkh9L91iMmULCe_OK9680LYIoJqzBVIlnyc4_KBOxJs2CrDAvYAP4ryGRMFwpUnaErVxwaLiStiTJQDxgOdWjBJuSDZdbxAtfMdgryj9K_VA/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinmMX673Kv6leAq40TR_XbEpf8iTa8HX7Wfkh9L91iMmULCe_OK9680LYIoJqzBVIlnyc4_KBOxJs2CrDAvYAP4ryGRMFwpUnaErVxwaLiStiTJQDxgOdWjBJuSDZdbxAtfMdgryj9K_VA/w400-h400/image.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />Years ago, when our home was filled with 3 sons growing up, there were lots of harsh words being slung around. As a young Christian mom, my desire was to train them in godliness and this verse was used alot in that training:<p></p><p><b><span class="chapter-2" face="system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, Arial" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"><span class="text Prov-15-1" style="position: relative;">A soft answer turns away wrath,</span></span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, Arial; font-size: 16px;" /><span class="text Prov-15-1" face="system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, Arial" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; position: relative;">But a harsh word stirs up anger. Proverbs 15:1</span></b></p>It was a desperate attempt to keep the peace between the boys. I'm not sure they ever got the gist of learning to answer softly, but there was a lot of harsh words that stirred up anger!<div><br /></div><div>Today is Day 1 of <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YjK7BHVzQxUDVsCZhJ0mtgZvJiohZ8pe/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">The Power of Words - October Daily Bible Reading</a>. This is the focus verse for today. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIUY5dZF9y7Trdw03qeyhDwT2pdOfXqyWnzXgAAO26NRY69yDNQDl-YOtxNFKBhoEK4fUgJHbIp0qJnQNtqWuFvgf_Xo1TFir2eD07DMNJsIFw3iXur1zAvBv682c0EccXyWEp24VBhI9x/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIUY5dZF9y7Trdw03qeyhDwT2pdOfXqyWnzXgAAO26NRY69yDNQDl-YOtxNFKBhoEK4fUgJHbIp0qJnQNtqWuFvgf_Xo1TFir2eD07DMNJsIFw3iXur1zAvBv682c0EccXyWEp24VBhI9x/w400-h400/image.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br /></div>Years later, this verse is an important one to learn and allow its truth to settle into our conversations. </div><div><br /></div><div>Did you know that your words can affect how others view Jesus? <br /> It’s not just your relationship with that person you’re in contact with that’s at stake when you choose harsh words that cut and divide and cause pain. If you’re a daughter of Jesus, if your life is surrendered to Him, every single interaction is a representation of our Savior.<p style="text-align: justify;"> Gentle words have the power to turn off wrath, and harsh words have the power to stir up greater anger. That’s no small thing.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">There is research that shows that anger stimulates more involuntary reactions in our bodies than any other emotion. That is, the sympathetic nervous system takes over. The brain shuts down blood flow to the gut and pushes it towards the muscles for reactivity. And that, of course, is part of our fight-or-flight response.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">The heart rate, blood pressure, respiration, they all increase. Body temperatures rise. Perspiration increases. Maybe that’s why they refer to an angry person as “hot-headed.” An angry individual, in many ways, is not a controlled individual.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>But God says a gentle word can change all of that</b>. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">We know, that words truly are powerful. They can encourage and strengthen others. They can heal wounded hearts. They can honor God. They can bring Him and others great delight. But, as we all know, words can also be destructive.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">If you’re a daughter of Jesus, if your life is surrendered to Him, every single interaction is a representation of our Savior. So you put others relationship with Him, Jesus, at stake if you do not represent Him accurately. </p><p>Please join me this month as we look into God's Word and allow it to shape our words. Each day will examine verses about words and their importance. We can Change Our World, By Changing Our Words. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7bX0fm7GMsgRJNdH7g4g2uI9Q5Oq5iW92pu-pZEfP6EwNavTH3cXRo2tRXLpMYAwHvRlP0VcRrHjAA9ctIfwaAs9y-gR0mNhF4XwDA51cNarx1zAuVPT3V64rKTbV6AGvpYTNgakZNFOA/s2048/October+Words+Pic.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1583" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7bX0fm7GMsgRJNdH7g4g2uI9Q5Oq5iW92pu-pZEfP6EwNavTH3cXRo2tRXLpMYAwHvRlP0VcRrHjAA9ctIfwaAs9y-gR0mNhF4XwDA51cNarx1zAuVPT3V64rKTbV6AGvpYTNgakZNFOA/w494-h640/October+Words+Pic.jpg" width="494" /></a></div><br /></div>Joyfullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09661193900261452475noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1443648400637194742.post-20450863716655868952021-09-29T17:12:00.006-04:002021-09-29T17:15:56.087-04:00October Daily Bible Reading - Your Words Matter<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/u.IrM60RSmFFUzF7Q6K0Dg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTY0MDtoPTM1Mg--/https://s.yimg.com/uu/api/res/1.2/Q86XBviQKfxP1.Ua6JRRiw--~B/aD00MDA7dz03Mjg7YXBwaWQ9eXRhY2h5b24-/http://media.zenfs.com/en-US/homerun/investorplace_417/d4827409742b97f37e6970325d92d572" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="352" data-original-width="640" height="220" src="https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/u.IrM60RSmFFUzF7Q6K0Dg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTY0MDtoPTM1Mg--/https://s.yimg.com/uu/api/res/1.2/Q86XBviQKfxP1.Ua6JRRiw--~B/aD00MDA7dz03Mjg7YXBwaWQ9eXRhY2h5b24-/http://media.zenfs.com/en-US/homerun/investorplace_417/d4827409742b97f37e6970325d92d572" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p style="--g-bold-weight: 800; --g-regular-weight: 400; --tcb-applied-color: var$(--tcb-skin-color-5); background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; color: #6a6b6c; font-family: Muli; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 24px; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 24px; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;">Be careful with your words. Once they are said, they can be only forgiven, not forgotten.” Unknown</span></p><p></p><p style="--g-bold-weight: 800; --g-regular-weight: 400; --tcb-applied-color: var$(--tcb-skin-color-5); background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; font-family: Muli; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 24px; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 24px; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent;">The words we use have tremendous power. We can choose words that speak life or words that speak death. When our words are infused with God's grace, the potency of godly words can revive, heal, and change our lives. Ungodly words have the power to bind, imprison, and destroy. </span></p><p style="--g-bold-weight: 800; --g-regular-weight: 400; --tcb-applied-color: var$(--tcb-skin-color-5); background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; font-family: Muli; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 24px; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 24px; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent;"> Countless times a day, when it comes to what you hear and say, you have choices to make. When you hear the words of others, you can choose to receive them as truth or reject them as lies. And every time you open your mouth to utter a word, you have the opportunity to speak life or the temptation to take it.</span></p><p style="--g-bold-weight: 800; --g-regular-weight: 400; --tcb-applied-color: var$(--tcb-skin-color-5); background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 24px; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 24px; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: Muli;"><span style="font-size: 18px;">The Bible is God's Word and has a lot to say about our words. Beginning October 1, will you join me in a daily Bible reading focusing solely on the power of words? </span></span></span></p><p style="--g-bold-weight: 800; --g-regular-weight: 400; --tcb-applied-color: var$(--tcb-skin-color-5); background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 24px; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 24px; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: Muli;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Muli;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTwI6eiDnLJZ49fa8knVb0fGgNLugG-2wYcyf8qe7Pvw8N6lREpT0k_KCbnMIVDJiOxxA2K4u0oB_ZAys7z5J31A8xxuTaO_Y1woAnDH5y5APBnsHDR6wtEIRhayNxdDbZ_OpYxmFPU9l2/s2048/October+Words+Pic.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1583" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTwI6eiDnLJZ49fa8knVb0fGgNLugG-2wYcyf8qe7Pvw8N6lREpT0k_KCbnMIVDJiOxxA2K4u0oB_ZAys7z5J31A8xxuTaO_Y1woAnDH5y5APBnsHDR6wtEIRhayNxdDbZ_OpYxmFPU9l2/w494-h640/October+Words+Pic.jpg" width="494" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: Muli;"><br /><span style="font-size: 18px;">Click <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YjK7BHVzQxUDVsCZhJ0mtgZvJiohZ8pe/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">HERE</a> for a printable copy and let's dig into the power our words hold. </span></span><p></p><p style="--g-bold-weight: 800; --g-regular-weight: 400; --tcb-applied-color: var$(--tcb-skin-color-5); background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 24px; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 24px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Muli;"><span style="font-size: 18px;">If you want to change anything - start with your words - change what you say about yourself, your circumstances and other people. Speak words of blessing and grace. </span></span><span style="font-family: Muli; font-size: 18px;">Your words have the power to change your life and your environment.</span></p><p style="--g-bold-weight: 800; --g-regular-weight: 400; --tcb-applied-color: var$(--tcb-skin-color-5); background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 24px; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 24px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Muli; font-size: 18px;"><b><i>Change Your World By </i></b></span><b style="font-family: Muli; font-size: 18px;"><i>Changing Your Words!</i></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://i.pinimg.com/originals/ae/1a/d9/ae1ad9b5420281851ccf4ebbf62d5084.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="400" src="https://i.pinimg.com/originals/ae/1a/d9/ae1ad9b5420281851ccf4ebbf62d5084.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p style="--g-bold-weight: 800; --g-regular-weight: 400; --tcb-applied-color: var$(--tcb-skin-color-5); background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 24px; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 24px; text-align: center;"><br /></p><p><br /></p>Joyfullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09661193900261452475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1443648400637194742.post-9474866631219533522021-09-28T06:00:00.002-04:002021-09-28T08:49:47.023-04:00National Son's Day and the Best Gift for Your Boys<p style="text-align: justify;"> This weekend, my social media feed was filled with beautiful pictures of my friends and their daughters. Sweet smiles, gushing words full of emotion and love and an overload of sweetness. Turns out it was <b>National Daughters Day. </b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: justify;">Our family was blessed with 3 sons and we don't have a clue about a home filled with ruffles, frills or dainty things. Our home was loud, fast and active! </span></div></div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqxjqzk9lgef9fykTw7CT181SA1xJPp8MJ0DvAMf99AErCis2SP-iPCZJ7cDEiK6W3cgN1NQljtNpsknZJkSpfPne_NDtLsr9A0qdw__l74BaCE7elfVw694eAhg0yrrd02Ga2ovP9p_Th/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqxjqzk9lgef9fykTw7CT181SA1xJPp8MJ0DvAMf99AErCis2SP-iPCZJ7cDEiK6W3cgN1NQljtNpsknZJkSpfPne_NDtLsr9A0qdw__l74BaCE7elfVw694eAhg0yrrd02Ga2ovP9p_Th/w400-h300/image.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">So today is National Son's Day, and I was ready to share a post of my boys! Each of our boys are now adults, living away from home and making a life for themselves. We couldn't be more proud of the men they have become. National Son's Day gave an opportunity to reflect back on the days when they were young and the wonderful memories I cherish. The sweet baby boy years where they loved to snuggle. The childhood years where we cheered them on at the ball field, the teenage years where they kept a mama on her knees in prayer. Now as men they are responsible, self reliant and making their mark in the world. How fast the years flew by! </p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcX7ikCXcG9pfpxiqPfs1tAuos9qgiF0lLLJLDs75Sf-qTqQ0w0Bxbb2KfBZg14a0z0V2tNT6C1lDC8K6IqAbbX3A0Bd_Xp5H4EaL7gCwTvYU67H0K8X-TxnnWKy1SjJ_eeBau2Bodz-w1/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcX7ikCXcG9pfpxiqPfs1tAuos9qgiF0lLLJLDs75Sf-qTqQ0w0Bxbb2KfBZg14a0z0V2tNT6C1lDC8K6IqAbbX3A0Bd_Xp5H4EaL7gCwTvYU67H0K8X-TxnnWKy1SjJ_eeBau2Bodz-w1/w480-h640/image.png" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">One timeless practice we continue is to pray for our sons daily. Prayer is the greatest gift a mother can give and it is a gift that never fades away or loses its power. Through the years I have kept notebooks on praying for our sons, daily reminders and Bible verses. So, how appropriate today, on National Son's Day, to share a few ways to pray for our sons. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1LJTacm6iWf4Td66cLkur2jMdcj5Ap5erW53ynVtCAt1183O_ufQPx2X9OpOF7q5M034d5IASoZ69kFl7WkwqdXNvAatuia1pFM2iCtLN8aCFecwDq_RRMSBJezsTx7BrWlDNHPXvllnT/" style="clear: right; float: right; font-weight: 700; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1383" data-original-width="640" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1LJTacm6iWf4Td66cLkur2jMdcj5Ap5erW53ynVtCAt1183O_ufQPx2X9OpOF7q5M034d5IASoZ69kFl7WkwqdXNvAatuia1pFM2iCtLN8aCFecwDq_RRMSBJezsTx7BrWlDNHPXvllnT/w296-h640/image.png" width="296" /></a></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>1 Create in my son a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within him (Psalm 51:10).</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>2. May my son walk after You, God, and fear You and keep Your commandments and obey Your voice. May he serve You and hold fast to You (Deuteronomy 13:4).</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>3. May my son be strong and courageous and not fear or be in dread, for it is You, Lord, our God, who goes with him. You will never leave him or forsake him (Deuteronomy 31:6).</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>4. May my son walk before You, God, as King David walked, with integrity of heart and uprightness, doing according to all that You have commanded him and keeping Your statutes and rules (1 Kings 9:4).</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>5. May my son be an example to believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity (1 Timothy 4:12).</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>6. May my son listen to the way of wisdom and be led in the paths of uprightness (Proverbs 4:11).</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>7. Lord, be with my son in trouble; rescue him and honor him (Psalm 91:5).</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>8. May my son honor his father and mother… (Ephesians 6:2).</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>9. May my son have love that issues from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith (1 Timothy 1:5).</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>10. May my son think on whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is commendable; if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, may he think about these things (Philippians 4:8).</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvi4JBETdmYpT2C3cCc4DDnAykQZLCoN6z7Som6PpmbaT3jW64f4KD_mhwoB82hEyb2zBJzvSTHjfzlt1NJEzH951pfLWYuFAyB9EkKQw1-TP1roWZc4iXTV8NOjFfD3HHUTrPMOBOxQ3J/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1646" data-original-width="2048" height="321" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvi4JBETdmYpT2C3cCc4DDnAykQZLCoN6z7Som6PpmbaT3jW64f4KD_mhwoB82hEyb2zBJzvSTHjfzlt1NJEzH951pfLWYuFAyB9EkKQw1-TP1roWZc4iXTV8NOjFfD3HHUTrPMOBOxQ3J/w400-h321/image.png" width="400" /></a></div><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1re4FA8-65_GmMth-4h-8pxXhocibFT71y0-Q16CI2ztsnAP6oWqspRXihiaYzBCfgU1tlFMl8Pop9HmUkGj0LW8A9FTjCI_17nT_bkfgjEzL2F_5jy-AmPNGH5HhMPt2Or4XSvnblEyj/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="960" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1re4FA8-65_GmMth-4h-8pxXhocibFT71y0-Q16CI2ztsnAP6oWqspRXihiaYzBCfgU1tlFMl8Pop9HmUkGj0LW8A9FTjCI_17nT_bkfgjEzL2F_5jy-AmPNGH5HhMPt2Or4XSvnblEyj/w400-h266/image.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkv3a-7IO_n3Vs6tQSnQtsanEZ90ISgWZpJLArGtMQ7uYfUqrWFUsqSvQqJEXgP2tUd-Bndd3-bu99QRJjlko4Zo2TKeIhjaBUeM5cBFA86xPz82kzm1MEDTUWscSHvxpuGwLUzApmuHN4/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkv3a-7IO_n3Vs6tQSnQtsanEZ90ISgWZpJLArGtMQ7uYfUqrWFUsqSvQqJEXgP2tUd-Bndd3-bu99QRJjlko4Zo2TKeIhjaBUeM5cBFA86xPz82kzm1MEDTUWscSHvxpuGwLUzApmuHN4/w400-h300/image.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">When the boys become men, they still need our prayers. Here are<a href="https://www.ibelieve.com/motherhood/prayers-your-grown-children-need-you-to-pray.html" target="_blank"> 10 Prayers for Your Grown Children. </a></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Happy National Son's Day! You might want to share a few sappy words of love, but do make sure to feed those boys well today! </p>Joyfullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09661193900261452475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1443648400637194742.post-5769748699294133962021-09-13T12:39:00.001-04:002021-09-13T12:54:14.961-04:00Easy Ways to Bring On Fall<p style="text-align: justify;"> Fall is my favorite season! In our area, the weather is not yet cool, but fall is in the air, There is an anticipation as we eagerly await the change of seasons. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">I love to decorate my home for fall. My family tells me I begin way too early, but this is my way of bringing on the beauty of fall. All of the stores have beautiful fall displays and items that just beckon you to bring them home! </p><p style="text-align: justify;"> If you want to fill your home with the feeling of fall, look for ways to engage all of the senses - sight, sounds, smell, taste and touch. Here are some easy ways to fill your home with fall. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">I'm also including some of my personal finds. It's not too early to shop, there is a great selection available now!</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>1. Add a pop of color by replacing everyday pillows with fall themed styles. </b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">*My newest pillow - from Dollar General!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzI67zxBxGw1tUwEuqFAYOKG7bcX8_lQysLJh7_neYKvXZENkKYOS_TnggEtYuTXvSk0Xiqg0sNJDpeWmRfWDTjOtdMxjrupT65tjntzl4D1pxRAxAByz3e3JGXwkRzS4RrkpmRUuJY2Y2/s1600/1631549684472508-1.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzI67zxBxGw1tUwEuqFAYOKG7bcX8_lQysLJh7_neYKvXZENkKYOS_TnggEtYuTXvSk0Xiqg0sNJDpeWmRfWDTjOtdMxjrupT65tjntzl4D1pxRAxAByz3e3JGXwkRzS4RrkpmRUuJY2Y2/s1600/1631549684472508-1.png" width="400" /></a></div><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>2. Set the mood with the soft glow of lanterns.</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkTCCbyHwfR1QQKAp9ggdRkJuwmycpRaTm7yF54_n4Zkt-RC8oT1EF-hLZtfjfOgC_e97chBOsNcEXr1_hdBvgGDoBkIkSmCdIzJ9Hm-xkP9JZtUQJzTOreOCb5kX4ibd8r74zF4BXx2oQ/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkTCCbyHwfR1QQKAp9ggdRkJuwmycpRaTm7yF54_n4Zkt-RC8oT1EF-hLZtfjfOgC_e97chBOsNcEXr1_hdBvgGDoBkIkSmCdIzJ9Hm-xkP9JZtUQJzTOreOCb5kX4ibd8r74zF4BXx2oQ/w427-h640/image.png" width="427" /></a></div><br /><b>3. Add a cozy element with warm, textured throws. </b><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkwOPJeeSHXuMWI-Mbbqd6jpb3DBN64FbKNTJjOTvkvzN5wmBgvoayr_ZehPHp1Tl08OcCSP9v45NFdE_ziHKsO36wjNinOVsBp6YzJH8BqtG-BJdbXgXUgvOovYOKGI4FoMr1qYsR9-ix/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkwOPJeeSHXuMWI-Mbbqd6jpb3DBN64FbKNTJjOTvkvzN5wmBgvoayr_ZehPHp1Tl08OcCSP9v45NFdE_ziHKsO36wjNinOVsBp6YzJH8BqtG-BJdbXgXUgvOovYOKGI4FoMr1qYsR9-ix/w480-h640/image.png" width="480" /></a></div><br /><b>4. Pumpkins, pumpkins, pumpkins. You can never have too many pumpkins!</b><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJh28Mkr9rKFRpEZnhV4ijVeBIUTRWPUWnLnCFwhvNc-eqpRhwByTI0jKj2EG84VK3HJDBiHJ_3swIFZTRW-x8hkbTqPmhAqdDxakgyIdXd_vF7-pEbMq7s2KhCIEHq-IfF0q4MwerHe5_/s1600/1631549659194115-3.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJh28Mkr9rKFRpEZnhV4ijVeBIUTRWPUWnLnCFwhvNc-eqpRhwByTI0jKj2EG84VK3HJDBiHJ_3swIFZTRW-x8hkbTqPmhAqdDxakgyIdXd_vF7-pEbMq7s2KhCIEHq-IfF0q4MwerHe5_/s1600/1631549659194115-3.png" width="400" /></a></div><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>5. Layer wall décor that reflects the sentiments of the season.</b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwxTneB4p2MNIzV1Eqv_1Q57f12WozLax33EIiuCpOUwZxqXtuD_Bj9Qr3YLQc9lCGWoZAoApaco9u1XawOeuIsrmRHWo6AO1kw7uIgGIcviMxOP8-k0r7YahOJhgTVQUS1sqc6E8O6mFo/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwxTneB4p2MNIzV1Eqv_1Q57f12WozLax33EIiuCpOUwZxqXtuD_Bj9Qr3YLQc9lCGWoZAoApaco9u1XawOeuIsrmRHWo6AO1kw7uIgGIcviMxOP8-k0r7YahOJhgTVQUS1sqc6E8O6mFo/w400-h300/20210913_120954.jpg" width="400" /></a></div></div><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: justify;">These are available everywhere! Find one that reflects you and your heart!</span></div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>6. Enjoy the fragrance of the season with candles.</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrMZJyXq2vFNJNzen-_57U-b-kyNhT1E8T_nbACR2sI1xoU6fxT_Crm-yC24YMGL-_-OMkiAvEBS1p9npnLbfXWiCpAxBJejurF3sQdUBrQoIbcmg9W73RFTh3FGex6wTuQvPbQ_RXRwH-/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrMZJyXq2vFNJNzen-_57U-b-kyNhT1E8T_nbACR2sI1xoU6fxT_Crm-yC24YMGL-_-OMkiAvEBS1p9npnLbfXWiCpAxBJejurF3sQdUBrQoIbcmg9W73RFTh3FGex6wTuQvPbQ_RXRwH-/w480-h640/20210913_121021.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">You can never have enough candles!</div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>7. Embrace all of the senses, which of course includes food!</b> Stewed apples, pumpkin bread, cookies, all these things not only engage our taste, but fill our heat with a bit of homemade love. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Add a festive table setting to make every dinner special!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW6F7SJIyo-X4LiGKSiqCZlVmmzghzn2w0MCq9-rSm78AppLHWfgIblDCNViZJ0tgTuQjtJ80_IPigkJii04yUIixrhjURh3WFQvKHp4FUI1T-m1wgPRTpRtDESxr2WL0Nk8DZqR1xO5CK/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="" data-original-height="281" data-original-width="500" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW6F7SJIyo-X4LiGKSiqCZlVmmzghzn2w0MCq9-rSm78AppLHWfgIblDCNViZJ0tgTuQjtJ80_IPigkJii04yUIixrhjURh3WFQvKHp4FUI1T-m1wgPRTpRtDESxr2WL0Nk8DZqR1xO5CK/w400-h225/image.png" width="400" /></a></div><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"> </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj_zh6_0M8GXADfm1dK1M-5pCjljnuAfNjh6H25Ud3yZf-8qsJm-XX4aiBcvhdb4-d2Q5WD_0HHgkuu_PjvuhCm8If7wPDjeg8TeD37DwumA5TILLFr8MTUsVu9rcnd7f7XUMt0uekBAks/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj_zh6_0M8GXADfm1dK1M-5pCjljnuAfNjh6H25Ud3yZf-8qsJm-XX4aiBcvhdb4-d2Q5WD_0HHgkuu_PjvuhCm8If7wPDjeg8TeD37DwumA5TILLFr8MTUsVu9rcnd7f7XUMt0uekBAks/w480-h640/20210906_191707.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br />If you love fall, get started now to fill your home and surround your senses with the essence of the season! <p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Joyfullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09661193900261452475noreply@blogger.com0