Have you given one away - yet, today??

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A smile costs nothing, but gives much.

It enriches those who receive, without making poorer those who give.  It takes a moment, but the memory of it lasts forever.  None is so rich or mighty that he can get along with out it, and none is so poor that he can be made rich by it.  A smile creates happiness in the home, fosters good will in business, and is the countersign of friendship.  It brings rest to the weary, cheer to the discouraged, sunshine to the sad, and it is a nature's best antidote for trouble.  Yet, it cannot be bought, begged, borrowed or stolen, for it is of no value until it is given away.  Some people are too tired to give you a smile; give them one of yours, as none needs a smile so much as he who has none to give.  ~ Unknown

#mymantra #wearthatsmile

Be Intentional - this 2021

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Happy New Year, dear friends! 
Thank you for swinging by and hanging out 
with me for a moment or two...

Be Intentional.  Such a great phrase.  A great word... to build on.  I have been pondering this one for awhile and it truly seems to be the "word" for me and for this year.   I've struggled for many a day with a natural bent to letting life happen to me instead of me making my life happen... in the way it is intended.

Can anyone relate to this??  

As a recent student in personal growth...I have noticed... I need to make a shift. I have realized that even by just saying or thinking the phrase out loud, but to myself... "Bevy, be intentional, here!", that there is truly a huge difference made.   I know.  I'm behind the eight-ball here - as we're nearly half way through the month, so it seems.... but, I truly aim to make this one count.   Recently, I read some words from a friend of mine... who shared some thoughts that really hit home with what I've been trying to say.

Berlin says...

Nothing will change in our lives unless we take MASSIVE action to force ourselves to make our dreams come alive & start to move.

It's not doing things that will make your life shift, it's about becoming a new person that makes absolute certain things begin to change.

On our vision board is a quote that reads 

"You are where you are because that's exactly where you chose to be"

It's been there for years, but this year, it hit me right in the chest...

If I don't like my life, it's because I have become a person who has created that very life I don't like.

And the truth is, the past few years, I haven't really liked me life (just being real)

But one thing I know is, It's all on me.

Every choice leading up to today, was a choice to be exactly where I am, to have exactly what I have, to be exactly who I am.

But that also means, right here, right now, the person I become this week... That is me choosing what my life looks like for the years to come!

Make the choice.

Make the shift.

Make the change.

Choose to be the master of your own life.

And,  I add.  BE INTENTIONAL!

So, for me.  A couple of ways that I plan to be in focus about are in these few areas:

• How I start and end my day.  This includes reading God's Word and having quiet time with HIM...
• My commitment level to hearts and home - which include my friends and family
• Who I choose to surround myself with.
• What I read, who I listen to and where I engage - with my time and talents.

Now more than ever.  Intentional Living to the WILL and WORD of God - is so vital.  Will you join me?? 

Counting the days

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It's really strange.  We're deeply on our way into the month of August and not much gets written on the calendar, these days.  Is this true for you, too?

Do you miss it?  

One thing... unexpected that happened over the summer is my daughter buckle fractured her forearm and has been sporting a pretty pink, heavily marked up cast.   She's been counting the days for it to come off - which will be early on this coming week - Lord Willing!!  She was so grateful it was her left arm and not her right.  Grateful she saw the blessing... 

Our kids are SOOOO sad that summer vacation probably won't be taking place this year!!   They had been dutifully counting down the days for that to happen and well... it's been a little disappointing to say the least.  We're all going to miss that special time visiting friends and family - in VA and NC!!!   We did however get to squeeze in some summer camps and go for a little family get away, locally, to the mountains... which was really, really awesome!!!   Again.  We see the blessing.

Next - we're taking on a new challenge for our family for school this year.

Cyber Schooling has been on our minds... and so - whether we think we are or we're not, we're literally counting down the days for some sort of new-to-us, school schedule to take place.  

We're nervous.  Yet excited!!

I've never been one to easily embrace change.  But - for some reason.  This feels right.  I truly hope and pray that these days will not just be counted down but will be made to count!!

I think often of the verse in Scripture from Proverbs 31:25, which says...

"She is clothed with strength and dignity. She can laugh at the days to come."

Here is my prayer.

Clothe my heart, Oh Lord, with strength and dignity... I'm so afraid of change and facing new challenges... allow me to feel your power, your courage and strength.  To take on and go forward with new experiences.  Help me Lord to take "risks"and to enjoy each new experience... knowing it is a total growing process.  There will be no fear in  my heart!  I can laugh at the days to come.

This prayer has been mine for a while now.  I do thank HIM for changing me in this process.  I am braver.  I'm much more courageous than in times past.  I have grown a lot.  In fact, I say - I don't know that I'm the same person (so much) since the first time I've prayed this prayer.  I'm grateful for the days of all that he has blessed me with.  I am grateful for the ones still to come.  I don't know how many I have.  Neither, do you!

As we're counting the days... may we continue to count the blessings even more.

Smile - let it be seen and heard!!

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I'll never forget it.  I was at a business conference - one Friday night and happened to find myself sitting on the front row, which was rather unusual, as I'm not usually a front row girl.  I'm typically that mid row to back of the crowd; end of the line, type of person.   Anyway.

I thoroughly enjoyed the evening.  Our home-based business events are always so fun and they include so much to learn.  I was soaking it all up.  Thoroughly, taking mental notes and such...

After the event.  The two "speakers" came over to chit chat; introduce themselves and what not.  And, one of them, looking right at me - says, "You know.  If it wasn't for your constant smile - I would have had trouble getting through my "presentation"... your beaming smile was so encouraging; so present."

She went on... to say.  That she was extremely nervous that night - her knees shaking the whole time she was speaking - but because of my engaging smile and rapt attention - that it really helped her to pull through.  I had no idea!!!

That isn't the first time - people have commented on me wearing a smile.   Here's the truth. I really made a difference that night, for my friend.  But, here's the thing... I can still take the time to practice wearing it. I have to.   I want to wear it well - all the time!!  Even if no one is looking....and you should, too!!

Wear it well, and often!!!  Let your smile be both seen and heard!!!  

It'll make a difference.

In addition: This home-based business can come with side effects, in products, that may make that smile appear a lot more readily and naturally, than ever before.  For which, I am #sograteful.  I would love to fill you in on that, anytime.  Simply ask.

*** 

Linking up with the Five Minute Friday community - and the prompt for this round is: Smile

   

Re-enter the room!

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My words may seem small this morning but at the same time, they are larger than life to me right now!

Have you ever had a phrase come to mind, that just won't shake?

A couple of weeks ago now - I was off on an errand.  I was by myself and so, of course, plenty of peace and quiet in the car.  A few beautiful moments, for me.

  Although, I will have to say, I pretty much always have the radio playing softly, in the background, when I'm by myself... and, this day was no different.   I have no idea who it was speaking, but someone was being interviewed, and this phrase completely took my breath away.  A tear probably trickled...

"It's time to re-enter the room"

/ˌrēˈen(t)ər/
verb
verb: reenter

enter (something) again 

A verb meaning: to enter again?   In other words.  You've been here once...  It's time to re engage.  

Re engage?  I had to think about this and ask, myself: Where do I need to pause, take a step back and or turn around in order to make a proper reentry?  Ahhh.  Do I truly know what God has called me to?  This question is one that I think a lot of people may have... and maybe never voice.  I don't know.   

So, here I am.  Of course, several categories have quickly come to mind for me to consider...  

First, in areas of home making and the ins and outs of being a wife and mother.  

Secondly, interpersonal relationships and all business aspects.  (Because, as it has been said. "You can do a lot of unimportant things well but that doesn't make it important." Right? Right.) 

And, last but not least (perhaps, this should have been mentioned first)... my prayer life and even in engaging the Holy Spirit for deeper workings in my life.

So, here I stand - at the edge, on the edge, of the threshold.  A crossroad, perhaps.  It's tricky.  I could make myself dizzy thinking about which direction to head first.   But!!! My help does come from Jesus.  The Author and Finisher of my faith. And, it is HIM to whom I will always call upon for my strength and my help in time of need. 

Thank you, for joining me in prayer.

***

PS:  How do you like the photos, I found on my camera?   

Credits to: my amazing kiddos!!!!

You have a friend in me

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When the floodwaters of the cesspool have come up to your very soul, you don't need challenges: you need comfort.  You need a friend to come alongside and say, "I am hurting with you... I am standing with you... I am weeping with you.  I am undergirding you as best as I can.  Link your shield of faith with mine and somehow we will make it together."   ~ Barbara Johnson

The year of 2020 has sure been an interesting ride.  One thing for sure that has come out of this for our family - has been a "reset".   We're stronger.  We're better together.  We've become better friends.

It's been beautiful!

I'm so grateful.

C U L T I V A T E

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In thinking about a word of the year... this word Cultivate keeps coming to mind.  It's a strong word.  Similar, in a way, to words from the past - such as "grow/growth", "strong/ courageous" - that I've dove into and made my "word(s) for the year".    They too, were strong words.  Deep words.  Hard words.

I will say - I wrestled with this one, as well.  I wasn't sure I wanted to go this involved; dig this deep.  

I do think it is rather interesting how these varying words all tie together...for me!   There must be a greater work - God is calling me, to.  If not greater, per say - it is maybe more of a settling or an enriching...that I need!

There is certainly treasure, here - I need to discover.

Cul | ti | vate (verb)

1. prepare and use for crops and gardening

2. try to acquire or develop ( a quality, sentiment or skill),  pursue

3. win the friendship or favor of (someone)

4. apply oneself to improving or developing (one's mind or manners)

***
People say that 2020 is going to be a momentous year!  I agree.  A lot of changes coming this way...

• Family-wise (I'm going to be aunt again, twice over!  Very exciting!!)
• Friendships/Relationships
• Church
• Home-based business
• in home (house projects)
• Health
• Kindness and (adding) Value

It's challenging to think how to Cultivate might affect each one of these areas.  As I already alluded to... some of these areas really need tending to.   Weeds need to be pulled.  Some need extra nurturing, love and care.  Some areas just need a do-over!!    By and large - this isn't going to all be an easy "row to hoe" !!  Ha!  Do you like my pun, there?    But, I'm excited about the results.  God must really have something here HE wants me to know and discover. 

 But.  you wanna know something?  Truth is... we're only half way through January and I'm already seeing this process of cultivation beginning to happen.

I'm curious.  And, I know I've asked this in last post - some of you answered.  :)
 Do you have a Word for the Year?   If you do, Is it one that will keep you digging?

I want to end my time here today with this poem, from The Book of Virtues.  May it help you and I, as we begin to cultivate...our heart soil!

Count That Day Lost

If you sit down at set of sun
And count the acts that you have done, 
And, counting, find
One self-denying deed, one word
That eased the heart of him who heard, 
One glance most kind
That fell like sunshine where it went ---
Then you may count that day well spent.

But if, through all the livelong day, 
You've cheered no heart, by yea or nay ---
If, through it all 
You've nothing done that you can trace
That brought the sunshine to one face ---
No act most small
That helped some soul and nothing cost ---
Then count that day as worse than lost.

~  Mary Ann Evans, (better known as, George Eliot 1819-1880)

Never lose the wonder...

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Being drawn outdoors, this morning, from looking out the kitchen window, I knew I wanted to capture the beauty that was quietly "landing"... and, I almost landed myself.  On my backside.  I didn't.  Thank goodness.  But, it was close.  Icy back decks and bedroom slippers don't mix, too well.    BUT.

In other ways... adventure isn't really that unless there is that step to the unknown and with it, there is a "falling" that takes place.  It's the only way to really "take it all in" what just happened. 

Think about it.  Babies just don't wake up one day and start walking.  There is a desire that is taking place, in their little hearts and minds, to learn to walk.  They're watching.  They're waiting... and as things progress...as they are growing... the desire and the will to try is growing and getting stronger.   They start by assuming position.  Their little knees are wobbly and shaking.  They teeter, they tip...they plop.  GUESS WHAT!??!!   They get back up again.  ** And, they have cheerleaders (a circle of Encouragers) along the way.  Very important!!

Adventure awaits.  Falling down is a repeated part of the process.   The question is - are we ready and able to get back up again.

***
I'm not sure why all of this, this morning.  It is just that "adventure" and "conditions" and "outcomes" are always par for the course.  The process by which we all are in - whether we like it or not.

Here are instructions for life: 
1. Pay attention
2. Be astonished
3. Tell about it
~as shared, by Mary Oliver

I do think of a verse in Scripture... Galatians 6:9... that reads.
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a
 harvest if we do not give up.
***
Here is to the rest of your week and that you will never lose the wonder of the season!!

Work at it!

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Have you ever heard these words by Benjamin Franklin - they're said to be famous.  I don't recall hearing them before reading them, to the kids, this morning... but.  Let me tell you - they're about to become quite famous in this household.  I smile.  But, it is true.   These words are  most likely based on Scripture - I'm sure.  Maybe someone can share in the comments where they think they are found.  One verse I thought of is quoted in the photo I shared below.

Here is what Benjamin Franklin pens...

"Work while it is called today, for you know not how much you may be hindered tomorrow.  One today is worth two tomorrows; never leave that till tomorrow which you can do today."

(as discovered in the pages of The Book of Virtues, by William Bennett)

To be honest, Procrastination has been known to take root in this homes heart-soil.  It goes in spurts - the "weed" yanked out... but, by golly, it reappears from time to time!!  And... it, never fear, will get someone in trouble.

Let's just say - it created some lively conversation around the breakfast table, this morning,  as we took this "lesson" in and I simply pray - it will be truly taken to heart by all of us.  There never really is a good excuse.  Ever!! 

Working a home-based business reveals all the true colors.  I have to ask myself,  How hard am I willing to put in, what it takes, to see the harvest that I'm expecting!?!

I also like this scripture from 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12 (NIV)...

Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody.

Here is another quote by Admiral "Bull" Helsey... from the same book; The Book of Virtues.

"The Lord gave us two ends to use, one to think with and one to sit with.  The "war" depends on which we choose - heads we win, tails we lose."

~~

Have a wonderful and productive week!!

Drip. Drip. Drip...FULL and Overflowing!

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I have the wonderful privilege of reading to my growing kiddos each morning before school - and this particular morning's reading was all about kindnesses and I immediately thought of a book that they all three read and learned about in school - in their early years!!  And.. I remember doing a post on it - so HERE that one is.   You have to read it - in fact, I CANNOT wait to share this same post with my kids later this afternoon or evening. 

 We NEED the reminder.

WOW!

Okay.

So, this reading this morning from The Life of Samuel Johnson in The Book of Virtues (p. 329) ... is talking about kindnesses shown and keeping our friendships in constant repair.   Here is what else I read:

We cannot tell the precise moment when friendship is formed.  As in filling a vessel drop by drop, there is at last a drop which makes it run over; so in a series of kindnesses there at last one which makes the heart run over.

~~

It's a thought that is very much on my heart and mind.  As our lives ebb and flow and changes come and go - that ultimately bring about a change in our relationships... it is a real challenge to maintain some of those friendships.   And.. yet.  We NEED to keep adding to our friendships or soon we'll have none.  Am I right?

I'm so grateful for the many lovely friends that fill my cup!!  Not to mention, my Lord and Savior. He is the source of it all.

And so... as I keep the constant repair happening... tending to the drip by drip of filling another's heart-vessel with kindnesses - then my saucer will be filled, as well, full and overflowing.

Because, paraphrasing from Luke 6:45, out the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks.  

I may venture to say it is the only time I care to be known as a "constant drip"... if you know what I mean.   Think about it!   What an opportunity to be a slow and steady blessing, one drip at a time, in someone's life... that at some point... is when their heart is full and BOOM!!  that bucket is filled to the top and overflowing. 

Courage has a face!

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This thing called Courage continues to roll around in my heart and mind.  I keep hearing the voices of - "Will you just do it already?"... okay, okay, I croak back - my voice is so barely audible.  

Today, someone encouraged me!!  If the LORD is saying... you should try it again, then, take courage!!

Take it by the hand and let it lead you!!  

These words, from my dear friend, Annie Wiebe, bless me, every time I read her thoughts on Courage.  I asked her permission to share, what she wrote.

***

It takes courage.

It takes courage to be different.

It takes courage to act and not just dream.

It takes courage to work.

It takes courage to say no to distractions.

It takes courage to live the life you want.

It takes courage to keep going when pain sets in.

It takes courage to be strong.

It takes courage to change.

It takes courage to do the things you said you'd do.

It takes courage to accept the critics and keep doing the work.

It takes courage to do something you’ve never done.

You see, we can all do what we’ve always done. That’s easy. Doing something totally different takes courage because there is a high chance it won’t work out in the beginning. 

Courage is part of everything — even the simple stuff you think doesn’t matter.

You deserve to be courageous!!!

Courage is a free ticket that costs nothing financially and costs everything personally.

Courage is putting it all on the line because you believe that you deserve to have the life you want.

All anything you want starts with, is a wee bit of courage. Wake up with courage, act with courage, eat courage for lunch, use courage when you’re unsure, hide courage in your pocket, pull courage out when people stab you in the back, and most of all: keep going, by using courage.

Courage is the answer. Courage can help you no matter where you’re starting from or how far you’ve fallen from the top.

Everything starts with courage. 

So, I'm asking you... Do you have courage?

Courage has a face!  It's a brave one!!
***

A brave-faced photo from my youngest's
8th birthday party, back- end of summer!!

In and Out of Practice

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I originally posted this a little over five years ago - almost to the date.  Everything about it is STILL the same!!  I felt it appropriate to re share... today!!

**

I felt a little out of practice, with hospitality!  

There is hospitality and then there is extending hospitality.  Both are something I LOVE to do.  Something we LOVE to do, as a couple, in our home.  Both are what we are called to practice!  And, as you keep reading... this is something that my husband does way better at than I.

Because...

For the past two weekends.  On Sunday's   My husband... he did the inviting!

He initiated... and for one of those times...it was a family of six!  Completely spontaneous!!!    The other time - a family of four, whom I did not know - but he and our son both knew, from Scouts!!  What an opportunity!!

I felt a little out of practice.  A little out of sorts.  Spastic!  My nerves were rattled... :)

When life and it's busyness and schedules overrule our calendar and already, we feel like we can hardly stay on top... then, to have this thrown my way??

My hubby loves to tease.  "You wanted a man, just like your dad!".  Yes,it's true! - my father would do this on occasion to my Mom (even when they had nine children of their own!) ... and my husband's right!  I did want this.  I love it that my husband also has a heart for people and "wanting to have them in our home".

Well, needless to say.

I rose to the challenge.

I needed to.

Because folks were coming to our house in less than "two hours!" 
Here's my mantra:  My response makes or breaks a situation.

The thing is...

I felt my husband's care to come alongside, in both instances, and pitch in...

prepping the coffee...

setting the table

arranging the room so as to fit everyone in "better"..

offering to peel potatoes..

running the bissell over the carpets

Whatever else I needed - he was there!  By my side.

Was my house clean?  Tidy, perhaps... but not clean, clean!

Tidy enough?  Perhaps not that either.

But...

If I would have made a scene and had him cancel the plans, his plans... because I wasn't mentally prepared or whathaveyou.  We would have missed out such a blessing!

Perhaps this is a stretch...here.  And, believe me - I am not boasting when I say this.

But, part of me wonders if this isn't my husband's unspoken way of taking this verse to heart.

Her husband has full confidence in her...Proverbs 31:11

I give the Lord praise - that we can work together, as a team, and make others (hopefully!) feel at home... and be at peace.  

What are a few practical ways - I can handle these surprises?  Ways to keep, or stay in practice..?

I have learned that it's okay to keep it simple.

To keep a few "go-to" recipes in the back pocket, is smart, even if it means my family eats the same thing twice in as many weekends!

And, if it helps, don the apron as well as a smile...

If if my knees are shaking underneath, who'll know?

***
Linking up with FMF - writing community!!  On the topic of hospitality!!

Ordinary

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Your ordinary, real, everyday....
is the best gift you have.
Don’t miss it.


I sit here thinking what it must be like for an acquaintance friend of mine, a mother to 5 or 6, to rather recently "lose" her spouse... she's grieving today - but he is safely HOME!!

For another - the news reels dictate a change in weather patterns, "later tonight!",  that could ultimately change everything for their week away.  But as of today, this moment, the sun is currently shining hot and bright!! 

Our circumstances can change as fickle as the weather - but as sure and as certain as death. 

Dear reader, did you know that your friends and family are waiting on the hope your story can bring?  Oh, it's beautiful.  Why does it have to be perfect?  Why is the "fear of man" rising up?  It shouldn't.  Be brave.  Be courageous.  Don't withhold!

Tell your story! 

The nitty-gritty of your each and every day could be a game-changer; a life-changing moment, for that certain someone who is following in your shadow.

Proverbs 3:27-28   ---  Do not withhold good from those who deserve it, when it is in your power to act.  Do not say to your neighbor, "Come back later, I'll give it tomorrow" -- when you now have it with you.

Determine to make this ordinary come alive with a little extra!!  Make it extraordinary... but, keep it real.  Because - it is!!

 May your day be blessed and filled with hope!!

Kindness really matters!

Oh my word.  I don't blame a single soul for falling off "my bandwagon" - here at Treasured Up and Pondered.  In fact, if you are reading this... I'm impressed.  Because, I've fallen off... as well.  Obviously.

So, for that... dear friend and reader...I say, if you're here and still "desiring to hear" anything from me - I say THANK YOU!   Yes, thank you for your kindness.... and your patience ... and your prayers.   Please feel my {hugs} and see my smiles...

Truth is.  Our plates are full.   I don't like to say we've been busy - because everyone is and can be "busy". Instead of busy I'll refer to it as - we've been "investing" ourselves into lots of different areas...

We're wrapping up the school year, with the kiddos, in just a few more short weeks.   My husband has also recently finished up a 15-month stent on taking up some Theological studies... he graduates, here, in early June.  His desire in this course has been for himself to grow - as a husband, a father, a leader, a friend; a way to better connect all the dots.  I think he's really grateful and blessed to have gone through this course.  I'm glad he did it and stuck to it.

Our home-based business continues to keep us on our toes... with its highs and lows.  All is fine!!  We continue to learn; grow ourselves as better individuals and leaders...we still LOVE what we do and what it is all about and why.  It's been life-changing, for us!!
We're always willing to share with others - a better way!!  Health and happiness is everyone's hope!!!

Church life is full of changes and challenges.  There are lots of things to be a part of...and areas to serve and mature in.   We don't live super close to our church, anymore - so there is that distance factor that plays a part in how much we can logistically be involved.  We're so grateful to have a wonderful church family...who understands and still encourages us! 
Something to keep in mind.  It really does matter how much you offer in as to what you you'll receive out of church.  There is no perfect situation.... BUT GOD!!! 

One of our most recent endeavors has been the invite to join a family/friends, of ours, in Revolutionary War reenactments.   This is mostly on account of our 11 yr old son.  His passion is beautiful combo of history and music.  So his role, in this "new hobby of ours" is an acting hornist for this particular regime; while the rest of us consider ourselves as camp followers or sutlers.    Doing this as a family allows us all to be involved; all going the same direction - with activities and such.   So far it has been a process; keeping to authenticity is very vital.  I really appreciate learning and understanding all of this.  It really has been fascinating.    How do I mean?    I've been helping to do the sewing for a lot of our 18th century garb.  Any visible seam needs to be hand-sown.  But, not only that... the cloth needs to be 100% wool or linen or cotton.  Only certain colors are of the time period...
So, there are lots of things to learn and lots of events to participate in - and new and interesting people to get to know.   ** I realize, I really should do some posts, with photos, on these, in effort to better preserve our memories - that we've been making as a family.

What else?

Of course - we're gearing up for summer and all its activities. Hoping for a couple of trips... one business related the other a family vacation.
We're also honing in on a few lingering house projects.... such as settling our side flower bed, putting up a washline (I cannot believe I've gone this long with out one! - kinda driving me cray-cray!!) and hopefully getting an outbuilding shed type thingy.   I'm sure there is a longer list...

My hubby and I just celebrated our 14th Wedding Anniversary!!  Yay!!!   Looking forward to forever...

Our son - is getting soooooo tall.  AND, his voice is deepening every. single. day.   It's so crazy how fast they change.  Caught in that place of wanting to still play with matchbox cars and nerf guns while busting out of shoes and his clothes - like a young man, should!!
Oh - and our two girls (ages 10 and 7) both donated 12" of hair.  Their first time of EVER getting their hair cut... even trimmed.  So, of course, the gal probably took a total of 14", till it was all said and done....
I was proud of them.  Of course, this mama shed a tear ever so slightly.  I thought I'd tear up more.  I am sure it was because we talked about long and hard enough to finally just "do it".   Right?   They still have pretty long hair and could almost go for a "round-two" already... but, they don't want it any shorter, at this point. 

***
 Why all this ramble?   I have no idea -- other than, I just needed to get it all out there - as a way to play catch up. Get my fingers back to the keyboard.  I've really missed it.   This quiet, reflective space...   

I will say.  I was having a chat with my 10 year old, this morning.  She "unloaded" it all... the tears were flowing and I was holding her and listening.  The things she shared were real, and raw; things I could easily relate to - as I've been there myself, many times.     One of things I shared, with her,  in return, is that as you grow into a young woman - you will find that this may happen again - over and over and over again!   Relationships and friendships will come and go.  Being kind through them all speaks volumes.  But, yes!  There is what feels like a footprint left on your heart.  Sometimes it hurts.  Sometimes it really leaves an impression.  Sometimes that is all that it is... but sometimes... its meant to be blessing!!!

May someone's kindness towards you - leave an impression - today!!   How about you - for someone else...okay?  It really matters.  I pray my daughter shines like the sun, today!!!

fmf | place (what if...)

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I realize this favorite phrase of mine - is also a place where many of us dwell but not to many take the leap from.   Would you ponder this with me, today?  What if...

What if...You didn't always have to feel that sickness come on for that oh-so long and oh-so often amount of time?

What if... YOU were the one to feel stronger, feel better and able to smile again?

What if...you prayed and this was your answer?

What if...you could dream again?   This time, BIGGER!!

What if...you thought you were to go here or there and do this or that...but instead, THIS!  This is your place and you fit!!

What if...you decide instead that you are totally worth it - not your things or your stuff... but YOU!

Listen, friend.  I want to tell you something.

All of these  things used to be my "what if's" and now they are my reality.  What if the change you see in me -- could be the change you see in you?

I offer #hope!  A #solution.  There is so much potential.

There is a time and a place to pay attention.

***

Joining with the Five Minute Friday community and taking on the prompt word: Place  

Thank you for reading!

fmf | search

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Someone near and dear to me (and, I won't mention names) is on a quest...to actually hear GOD's voice.  They're discouraged and sad that it so far isn't or hasn't been an audible voice for them.  Whenever, we get to connect about it - we try to encourage but with futile words, because even ours won't readily be heard.  We say - "Sometimes, you have to be still (quiet!) and then you will know - God." (Psalm 46:10)

We remind.  "Look at answers, to prayers, you do have - though they've come circumstantially... - they're still answers."

Apparently, that isn't an audible voice; its not enough!

God's voice isn't always clear, is it?  We have his WORD, right, and, we need to pray and ask to have the eyes of our heart, opened, to see clearly.  I talk with my kiddo's quite often (in fact, AGAIN just this morning!) - about the fact that they need to look at me when I am talking to them.  That they will be able to hear me better when they keep their eyes fixed on my face.   Surprise!!!!!

Imagine - the connection that would happen!!!

Jeremiah 29:13

You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all of your heart. 

***

Joining with the Five Minute Friday Community today - today's word prompt is: search

fmf | Build

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This prompt word is very interesting.  The other day - my son was working through an assignment for school and it involved a mathematical situation.  The only way to really have him "get it" was to imagine building a house.  We used this analogy and it didn't take him long to get this math problem figured out - correctly. When he saw the way it was originally "figured"... he could truly see the error and KNEW this figurative building wasn't going to work...as it was.

Do we really know what we're working with when we go to build - anything?  Relationships.  A home! Getting a business up off the ground and running.

There is something to be said - in going back and taking a second look as to what you have before you.  Is it a right fit?  Is it coming together - as expected?  Are the others in your "one-anothering" feeling the same connectiveness and commonalities that you feel about them? 
If not.  What needs to change?
When we say we want to "build" something. 
The groundwork being laid - needs to be solid and sure.

You may have heard the phrase... Don't throw your pearls before swine.  Well, what in the world does that even mean?  Right?  Pearls are something of great value.  Swine or a herd of pigs - don't typically care about such things of value. They would, by nature, trample them underfoot and move on.

I've been pondering... about how it looks to or what it means to add value to others.  I want to build a happy and health home (Proverbs 14:1, Proverbs 24:3-4).  My Marriage matters...
Apart from Christ... homes and marriages can falter.   Building up an emergency fund or even our simple bank accounts takes diligence and sometimes sacrifice.   A business will only built if its foundation is secure.  Dreams are great!  But...aren't they only "fluff" without the sweat, grit and tears.

Sometimes.  Building relationships means a simple investment...of time and thoughtfulness.  Maybe MORE than what has already been given.  It may mean more hugs.  A correction.  A listening ear.  A deeper/fuller smile.  A serious question...
Time... putting aside the "me and my wants" for the other.

Something to think about today.

Here is a playdough house that one of my kiddos' made along time ago.  Got love the heart inside the house.

***

Joining with the Five Minute Friday - Writing Community.  This word prompt is: Build

Strong (and Courageous) - word for 2019

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Here we are, a few days in 2019 and I have yet to share my word of the year with you!!

Funny.  I haven't always taken hold of a word so surely as I have been the past year and now for this one.  If you have been reading here - you may remember my word last year was GROW or Growth!

This year... along the same lines is that I want to keep growing... but the word that comes to mind is 

STRONG!

However.  In order to grow STRONG - one needs courage.

COURAGE is another word that keeps coming to my heart and mind.

I'll take them both!!  

Be Strong and Courageous.

I cling to the verses from Joshua chapter 1 starting loosely in verse 3 and continuing through verse 9.

Not wanting to take Scripture out of context, in the least.  I do, however, see these verses as a message of encouragement to myself as a leader of team.  A business builder.  A woman of influence.  As a wife.  A mother. A friend.

(I encourage you to open your Bible and read these verses for yourself. Perhaps you will reap the encouragement for you - as well.)

I feel such hope.  Such encouragement.  Such confidence - from our Lord... that HE will be with just as he has promised.    They say that things that cause fear to rise up in you are really what is your calling.

I believe that.
There are things that I get white-knuckled about, have fear for and the knees begin a-knocking.  While I want to be and do - all these things... there is something that still holds me back.

I want to have faith for this.

A faith that is unwavering.   My heart cries...

Lord!  Let me faith be marked by these three things.

1. A quiet spirit (no questions asked!)

2. A gentle spirit (no details needed)

3. A sweet submissiveness (no struggling against the unknowns)

** found these "marks" in a book somewhere a long time ago and have had them written in the sideline margins of my Bible ever since.  So, I can't give credit, here.  My apologies.

I believe, Lord.  Forgive my unbelief.  Help me... Slow down and take the time to grow - STRONG!!

Wrangling the courage to go through it and emerge.  Trusting the process.

***

Look out 2019!!

fmf | with

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Emmanuel - God with us!

I may have shared this thought here before but it bears repeating... 

"When you're not with someone - you're at them."

Jesus alludes to this in Scripture... (I'll have to go look it up again) but, how true!  Right?  Christmas is here -- and while a wonderful time of year, it also can be quite stressful.  I know, our home - has felt that. Let me be a bit vulnerable here and share... the stress of schedules, studying for tests, work related issues, meal prep and all the other household things that need tending to can really play a toll.  One of our biggest stressers gets revealed when early mornings come and we're getting the kids up and at em - for school.  There are distractions by books and papers, toys and even each other.  If we get up "too late"... then that puts on the crunch for everything.  And, you've got one - who doesn't know what to wear, the other who is "so cozy"...and, "can't get up!!"...  "can't find my shoes"... and because of feeling the pressure... the clock ticking FAST... panic sets in.   And, Mamma... well, Mamma's voice isn't so quiet anymore.

Right??  All the things.   

So, recently... I was thinking about this.  Why do we have this kind of tipping-point stress in our lives? I do believe it comes down to the whole thing of not being WITH people (our hearts are not united) and so we're AT each other.  When and where we're at each other "throats"... loud.  Hurtful.  Always "picking a fight", trying to better ourselves - one-upping another instead of building each other up...

This is why Jesus came.  To unite our hearts.  To beat as one.  TO CONNECT.  Built together to keep each other strong.   These fence posts do no good all piled up on one another.  But... unless they're positioned in, with and for each other... does it make an impact.

We've been working on.  Whispers.  Warm hugs.  Well-wishes.  Being amazed... and encouraging each other instead of critiquing, complaining and conjuring up "trouble".

I have to tell you.  This morning!  I was joking with my kiddos... that it MUST be that Christmas is coming, or something!!!!   I mean, it felt like such a gift.   EVERYONE... was up... on their own.  Got dressed...on their own. Hair done and combed...on their own.  EARLY - before time.  ALL was quiet and calm - working together - as if they were excited about their half-day, last day before Christmas vacation begins.

Jesus was WITH us!  

He still is, and always will be!!

**
Joining with Five Minute Friday... a community of writers, taking a word prompt and sharing their thoughts.  Today's prompt was: With

On Bended Knee

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As, I was flitting around the kitchen this morning - tending to everything - trying to get the kiddos off to school, I heard this beautiful reflection on the radio.  Let me share it with you.  First, it comes from a Lutheran Church, here in our local town.   And, if you know me and my fascination with birds... I think you'll like this, too.  In fact.  My children are also, now, always on the lookout and watch for murmurations and/or, in particular, flockings of birds huddled together on wires...  it's rather intriguing.  And, now this reading echoes why I feel the way I do.

**Wednesday, December 19, 2018
Have you ever watched a bird sit on a power-line or a branch in the middle of a wind
storm? Have you wondered how that little creature can stay balanced in the face of such
opposition?
Rollin S. Burhans writes- Birds go to sleep on their perches, but they never fall off. This
is because of the tendons in the bird's legs. They are so constructed that when the leg is bent at the knee, the claws contract and grip like a steel trap. The claws refuse to let go until the knees are unbent again. The bended knee gives the bird the ability to hold on to his perch so tightly.
Isn't this also the secret of the holding power of a Christian? The biblical prophet Daniel
sure found this to be true. Surrounded by a godless environment, tempted constantly to
compromise with evil, was forcefully urged to weaken his grip on God; but he refused to let go. Instead, he held firm when others faltered because he was a man of prayer. He knew God’s power was available through his bended knees.
How do you hold onto those things which are most precious to you: honesty, purity,
honor, character? Those sleeping birds know the secret. It is a bended knee! As our knees
are bent in prayer, God gives us the power to get a firmer grip on those values which make
life worth living. As we face the challenges of a new year, remember to hold firmly to God
in prayer. You can rest assured he will hold tightly to you.
Philip. 4:6-7 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with
thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which
surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
This is the true source of peace.

This is a super fun, photo.  I don't know if they thought the clothespins were birds already on the line or what... but, I could not believe my eyes.  I had to find my camera... and this was (unfortunately) the best photo, I could get of them.

***
But, did you catch them message in that reading...?  Its while on bended knee... that we can hold fast.  Hold fast to those things that are most precious.  Most rewarding.  That have value.  And, God will hold us fast, as well.

I'm just so encouraged, this morning!!!