IN MY WORDS – As a writer and a musician I value the use of my hands.
Have you ever had a broken wrist or broken hand?
Any suggestions on therapy after the cast is removed?
It is interesting to discover the most simple things can become difficult. Putting toothpaste on a toothbrush, squeezing shampoo out of the container, opening a bottle of much-needed ibuprofin…!
Any funny stories to make us laugh on how you managed one-handed?
Do you keep a “To Do” list? Has it grown impossibly long?
IN MY WORDS – Are you overwhelmed and weary of thinking of all you need to catch up on? I’m with you, sistah….
Work, church, travel, studies, family, friends, relatives, housecleaning, laundry, ironing, yard work and oh yes, I’d really like to do some writing one of these days and finish my novella : ) If you’re a list maker like me (yes, I sometimes add things already finished just for the pleasure of crossing them off) I know you’re reluctant to stop that burst of organization you feel by creating a list.
Lightbulb moment – make an “I did it” list instead. This weekend, I’m writing out all the things I DID accomplish. Big things, little things and all those in between. Because sometimes it’s easier to go with the flow and end the day knowing you did get some things done. Completed. Finis. Today’s example: hubby felt the urge to help clean some of the upstairs – yes, go with it, don’t miss the opportunity for help! Other things didn’t get done but one upstairs room is now in spiffy condition. Well worth trashing the I do list and working with the I DID IT list.
So go ahead, pat yourself on the back for all the things you did manage to do today. Share your progress in a comment even if its something simple.
At the risk of being misunderstood by the multitudes of pumpkin lovers, I must admit right up front – I don’t do pumpkins. Actually, the orange globes themselves don’t bother me, like the grinning faces above are kinda’ cute. It’s the flavor explosion and the every imaginable pumpkin flavored this and that. Pumpkin pie, pumpkin bread, pumpkin muffins, pumpkin cookies, pumpkin cupcakes and don’t even get me started on the drinks.
This certainly isn’t a political statement so I don’t think I can be termed politically incorrect. Though I’m sure someone will be offended so I still may be in trouble. It is just a personal opinion and I am stating it loud and unashamed – I don’t like pumpkin flavored anything! Whew…that wasn’t easy.
Now all my friends and family who are faithful fans of pumpkin-everything – enjoy! I’m happy for you that the season is here and you can find new and pumpkinly ways to dwell on this autumn flavor. Personally, I’m just plum pumpkin-petered out.
As for me and my house, our fall celebrations will include some hot apple cider and sugared cider donuts…mmm…good. No pumpkins allowed.
I have to ask, am I the only one who doesn’t like pumpkin? Is there anyone else out there?? Maybe we should start a no pumpkin support group?
We meet them as early as Pre-School days and as late as those living in Senior Centers. They are often identified by their loud voices, usually raised above the crowd. Opinionated, stubborn and at times, just downright mean! I know you’ll find this hard to believe, but we even find them in…gasp….church pews.
Some are very obvious as stated above. But the scary type are the more subtle characters. The ones who manipulate behind the scenes. They want things done their way and they are determined to make it happen no matter who gets hurt in the process. I bet you’re thinking of someone right now who fits this description!
Give in to their manipulation? Allow them to sway your personal opinion? Perhaps the best way to deal with bullies is to ignore them. Avoid getting pulled into their drama. Resist getting tangled in long conversations where you find yourself agreeing to things you never wanted to do. Stand firm in your own beliefs and convictions. Refuse to be intimidated. Pray for God’s wisdom!
Have you had a bully in your life?
IN MY WORDS – Summer Days – fast and fleeting. What do you do on a perfect summer day?
This little hideaway is where I spend some of my time when the temps are right and the sun is shining. Since we live in the country I can enjoy our huge yard and the usual quiet, minus a few mad motorcyclists. But we also love going away to be by the Ocean or the Sound and that does involve some travel time. My husband and I are both content to spend days on the beach, walking, reading and relaxing to the lovely rhythm of the waves. Nothing else like it! Favorite places are Long Island Sound and beautiful Lake George. So we divide up our summer with staycations and vacations.
Do you staycation or vacation? What is your favorite place to vacation?
Winner of last week’s book drawing is Alicia. Please send me your mailing address!
IN MY WORDS – A summer city worker hit a rock with his huge mower which flew into my sister’s car window as she drove by yesterday. I had prayed for her that morning, along with praying for my husband and myself for safety and protection during our day.
God protected my sister; the rock came through the rear side window and shattered it. It is only God’s protection that saved her from crashing into someone else in traffic when the rock exploded through her window. It could have come through the driver’s window and hit her but the angels prevented it! God protects His children from so much and sometimes we’re not even aware of it. From the major to the minor.
Like the fly in my drink. Enjoying a cold drink of water on an almost-summer day, I picked it up for a few more swallows and happened to look at it first. Yes, Mr. Fly was sunbathing in my glass. Eww…thank God for His protection.
And no, Mr. Fly hadn’t been there before, he must have snuck in while the glass sat on the table as I was immersed in a good novel. I’m grateful for our Savior who protects us from seen and unseen circumstances! How has God protected you lately?
IN MY WORDS – In days gone by, Easter was a time of new Spring outfits and special preparation for church. My sister and I still enjoy wearing Easter bonnets/hats on Easter morning. And everyone enjoys the children in their new colorful outfits, all “spiffed-up” for Easter.
I wish we could carry this tradition over into regular church attendance. We manage to adhere to a business-dress style for our jobs but at church these days, anything goes. Somehow, the same attitude creeps into our worship and our respect for the house of God. Our dress does affect us. When you dress casual, you feel casual. When you dress well, your attitude reflects that. You don’t have to be wealthy to dress decently. Shopping sales at T.J. Maxx, Kohl’s or thrift stores offer great deals but that’s going off on a tangent here : )
I think back to the days of the Tabernacle and God’s very specific instructions in the building and set-up of His sanctuary. Detailed measurements, precise order, priestly garments. God help us to return to the days where we hold a deep reverence for the church sanctuary. In this slap-dash world, I hope we re-examine our attitudes. Jesus gave His all for us. As we ponder the sacrifice of the Cross, I pray we make the effort to be pleasing to the Lord with a renewed respect for His sanctuary, in our dress and also in our hearts.
God bless you and Happy Resurrection Day!
First come the daffodills. Not in my garden, still covered in white. In my local grocery store, wrapped in bunches of ten for a brief glimpse of spring color. I love to see the sunny faces and always buy them as soon as they’re available.
I like to pick up an extra bunch to pass on to someone. It is my way of passing on the message and hope of Spring.
Would you join me in this act of kindness? Don’t you love it when someone brings you flowers?
Kind deeds rest so sweetly in the heart of the giver and the receiver.
A few weeks ago, while out of town to attend Bible College, a dear woman cheered my day. Upon returning to our friend’s home after a long, full day of intensive classes, she greeted us at the door with a plate of fresh brownies.
I had forgotten to bring any chocolate snacks and the aroma of freshly baked brownies almost did me in 🙂
As you change your clocks this weekend and Spring Forward, I encourage you to pass on an act of kindness. Flowers. Chocolate. Something simple. Something sweet.
I’d love to hear about your act of kindness in a comment.
