WILL PEOPLE CALL YOU THOMAS????

This was prompted today from an email I sent to family, friends and pray warriors. Within a half hour of sending it, we got a positive reply. To be honest I am not sure God would answer, but I was sure it would not be that quick. I am so thankful my Lord loves to prove me wrong so I can grow in Him and bask in his love. Let me start by saying this blog is probably more than for me than you. I am trying to have real JOY in my life. I have asked myself the following questions many times have you? What is wrong with me? Why doesn’t God seem to hear my prayers? Am I all alone in thinking this? The answers are easy, nothing is wrong with you. At the most, a lot of us are like Thomas, affectionately known as doubting Thomas. We just do not pray correctly, or specific enough, or pray at all. Remember God always hears your prayers His answers are always YES, NO or WAIT! We as humans do not like to be told to wait or no. God only hears your prayers if you are his child. Imagine this, the next door neighbor, let’s call him Nicholas, comes to your house and asks you a favor. You hardly know Nicholas, you are not as adapt to give him the desires of his heart. However, your sweet precious child comes to you and asks for the same thing, you are more likely to give it them. Why? Due to the fact it was your child asking. God is the same way; he only listens to his children. According to Proverbs 15:29 The LORD is far from the wicked (bad person or a person who has not admitted that they do bad things (sin)): but he heareth the prayer of the righteous.” (Just, lawful or someone that has accepted that Jesus died to ensure they could walk the streets of gold in Heaven!



You are not alone on an island thinking these things we all do. How many times have you prayed for something, only to tell people God doesn’t hear my prayers? The friends look at you kind of weird because God did answer it. It is so obvious others look at you strangely wondering how you don’t see the answer. For example we had a friend who was in business with an unsaved man and God told our friend sell your half of the business (due to the fact you may live a great life, but it is only as great as the weakest link). Well we joined with this man in prayer, several days later; someone approached our friend about buying him out. When we saw our friend a week later, he told us this story and then said, “Why isn’t God answering my prayer?” We wanted to laugh, but how many times in our life is that true.



We are given a model prayer to pray in Ps. 23rd 1The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. (fail)
2He maketh me to lie down (lurk, fall down) in green pastures (pleasant place): he leadeth (protect) me beside the still waters. (quiet water)
3He restoreth my soul (relieve, recover, refresh): he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. (a memorial individual)
4Yea, though I walk (follow, wander) through the valley of the shadow of death, (grave) I will fear (revere) no evil: (afflicted, calamity, displeasure, misery, mischief, sorrow or trouble) for thou art with me;( along with) thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
5Thou preparest (arrange)a table before me in the presence (before) of mine enemies: (adversary) thou anointest (satisfy)my head with oil; (grease such as perfumed olive oil) my cup runneth over. (Satisfaction)
6Surely (only) goodness and mercy shall follow (follow after) me all the days of my life: and I will dwell (settle) in the house of the LORD for ever.
When praying we should first praise the Lord for all he has done for you. Take a moment and think on these things. Family, a house, a job, a car, people who love you, groceries, warm clothes, and most importantly the right to pray and not be persecuted. (The list can be a lot longer; due to space I am unable to list everything. Secondly, pray for others and their needs, whether it be unspoken, physical, mental, or for their love ones. At this point you should pray for your Pastor and the leaders in the Church. You should also, whether you agree or not, pray for our president and political leaders. Finally, you can petition God to allow you to have the desires of the heart, which may be health, work, spiritual growth or anything that others may consider “selfish”.
If you follow this you will have JOY. Remember is as Jesus first, others second, Y you last.


Do you have real joy?
Tomorrow I want to dedicate to prayer requests, if you have any feel free to call, or email me at vis0226@aol.com or just respond to this post. If you don’t want your requests posted just make sure you tell me, I will not be mentioning names.

WINNING A LOSING BATTLE?

I would like to dedicate Mondays to weight loss. This is because this is the day I weigh in.The battle is the battle of the bulge. I battle I knew would take my life from my girls, their husbands and my special grandchildren!

ABOUT ME: On Jan 1, 2009, I made a resolution to lose weight, like every year before that. I knew however that I would not lose any. On Jan. 10, 2009 I embarrassed to say I was very obese, near the top of the obesity scale according to the wii fit. I weighed a total of 240 lbs (I say this with shame). Wearing size 26 clothes! I am amazed that I weighed in at 161.6lbs this morning!



VERY IMPORTANT, THIS IS NOT TO BE USED FOR MEDICAL CARE. YOU SHOULD CHECK WITH YOUR PHYSICIAN BEFORE STARTING TO DIET OR EXERICE. JUST BECAUSE IT WORKED FOR ME DOESN’T MEAN IT WILL FOR YOU. THESE ARE JUST TIPS YOU MAY WANT TO TRY.

I was so disappointed when I found out chocolate really is not a food group. Boy that was frustrating, due to the fact I am a chocolic. Thankfully weight watchers has some great chocolte recipes. (I will shaare soon) It has been a long road for me, I do weight watchers online. I am required to enter into the computer every little morsel that goes into my mouth. It is amazing how much a person eats when they have to be accountable for it. Before I eat I am able to look on line to see how many points I have used, how many more to go and what a point value is on certain foods. The computer also gives me points for my exercise every day (these are points that if I over eat I can take from).



Hi, my name is Valerie and I am a stress eater! I am learning before I put anything into my mouth, I ask am I hungry, bored, upset, or angry. If I answer yes to the last three, I will usually chew a piece of extra chewing gum. (I love the strawberry mango one) I also go to my Bible a lot and ready about gluttony, because for me to be obese that is what it was. I was lazy, sick, and just not in good health. I realized this one day and thought well I will try again. I told my husband what I was going to do and his reaction was great, he would help. You know what this man did? He made me walk around our complex with the day at least once a day! I thought he was nuts how many times before had I tried and failed. He started to look at me different when I lost 5lbs, he was genuinely excited, as was I. I wanted more; it almost became an addiction to see if I could lose more! It was a challenge now! Slowly I added step aerobics from the Wii Fit, working up to at least 40 min. a day. I also do “core” exercises (I will talk more on those next week). I learned simple things like vacuuming and dusting counted towards activity points. Guess what my house starting getting clean!
I found that I need to start each day dedicated to my spiritual health, because if that is not right nothing will be. After devotions, I eat then sometime through out the day I do my exercies, but I always pray first. Here is the verse for this week…..Pro 23:21 for the drunkard (I don’t drink) and the glutton (worthless vile) shall come to poverty (consume, destroy) and drowsiness shall clothe (wrap around him) a man with rags. (literally means rags).



I would like to encourage you, if you are trying don’t stop. Don’t give up! I am willing to be your accountability partner or cheerleader which ever you need. I am not an expert but I hid behind food to help soothe the inner hurts. To genuinely lose weight you need to come to terms of what is hurting you or why you have been hurt. This can be done many ways. One is turning over to the Lord if you know Him as your personal Saviour. There is hymn that states, “search me and try me” search within you to see what is wrong. I had stuff hidden so far down, that I did not admit these things at first. After I started losing weight, I realized my body was the Temple of the Lord…… comes back next week to read more of my diet trials!


NEVER GIVE UP!!!

WHO WAS THE BIGGEST HELP IN MY LIFE?

There are four little people who have brought a lot back into my life. I love you and thanks for making me always feel special and loved. You are special to me!

Today’s is dedicated to the biggest help of all, the Lord. The Bible says “but with God all things are possible” (Matthew 19:26) did this mean healing me and my wounds?
Over the last few years, my mental and physical health has not been good. I honestly thought, “I will be this way forever.” But some people saw potential in me and decided to pray for me, thanks. I want to show you what the Lord has taught me over the last little while, in my devotions, in preaching and through my family.

First and foremost God is the Alpha and Omega. He is the beginning and the end. Without his love for me I could not make any changes. I am a human, and as a human I am a sinner who has repented. The Bible says. Luke 15:10 “Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth." The day I asked Jesus into my heart the angels joyfully accepted me. I know for sure that if I was to die tonight I would be in heaven, because the Bible says in “1Jn 1:9 If we confess (say the same thing about sin as God) our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse (purify) us from all unrighteousness (moral wrongfulness).

We can’t go to Heaven without doing this. You might say, “but I am a good person, I help the poor, I volunteer, I am nice with my neighbors ect. The Bible says a lot about this but here is one place, “Psalms 14:1 To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David. The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that doeth good.”

The first thing that happened in my life was repentance. For me the biblical sense of true repentance means I changed my mind and reasons for living after coming under conviction of my sins and ungodliness before a perfect and righteous God. But God is merciful, and provided me a way to escape punishment for my sins. God offered me the free Gift of salvation. God’s salvation is from an eternal suffering in Hell without God to an eternity of joy in Heaven with God. True Repentance results in your spiritual birth (are born again?) and a new purpose for your life.

When I repented I came under strong conviction of my own sinfulness and guilt. I realized I am unworthy and helpless to stand before a holy and pure God. I also understand and appreciated God's mercy towards me, which is evidenced through the suffering and death of Christ on the cross for me. After repentance I have turned from my ways and started a life journey with God. I strive to live a holy life to honor and serve our Lord for the rest of my life. This does not mean I will never sin again. But when I do, I will come under strong conviction to again confess my sins and receive a renewed forgiveness and cleansing.

In Luke 6:37 Jesus says,Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven:

My problem has been easy yet complicated; usually I could forgive others, but not myself. God is changing that thinking in my mind. Yes, I have made some dumb mistakes, but all I need to do is go to Christ and ask for His forgiveness, and asked the person who I wronged or who wronged me and leave the rest to God. You may ask “how many times I should forgive". Jesus says in Matthew 18:22 "Jesus says not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Untilseventy times seven."

Lastly, for tonight, I have been learning about obedience. Every person of the whole human race is loved mightily and tenderly by God our Creator. Whatever God has ever done for the human race, he has done out of genuine love, and with an intense desire to see man happy. In the Book, the Bible, our loving heavenly Father and beneficent Creator has revealed unto the human race His divine will.

Everything God has ever said to us in His Holy Book has been said for our own good, and is conducive to our happiness here in this life, and in the life that is to come. Our obedience, therefore, to God's holy will as revealed in the Bible, is for our own personal happiness and eternal welfare. For these reasons I am learning to be obedient to God. If you have taken these steps you realize how hard it is. Many times I make mistakes and I have to go back to the forgiveness.
So the one who is taught me the most is the Lord, himself. I am glad to be a child of His! Thankfully God is forgiving me and healing my wounds!

FAMILY OR NOT, YOU TELL ME?

The following people may be part of my individual family or extended family, or not even related can you guess. Some of the people I already mentioned this week are considered family, and I love you!

AGAIN THESE ARE NOT IN ORDER!

Where do you go when you are in trouble? You go to this lady as many people have. She is a mother, grandmother and even a great grandmother. She has always been a pillar in the Church and community. She has taught me how to prioritize, make lists and how to get things down. She has taught me that even though It is on the “to do list” for today it is not the end of the world if it doesn’t get done. She has taught me to be frugal which is good, because I do have a big generous heart to the point that it hurts my family. She has taught me that am wrong. She has taught me through example what a mother and wife should be. She taught me to put people in the right order. God comes first, then your husband and then your kids. She taught me how to use coupons to the best of the coupon and how to rebate, this is exciting, I always love to see money come back to me. Through tough times, if she is biblical correct, I have seen her dig in her heals and stand firm. She taught me, don’t mess with my family, in that sense she is like a mother bear, very protective. I have heard this woman tell the story that one of her kids was away from the Lord, and she and the Lord every Sunday would do business at the altar. Her prayer? Show my child the right way, or take him home Lord. She means what she says, and you better listen. She is also so sweet, and when you are in her home you feel the hospitality flowing out of her. If you want to feel love and you are genuine, you want to be around this woman as much as possible. I love you!



I want to introduce you to a lady, is she my sister? She is very special to me even though it was not always been that way. She is the mother of two boys. Even though she did not know it, she has influenced my life in many ways. She is one of strongest people I know. That is one things she taught me, how to be strong. In the face of trials and tribulations she stays strong. We were not always close, but over the last 6 months we have started to become friends. Now she is precious in my heart and I can’t imagine my life without her. I am glad to things started to change between us. You are brutally honest, at times which I hated. Now it is great. I like the idea we are now on the same page together, we share secrets, and we laugh together. You have shown me what it is like to be a great wife, mother and daughter. Thanks for all you do. I love you!



The next is a young man. He is a very sweet, caring young man. Unfortunately, he is so sweet and caring it is a detriment to him. He is looking for someone to love in a special way. He lacks patience, in waiting on things. I now know how my lack of patience has driven people around me into frustration. He has a big heart, which is something we have in common. However, in talking to this young man I can honestly say it is because of him, I am getting away from the muddy shoe doormat syndrome. I pray one day this will happen for you, and it won’t take as long as it did for me. Our interests are not close, what he loves, I unfortunately is bored to tears with, but it hasn’t stopped our bond from growing. Please do not let woman run your life, in general they are not worth it, until you find that special girl. I love and really enjoy our conversations together!



Get the hint!

Introducing a woman who should be part of everyone’s life, in fact, in everyone’s life which is connected to hers you know you are loved. This person may love you but not like you. In fact it is not the fact that she dislikes you, but hates the sin you are committing. This person has taught me that even in the bad times the Lord is there, and all the glory should go to Him. I have seen God answer prayer after prayer after prayer. She is teaching me the Bible principle “pray without ceasing” Oh how I desire to be a prayer warrior like her. She has taught me a lot about standing by your husband, when the world is out to get him. She has taught me how to encourage my husband. This woman is younger than me, but has been put into many difficult situations and you know what, she always comes out smiling and laughing. She is a mother to three children, and is trying to raise them for the Lord. Thanks does not cover the debt I owe you for taking time, love, patience and prayers, it help me through. I am thankful you are one of the rocks I have put in place so I don’t slip backwards. I love you!



This man is balding, lol, sorry had to mention it. This one won’t be as long as the others. He is a proud father and an even prouder grandfather (It’s a boy)! This person always makes me laugh; he is very silly but very serious about the Lord and the Lord’s business. His wife is a gem. He is showing me it is okay to have a good time and laugh if the Lord is edified. This man has so much enthusiasm for the Lord it is contagious. To you, thanks for your testimony, and prayers. You are loved by many!



My next lady is the mother of one, grandmother of 2, and a great grandmother of 7! She had a rough upbringing; we really started to connect about 18 years ago. I was first furious with this woman, and part of me wanted nothing to do with her. But again she loved me the way I should be. She like many others is very honest and if you do wrong, she will tell you immediately! She taught me not to hold things in. If you do, then you are asking for trouble because the next thing that happens may not be so bad, but, because of holding it in the object of your anger it feels 10 times worse. When I have done things to displease this woman, with love she has corrected me. I love you. Thanks!



This next man is a father of five. He has taught me many things but space is limited. This man has helped show me obedience to the Lord, whether you understand it or not. He has taught compassion and I am excited because he is teaching his children the same thing. Never is there a time when I do not see this family and they are friendly and excited genuinely to see me. This has taught me that no matter what a person does or how they behave, you should always show people God’s love. God loved us so much He sent his son to die and rise again, so we could know if we are going to Heaven. Do you know, if not I will explain it to you. This man is a family man and he loves his wife and children and displays it in front of others. Thank you to you and your family you are an inspiration to me. I love you all!



THERE ARE MANY OTHERS, HOWEVER, DO TO SPACE, AND IN RESPECTING YOUR TIME, I WANT TO SAY THANK YOU FOR ALL WHO ARE TEACHING ME!

PEOPLE WHO ARE HEALING MY HEART CONDITION!

Welcome to Part 3 People who have had a positive influence in my life! Thanks for your kind words both on the blog and privately. Without YOU this series would not be possible.

AGAIN NOT IN ANY ORDER!



This is dedicated to the people who truly care about others. Gal. 5:13 states; “…..by love serve one another”. These next groups of people are not just Doctors or Nurses, but are Doctors and Nurses, who go above and beyond their “job requirements”. These doctors and nurses, do everything from wiping a tear to healing broken hearts at least they have in my life!
The first person is a mother and grandmother. She is a very caring person. She looks after a very special person. This nurse loves her work, however, does not love paperwork. Sorry needed to mention this! She loves her patients and patients’ families as well. When she is not with her patients she is concerned if they are okay. A lot, not all, nurses just rush you in and rush you out. She takes time to get to know the families and even friends of the family. This nurse has actually becomes part of the family she is responsible for. The first time I met this nurse, I laughed hysterically, she was such a comedian that day (I am being nice!) But this nurse has taught me many things and because of space I can only name a few. One area is to do the things you don’t like to do, without grumbling and fussing. There is one area this nurse does not like to do, but she does it anyway. To me that shows dedication, caring, and love. By exhibiting these qualities they are the same as our Saviour. She knows the same Saviour I know and that in itself is exciting. Christ showed his dedication to us, by dyeing on the cross. As the song states, “He could have called 10 thousand angels to destroy the world and set him free!” But he didn’t! WOW, think of the dedication, caring and love Christ showed us. Secondly, she has taught me some patience, which is not one of my good points, I am usually very impatient! But due to some circumstances in her life and how she handles things, and looks at things in such a positive way, has influenced my life! Like I said she has shown more but space is limited. Thanks to one of my favorite nurses. I love you!



The next is a Doctor. So many times you walk into a doctor’s office and have to wait, they are running behind. I do not mind waiting at this doctor’s office because I know he cares for his patients and takes time to really listen to them. He always lets me try the natural way of things before putting me on any drugs. There have been times when I have had to see him that day, and his schedule is full. The appointment clerks always tell him I need to see him and he stays late for me. This sweet doctor has taken the time to give me his personal cell phone number, and when I have had to use it, he calls back. Now keeping that all in mind, he is a family man. He enjoys getting away for the week end with his son and camping out in the snow. (I did not say he was completely sane!) He has helped show me balance in life. He always looks on the positive side of things even when it has been hard to find. When you walk out of the office you don’t feel like a number, you feel like you’re cared about. In this he has shown me how to treat other people. Thank you for not giving up on me when I have been there crying and seeing no hope, you always were an encourager. Thanks for the attitude you have in life. I love you and your wife and kids are great for allowing me to take your precious time.



My next person is also a nurse. The nurse is not only a mother but a grandmother. She has been nursing for many years, I believe usually part time. She is always a fresh breathe of honesty. Sometimes, I need to be hit by the 2 x 4, and I know she has done this to me, after we talk. But she does it with such love and concern you don’t really feel the blow but you get the point. The Bible states that the older women should teach the younger woman and she does this for me even though she isn’t old! She is always quick to turn to her Bible, and I am learning now to do that! She is very faithful to her family and patients. She is very articulate. We don’t always see eye to eye, and that is okay, because if there is an area where we don’t agree it is not something I willing to die over. We just agree to disagree and we stay friends. These are all things; I need to learn and am progressing on some of them. When I think of this person, I think prayer warrior. She spends a lot of time in prayer and is continually telling people of Christ and his love towards them. Did you know God allowed His only Son, Jesus, to die so we may live? This is what she shares with people. If you aren’t sure what I mean please ask! I love you for all you are teaching me.



My next person is a doctor. This doctor is one I talk to on a regular basis. It was not long before I found out that this person has accepted Christ as her personal Saviour. She can tell you when and how! Although I did not always think this way, I am fortunate that she does. The doctor quickly, when I am down or argumentative always asks is that what Jesus thinks? She is constantly challenging me to change my life to be more like him. Up to now, honestly, I have to say there are times when I walk out of her office and swear I will never go back. I always do, I am now ready to hear what she has to say and apply it to my life. I know this part is not long, but it doesn’t mean you aren’t an important person to me. Again, thanks for not giving up on me. Thanks for listening while I scream and cry, and understandingly you help me out of the valleys, I have put myself in. I love and appreciate you.



The next doctor has only been in my life for 9 weeks. When I met her I was determined she would not be able to help me. I went in with the attitude it was a waste of her time and mine. However, from day one she made me feel special. She has helped me the way no one else has. Again I have been blessed becuase she knows the Lord as her Saviour and understands that it is by the grace of God she knows she will go to heaven and not because of anything she does. I can, but I won't, go into the specifics of how she has helped me, but there has been a lot of physical healing because of her. Her favorite phrase is..."you have to stop letting people get to you, and relax." But this week she came up with a new one "I am not here to make people happy, I am here to serve God." Thanks for that reminder. As we have talked, I know we both have gone through some hardships and I am taking your advice on how to get over some of them. I honestly believe she loves to make me hurt...she loves the Marine Corps phrase "NO PAIN NO GAIN". She saw healing in me before I did, she knew she could help me. This lady is a wife and mother, and works around her family, which is the most important thing to her. She is not only helping physically heal but emotionally too. She tells if I don't listen to her my health will fail miserably real soon. I can't let that happen. Thank you for seeing hope in me when I couldn't. Thank you for all the torture! Thank you for always being there, and willing to talk some of my hurts out. If you live in this area and need a good physical therapist call or email me. I think we have quickly become friends, thanks and I love you even when you hurt me!



The next two doctors are probably not thought of as doctors, but they are. T
hey help to heal the hurt and sick. The wife of this doctor can be interchanged in this story, because she has the heart of God, and has the heart of her husband. The first one loves to farm, and is very dedicated not only to his family but to all he is in contact with. He has taught me a lot about farming, but more importantly he has taught me a lot of the Lord’s love. He has taught me the importance of obedience and is teaching me the importance of going to God in prayer and leaving the negative situations there. At some of my lowest points he always has had verses from the Bible to share with me. His favorite story is, Peter walking on the water, no wait, the Garden of Eden. Oh no, the story of Job or is the story of Jonah. I think his two favorite stories really are the birth, death and resurrection of our Saviour. In truth they are ALL his favorites, and when you are that excited about something you become contagious. He is teaching how to be contagious, in a good way! His is someone I can call 24/7 even if others would consider it a dumb question, his attitude is there are no dumb questions. Good thing, because I ask a lot! This man has taught me to take a Bible story and put yourself into the different people’s shoes of the story. For the first time, Dan and I did it with the Christmas story that was the most fun I have had in a long time. We also did it with Noah and the Ark. I can’t wait until date night this week to see what story we will do. I am so excited to go visit him, he always has something special to say and of importance in my life right now. The difference is I am not just listening to him; I am trying to hear him! I am thankful as situations came up he went to the Lord on my behalf. this doctor truly tends to the sheep! Thank you is nothing in comparison of the changes you are helping me make. I love you and your family.



The second one, who would not be considered a “doctor”, has been one for a short time. In that short time I know he has prayed for me without ceasing. Again, reinforcing the nurses’ teachings. He is always available to talk. His answers are ALWAYS found in the Bible! He takes the hurting people and puts ointment on their wounds from the Word of God. His family and children are important to him, but where is heart is with his family (as it should be), everyone he meets can take a small part of it. He is someone when I lashed out, I hurt because I know what he was saying was the truth, and I did not want to hear it then. I am so glad he has a forgiving spirit, because now that things are changing in my life I am ready for the words of wisdom he has. He loves to play “army” with his sons. I am glad you have a huge bottle of ointment just for me in your office! I love you and your family!



Tomorrow,family or not family?

FRIENDS WHO WILL FRIENDS FOREVER!

I hope you enjoyed my blog yesterday….today more of the people who have influenced my life positively over the last couple years. Because of their prayers, which I did not deserve (no one does), I am trying to straighten out my life, and they have been an example to me!

When I started out on this blog, I prayed like I normally do before I write anything, because I want to give the Lord the glory of all things! I did not intend for this to be all about women, neither did I intend for this to be about forgiveness, but if you have been in my life the last 6 months there is A LOT of forgiving to do. I regret my actions and reactions, and to the ladies below thanks for not giving up on me and showing me the right was to act.

AGAIN THESE ARE NOT IN ANY ORDER!



First person, as you will soon find out, is pregnant by the way congrats again, therefore she is a lady! The baby she is carrying is definitely an answer to prayer, and shows God’s loves love. She is the mother of a three year old boy! (You will hear more about him when I post out of the mouth of babes)


This is for you little guy I know you love him!

This person is younger than I, but her love, upbeat personality, and her unconditional love for me won me over! Her husband and she, like the lady below are always looking for a way to share their love with children who are strangers. Anyone who knows me knows my heart is for children. She is one of the sweetest people I know, and I know I can go to her with things and she will help me 24/7. It is kind of funny, I am watching out and concerned for her, and at the same time she feels the same to me! This person has helped me see what a Godly wife is like and that men are men! A side note, I think we need to find a local addictions program and go. We both are addicted to a certain type of games. One exciting time we had together was when she came to visit and we went to a chiropractic center and were pampered! Facials, hand rubs, seated massages, and even paraffin dip! There was a lot of good food and she definitely could have been the food critic for them that night! The funny part is this person has never had Chinese food until she came to help me one day after surgery, she is hooked. That night, for the second time, we had Chinese and according to her “she could not eat one more bite.” I wonder what happened between the restaurant and the chiropractic office. Oh, that’s right it’s the babies fault! For this person, no one else would understand this, I love you in the right way!



Coincidentally, my next person is younger than me, and she too is expecting. I can honestly say she asked me to pray that she would have another child, and I have done so every day, with excitement! I even prayed for her while she was already pregnant, and she FORGOT to tell me! She is the mother of a little girl. I think what we have most in common is our love for children. She loves to tell kids the story of Jesus and how much he loves them. I honestly have to say this person is very faithful, and willing to help do anything! Her whole attitude and countenance screams “Christian” which I am very thankful for! I would not be doing her justice if I don’t mention her husband who also loves children, he can be quite comical. You know he made up this story of a BIG storm coming and was unable to have dinner with us while his wife was away. Between my readers and me, he just did not want to come without his beautiful wife! This couple was one God put together! I don’t consider too many people friends, but I can honestly say this friendship bloomed quickly, and we are there for each other. I love you and even your husband with his funny story of the BIG storm!



This is for your hubby so that he can see what a real storm looks like. lol

The next person is a mother, I did not intend to make this mainly about moms tonight, but it is what the Lord wants. I have known this lady for about twenty years. Wow, I am dating her and I, however, she is not younger than me! She had a real passion for children and the patience of Job! When others were ready to choke a child, along she would come and hug them, and everything was alright. I believe these kids who ranged in age from tiny to teen, could feel the love of God coming from her. Don’t mistake what I am saying, she was not a push over! If you needed to be corrected for something, she was right there to do it but with love. She showed me you can be upset at someone, but when they asked for forgiveness she was always willing to give them another chance. When I asked her why, she would simply state the Bible says to forgive “70 x 7” and it was not for her to judge, she knew the Lord would take care of the situation. This lady is remarkable. My only regret is that we do not talk as often as we used to. She lives in another state, and I have not kept in touch with her. The one time I did call her out of the blue to ask for some ideas, she was right there with a lot. One of my favorite moments with her is “the stolen kiss”! I love you my friend and will always be here if you need anything!



The next person is the mother of one son. He was a miracle in their lives! If I have the story right she was told she would not have any children, now she has this son. This person again, I can go to anytime of night or day. She always makes time for me. I will be honest whether I want to hear it or not. Just before God got a hold of my heart again, she would pray continually for that, she would cry out to the Lord to help me. Knowing this, I did my standard thing (this is in the past) and shut her out of my life, without any notice or cause! She has accepted my forgiveness and even said she has been praying for 3 months what she did wrong to me…only to find out it was my stinking thinking! She was so excited when I told her what happened, because she prayed one day she would find out. Part of our problems had to do with emails of mine floating around in cyberspace. This woman has helped me realize that you do not have to be the doormat that everyone wipes their muddy shoes on, time and time again. She helped me realize I have a voice, and thoughts and I am now I am not afraid to express them quietly and in love. However, through this I know I can express my feelings but my husband has to make the final decision. This lady is faithful and reminds me of a Proverbs 31, lady. To this person, I love you, I am a sponge keep helping and teaching me!



The next lady is older than I, chronologically. She is one of the best things that have happened to me in the last six months. The most important thing I would like to share with you is she taught me how to laugh again. Even when the outcome looked dim, she showed me to look to the positive side. I have struggled with that since a teen ager, and now I am practicing it very often. I know this lady loves me, respects me and cares for me! She is always willing to help out with whatever I need help with. I mentioned to her joking in passing that I would like a certain thing, for Christmas she went out and got the stuff to help me make it in the New Year. Unfortunately, I do not see her as often as I would like, she has other family commitments, but we do talk on the phone on a regular basis. There is so much I could say to this woman, but I will sum it up by saying THANK YOU! I miss you and I love you!




Wow, I don’t know what to say about this next woman. I really have mixed feelings, I only have so much space and want to hit the highlights. When I first met this person we became instant friends, again remember that is something foreign to me. We had the same goals in mind. I even got to work on a very special project with her, that was a blast. This past 6 months we have both had our ups and downs, but have always been there for each other. I am sorry to say I treated this woman wrong, caused her undue stress, but the most important thing is she forgave me. Again, showing me the principle of forgiving. Now I do want to interject here I know the pains I caused do not come without consequences. The Bible teaches of reaping and sowing. So to the people I have hurt, I just have to turn you over to the Lord and if you will “take my lumps” from the Lord. This woman is one of the most generous woman I know, she would give you her shirt if you really liked it. Notice I said like and not need. To this person, thanks I love you and don’t give up on me!



PLEASE, NO ONE GIVE UP ON ME, I WANT TO DO WONDERFUL THINGS FOR MY SAVIOUR!

FROM HELL, TO MURDER TO FORGIVENESS AND REDEMPTION!

Some people have helped me on my bumpy road! Thanks to everyone!



There are many people who have influenced my life in a positive way, I want to take this opportunity to thank them and share what they have done. So for the rest of the week, it is dedicated to you guys, and THANKS! As you see I am not mentioning any names, and I am sure they will know who they are. I have made a quick list I am using for reference!

THE ONLY PEOPLE NOT MENTIONED HERE IS FAMILY BECAUSE EACH AND EVERYONE OF THEM IS A BLESSING TO ME AND I HAVE LEARNED FROM THEM ALL, EVEN THE GRANDKIDS! Hugs and Kisses to you guys!



This list is NOT in any special order.

I would like to introduce the first person to you. This man has had a lot of influence in my life. This man on Mother’s Day 1980, took them time to explain to me the plan of salvation. He told me a story, (I am may not have all the facts right, but you will understand) of a little boy. This little boy was very poor, his clothes were all ripped and torn. The teacher of this one room schoolhouse had a rule, you MUST take your coat off while in the school room. The first day of the cold air, a young boy came in and did not take off his coat. Since the teacher had just went over the rules, she told him about it again. In what seemed disobedience to her, the boy did not do as he was told. Sadly, the teacher needed to discipline the boy for disobedience. She called him to the front of the room and helped him remove his coat, and she tried not to gasp in surprise. The little boy did not have a shirt on, his family could not afford it. One of the older students in class was willing to take his whippings for him. Do you see the picture of Christ here? I did, God gave his only begotten son that whosoever(your name goes here) believeth in Him shall have everlasting life. Jesus died a horrible death (more on this around Easter), so you and I could know 100 % for sure if we were to die tonight we would walk into Heaven. Before this I was always told, if you follow the 10 commandments and you are a good person, who helps others, you’ll go to heaven, this is not the truth and if you believe this way, let me know I will show you what God’s Word says. I am so thankful to this man, I give you a very heartfelt thanks, I will never forget you or what you showed and taught me! I love you!



I want to remind you that just because I am a Christian and there are other Christians you may know we are not perfect. We still have a sinful practices, thoughts and ideas!



The next person is a lady. I always said after I lost the girls I would NEVER talk or witness to someone if I knew they had an abortion. You have probably already guessed this woman did. Trapped in her car one night going some place she told me she was raped, I was looking for a way out of the car NOW! However, when the person is driving 65mph down the road there is no place to go. I prayed the Lord would not let me explode at her. As much as I was trying not to listen to her, my heart melted the more she talked about being raped. This was something I could understand. When the conversation was done, God had done a work in my heart regarding this matter. You made me understand in your mind how hard it was, and that you think often of this little one who is in heaven waiting. In some ways, I feel worse for those who are “forced” (I do not believe in abortion) to have one, it must be harder on them. At least my girls going back to the Lord, the one who gave them to me, was His choice. To this lady, thank you, I have seen one soul come to know Christ because you took the time to help me understand the pain and agony you went through so I could help her. I love you!



This next person, (in some cases it does not matter if they are male or female) took the time to get to know me because they wanted to..not because they had to. I was terribly mean to this person, yet they continued to be my friend and come around. I used to push people out of my life purposely, so I would not have friends, I thought it would be easier to hurt them, rather than they hurting me. I was sooooo wrong! It did not matter what I did, this person, after me slamming the phone down in anger, would call again like nothing happen. Oh this made me angry! I would even invite this person over, open the door and I would walk away from this person, not even saying hi. Our friendship was best described in the picture below, unsteady! I was a terrible testimony of our Lord, I am thankful to say, God has given me victory over this, and this person has forgiven me! I love you!



One person is not old, but has seen many hard times in their life. In watching how this person handles negative situations, has helped me learn to deal with my own. I was a person that trusted no one, but this person had a great attitude and always had a kind word for everyone. The good attitude has shown me not to be bitter against others. This person I consider part of my family. So, age is not a factor, whether your 10 or 110, your attitude affects other people. How is yours affecting the people around you? There is so much more I want to say to you, but this is not the place or time. For a young person I owe you a big thanks, so here it is!


I love you and you are in my heart forever!

Please come back tomorrow, to read more stories!

I DID NOT GIVE UP!

Anyone who knows me, knows I have a true fear of failure, it is so bad I have not done any crafts in over 10 years. So when I started this I assumed I would fail. I prayed and God honored my efforts and determination!

I just learned to do flower arranging and some people have asked to see what I have done. First I would like to thank my friend JoAnne for helping me learn how to do this craft and encouraging me every step of the way! I can not tell you how excited I was when I finished my first by myself. I knew I could do it with the Lord's help and I would not fail!
My only regret is I don't have one that I made for my daughter, Tiffany, not sure what happened to it. Sorry Tiffany, if you can get me a pic I will post. She wanted one that could be used for holidays. I made a red, white, and blue one, that could be used for many different holidays!

THERE IS NO SPECIAL ORDER TO THESE PICTURES!!!!

The first picture is one that I made for my grandma. If you notice the pig, it is in memory of my Uncle who passed away!



This arrangement was made for my mom in Florida!



I made my mom (in Canada) a special Christmas arrangement!



Three different views of a different type of arrangement. This was made for a special friend. The arrangement has different things that this person has brought to my mind and reminded me of Christ. For example the clock shows that God's timing is not our timing, or the rubber duck reminds me of the fact I am child of God's, the candle in the center is to remind us the light of God is always burning, the black stones represent my sin and the white ones show, in accepting Christ as my Saviour, the Bible says I am "washed white as snow", one last illustration the fire reminds us of the fact if you do not ask Christ into your heart you will spend eternity burning in Hell. This arrangement is actually not done yet!





I have a GREAT Doctor and wanted to do something for him and his wife at Christmas. This man is on call 24 hours a day for me. He has gone beyond what a doctor is required to do!



The last one I want to show you is another one I made for my mom (in Canada) One she would be able us everyday!




Notice the bird house? There will be a little bird on the perch and a butterfly on the top. My mom loves both butterflies and birds!

Hope you enjoyed looking at these as much as I did making them. Thanks again, JoAnne!