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?? 

What Boldness Brings

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"My boldness is directly linked to someone else's blessing."

I not sure where I first heard this quote... but it is one that has stuck with me... for sure!  I take it to mean... that certainly... I have something to offer.  Someone NEEDS what I have to offer.   I need not shrink back from being a blessing.  When I hold back out of fear or feeling of inadequacy...I'm doing others, and myself, a disservice.   

Do you ever think like this - for yourself??  

****

I took a stroll back through the "five" posts that I mustered to put together for this year of 2020.  Sad!!  But - yes...I shared as the Lord led me and so I want to celebrate those.  

(Okay, if I count correctly - I actually had twelve posts for the year.  One a month, or so.  Not terrible, I suppose...)

In one of those earlier posts - I talked about the word I chose, for the year of 2020 which was the word CULTIVATE.  Little did I know how much this would be needed in my life and I'm so glad.  What a great year for it, too.  So, while 2020 was quite the year and difficult for all in many ways.  I say, for me, it was one of my favorite years.   I'm choosing to collect the blessings that I've had and felt...and this word - has definitely brought with it, fruition which I'm truly grateful about.  But... it's not over.  There is still more work to be done.  And, so with that comes blessing in boldness.

I'm already sensing a new word - for 2021.   Stay tuned!!!

****

As the New Year approaches... what is something that you look forward to?  What is that one thing that you will live out the God-ordained days of this year for, with a dedicated heart?   When looking back, what will be the "no regret" part that you will hold dear?  

Here is where and how I will answer these questions.  As the New Year quickly approaches... I look forward to a greater sense of God's peace and presence.  With a dedicated heart to living out my God-ordained days...for the coming year... I will give HIM my all, in all.  I want to be able to look back with a no-regret mindset... because I've been intentional with my time, talents and relationships.

My boldness, today, is directly linked to someone else's blessing tomorrow.

As we head to a close on this year of 2020...

The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.  ~Numbers 6:24-26, ESV

I wonder...

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What if you have been praying and praying for something to change and in your heart you know that what you decide is really going to shake things up.  Can you relate to this?  Let me ask this...

Have you ever been truly misunderstood, before?  If so.  Did you expect it to happen, or did it come as a shock, to you?  How did it make you feel?

I can remember three specific times, in my lifetime - where I knew it was going to probably happen.  I also knew I would have to be okay with the fact that people (mostly close friends and family) were not going to understand me; that, they weren't too sure - what I was up to...and why?   "Why in the world would Bevy ever rock the boat?"... I know, was the question.  It wasn't my nature.  I wasn't the type.  People liked me for who I was.  They were comfortable.  Why change - anything?  I remember reassuring myself and resolving myself to this... it truly was going to be okay.  

Here are those three specific moments...

1. When I parted with the conservative, Mennonite church over 20 years ago.  Don't get me wrong.  I appreciate my godly heritage...and, I STILL love Jesus with my whole heart - he's ALL that matters! Truly.

2. When I met my hubby online through eHarmony.  BTW: We've been happily married now for 15 years and have three beautiful blessings to wrap our hearts and arms around. We love our kids!!

3. When I started my own home-based, business - in health and wellness, little over 5 years ago.  Little did I know - that THIS was going to be SOOOO AMAZING!!  Not sure which is better - the opportunity or the products!?!  They truly go hand in hand.

Being misunderstood; was it easy, for me?  No!  But, each time I chose to stand strong in where I knew God was leading me.  And... EACH decision... has been life-changing; life-enriching, for me, as well.  I'm sure life will be filled with more of these times of misunderstandings - as time moves on.  It's sort of the nature of life.  However, I'm #sograteful for each of these times in my life, being part of my story. :)

My biggest takeaway and one that I want to encourage you to consider, is this:  Don't shy away from something you know is most likely to be an answer to the prayers of your heart.  I often wonder, what if I had said "NO!!!" and kept to my comfort zone... I wonder where I'd truly be today?  

Would that be the same for you??  

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.

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!!!!

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)

Welcome, to 2020

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A brand new year!  Hard to believe we're more than a week in and yet here we are...my first post for the year.  But, if you're like me... I'm having a hard time getting started, obviously.  I've been wanting to amp up my consistency in blogging but, truth is... I've been lollygagging.  Truth is.  My blog has had to undergo a bit of a "rearrange"... if you haven't noticed?

If you haven't, it's okay.  It's probably time for it to not seem "so busy" and go a bit more streamlined.
All that to say.  I sorely miss my "old look" and yet... I hope I can continue sharing here  - as the good Lord leads - without feeling the loss too much.

***

So, how are all my readers?

If you're new here... I say Welcome!!
Thanks for coming by and sticking around - this long.
To my faithful ones... thank you for truly sticking around - this long. :)

Can we talk about a Word for the Year?!?!

Do you have one?  Have you ever had one?
I have, only in the last couple of years...
with words like Grow or Growth, Strong or Courageous...

But... this year.  I keep thinking or feeling the word:

C U L T I V A T E

What do you think this word entails?

I look forward to sharing more about this word for me - in the next post or two.  Until then... God Bless!

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!!

fmf | Stories

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This thought of stories keeps coming to my mind and - you know - you know how a good story will often meet you where you're at... tear at the heart strings and make you really evaluate where you find yourself.  It allows you to step, for a moment, into the shoes of another and walk their road for a bit.  Never mind the unconsciously tightening up of your own shoelaces while you keep walking your own.

Stories do that.

But, as for the uncertainty part, or the unknown, it's real; it's heavy.  I find it truly amazing... how the titles do come later.

As for me.  There has been JOY in the journey.  Trusting the process to the LORD who is authoring the story of our lives.

**

Last evening, my team, had held an info meeting for our home-based business...and there literally were tears in every eye.  As we shared some powerful testimony's ... just to think... how the uncertainty was sooo very real and overwhelming, for these friends whose story we shared, and yet... looking back - they could be confident that the outcome was in God's hands completely, all along.  And now... look where they are?  Life- changing!!  Unbelievable.  Such and act of God to move..

While we "walked along" for a moment... and we have our own stories to share... we are grateful.  Grateful to God for authoring that story.  And.. for sustaining us all through the unknown.

Question is. 

Are you willing to be part of your own story?  Meaning: Owning your life... yet, trusting God, the author and the finisher of our/your faith to pen the details.

It's a captivating place.

***

I chose to follow along with Five Minute Friday link up, today.  Thanks for reading!!

Gratitude Community

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Welcome to the month of November!

I always think of November as a month set aside for expressing gratitude and time for giving...however, every day should be set aside for just that.  Right?

I found this quote by Daphne Rose Kingma, that says...
Today, see if you can stretch your heart and expand your love so that it touches not only to those to whom you can give it easily, but also those who need it so much.

Who would like to join me, that, for each day, this month, we, at best, list three things we are so grateful for?  And, can we share our love??   Can we consider this a type of community?  A gathering, per say.

I dare you to grab a notebook and a favorite pen.. and, on your own, jot down, every day - three things - you're grateful for and if there is some life you've touched!!  I have my "journal", ready to go. :)  If you'd like - you're welcome to share them in the comments. 

And, at the end of the month let's see how amazing life truly is!!   Who knows?!  Maybe, we'll form a new habit.  :)  Blessings on your day!

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!!

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!!!

fmf :: Still

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"Where meek souls will receive him still - the dear Christ enters in."

"How silently, how silently..."

These words calm me... as I sing.  Yet, outside of it all the noise and the hustle and bustle are strong.  Loud.  And, overtaking.  My heart pounds.

However, the cry and wanting prayer of my heart is louder in that I would find, in the silence, a desire and a will to prepare HIM room.

Emptying me of me.   My agenda.  My plan.  My aspirations.

That humility would wash over me, Lord I pray!

Help me receive...  

"the wondrous gift is given".

 Come, Christ-child!  Enter in.  There is STILL room!

***

Joining up with this community from Five Minute Friday.  Our thoughts in five minutes.  Today's prompt was: Still

going somewhere

 Found these footsie photos on my camera/phone.   I cannot deny - these feet are my daughter's.  :)

 She got me to thinking... about me, as a youngster, growing up.  And, to this day... I love my bare feet... to be read... I don't like wearing shoes.  But...as a young gal, my issue was occasionally stubbing a toe - as I would be running or walking down the road.  I specifically remember, one time, stubbing my toe extremely hard on the macadam.  OUCHie!!  And, oh the blood... it is a wonder I have that fifth toe still on my foot.  

Probably more than that were the times I would sprain or overturn my ankles, as I'd run across the yard.  Oh, I would have such a horrible time with that.  One time, so that I had no excuse and still had to go to school.. my dad made a "homemade" single crutch, for me, to use - which I was "so embarrassed" by.  I hated that thing!!  I remember taking it to school but refusing to use it... so I hid it in the corner of our classroom.  I'm not sure why I'm telling you all that, other then... I ask.  Why do we "refuse" help?  Especially, when it is being offered.  People looking on - know it is of our best interest that we take the help they offer. 

Oh, and then there was the time  - I KNOW I broke my toe - possibly even two of them, on the same foot.  There is nothing to be done, really, about broken toes... but... to realize... time will heal.  And... we keep moving on, right?

**

Many of you remember, that my word for this year - is Grow or Growth!!

Well... let me tell you.  That has been happening.  I'm so grateful, for it, too!!   One of the books I've been reading is by a man I heard speak for the first time, back in the summer - though, he's been around for like "forever"... is John C. Maxwell.   I fell in love with his teaching style... and wow!!  Because, of that... I'm soaking up his books.  As many as I can.    The one I'm currently reading is: 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth.

Amazing!!  I'm currently in a book study with several others and we're going through this book.  You should see my copy... totally underlined and highlighted.  It's dog-eared and notes written in on the side lines.  It's been a perfect book for me to read.  I needed it.

One illustration, John, shared in this book - encourages me soooo much!!  

Found on page 131... He writes.... Inventor Charles F. Kettering, who was the head of research at General Motors, said, "You will never stub your toe standing still.  The faster you go, the more chance there is of stubbing your toe, but the more chance you have of getting somewhere."

John continues...In other words, where there is no struggle, there is no progress or gain.. facing difficulties is inevitable - but learning from them is optional.

~~

In owning my own business... I have had some serious bumps in the road, in the past.   I have stubbed my "toe(s)" from time to time.  Which, in reality, is very encouraging.  And, I will have more "stubbed toes" in the future.   A stubbed toe - brings out all the feelings, doesn't it?  There is this temptation to give up - and hobble off the course.  However, when kept in perspective... the reality is - we've been going somewhere.  Presumably, forward!!!  And, THAT is what is truly important.  TO KEEP ON KEEPING ON!!

You don't get anywhere sitting on the sidelines - cheering everyone else along, now do you?

In my job, I am referred to as an Ambassador.  (The same applies, in that I'm a Christian - an Ambassador for Christ!)  What does an Ambassador do?

Well... they tell.  They bring good news!  They share - all the amazing things they know and have come to learn and understand.  They represent...

I like how this verse in Romans 10:15b says... 

 "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news."

You may get tired so rest, if you must, but never, ever quit.

**

PUT YOUR BEST FOOT FORWARD and KEEP GOING!!!  However....

I am going to share one word of caution.  You can't walk the road alone.  For he that travels by himself - is going too fast!!   We need each other!!  Be sure - your "buddy" is with you - as you go!!!

I hope I've been a blessing here to someone today!!!

adding value

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How you do anything is how you do everything.

~

This statement sucker punches me.  Oh, it don't take much.  All I have to do is to look around, my home, my "office", my gardening... and such...and see what all it is I don't do ... and for whatever reason - that is all that I hear.   The negative side of those words.  The connotation that I don't do anything well.

Letting these words sink in a bit...

I'm coming to terms that if I'm not impressed with my "anything"... its time to make me some changes.

However... the greater word, I need to hear and or preach to myself... is GRACE!!!

Grace doesn't mean that you give up caring...

Grace doesn't meant that you give up, as in- "oh well".

Grace means... to see the changes that you are doing; that they are better than before.  By degrees, we see that there are changes happening and we celebrate.

I will allow the phrase ,"how I do anything is how I do everything", to challenge me and convict me to change...allowing growth.

Why did I title this post - adding value?

Adding value in this case simply encourages my heart.  It is something I've been pondering, here of late.   Its an area where I want to grow.  To add value to others. Adding value whenever we meet, whenever we chat... whenever we're together.  And... I believe...it starts with me; with myself. If I want to be a better friend and to in turn feel valued by others... than I need to start by doing.  I go about with that thought in mind... How can I add value to this person that I'm about to encounter?  

I start by a simple smile and an encouraging word - maybe even throw in a hug or two.  I don't know that it will always be received and that is on that person... but somehow I believe I can make a difference.  

How I do anything... a simple smile and encouraging word, even to myself... is how I do everything... a contagious expression of a heart at peace and full of joy - will then extend and be a blessing to others.

May you have a blessed day!!

** updated to add that I recently included this post to the Five Minute Friday linkup:  The prompt word was Value.

fmf | potential

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I'm sitting here today with a steamy cup of hot coffee or is it tea?  I've had both by now.  Calendars lie open in front  of me.  My plans for the day have all turned upside down.  The rest of the weekend is looking to do the same.  And, on into next week.

What do you do when plans fail to succeed?   Are plans always set in stone?  We set this date and that.  We cross our fingers and hope for the best.  We pray for "traveling mercies" and then it all falls through.  Thank God, for white-out!  Right?

Truth is.  We never know.  We can hope and assume the best.  But potential is where its at.

Scripture talks of this.

The heart of man plans his way,

    but the Lord establishes his steps.  ~ Proverbs 16:9 ESV

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Oh, by the way.   Since I'm a fan of both White Chocolate and Coconut... these cookies are supposedly to be the best!!!  We'll see, as I'm about to taste.  

 I planned on making them today...based off of what they looked like, on a photo.  LOL.  :)  Okay.  Verdict!!  Totally, flat as a pancake... not near the same caliber.   Nonetheless.  Potential is where it stands.  {bites..}  Yup!!!
They've got it.   Gheez... they're good!!!

***

Joining today with Five Minute Friday Community.  Today's one word prompt is: potential