Out with the old . . . In with the new!

Tomorrow we will be saying, "Happy New Year!" Of course, for us hearty souls who like to stay up late on New Year's Eve to be among the first to ring in the new year, it will happen tonight. It's my favorite night of the whole year! For me, it's not just about celebrating the arrival of a new year -- it's also a celebration of finishing something, and of putting to rest all the difficulties and sadness of the past year. For me, it's truly a time of rejoicing and making way for a new beginning!

"Forget the former things (mistakes and failures); do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing; now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness, and streams in the wasteland." (Isaiah 43:19, NIV)

From my daily calendar:
"The new year will not be a repetition of the one just past, but a year of new beginnings, new resolves, new plans. It will be filled with:

new experiences,

new challenges,

new opportunities,

new lessons to be learned.

We may be transferred to new surroundings;
new joys may overflow our hearts;
new sorrows and heartaches may enter our lives.

As we are about to enter a new year, we can look forward to it with great expectancy. We are to turn our eyes away from the past year and look forward with eager anticipation to a new year, fresh from God's hand to us. Regardless of what the year may hold, God promises, 'See, I am doing a new thing.' "

"...forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead..."
(Philippians 3:13b, NIV)

Cheers!

'Tis the season . . .

(click on pictures to enlarge)
(Bummer...forgot to light the candles in the windows before this photo was snapped!)


(Oops...all the beautiful little twinkle lights got washed out in the picture!)


One more try...
Belated "Merry Christmas" greetings!
It truly was a very beautiful, very merry Christmas in our little world!

Blog pic

To everything there is a season...

A Season of Rest
It's something I've been thinking about over the last month or so, and it's time to make the decision. My interest in the blog world has been waning. Perhaps my season of blogging has run its course. I've enjoyed it, but perhaps it's time for a season of rest--from blogging. There's so much more I want to enjoy in life, and blogging seems to keep me from it. For me it's all-consuming, and it seems that the only way I can get free of my "addiction" to it, is to make a complete break from it. Perhaps I'll return someday, but for now the sun has set in my blog world.

Reunited!

Together again at long last--sisters three and our dad. What a grand visit we had! What a wonderful week back in our home state of Michigan! What fun to visit with relatives on both sides of our family! But, today I'm glad to be back home! Going away is fun, and getting together with precious family is great, but nothing can compare to coming home!

My Day!

Today is "my day"! The sky is bright blue and nearly cloudless! The sun is shining and the temperature is very pleasant! It truly is a beautiful day!

I can choose for myself today--if I want to. So, for starters, I indulged in a little extra sleep this morning--sleeping in till 8:30. I had a very full weekend, with lots of fun stuff going on, and several very late nights.

A couple of highlights:

Friday night our house was full of friends for a dinner party -- 10 of us (5 couples). The ladies chose to "bless me" (as they put it). They came in and took over my kitchen, shooing me off to give house tours to those who hadn't been here before. The men all sat outside on the deck, discussing all the important matters that men discuss (like world peace and cars), while the women chit-chatted happily in the kitchen, surrounding the stove and snack bar, discussing all the fun stuff that women discuss (like food and family and friendship). We ate on the deck, enjoying some of Larry's recent salmon catch and other incredible culinary delights. As the sun set and the beautiful colors in the sky deepened, we drank in the awesome beauty of twilight and then finished it off with a yummy chocolatey dessert by candlelight. Laughter and conversation continued out there till about 10:00 or so. What a totally wonderful evening!

Yesterday (Monday) we went sailing with our friends, Bennie and Debbie. That is always such a fun treat! Each time we do it I love it more! There is nothing like being out on the water, in beautiful surroundings, soaking up the sunshine, letting the wind blow through your hair, nibbling and sipping, chatting and laughing, all while working all the riggings of a sailboat -- and doing it all in the pleasant company of good friends! Oh, did I mention the excitement of staying out of the way of the big (ocean-going) ships that cruise by occasionally, and then bouncing on the big waves they leave behind? Woo hoo - what a ride!

What a great weekend we had!

My next choice this morning was to spend some time with God, reading His love letter to me and letting Him tell me what He wants me to know and how He wants me to live my life. That is of utmost importance to me! You see, I like to make my choices for my life according to His choices for my life. I have found that it works best that way.

After that, my next choice was to spend some time with one of my favorite hobbies--the computer (Spider Solitaire and the blog world). I have visited many of you in your blogs this morning--always looking for new pictures and something new to read.

But, now that my pleasant morning is drawing to a close, I guess I need to turn my attention to the other stuff of my day--getting ready to go to Michigan for a week's visit with my sisters and my dad, and many others in my family. Included in the visit is an extended family reunion on Sunday (my dad's side of the family), and a visit with my aunt and uncle (my mom's sister), and some time to enjoy the beach at Lake Michigan (just my sisters and me!). WOO HOO! Can't wait!

Coming Soon?

A friend of mine, whose viewpoint and wisdom I greatly respect, posted something in her blog yesterday that seriously grabbed my attention! It is regarding the "rapture" -- a Biblical teaching that many Christians believe could happen at any time. If you're interested in this, click here.

I found it very interesting because this is something I have been casually studying for several years. What I read here lines up perfectly with what I have been reading (in several different sources) over the past several years. Yes, I know there are "scoffers" among fellow believers, but the Bible clearly teaches that there is great reward for those who eagerly watch for the coming of Jesus Christ. I am one of those who eagerly watch for the signs of His coming! The Bible also clearly states that we need not be caught unaware of His soon return, but that we can be alert because of all the signs and information that He has given to us, so that we will not be surprised as one would be by a thief who comes in the night.

My excitement has now heightened just a bit (okay, by a whole lot), and I just wanted to share this with you, just in case you are also one like me who eagerly watches for His return, anticipating it with great joy and excitement. Will this be the time? Only God knows, but why not enjoy the expectation and excitement? If it doesn't happen according to this time table of events in Jewish history, that won't diminish my eager expectation and excitement -- I'll just keep on watching for it!

Life is a Journey

This morning I read something in "The Message" (The New Testament in Contemporary Language): "Your life is a journey you must travel with a deep consciousness of God." That really caught my attention, so I sat and thought about it for a while. Since it has stuck with me all day today, I've decided to share my thoughts.

First, I thought perhaps I should look it up in a different Bible, because either I don't remember reading that before, or I simply didn't recognize it in the "Message" version. There are no verse numbers in the "Message" version, so I wasn't sure which verse it was -- only that it was somewhere in the first chapter of the book of I Peter. The closest Bible I had handy (in the office) was the old King James version that I grew up with (and used until 1980). I looked and looked, read and reread that chapter, but couldn't find it! Then I tried reading that chapter in the New Living Translation (my favorite for casual reading), and finally found it. It's the end of verse 17.

Here's what it says in the old King James Bible: "...pass the time of your sojourning here in fear". Is it any wonder that sometimes we miss what we really need to see when we read the Bible? I don't know about you, but I know this about me: I tend to just gloss over stuff if it isn't written in easy-to-understand, contemporary language. Maybe my brain is lazy, but I prefer to make sure I get all that I can get, and not miss a thing if I can help it! If I can glean a whole lot more by reading the Bible in the type of language my brain thinks in--so be it!

Now, back to my thoughts about my life being a journey that I must travel with a deep consciousness of God . . .

Sometimes my journey takes me to the beach -- I love it there! I'm caught up in the atmosphere of total fun, and I'm mesmerized by the sight and sound of the waves rolling in and washing back out to sea endlessly. Everyone is having such a good time in the sun and sand and water -- life is all about play and relaxation!

Sometimes my journey takes me into the woods -- I love it there too! I'm quieted by the stillness and aloneness that I experience back on an almost hidden trail where no one else (I hope) has ventured in at that time. My private thoughts are undisturbed except by the occasional flittering of birds or rustle of the ferns by an unseen little critter. (At times like this I always long to live in a totally safe world, free from all worries and fears for my safety.)

Sometimes my journey takes me to places of discomfort and distrust. I don't like it there at all, but it's there that I am most likely to completely depend on God for His help. It's there that I experience what God wants me to learn -- what I would choose to skip! That's where the most growth and maturity takes place -- not so in the comfortable, easy places.

Sometimes I find myself totally bored with my journey -- I want something new, something exciting and fun! But, when I'm the midst of fun and excitement, quite often I'm too distracted to spend time alone with God, and when that happens, pretty soon I've lost my hunger and thirst for that time alone with God.

Perhaps it's best that I keep this thought always in the forefront:
"My life is a journey I must travel with a deep consciousness of God."
I want to be fully aware of His presence (and my need for Him), no matter where my journey takes me, so that when the journey is tough,
I can be reminded that: "The joy of the Lord is my strength!"

Sailin' Through Life!

Yesterday was one of those favorite summertime pleasures -- sailing with our friends, Bennie & Debbie, on their 30 foot Catalina sailboat!
It was a gorgeous, perfect-sailing-weather kind of day -- beautiful warm sunshine with good wind! We've been friends for about 8 years now and we always have such a good time with them -- whether sailing or just hangin' out -- it's always a treat to get together with them!



Today marks our 36th anniversary of sailing through life as husband and wife - teamed together with God at the helm! WOO HOO -- What a ride! No regrets -- if I had to make the choice all over again -- I'd choose this partnership again! Larry is still the man of my dreams and the love of my life!

testing...testing...1-2-3...testing

Recently I got a new cell phone -- a camera phone -- WOO HOO!
Only problem is -- I still haven't put the time into figuring out how to use the camera feature! Right now I'm too busy playing with my new computer, trying to get it all set up, and make it feel like "mine"! The new computer was needed after both of our computers decided they no longer would access the internet! Who knows why!!! Even the tech support gave us very little hope of recovery! After 2 weeks of being without internet access, we finally got the desktop computer working again in a very temporary mode, but the laptop still refuses to access the internet. Well, now, at long last, I have a new computer and everything is working just fine!!

Now, if only I could figure out how to use the camera phone!! Well, here's a self-portrait, which is just part of the learning process.
P.S. No, my teeth are not "sunshine yellow!" It's either a reflection of my sunny personality, or the color bounced off the sunflower next to me! Nor is my shoulder black (burned to a crisp) -- what a strange camera!

He's back!

Our son Jim has moved in with us. Actually, he did that two weeks ago, but spent only one night here before leaving to explore the east coast. Yesterday he returned and we spent the evening enjoying his tales and photos. We don't know how long he'll be living here with us (it's only temporary), but it sure is nice to have him back!

Just think . . . someday the Lord (God Himself, in the person of Jesus Christ) is going to return! I'm anticipating His return with great excitement! I'm longing to see His face for the very first time! He doesn't plan to stay here, nor do I! He's coming to get those who love Him and take us back home (to Heaven) with Him. The home He has prepared (for those who love Him) is way beyond anything we could ever imagine, and we'll live there forever and ever (with Him) -- life without end! But, only those who have given their hearts to Jesus will go there. Sadly, those who have rejected Him here on earth, will be left behind!

Do you love Jesus? Have you accepted His love and forgiveness? If so, you'll be going along. If not -- please, please, please, make that decision today!!! You're invited, but you must accept His invitation. Need more information? Email me: jeanniesear@gmail.com or you can just ask God! Tell Him you're interested in getting to know Him. Tell Him you're interested in knowing Jesus Christ! When you decide to give your heart to Jesus, you become a part of God's family! And, when He returns for those who love Him, you won't be left behind!

Someday, very likely in our lifetime, He'll be back, and it will be totally by surprise--no warning bells, no preliminary announcement! It will happen in an instant -- the Bible says "in the twinkling of an eye", and, at that moment, there will be no time left to make the decision! Are you ready to go when He returns? Now is the time to decide -- you might not have tomorrow!

Abundant LIFE!

Today I'm, once again, at the start of a new week, wondering what all it holds in store for me . . .

Yesterday (and the day before) I was at a Women of Faith conference called "Extravagant Faith" -- two whole days of joy -- exuberant joy -- hilarious, side-splitting laughter (mixed with a few tears), combined with making a loud (very loud), joyful noise unto the Lord (blended with a bit of "dancing before the Lord"), and having a ton of fun! I'm guessing this was my 5th or 6th time to attend one of these conferences, and decided that this annual conference is so good for me that I would go alone if I had to, rather than miss out on it! Thankfully, I've never had to go alone, but from now on, I will go alone if I have no one to go with -- it's that worthwhile!

Tomorrow (and today) I want the joy of Jesus to so captivate the inner me (and the outer me) that I experience (and radiate to others) -- abundant life! "Happiness" depends on our circumstances, but joy depends on what is deep-rooted within us -- that which overflows when we delight ourselves in the love of the Lord! Jesus said He came that we might have abundant life! Yes! That's what I want! For me...extravagant faith, which results in exuberant joy, translates into abundant life -- and I hope it's contagious!

My Answers to the List

Because I was "tagged" by my daughter to give answers to a list of questions that somebody thought would be fun to work on, here's my feeble efforts:

5 snacks I enjoy: I'm not a snacker. How about...
5 desserts I enjoy:
1. tiramasu
2. cheese case with fruit topping (especially strawberries)
3. strawberry shortcake
4. creme brulee
5. French pastries

5 bands/singers that I know most of the lyrics to their songs:
1. The Gaithers
2. The Beach Boys
3. Bobby Vinton
4. Ricky Nelson
5. Roy Orbison
(Actually, most of the rock 'n roll stuff from the early to mid 60's)

5 things I would do with one million dollars:
1. Allow my husband to retire right now (instead of waiting till age 65)
2. Give some to our church
3. Give some to our kids
4. Give some to an urgent need in someone else's life
(which I know God would present to us)
5. Enjoy a massage or a day at the spa once a month
6. Have a home in our favorite location
(Hmmmm....I might need more than one million!)

5 locations I'd like to run away to:
1. The Caribbean (either St. Thomas or St. Martin)
2. Tahiti
3. Hawaii (Kauai)
4. So.California (specifically right on the beach in Orange County or San Diego)
5. Heaven

5 places I'd like to visit someday that I've never been to:
1. Tahiti
2. Wales
3. France
4. Greece
5. Israel
(Actually, there are many, many more -- way more than 5!)

5 bad habits I have:
1. wasting time on unimportant things
2. neglecting what must be done!
3. ignoring the needs of others when I'm lost in my own little world
4. interrupting when someone else is talking
5. focusing on myself too much

5 things I like doing:
1. traveling / exploring new areas
2. being at the ocean (sunbathing, beach combing, walking in the water)
3. going to movies
4. visiting (one-on-one) with a friend
5. walking in the woods (or driving woodland trails)

5 things I would never wear:
1. baggy pants
2. funky, fadish extremes (way out on the cutting edge of ugly or shocking!)
3. mismatched tops & bottoms
4. wrinkly (should-have-been-ironed-but-wasn't) shirts
5. totally out of date stuff (if it was just a "fad" to start with)

5 TV shows I like or liked: -- I'm not much of a TV watcher!
No current "likes", but did enjoy:
1. Emergency 911
2. Who Wants to be a Millionaire?
3. Cheers
4. C.H.I.P.S.
5. Happy Days

5 movies I like: -- Going to movies is one of my most favorite things to do, and I've loved a lot of them, but can't remember titles! (My favorites are the "feel-goods" -- romantic comedies and tense dramas which have a good outcome!)

5 famous people I'd like to meet:
1. The Smothers brothers -- no, wait, I already did that! (Oh what embarrassment and laughter that caused -- haven't lived it down yet!)

-- Can't think of anyone else at the moment! I guess fame just doesn't impress me. I'm much more thrilled to be with those I already know and love!

5 biggest joys at the moment: (in alphabetical order)
1. my family
2. my friends
3. my home
4. my relationship with God
5. the grand privilege of being a "stay-at-home wife & homemaker"

5 favorite toys:
1. the computer
2. Lincoln Logs
3. Hula Hoops
4. my mountain bike
5. our canoe
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Here's a few more items I found on someone else's list:

10 years ago:
"1995" (living in Southern California) was the year I "officially retired" from the work world! After a few months of "healing" (regaining my mental stability), I became a nanny for a 3-month old darling little girl, who became the delight of my life (pre-grandma days) for a year and a half.

5 years ago:
"2000" (living in the Pacific Northwest - state of Washington) found me busily involved ("head-over-heels"--don't know which end is up) in women's ministry at my church. It was my first year as co-director of "Quest", a women's Bible study program for about 70-80 women. That year also included the birth of my second grandchild, and the big change of life for me (menopause) -- truly opposite ends of the pole for the best and worst life experiences!

1 year ago:
"2004" found me living in an apartment after moving from Washington to Oregon (while waiting to move into our new house) -- a five and a half month span of life that was five and a half months too long! (Constant noise overhead, all hours of the day and night, allowed very little rest, plus we were very discouraged with our search for a new church, and had not yet found the church that we now call "home".) Also, one year ago today was less than one month after our daughter and her family (our two grandchildren) moved to Montana, after living close-by for the last seven years! It was indeed a tough time in my life!

Now, why was I dreading working on this list? Actually, it's been a very good thing to work on! Your turn -- TAG! You're it!

New Week!

Okay, y'all -- a new week has begun! What's in it for me? Hmmmm....

1. What do I want to be in it?
2. What do I hope is not in it?
3. What am I willing to put into it?
4. What am I willing to block out of it?
5. What am I willing to do?
6. What am I not willing to do?
7. What would make it a great week?
8. What would make it a lousy week?
9. What would please God? (instead of "What would please me?)
10. What would bless others? (instead of "What would bless me?")

A new week -- a new beginning! How totally refreshing!

A Fish Tale

Please permit me the pleasure of presenting my husband -- the proud fisherman! I'll let him tell his own fish tales!

Well, by popular demand (at least a few people wanted to hear about my trip), I will tell the story. Last Wednesday, as I was preparing for my boss to be gone on another "junket", he came up to my desk and told me several people had cancelled out of his Northern Canada fishing trip. To my surprise, he asked if I would be interested in going. If I could be in Vancouver, BC the next morning, I could go. "Sure" was my response. I have been wanting to go fishing for quite a while, but never imagined going fishing in the wilds of Canada.

We left Vancouver for Port Hardy - on the northern end of Vancouver Island.

From there, the only ways to get to the fishing camp, tucked back on River's Inlet (in the coastal waters of British Columbia's mainland), was by boat (probably a day's journey) or by float plane. We opted for the planes.
I went on a "Goose". We were talking to the pilot, asking him how old the planes were. He said we were on the new one. It was built in 1944. Most of the planes were several years older.

Some from our group went on the "Beavers" -- smaller planes, built in the 1930's.

We flew over such a beautiful part of God's creation. The islands were just scattered here and there, and the water wove a tapestry of green around them.
Rivers had carved their way through the rocky mountains as they worked their way to the sea.
Finally, we arrived at the camp that would be home for the next few days. The staff was ready to welcome us.

Accommodations were what you would expect back in the bush, except for the food. The chef kept delicious food on the table for us at each meal.

We took the 17-foot boats out Thursday night for a few hours, and my partner and I didn't find any fish. It was nice to get out in nature, but we were there for fish.

Friday morning found us already finished with breakfast, and out on the water, as the sun came up. (That was the last time we saw the sun while we were there.)
A beautiful new day was dawning--one that would be filled with fish!!! (or so we hoped)

We took the boat out to the other side of the inlet (about seven miles). We watched sea lions pass near the boat. We were afraid they were beating us to all the fish. Before long, I felt a tug on the line, carefully let out a little more line, then pulled hard to set the hook. There it was, my first catch - a pink salmon. I had Chuck take a picture, just to prove that I really did catch a fish. (It might be the only one I catch, so I am certainly going to get proof.) After lunch the rain began. The rain slickers kept us dry, but the hands get cold and water-logged. By the end of the day, Chuck and I had each caught two "pinks".

Saturday, was spent in the rain, sometimes pretty hard. From the boat, we watched two bald eagles eating their catch on the rocks. As we got a little too close for their comfort, they took off for a nearby tree. We watched them for 5-10 minutes and they watched us even more closely. Chuck got some good pictures of the eagles, so as soon as I can get them, Jeannie will post them. We had to stay somewhat close to camp, as there were gale warnings out for the inlet. Chuck got one "pink" on Saturday, and I only had the memories of the two that got away.

Sunday morning found us out again with the wind whipping! The fishing had been best on the other side of the inlet but the water was choppy. We followed one of the guides out, and after a four-foot swell, he said if conditions didn't improve, we would head back closer to camp. The water did not get any worse, so we spent the morning fishing in the "rich" fishing spot. Chuck got a couple coho and a pink. but again, all I had was the sight of the one that got away. I was a little disappointed, but glad for Chuck.

Bad news - The float planes could not get out of Port Hardy to come and get us Sunday afternoon because of the fog. The weather at the camp was marginal, but it didn't matter since the planes couldn't get airborne. This had only happened four times in the 22 years the camp had been there (three of them while my boss was there, so he got the blame).

There was only one thing left to do and that was to go back out in the rain in search of the "big one". Five boats went out to one of the close-by spots. The other four boats had professional guides in them, and then there was Chuck and me--neither with any real fishing experience. As we slowly trolled off "The Wall" (so named because of its sharp 75-foot cliff that went right into the water), I felt a tug on the line. I let out a little more line, gave a hard pull to set the hook and BANG-- there it was! The fish took my hook and began to run. You know it is a big fish (not the small pink) when they start to run. He took off like lightning. I reeled him back in some, then off he went again. The game had begun! I worked hard to keep the line tight, and not lose him. A few more times of back and forth, and he was close enough to the boat for Chuck to get under him with the net -- a 20-pound Chinook salmon! The boats with the guides got zip - zero - nada! What a way to end the trip!

The staff there cleans and fillets the fish. When I got home Monday afternoon and opened the box with the fish that had been flash-frozen, I felt like my grandson Tano when he saw Grampa Smith's deer -- "We are rich!" What a great way to spend a long weekend!

Patiently waiting . . .

New posting has been postponed while I patiently wait for a special guest poster to pop into this page (a particularly special person in my life). He was away for a period of four and a half days, for the purpose of pulling in the plunder of a 28-people fishing party (a nice little "work-perk"). Since returning, he's had the predicament of having to work late the last two nights (the price to pay for being at play -- "Play first...pay later!"), and when he finally gets home at night (quite late), he's too pooped to post! So, I'm patiently waiting for my partner to plop down and poke away at this keyboard, providing his fishing tale for your pleasure. (Perhaps a little applause will bait the hook and reel him in posthaste!)

Vacation Photos

Two weeks ago today, I was getting ready to leave for our vacation -- Vancouver Island (British Columbia). Just a day and a half after returning from vacation, we picked up our grandchildren to keep them for a week. Yesterday I returned them to their mom and dad, so now (better late than never), I finally get to post pictures of our vacation.
If you look close you'll see our ferry boat coming into the "Inner Harbor" at Victoria. (This picture was taken from our hotel balcony.)

Can you find me? Perhaps I'll just leave you guessing!

Moments to Savor

Oh where, oh where has my little blog gone?
Oh where, oh where can it be?
With my grandchildren here,

and my time thus spent,
There's just no time left for me!

No, wait...this IS my time! I'm having the "time of my life"--with my two precious little ones! We've been to the ocean (built sand castles and jumped in the waves); we've been to a wonderful, huge "fort" play park (no skinned knees or bumped heads this time); we've been to the library (checked out 11 books and read them all already); we've been to the big water fountains (twice) where all the kids run screaming through the cold water (no injuries, except to my ear drums); we've played with bubbles and sidewalk chalk; watched videos, gone for walks; played (wildly) with their dearest Uncle Jim (my son); and enjoyed snack times (twice daily). Hmmmm...what else is left to do?

Well, today we're going back to Vancouver, Washington (our old stompin' grounds) to play at the "pond" -- a nice little grassy green park with a small, kid-friendly beach, just a mile or so from where we used to live. Plus, we're doing one of those must-do "gramma-things" -- go shopping for some school clothes (one new outfit for each kid). Tomorrow I'm taking them to a hotel with a pool -- on the way back to return them to their parents. Mom and Dad have been working at a Christian camp this week, as counselors/dorm parents for the group of teens they brought over from Montana last Saturday. We'll arrive at the camp on Friday morning, just in time for the closing celebration, called "Say So!" -- a time filled with much excitement and tears as the teens who accepted the Lord during the week stand up and "say so"!

It's been a good week here, such a pleasure for me to have my two very special little grandchildren with me -- 8 yr.old Nathaniel and 5-yr.old Elliana. My time has belonged to them, and it has been well worth it! Moments to savor!

The Great Black Hunter

Pretzel is her name -- birds and mice are her game.

How she catches them, I just don't know!

Thirteen years old and getting slow,

but patiently waiting and crouching low,

she suddenly pounces before they go!

Catching those mice--I'm thankful for!

But, why must she grab the birds I adore?

Surely, she has no intention to kill--

just wants to impress me with her skill;

but, wouldn't it be nice if she only caught mice!

Cat-Scam

'Twas the start of the day, and all thru the house
Not a creature was stirring--not even a mouse.
I was all settled within my blue chair,
With Bible in lap, and sun shining fair.
When all of a sudden there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from my chair to see what was the matter.

Inside of my house, a bird was in flight,
Flapping and fluttering in, oh, such a fright!
Confused and dismayed, and crashing about,
Desperately trying to find its way out!
I stood there wondering, “What shall I do?”
Now, both of us frightened, and in such a stew!

Then came the idea—"I’ll go get my broom,
And gently guide that poor bird from the room."
But, wouldn’t ya know it—as I walked away,
My cat seized the moment and grabbed birdie to play!
That poor little bird was simply no match
For the pride of a feline who had landed her catch!

With glee in her stance, she carried her prize,
And played with her toy till it met its demise.
Failing to coax my pet from its prey,
“Oh, God, please help”, was all I could say.
I watched in sad horror as the bird grew still,
Yet my cat wouldn’t leave the side of its kill.

Now and again she would bat with her paws,
Apparently hoping resurrection to cause!
Into the air she’d flip the dead bird,
While paying no heed to my scolding word.
At last she tired of her exciting feat,
And I lured her away with a better treat.

I loathed what she did, as I cleaned up the mess,
But in spite of my feelings, I must confess…
I still love my cat, though sometimes she’s bad,
And does awful things that make me so sad.
When I displease God, I’m happy to know,
He always forgives, for He loves me so!

Yesterday

Today is a new day, just waiting to receive new footprints and try out new efforts! (No, I did not say "try on new outfits"!) Today is a new opportunity to "start over" with new ideas, new plans, and new determination. Today is full of new hope and new courage! I'm so thankful that God gives us a new day every morning!

This morning it occurs to me that our yesterdays are important too! Yesterdays can be full of regret, or we can choose to let go of that regret and just focus on what was good about yesterday. Our yesterdays can be strong foundations for our todays and tomorrows!

Yesterday (July 10th) was the 37th anniversary of the day I met my husband -- on a blind date! I remember it like it was just...yesterday! Every detail of that evening stands out with incredible sharpness, and thirty-seven years have not dimmed the delightful memories! We went out with another couple (mutual friends) to play miniature golf. Every year, since then, on July 10th, we have relived that "yesterday" (and celebrated our "today") by going out to play miniature golf -- except yesterday! It rained!

Other than that disappointment, it was a very good day! The morning was spent at church--a very good time with God--really good! After church we enjoyed a delicious brunch at a nearby hotel and then spent a few hours flitting from store to store, catching up on some "necessary" shopping--fun stuff--really! In the evening we had a houseful of friends (17 people here)--our monthly "Home Fellowship Group". This is always a delightful evening! Last night it included a pizza supper, followed by our usual time of praise singing (with guitar), communion, devotional thoughts, sharing and prayer -- so totally refreshing! Even though Sunday was not a "sun-day", it was definitely a "Son-day", since Jesus was in it all!

Our yesterdays...todays...and tomorrows -- they're all in God's hand! He has every one of our days already planned for us! We can choose to cooperate or rebel against His plan, but it's always in our best interests to cooperate with Him! His blessing is the reward for our cooperation!

Father God, help me to cooperate with You, today, because You are the wise-planner and caring-keeper of all my days! "All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be! (Psalm 139:16)

Backing up for a moment . . .

Anybody remember my post called "A Place to See It"? In it I described a sunset that was almost beyond description -- one which mesmerized me like no other -- a sunset that I didn't capture on film! But, fortunately, someone else did!

During the recent visit of my daughter, one of her friends (a long-time family friend) who lives nearby (somewhat) was also here visiting in our home. She asked if we had seen the amazing sunset and if, perhaps, it was the one that I had blogged about. She has posted pictures of that sunset in her photo blog, and it is a must see!!! (click here to see it)
(click here to read about it)

All According to God's Great Plan

A beautiful world - an incredible plan!
Created by God for the good of man,
All with a purpose -- to help us understand --
This wonderful gift from God's own hand!

God put within cats a sense of routine,
a desire to be clean and the need to preen,
an uncanny sense of precision and balance,
plus amazing ability to see the unseen!

God put within dogs the longing for play --
to romp and have fun night and day,
as loyal companions, always ready for love --
eager to receive and to give it away!

God put within birds to flit here and there --
to ride on the wind and soar through the air!
Always full of joyful expression,
they live out their days with nary a care!

God put within people the desire to learn --
truth to discern and evil to spurn,
a conscience to know right from wrong,
spiritual hunger and hearts that yearn!

All planned by God, so long, long ago --
our yearning to know and our desire to grow,
plus our need for the One who made it all so.
He's the giver of life and the Lord over all --
the One who died for our sins, His love to show.

Amazing love -- an incredible plan!
A wonderful gift -- all from God's hand!
But, without His mercy, and without His grace,
not a one of us could even hope to stand
in God's presence -- in that eternal land.

Someday I'll see Him -- face-to-face,
as part of His family, saved by His grace.
Together in Heaven, forever we'll be
in the presence of Jesus, in that grand place!

(All according to God's great plan)

Songs of Joy

Today is a blah day! My daughter and two little grandkids left today. They've been here since June 27th--filling our home with fun and noise for 10 days! Today is perhaps the first day that the laundry machines sit idle and the lights remain off in the main bathroom. The house is void of any appearance of company, except for the unmade beds in the guest rooms. The countless pairs of shoes that have been parked at the front door and in the laundry room have disappeared. Their favorite blankets, stuffed animals, and books are gone too. The house is quiet--too quiet--not just because they're off visiting friends in Vancouver today, but because they're gone--back home to Montana.

Oh, how I miss having them live close by! It's been almost a year since we all moved from Vancouver, Washington (us to Oregon and them to Montana), but time hasn't closed the gaping hole that was left by their absence. Huge tears roll down my cheeks, one by one, as I write this, and I know I was meant for family life-- surrounded by the sights and sounds of a noisy, fun-loving, happy family (I grew up in a family of 7)!

In my "quiet time" this morning I read in the book of Psalms about singing "songs of joy". My head tells me I need to do that, but my heart just doesn't feel like it! Psalm 137:4 says, "How can we sing the songs of the Lord while in a foreign land?" Sometimes I feel like I am living in a foreign land, and it feels like my kids have also moved to a foreign land. How can I sing songs of joy in a foreign land, when so many of my loved ones are also off in a foreign land, away from me?

Sometimes I also long for my real home--Heaven, and I long for my eternal family-- the family of God (all those who love Jesus). Especially on days like today, when it just seems like something or someone is missing...that's when I realize that this is not really my "home". My home is where my heart is, and today it isn't here.

Lord, today I need your help with songs of joy . . . please help me to remember that "the joy of the Lord is my strength." Thanks, Lord.

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EPILOGUE

Feeling much better after a nap! Wow! What a difference some sleep can make! Now I'm ready to start anew! After I ate lunch and read for awhile, I began feeling very sleepy, so I turned on my CD player (several favorite praise music CD's) and comfied down on the couch with my pillow and blanket. Listening to "songs of joy", I quickly fell asleep and slept there for three hours! Now I feel much refreshed and the smile has returned to my face and to my heart! Praise God!

I've been dealing with a little bit of sickness since Monday--starting with just a hint of a sore throat and a cough which has kept me awake most of the night for the last three nights. So I was already dragging myself out of bed each morning this week. By yesterday morning the "sleep-deprived" headache had set in, and this morning we were up extra early for Sherry's departure. So, I'm sure all of that added to the sadness of them leaving, and left me feeling very low today.

As soon as they pulled out (at 6:45), Larry and I went out to breakfast. I didn't have the heart to tell him how yucky I was feeling, and I was hoping it would just disappear with the treat of breakfast out. When I returned home after breakfast, I had my "quiet time" and then just kinda wandered around the house, feeling a bit like a lost puppy, looking for my family. Then I went outside and refilled all my bird feeders, hoping the fresh air would perk me up, but nothing seemed to help.

Sleep was what I really needed -- sweet, rejuvenating sleep! Thanks, Lord! Now that it's late afternoon (4:30), I'm ready to start my day! Hmmm...what shall I do first? Guess I'll just smile and sing some "songs of joy"!

Partial Restoration

Due to technical difficulties of unknown origin, our computers have been unable to access the internet for the past twelve days. At long last, after countless hours spent with tech support, our system has partial restoration! WOO HOO!! Immediately after our internet connection was restored tonight, we went out to supper to celebrate!

Now that I've been off the internet for nearly two weeks, I've rediscovered life without it, and I'm not sure how I feel about re-establishing contact with it, so I may take it slowly as I decide how much of my time I want to give to it in the future. We currently have company from Montana (daughter Sherry and grandchildren, Nathaniel and Elli) -- they arrived on Monday afternoon, and will be here through next Wednesday or Thursday. So, it may be awhile before I post again, as I'm so enjoying my time spent with them!

For now . . . I've missed you all and will be back here when the time seems right!

Partial restoration . . . hmmmmmm -- just what does that mean? Well, it's a long story that's far too complicated to explain, but what I do know is . . . in my relationship with God, partial restoration is just not good enough! When I've been away from Him (by my own neglect of time spent with Him), and my connection with Him is unsatisfactory, I don't want only partial restoration! I want full restoration and complete renewal, because I desire nothing less than all that God planned for my life, and I want fullness of joy in my daily life, which He is happy to provide when my life is right with Him!

Partial restoration? It may be temporarily okay for my computer and my internet connection, but it is totally unacceptable for my connection with God!

A Place to See it!

Sunsets have always been, and sunsets will always be! But, we don't always see them--partly because they're sometimes obscurred by overcast skies, partly because we're not always looking for them, and partly because we're not always in a good place to see them!

I now live in a house that affords full views--incredible views of the sunset! Last night I saw one of the most awesome sunsets I have ever seen...and there was no film in my camera! I stepped out onto the deck to get a better look, and just stood there (on my rain-soaked deck), drinking in the indescribable beauty of the skies, and wondering, "Does it get any better than this? Is there anything more beautiful than what I am seeing right now?" My husband stepped outside to join me, and as we watched, the colors deepened and the glow intensified -- kind of like standing in a Thomas Kincade art gallery and watching the magical glow in the painting as the lighting on it is adjusted to various settings. Standing there on the wet deck, with our arms wrapped around each other, we were mesmerized as the scene became progressively more beautiful with each passing moment! Swept away by the romance of the sunset, and with hearts full of praise to God, we couldn't resist sharing a kiss and whispering a few "sweet nothings" to each other, before relucantly stepping back inside as the color faded. Oh the pure pleasure and wonderful delight of a few moments in such a place--caught up in total tranquility and exquisite beauty!

"...No eye has seen,

no ear has heard,

no mind has conceived

what God has prepared for those who love Him..."

(I Corinthians 2:9)

I cannot even begin to imagine what Heaven will be like! But I do know this: I'm going there someday! I know that for certain because I love Jesus and He loves me! And, I know that He is preparing a very special place for all those who love Him--a beautiful place where we will spend all of eternity with Him! In that place there is beauty awaiting us like we have never even caught a glimpse of here on earth! And, I'm going to be in the right place to see it! Will you? (Admittance is only by truly loving Jesus -- giving your heart to Him and believing that He is God Almighty!) Hope to see you there!

Click here for a follow-up about this sunset (and for pics)

"The heavens declare the glory of God! The skies proclaim the work of His hands!" Your unfailing love, O Lord, is as vast as the heavens; Your faithfulness reaches beyond the clouds." (Psalms 19:1 and 36:5)

Minute Musings

"Children of God" -- Today I realized why those who belong to the family of God are called the "children of God". It's because we're not very grown up! We will spend our whole lives growing toward spiritual, emotional, mental, and behavioral maturity! God looks at us in love (as His dear children) just as we look at our young children with love -- fully aware of their (our) immaturity, and therefore, their (our) inability to behave in a fully grown-up manner! But, clearly, the goal is maturity!

"Fogginess and Haze" -- Yesterday morning, when I first got up and looked out the window, I noticed something unusual. The sky was completely overcast, as though a sheet had been draped down from heaven. There was no obvious pattern of clouds -- the sky was just a solid, opaque color that I couldn't see through. Yet, this phenomenom was only true off in the distance. The area surrounding me was clear as a bell, even up to a few miles away, but the hills way off in the distance (the higher elevations) were completely invisible, as though they didn't even exist!

The sight reminded me that this is how life is -- we only get to see this moment! God doesn't give us a glimpse of tomorrow, or even five minutes from now. So often it seems that what we see today makes absolutely no sense to us, and sometimes we wonder about the "how" and the "why" (of today) and the "when" and the "how" (of tomorrow), but only God knows the answer to our questions. He sees the bigger picture -- He sees clearly through the fogginess and the haze, and in His great wisdom and kindness, He protects us from knowing more than we need to know. What we can see right now is all we get for right now. We can trust Him even in the fog and the haze because He sees right through it! I'm so thankful He is that kind of God!

A New Interest

Yesterday I went to the mall and spent the afternoon shopping away my "blues". (Don't we all get a little "blue" now and then?) I must confess--it isn't really the indulgence in shopping that lifts me out of my doldrums--it's the indulgence of the Cinnabon! Several years ago I discovered this delectable treat! So, whenever I go to the mall, I treat myself to this sweet little pick-me-up--and it always works!

After getting my Cinnabon and a cup of coffee, I picked out just the right spot to sit and enjoy some pleasant moments of watching and listening to everyone around me, while I sipped and snacked. In fact, it was so enjoyable, I decided to make sure I do it frequently! All cares seem to disappear while paying attention to others! Amazing! I was refreshed and happy! (Then I was able to continue shopping with a much lighter heart! hee hee)

While I was browsing in the shoe department of a large department store, I noticed an elderly couple approach the display table next to me. The woman immediately picked up a particular shoe and made negative comments about it, comparing it to another shoe--a more preferrable shoe she had just considered elsewhere. Then she committed that common wifely error of attempting to gain her husband's supportive agreement in something that made no real significant difference to him, by asking, "What do you think?" Evidently, her husband wasn't paying close attention to her comments or to her mindset, because he cheerfully replied (apparently trying to appear in agreement with her), "Yes, this one is much prettier!" It was at that point I turned to get a good look at this couple. I just couldn't help myself--amazed and amused by their confusing, yet comical interaction, with the husband being totally oblivious to the fact that he had just completely missed his wife's clearly stated thoughts! The wife, flabbergasted by his misspoken, misunderstood "agreement" with her, quickly asked, "You think so? Well, why would you say that?" As I watched with great interest, this humorously serious moment in the life of a husband and wife, the poor husband lost his cheerful countenance, shrugged his shoulders, and said meekly, "Because you asked."

A giggle started to form within me and began making its way to my face. Quickly, I realized I couldn't contain my smile or the chuckle that was just begging to be let loose, so I moved on, without allowing myself to finish looking at the shoes that had originally captured my attention. Then I let the giggle loose! Oh, that felt so good!

People watching -- my new interest -- perhaps more fun (and much more theraputic) than bird-watching! Oh, the joys of life!

My Favorite Birthday Girl

Let me think for a minute here . . How many years ago today was it?

Hmmmm....well, I guess it's more than I can hardly believe! (I also guess I'd have to get permission from Sherry to tell how many it is!)

Sherry Ann is my firstborn. I was only 20 years old, and married only 9 and a half months, when she took her first breath of fresh air and proclaimed her independence! (Yes, her "independence"!)

Marriage was still a brand new road for me when I rounded the corner into motherhood--another delightful learning curve in my joyful journey! And, what a delight she was in my life! I was barely done being a teenager, but I loved being a mother, and I loved this delightful little gift (6.5 lbs.) God just plopped into my arms!

From her earliest days she was my little pride and joy -- exhuberant, smart, inquisitive, adorable, full of fun, and just plain amazing to me! Perhaps this is just the way any loving mother feels about her child?
But, for me, it's all 100% absolutely true, and then some!

Those little fingers (though bigger than mine now) are still wrapped tightly around my heart, and I still enjoy spending time with her whenever we can get together, though now we're 10 hours apart!
I still adore her and feel so proud of her--as my daughter, as the mother of my two wonderful grandchildren, and as the person God created her to be in the lives of others. What a wonderful gift from God, this dearly-beloved daughter of mine!

Happy Birthday, Sherry! I love you!

Mom

Learning to see it...

How often do we miss what God has for us? This morning I woke up early. Sunshine was pouring in the bedroom windows and dropping down through the skylight, refusing to be ignored! It was impossible to hide from the daylight without suffocating under the blankets! So, I got up and enjoyed the early morning quietness--broken only by the singing of the birds and the begging of my cat for her breakfast.

I sat on the couch, deep in thought for a long time and then I saw it! We were meant to enjoy what we have, rather than pine for what we don't have! God has already provided tons of blessing, surrounding us, just waiting to be snatched up and enjoyed! But we get so caught up in the hum-drum, ho-hum of life that we miss it!

It's all there:

• Beauty in the blossoms
• Worship in the woods
• Majesty in the mountains
• Serenity in the sunset
• Creativity in the clouds
• Refreshment in the rain
• Wisdom in the walk
• Curiosity in the curves
• Simplicity in the silence
• Sweetness in the stillness
• Seasoning in the seasons
• Digging in the dirt (okay, so I've lost the continuity here!)
• Hope in the rainbow
• Newness in the sunrise
• Strength in the Rock

This list could go on and on...and it all adds up to joy in the journey!

Beauty in the Journey

(Click on pictures to enlarge)
This past weekend we got away--totally away! We've heard others talk about this incredibly beautiful area in Central Oregon (Sun River area, near Bend), but we hadn't been there yet. Usually, when we go away for the weekend (or even just for the day) we go to the ocean, but there was no sunshine in the forecast for the coast (nothin' but rain!), so we headed inland this time.
Oh,what a wonderful treat awaited us -- incredible beauty to fill up our senses and satisfy our souls!
We packed in as much fun and soaked up as much beautiful scenery and fresh air as we possibly could fit into one weekend!
We went canoeing (twice), hiking, and exploring remote wilderness areas, even navigating snow-covered, pot-hole infested dirt roads to find totally secluded, quiet mountain lakes -- sometimes with no one else around -- just God and us!
Here's just a little sampling of what we experienced.

This is the famed Deschuttes River --
well known in the Pacific Northwest for white-water rafting. It is also the river we canoed! Fortunately, we came to a log-jam and a warning sign just half a mile before it became white water rapids (probably class 5 or 6) and cascading water falls. It was beautiful to look at, but would have been a killer canoe ride!

What a trip!