Contemplating 2011; Pondering 2012

The grand-boy and I were enjoying our traditional beans. They were a tiny bit on the spicy side. That's how we roll. I had on my heart to do some lighthearted reflecting on 2011. Some goal setting for 2012 would also be in order. He was entirely agreeable. Nice. From a list of 20 questions, we each picked three. Both of us had to answer all of the questions. Mine are the odd numbered questions. The grand-boy chose the even numbered questions. Here's how it went.

Question #1: What was the single best thing that happened this past year?
The grand-boy: I went from being 9 to turning 10. Yep. The best thing that happened to me was turning 10.
Me: Really? Out of everything that happened this past year, turning 10 was the best thing?
The grand-boy: Yeah! Double digits!
Me: You are so a ten year old boy. We both laugh.

I can't even compete with that kind of answer. But for me it was when the hubs traded in that white bike (it's a long sordid tale) for his shiny new black one.

Question #2: What were the best books you read this year?
Me: Outside of reading the Bible everything I read was either work or photography related. I vaguely remember reading a book earlier in the year, but can't recall it's name or what it was about. Guess it wasn't that great.
The grand-boy: War Horse. I'm reading it now, and I really like it. But there was a book at the book fair I wanted and didn't get. Pearl Harbor. I'm going to read that one next.

Question #3: What was your biggest single time waster in your life this past year?
The grand-boy: TV
Me: TV

Question #4: What was an unexpected joy this past year?
Me: Our vacation time together. (Which, by the way, I have not forgotten about. I still have pictures to post from that excursion.)
The grand-boy: My step-dad getting to come home for Christmas. (Background: The SD is working at a construction site out of state.)

Question #5: What was the biggest thing you learned this past year?
The grand-boy: That you could use math to figure out how many miles you had gone on the number of gallons in your car. I knew how to do it. I just didn't know you could use it for that.
Me: Did you know you can use that same math skill to figure out how long it will take you to get some where?
The grand-boy: Really? No I didn't. I'm going to try that.
We both laugh.

Me: That God gives each of us gifts and talents. It's up to us to study and learn how to hone those gifts and talents so we can use them to be a gift to others.

Questions #6: What was an unexpected obstacle?
Me: The learning curve on Photoshop. (He gave me a very puzzled look, so I explained.) It has always been easy for me to learn new software. But Photoshop? There is so much it can do. It is overwhelming at times. I haven't been able to understand it as quickly as I thought I would.
The grand-boy: Being able to read a map and get us to where we were supposed to be. We took a wrong turn and I couldn't figure out how to get us back on the right road.

That was our looking back. We also decided to look ahead to 2012 with the same questions. I promise this is shorter.

For question #1 the grand-boy decided that the best thing that could happen to him in 2012 is that he would turn 13. Since that is not even possible he would settle for not getting out at dodge ball. Again, we both laugh. I have a debt I want to pay off.

We both agreed on less TV and more reading.

If we could have one thing that would bring us unexpected joy, what would it be?
The grand-boy: A new house with a new bedroom. (This is such a sad thing. It's a whole post and prayer request in itself.)
Me: Tickets to Europe.

That's our reflection on 2011 and some goals for 2012. What about you? Did you have something that brought you unexpected joy? What are you looking forward to in 2012? Just give me a shout-out.

I want to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of you who stop by my little spot. Your comments, encouragement, and friendship blesses me more than you know. May 2012 be prosperous, healthful, and adventurous for you.

Peace and Joy,
Susan

Psalm 90:12 (NKJV)¹² So teach us to number our days, That we may gain a heart of wisdom.

Not a Quitter!

Holy Cow! It's November!!! It's been almost a month since my last post. WOW! How did that happen? Oh yeah. I was on vacation. From October 6 until October 23. Sweet. Wonderful. VACATION! Through Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia, and Florida. And back again. I have hundreds of photos I'm preparing to post. It will be like a family slide show. Remember those? The carousels of slides from family vacations? No? Then you are young. Very, very young.

Anywhoo. I ran across this clip today. This is so where I am at in my photography. I know I have good stuff. It's just not the kind of stuff I'm capable of making. At least not yet. This clips has inspired me. Motivated me. Encouraged me. I hope it does the same for you.


Thank you so much for stopping by and visiting.

Peace and Joy,
Susan

Psalm 45:1 (NKJV) ¹ My heart is overflowing with a good theme; I recite my composition concerning the King; My tongue is the pen of a ready writer.

Pay It Forward 2011

Tuesday, Jennifer at A Beautiful Life posted the following message:

I promise to send something handmade

to the first 3 people who leave a comment here.

To be eligible, you must also post this in your blog,

offering the same thing to 3 other people.

The rules are that it must be handmade by you and it

must be sent to your 3 people *sometime* in 2011. 

How great an idea is this? I'm so excited to participate. I'm hopeful that you will all join in and share the love. Honestly, I have absolutely no idea what I will be sending out. Because if you have followed me for any length of time, you know that I don't have a crafty bone in my body. Not one! But I believe God will honor this and give me a fabulous idea.

After I see who *wins* I will give you a deadline of when to expect this beautifully handcrafted item. If I don't set a "due date," I'm afraid I'll procrastinate and forget to do it. I think this is awesome, and I don't want to mess it up.

I think this will be fun, and I hope you join in. Ready. Set. GO!

Peace and Joy,

Susan

Romans 15:2 (NKJV) Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, leading to edification.

Stirring the Pot - Taco/Fajita Seasoning

The first questions in last week's RD12 was: "What is your favorite Mexican dish?" and this was my answer: "My homemade soft shell tacos/burritos. I generally use leftover meat, grate some carrots to saute with the onion and garlic, add a little of my own taco/fajita seasoning, green,  red, yellow, orange bell peppers (whatever you have on hand), a little jalapeno, then some black beans (rinsed and drained, please). Roll it all up in a warmed flour tortilla and top it with a little sour cream, salsa, and grated cheese. Sometimes, I have some sliced avocado on the side too. Don't have tortillas? Crush some tortilla chips on a plate, cover with lettuce, then top with all that stuff above. Delicious! Ummmm.....can I see a show of hands? Who's coming over for dinner? lol"

Here's the taco/fajita seasoning recipe:

3 Tabl Chili Powder
6 Tabl Corn Starch
1 1/2 teasp Kosher Salt
1 1/2 teasp Black Pepper
3/4 teasp Garlic Powder
3/4 teasp Onion Powder
3/4 teasp Oregano
1 1/2 teasp Paprika
3 teasp Cumin
3/4 teasp Cayenne

Combine all ingredients, mix thoroughly. Store in air tight container.

Directions for use:


Brown one pound ground meat. Drain. Add 3 Tablespoons Taco Seasoning mix. Stir in 2/3 Cup water. Simmer 10 minutes.

Please enjoy and share this recipe.


Peace and Joy,
Susan

Psalm 128:2 (NIV)  You will eat the fruit of your labor; blessings and prosperity will be yours.

An Anniversary Dedication

 My sweet hubby and I have been married for seven years today. I love him for a million reasons. I love the softness in his eyes when he looks at me. I love the way he listens. I love how he sees the good in everyone. I love his problem solving skills and how he helps me to solve problems. I love his presence in the house. I love reaching for his hand to find that he's already reaching for mine. I love that he is steadfast, strong, and honorable. I love how strong he is in his faith. I love the way he loves our children and the grand-boy. I love that after seven years, if I got a chance for a do-over, I'd do it all again....with him. I love him. I love us. Happy Anniversary my Love.

Peace and Joy,

Susan

Proverbs 31:23 (NIV) Her husband is respected at the city gate, where he takes his seat among the elders of the land.

Thankful Thursday - 01/14/09

Whelp. Here it is.....another Thankful Thursday and the second one of 20 10. This is the day each week that I join Sonya at Truth 4 the Journey to list five things that I'm thankful for. They can be serious or silly, big or small because God honors them all.

1. I'm thankful for my wonderful husband. He's "bumping" for better days off at work. What does that mean for us? It means he'll be off on Sunday and Monday instead of two weekdays. That means more Sunday church together. It means Sunday rides on our scooters together (but on separate bikes). lol It means we won't have to take a vacation day or sick day to spend time together. Wooooohooooo. It's pretty dadgum exciting. ;)

2. I'm thankful that today it's supposed to get back up to average temperatures of the mid-40s. I'm stinkin tired of being cold.

3. I'm thankful for the awesome ideas I located for my internship project after some extensive research.

4. I'm thankful the airlines recently lowered their fares. That's right! I've been planning a trip to Charlotte in May to watch my cousin graduate. She graduates the week after I graduate and we're celebrating. Anywhoo, a couple weeks ago the flight cost about $400. Can you say.....OUCH!?? But just the other day, I purchased the same ticket for $215!!!! SCORE!!!

5. I'm thankful for the bonus day yesterday. It was a bonus because my dear hubby and I got to spend a random day together. It was fabulous.

What are you thankful for today, This Day? Please leave me a comment and be sure to hop over to Sonya's to link up with your own list.

Peace and Joy,
Susan

1 John 4:20-21 (NKJV) ²⁰ If someone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen? ²¹ And this commandment we have from Him: that he who loves God must love his brother also.

Out with the Old

I can barely believe another year is about to end. 2009 was extremely busy with selling one house, buying another house, and renting in between while we searched. It was a year of taking a picture every day. That was a huge challenge. I'm very thankful to have participated in Project 365. Just take a look at everything that transpired. Will I do that again? Probably, but not in 2010.

2009 was also my first full year of blogging. I've had my ups and downs with it. Certainly the most challenging for me was topics for discussion. Really.....what could I possibly have to say of interest to anyone else? Yet, you came, you read, you commented.....but most of all, you blessed me. I have made dear friends through this medium and am the better for them.

So where do I go from here with blogging? This question has been on my mind and heart lately as I look forward to the path that God has prepared for me. Is there a particular topic or theme I should write about? What would be of interest to you, the reader?

So, out with the old way of blogging and in with the new. What will be new you ask? A journey, an adventure, a discovery of whatever lesson God is teaching me today.....This Day! Please hop aboard for this  journey with me, pray that I will have an open heart towards God and the lessons He will teach me. Thank you so much for your comments, encouragement, and friendship. God's blessings to you in 2010.

Peace and Joy,
Susan

Isaiah 43:18-19 (New International Version) ¹⁸ "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. ¹⁹ See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland.

We Finally Have A New Home!!!

I just got off the phone with our Realtor and the sellers have agreed to the fixes that were noted in the home inspection. The appraisal has been ordered. Now we wait to close at the end of the month.

This is so not the house we set out looking for, but this is clearly the house God had prepared for us. He has planted a seed in my heart that this home will be a "magic" house; a haven where the love of Christ will be felt and realized by all who enter. Praise His wonderful name.

Here's a slide show of the house. These photos came from the listing and are kind of fuzzy when enlarged. I just couldn't wait to share. Once I have better pictures, I'll post them.

Thank you so much for all your prayers during our search. You are the best besties a friend could have because I know that today, This Day, you rejoice with me at God's provision.

Peace and Joy,
Susan

Philippians 4:19 (NKJV) And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

Things to Ponder

Something a little different today...... Think about this:

1. Cows
2. The Constitution
3. The Ten Commandments

1. COWS - Is it just me or does anyone else find it amazing that during the mad cow epidemic our government could track a single cow, born in Canada almost three years ago, right to the stall where she slept in the state of Washington? And, they tracked her calves to their stalls. But they are unable to locate 20 million illegal aliens wandering around our country

Maybe we should give each of them a cow. (Just sayn.)

2. THE CONSTITUTION - They keep talking about drafting a constitution for Iraq..... Why don't we just give them ours? It was written by a lot of really smart guys. It has worked for over 200 years. Besides....we don't seem to be using it any more. (Just sayn.)

3. THE TEN COMMANDMENTS - The real reason that we can't have the Ten Commandments posted in a courthouse or Congress is this -- you cannot post 'Thou Shalt Not Steal', 'Thou Shalt Not Commit Adultery', and 'Thou Shalt Not Lie' in a building full of lawyers, judges, and politicians... it creates a hostile work environment. (Just sayn.)

Do you have a funny story to share? Looking at the brighter side of life does wonders for the soul and attitude. Let's purpose to put a smile on someone's face today, This Day. You'll both be blessed by the experience.

Peace and Joy,
Susan

Job 8:21 (NIV) He will yet fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouts of joy.

Independence Day in Perspective

Did you know that the holiday we call the Fourth of July, or Independence Day, is meant to be a day when Americans celebrate their freedom and blessings from the Lord? Discover how our forefathers viewed this special day.

Back in 1776, as the news spread about the Declaration of Independence, Americans everywhere were joyful and excited—cheering, waving, ringing church bells. John Adams, who would eventually become our second president, was so elated that he wrote his wife Abigail two letters that day. In the second letter, he spoke prophetically about that special day, which would come to be known as Independence Day.

He said this great day:

…will be the most memorable…in the history of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations, as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated, as the Day of Deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forevermore.1

Still Standing Our nation is approaching its 233rd birthday, otherwise known as Independence Day, or the Fourth of July. Its lifespan has included not only a revolutionary war, but also a civil war and two world wars. Yet the United States has remained remarkably stable. The Constitution written by our Founding Fathers is still the foundation for our laws and governmental system.

No other nation has experienced such a long period of prosperity. In fact, since America has flourished under the Declaration of Independence, France has had fifteen different governments. Brazil has had seven since 1822. Poland, seven since 1921; Afghanistan, five since 1923; Russia, four since 1918; and the story is similar for other nations throughout Europe, Africa, South America and the rest of the world.2

America’s remarkable achievements are sometimes called “American Exceptionalism”—a term coined in 1831 by Alexis de Tocqueville, a well-known Frenchman who visited America and wrote the classic Democracy in America. In one passage he said, The position of Americans is quite exceptional, and it may be believed that no democratic people will ever be placed in a similar one.3

America Must Remain Humble However, when we hear such praises about America, we must not let pride cause us to feel any sense of superiority. Psalm 75:6,7 reminds us that achievements are from the Lord and therefore, should be a cause for an appreciative humility. President John Adams once said, It must be felt that there is no national security but in the nation’s humble acknowledged dependence upon God and His overruling providence.4

Thankfulness to the Lord was a frequently added practice to Independence Day celebrations of the past. When the godly people of our past would break bread together, they would first say grace and include some words of thanks for the many blessings bestowed upon the nation.

There was a time when a spirit of gratitude to God Almighty permeated America’s celebration of Independence Day. For example, on July 4, 1837, sixty-one years after the Declaration of Independence was first issued, John Quincy Adams delivered a speech where he noted that America’s two most popular holidays (Christmas and the Fourth of July) were inseparable. In the chain of human events, the birthday of the nation is indissolubly linked with the birthday of the Savior. It forms a leading event in the progress of the Gospel dispensation. The Declaration of Independence first organized the social compact on the foundation of the Redeemer’s mission on earth [and] laid the cornerstone of human government on the first precepts of Christianity.5

Reflect and Give Thanks The birth of Christ is the primary reason that Christians celebrate Christmas. Let’s hope that Christians also remember the true spirit behind Independence Day—which is God-given liberty. There is nothing wrong with having cookouts, shooting off fireworks and having a good time. That’s what our forefathers did when they celebrated their independence. Let’s just remember to include God in our celebrating by giving Him the praise and glory.

We live in the greatest nation on earth. Our constitutional republic form of government still provides more freedom to its individual citizens than any other form of government on earth. Thankfully, we still have the freedom to worship the God of the Bible as our forefathers did, without fear of persecution. It is He who has blessed our nation and enabled us to send out the Gospel to the far corners of the earth. It is He who makes a nation great (see Job 12:23).

Whatever you plan to do this Fourth of July, please remember to take some time and reflect on the history of the holiday. And then let’s remember to thank Almighty God for our many blessings.

Learn more about the Christian heritage of Independence Day.

1. Peter Marshal and David Manuel, The Light and the Glory, Baker Book House Company, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 1977, p. 310.
2. "Summer 2006," , accessed January 14, 2009.
3. Ibid.
4. Ibid.
5. Ibid.

This article was published in the June/July 2009 issue of Enjoying Everyday Life® magazine. Copied from Joyce Meyer Ministries website.

God bless America!

Peace and Joy,

Susan

2 Chronicles 7:14 (NIV) if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.

It's time once again for Thankful Thursday, hosted by Sonya at Truth 4 the Journey. This is the time each week that I pause to write down what I'm thankful for.....they can be silly or serious, big or small....because God honors them all.

1. I'm thankful for the faith journey I'm on right now. In essence, faith is being certain of what you do not see and sure of what you hope for. Right now.....I'm hoping for a house and I'm certain God will provide exactly what we need in His time.

2. I'm thankful for my wonderful husband. Yep....top five again! He is standing by me, encouraging me, persuading me that the houses we've placed offers on and not gotten have not been God's house for us.

3. I'm thankful for the houses we didn't buy. Seriously. This is teaching me to rely on God and expect His very best for us.

4. I'm thankful for the lesson of being content right where we are. There is a purpose and a plan in our remaining in the rental house.

5. I'm thankful for each one of you. Yes, you brighten my day, uplift me with your comments, teach me with your insight, and love me with your prayers.

What are you thankful for today, This Day? Please leave me a comment and stop by Sonya's to see how God is blessing others.

Peace and Joy,
Susan

Romans 12:3 (NIV) For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you.

Joy in the Journey

I have started this post several times but just couldn't get the words to flow. Initially, I had the title as "House Update." Yet, I felt like that was all I was able to say. The offer we made was not accepted, and we continue our search for a house to buy. Thank you so much for your continued prayers in this matter.

My outlook turned from optimism to discouragement, and it has stayed there for several days. I needed to get my mind off what we didn't get and on to what God has done, is doing, and will do for us. To accomplish this changing of my thoughts, I'm concentrating on the joy of the journey and the type of place our home will be....not just for us but also for everyone who will cross the threshold.

My joy comes not from what is seen, but from what is not seen. That joy is the work God is doing behind the scenes to accomplish His plan and purpose for our lives. This is a time to discover the treasure of where God is leading us. The journey is not always a pleasant one as He hones us (me and hubby) to take us to the next level, preparing us for the home and mission He has in store for us.

Our desire is to have a home that is a place of order, peace, and safety. This home will nurture and burst with light, joy, and love. Where the presence of Jesus can be felt. When you walk thru the front door, you should be able to shut the door on the chaos, hatred, cruelty, and pressure of the outside world and into the light of His presence. Our home will reflect the love and joy, peace and gladness of our Father in heaven.

What is your home like? Is it a place of order or chaos? Is it a dark, depressing place lacking the light of life that lifts souls? Is your home filled with nasty looks, hurtful words, disrespect, and dishonor? Or when others come into your home can they feel Jesus there?

Shut the door on the world today, This Day, and walk into the light of His presence. You, too, will feel the joy of the journey.

Peace and Joy,
Susan

Matthew 7:11 (NKJV) If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!

It's Thankful Thursday again. Can you believe it? Another week has passed already. Crazy. So what is Thankful Thursday? I'm so glad you asked. It is the time each week that I list five things for which I am thankful. They can be silly or serious, big or small, because God honors them all. He tells us in is Word....."in everything give thanks."

1. I'm thankful for the promises of God.

2. I'm thankful for my family. We had such a wonderful time in Nashville this past weekend. It was great to catch up, be silly, and make memories.

3. I'm thankful for safe travel. My drive was only 3 1/2 hours compared to the 7 hours they drove from Charlotte. We all made it to and from our destinations without incident. Thank you, Lord.

4. I'm thankful for mini-vacations. It's not always possible to take week long vacations so getting away for a weekend is a treat.

5. I'm thankful for my wonderful husband. Yep, again (actually...still). :) He never fusses about my travels.

Those are the blessings I'm counting this week. What are the blessings you are counting today, This Day? I'm sure when you count them you will be able to see all that God has done. Please stop by Thankful Thursday's host, Sonya and join in....you'll be glad you did.

Peace and Joy,
Susan

1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NKJV) in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

Thankful Thursday - 5/28/09

Y-A-Y! It's Thankful Thursday. The time each week I stop to shout to the world God's blessings in my life. They can be serious or silly, big or small....God honors them all.

1. I'm so thankful for the free gift of salvation thru my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. With Christ, I have a future and hope. Thank You, Jesus for giving up Your life so I could live.

2. I'm thankful that this week I passed the three year mark since being diagnosed with breast cancer.

3. I'm thankful for a job that affords me flexibility in my work schedule so I can spend some much needed time with my wonderful husband. His day's off are Thursday and Friday and he works second shift.....so we don't spend much face time. This summer I'm permitted to work extended hours and take off every other Friday. Pretty sweet deal.

4. I'm thankful for food, clothing, shelter, transportation. I am so richly blessed.

5. I'm thankful for the upcoming weekend. I'm headed to Nashville to visit with family. A mini-vaca for us. It will be packed full in the short time allotted to us.

That's my five this week. Please leave me a comment and let me know what you're thankful for today, This Day. Be sure to stop over at TT's host, Sonya at Truth 4 the Journey and see what others are thankful for.

Peace and Joy,
Susan

Acts 20:24 (NIV) However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace.

Thankful Thursday - 5/21/09

This is the time each week that I pause to thank God for His many blessings. Sonya over at Truth 4 the Journey sponsors this each week. Thank you, Sonya. The list is of five things you are thankful for. They can be silly or serious, big or small.....God honors them all.

1. I'm thankful for my wonderful husband. Yep.....he made the top five again this week. He is an awesome man of God, honorable, and compassionate.

2. I'm thankful for my blogger friend, Jessica at Called to Serve. This young woman has a heart for God and her husband. She is so enthusiastic about her walk w/the Lord and being organized. She introduced me to this wonderful website: A Virtuous Woman, a Proverbs 31 Ministry. If you're not familiar with it.....go check it out. There is TONS of information there.

3. I'm thankful for free online Bible studies and seminars. The Hem of HIS Garment has free lessons and eBooks for just about any topic.

4. I'm thankful for spending last Saturday with my dear friend, Kelly. We live about 2 1/2 hours apart and don't see each other often. It was good to catch up and share hearts.

5. I'm thankful for This Day! The beautiful sunrise, the fragrance of honeysuckle in the air, and the roar of my Harley as I rode to work this morning. :)

It's so easy to get caught up in the day to day struggles of life that we sometimes overlook God's blessings. What are you thankful for today, This Day? Please leave me a comment and be sure to stop by Sonya's to see how God is blessing others.

Peace and Joy,
Susan

Psalm 30:12 (NIV) that my heart may sing to you and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give you thanks forever.

Thankful Thursday - 5/14/09

This is the time each week that I pause to give thanks for five things for which I am thankful. They can be silly or serious, big or small, because God honors them all.

1. I'm so thankful to Sonya at Truth 4 the Journey for hosting TT. Each week I have the opportunity to reflect on my life and how God has blessed me. Then I visit the sites of the other participants. This gives me a peek into their lives and God's work in them. There are times when are lists are very similar. Other times, I'll look at their lists and think.....yep, I'm thankful for that too.

2. I'm also thankful for the book Sonya is giving away this week: The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman. My husband gave me a copy of it with a beautiful bookmark while we were dating and made it required reading. He was (and is) dedicated to the success of our relationship. This book taught me how to selflessly communicate love to him in ways that inspire confidence and lift his spirits.

3. I'm thankful that family and friends escaped the Storm of the Century unscathed and with minimal property damage.

4. I'm thankful for my friends. These gals are a ton of fun and we always have a great time together.


5. I'm thankful for my blog peeps. That's right......YOU! You brighten my day! I love reading your blogs and the comments you leave for me. You are teaching me, encouraging me, and praying for me. Your kindness and humor have brought tears to my eyes and smiles to my face. You are truly a blessing.

That's my list for the week. How has God blessed you? What are you thankful for today, This Day? Leave your comment here or link up at Sonya's.

Peace and Joy,
Susan

1 Chronicles 16:8 (NIV) Give thanks to the LORD, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done.

Thankful Thursday - 5/7/09

This is the time each week where I list five things for which I am thankful. Silly or serious, big or small, God honors them all.

1. I'm thankful for my hubby. Yep, he's in the top five again this week. How can he not be? Seriously? He is so concerned about me and wanting me to be comfortable in the house we're renting. He spends hours on the internet searching the housing market to find us a house to buy. He's a blessing straight from God!

2. I'm thankful for being the BIG WINNER!!! What? You haven't heard??? Oh yes! Krystyn at Someday I'll Get There chose me for her first ever giveaway. Click HERE to read all about it and see all my goodies. Thank you, Krystyn.

3. I'm thankful for changing clothes trends. Wait.....what? Oh yes, remember a couple years ago or so when shorter/midriff length tops were the fashion. Thankfully, that trend has passed. Longer tops are in style. Y-A-Y!

4. I'm thankful to be back in church. With moving and my weekend class schedule, we missed a few Sundays. It's good to be fellowshipping and praising God in His house again.

5. I'm thankful that God's hand is on Josh and that he survived a horrific accident. No, I don't know Josh personally. He's related thru marriage to one of my dear blog peeps, Gigi. We've been praying for his complete and speedy recovery. Please join us.

That's my five. What are you thankful for today, This Day? How has God blessed your life? Your family? Your friends?

Peace and Joy,
Susan

James 5:16 (NIV) Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.

I'm a Winner!

How cool is that???!!!?!?! Krystyn at Someday I'll Get There had her first ever giveaway and I W.O.N. So what did I win? Why am I so excited? Just take a look. She made these fabulous cards. That's right.....made them. I am facinated by that fact because I have absolutely no creative talent whatsoever! And Krystyn made seven different cards for birthday, well wishes, encouragement, and of course....lovey cards. PLUS a journal (ok, she didn't make this journal but it's still awesome); which I plan to put to good use tracking my prayers. Aren't the beautiful???




Krystyn has an etsy shop where she sells her original creations. Click on the link HERE to see what's available. I'm sure she'd be happy to create something just for you!

It's wonderful how God has given each of us talents and gifts. Krystyn, Robin, Laurie, and Sara are each so blessed with artistic talent. Yet, their talents are uniquely different, just like each of them. Praise and thank God today, This Day for the unique person He made you, the talents and gifts He has blessed you with, and use them for His glory.

Peace and Joy,
Susan

Romans 12:5-9 (NIV) ⁵so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. ⁶We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. ⁷If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; ⁸if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.

Blessing of the Bikes - 4/26/09

Nearly 6,000 people, riding more than half as many motorcycles, journeyed to Bald Knob cross for the 17th annual Blessing of the Bikes, an event hosted through the Christian Motorcyclists Association.

Sponsored by The Lord's Paheece CMA chapter, the gathering is meant to encourage prayer and worship among riders. It is a magnificent event bringing bikers together regardless of their beliefs. There is a brotherhood and camaraderie that cannot be found anywhere else.

On This Day for many, it is the only church they will attend all year, the only the only time they will hear God's word. Seeds have been planted and we thank God for the harvest.

Peace and Joy,
Susan

Luke 19:10 (NIV) For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost.

Count Your Blessings

Yesterday, my blog buddy, Rick at Organized Doodles, posted this Pet Peeve monster and made a challenge to get some of my own angst off my chest. So what are some of my pet peeves? People who complain.....you know them.....they're around every day. They are the Debbie Downers who never have anything good to say to you or about you. A friend of mine calls them "toxic relationships." These people are toxic to themselves and everyone around them.

What is your solution when people like this try to bring you down.....suck you in to their toxic world? Me? I turn it around on them. When they want to talk about this situation, or that problem.....I remind them of the many blessings they have that counteract those problems.

Have you tried that? What do you do when you are feeling down? Try listing your blessings! Every single one of them. Even if you have an illness, are unemployed, or just need a moral boost, writing down your blessings truly puts things into perspective. Do you remember the song....Count Your Blessings?



So I challenge you today, This Day, to kick that Pet Peeve monster to the curb and count your blessings. They are numerous and your attitude and outlook will be changed for the better.

Peace and Joy,
Susan

2 Peter 1:4 (NIV) Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.