Another Year

It is hard to believe another year has come and gone. Time seems to fly by these days. Time for reflection and renewal. Resolutions and Promises?

At Women's Round Pen our leader, Tracy Banks challenged us as to what our Vision and Purpose was for the coming New Year. God has given her the vision of "Closer to Heaven in 2011".
We are all of one accord in believing that our sweet Father is coming soon. But we must abide till then.

As I was praying this morning about my vision and purpose God's Spirit spoke to my heart ; This coming year I want to be a better servant, to serve God in whatever area He needs me in. All for His Glory!

I want to praise and worship and love Him with all my being. I want to dance and sing before Him. I want to study His Word and apply it to my life. I want those who do not know Him to come to know Him. I want to share the joy and the goodness of loving and serving and living for Jesus Christ with my family and friends. I want to be a Prayer Warrior on the Prayer Team, not just a member of the Team.
I want to go to bed each night and think, "God would have been proud of my actions today".
He is so easy to love and the total joy and happiness you will find in Him is forever!

Gal. 5:13-14
For, Brethren, you have been called unto liberty;only use not your liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.

Christmas Time

I love this time of year , autumn leaves have fallen. Trees are bare and beautiful.

Frost covers the ground each morning like a handmade, homespun quilt.

Squirrels and birds scamper to do last minute "winter" shopping before the cold sets in.

Cardinals stand sentry in their finest red winter coats.

The air smells of cookies, spice and snow.

Brightly lit windows allow glimpses of decorated trees and wreaths, where families gather and love abounds.

The winter night sky glows with anticipation as it must have those many years ago as the world and heaven awaited our dear Saviour's birth.

Christmas time is magical, with memories just waiting to be made. A time to reflect upon the real reason for the season.

I never want to forget the sacrifice and the Gift God gave the world in order for me to have all that I have, to be all that I am.

Let my life be my gift to Him. Let me sing of His glory and goodness, His mercy and kindness.

He fills my life with peace and joy and those are exclusive gifts found only thru Him.

Luke 2:14 Glory to God in the Highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

Merry Christmas Everyone.

The Greatest Gift

When asked what is the greatest gift that I am Thankful for

I knew the answer instantly; He was born beneath a Star.

God sent Him here to save me, to atone for my sins

He bought my life with His own blood, then God took Him home again.

My life would have been different had He not chosen me

He saw that I would struggle and need for Him to be

a source of light and direction, guidance, truth and love

He knew before He formed me in a secret place above.

He saw my hurt; He felt my pain and held me while I wept

Then told me daughter you are healed, now live with no regret

Storms may rage against me, life's trials, and tests to bear

Thankful is my heart that God is always there!

He delights in me, He makes me smile, I am the apple of His eye

John 15: 16 You have not chosen me, but I have chosen you and ordained you, that you should go and bring forth fruit and that your fruit should remain that whatsoever you shall ask of the father in My Name, he may give it to you.

The Lamp

I grew up in the country and as kids we all had our share of chores to do. From the youngest to the oldest, we all did our share.

My brother and cousins helped milk cows for a farmer up the road from us. They milked every morning before school and every day after school. Nothing stopped the cows from being milked, not weather, or sickness or weekends, or holidays.

The road that led to that barn seemed at least a mile away and on nights when it was so dark you could not see your hand in front of your face it seemed even farther.

Each evening we younger children loved to run and meet our brothers coming down that road and they loved to tease and scare us senseless all the way home.

Our Uncle always kept an old kerosene lamp burning and hanging on his porch to light our way. He told us it was there to keep the "boogers" away.

Walking to and from that old barn each night , we hoped he was telling the truth, as our imaginations created many a scary thought. Wind and shadows and sounds played tricks on our minds.

However, we could see that light and it kept us focused on our destination.
Our steps were true and full of confidence as that old lantern swayed on its hook spreading it's light in front of us.
Guiding our footsteps, lighting the way. It assured us we were okay, headed in the right direction, on the right path and close to the safety of home.

Now, as when I was a child God's Word and love are still doing for me what that old lamp did for me so long ago. Guiding, directing, encouraging and keeping me on the way that is the straight path, lighting the path that always leads to the safety of home.

Psalms 119: 105
Your Word is a Lamp unto my feet, and a Light unto my path

Kaleidoscope

As I look around, I see a kaleidoscope of colors.

Pale gold flakes spun intricately into bright red leaves.

Crisscross patterns of yellow and orange swirl through the air and spin to the ground.

Rust colored flags blow in the breeze then slowly cascade to the autumn carpet below.

Snug nests built and designed to prepare for the coming months ahead are under construction.

Bare branches with almond colored bark now show through the leafless trees.

Grandmothers’ quilt of colors covers the landscape as autumns beauty slips into place.

To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven: Ecclesiastes 3:1(NKJV)

“While the earth remains, Seedtime and harvest, Cold and heat, Winter and summer, And day and night Shall not cease.” Genesis 8:22 (NKJV)

Strong Winds

There are three huge pecan trees in my yard;
they are so beautiful.

I wish I knew how old they are and how long
they have stood sentry over my yard.

I am thankful for the cool canopy they
provide for our house in the summer, and
I love the bare beauty of them in winter.

They supply a bounty of nuts for me and all
the birds and animals in my yard. We all collect
our share and squirrel them away for future use.

I worry all season about those trees,
are they getting enough water?
Are they getting too much water?

Will the storms and winds break their delicate branches?
I have seen them bent almost to the ground from fierce winter winds and violent summer storms.

Battered by wind, hail, lightning, and rain, yet they stand!
They have persevered and become grounded, their roots have become soundly planted and with each passing year they dig deeper, mature, and grow stronger.

I think about our lives compared to those trees.
Throughout the storms of our life do we grow our roots stronger, do we become soundly planted or do we allow ourselves to be battered and beaten to the ground.

Unlike those trees, we have a Savior, who faced the ultimate trials and storms to save us all.
He catches the wind in his fists, and calms the waters and waves and rebukes the storms that come to destroy His children..

When we face wind and rain and hail, all we need do is look to the Cross and Stand!


Ephesians 3:17 That Christ may dwell in your hearts by Faith; that you , being rooted and grounded in love

Stocking My Pantry

My childhood years were riddled at times with hardships...there were many nights when my brother, sister and I had just a few pecans or a pancake for supper.
We would ask our Mother "where's yours Mama" and she would always reply "Go ahead I've already ate". I still sting from the realization that she had not eaten at all.

Even now my insecurity of having enough food in the house still haunts me. I tend to over buy and over stock my pantry. Fortunately I have a great husband who understands and usually indulges me but sometimes he gently reminds me it's okay.

Yesterday, as I stood looking into that pantry God spoke to my heart and helped me realize that I had plenty, more than enough and I always would because of Him.
I needed to concentrate on stocking my spiritual pantry, every prayer I pray, every scripture I read, every act of kindness, every bible study I attend, every time I raise my hands and voice to glorify His name I am stocking my pantry.

I am lining my shelves with "all the good stuff" the stuff that is going to sustain me until that great day when we will all dine at His table forever.

No more insecurities to haunt us from yesterday, no more
fear of failure, no more lack and worry.
We will be cradled safely in the arms of a Father who will never let His children need for anything again....

Deuteronomy 28: 5
Blessed shall be your basket and your store

Pushing Through

I have been getting up an hour earlier each morning and have started walking before work.
The stars are still in the sky and haven't yet given a sleepy nod to the sun and disappeared. The morning is still cool and sweet smelling, with a hint of bacon and coffee in the air. Birds are beginning to stir in the trees as morning shakes us from slumber to face another day.

I've enjoyed this solitary time, just me and the Lord, talking about everything. Praying and praising the mighty King knowing he is with me every step of the way.

There is one part of my walk that is "tough" on these old legs. There is a grade to the road and each morning I feel I can't do it! I want to quit ! Turn around and go back the easier way! I want to give up and give in.

There have been many times and situations in my life that I have felt those same feelings. Then I hear that small still voice inside encouraging, assuring, and pushing me through.
That voice that says you can do it, don't give in or give up, fight the good fight. Try harder, pray longer, surround yourself with me and you can conquer any hill, take any mountain, and face anything this world can use against you.

All we need to do in this life is lean on the Cross when we are weary and tired, read His Word when we lack knowledge and strength and Pray His peace and love over our lives when we feel we just can't push through.......

Acts 20: 24
But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the Gospel of the Grace of God

Seasons of Change

Isn't it amazing how we can just feel a
change of season coming on...
There is a certain smell in the air....
Things feel different, mornings are cooler or
warmer....
I know I write often of my love for nature,
it is because I think God gave us all of this
beauty to remind us daily of His love for us.
When the sun shines warm on my shoulders and
the wind whips through the trees...is it not
God saying , that was me, can you feel me, I
am here all around you...
I am so filled with love for Him this morning,
as I await Autumns brillant entrance.....

I want to sing of His love forever, and enjoy
every precious moment of this life He has given me.....

Lazy Days

I just love watching the sky
big fluffy white clouds make me smile.
I'm intrigued with storm clouds, they rush
in and change a hot summer day into a
cool rain-washed evening...

Throughout the Bible God uses weather
to demonstrate His remarkable Power and
His gentle side with such incredible beauty.

How can there be people in this world that can look
around at the sheer majesty of creation and not just
know but, also feel the Love
of God.
The Earth is but a mere sample of what He has in
store for those who acknowledge Him and follow Him.

It amazes me when I think of how loved I am, how important
I am . All of the trials and struggles of this life will one
day be replaced with joy and laughter and love and peace.

It can make me long for home and a Father's sweet love.

Things I love about Summer

Summer has made it's way to East Texas.
Soon the wildflowers will shed the last of
their spring colors and fall upon the
ground and begin to ready themselves for
next year.

School is out and children and teachers alike
get a few months off to rest and prepare for
next years school year.

I love the supply of fresh fruit and vegetables
that summers bring, allowing us to prepare
our pantries and freezers for the coming year.

I love floating in the pool blowing bubbles in
the wind, while the laughter of my kids and grandkids
envelopes me as they splash and play in the water.
I love good sweet watermelons and the 4Th of July.
I love firecrackers and picnics, sticky grandkid kisses and
hugs, family get togethers and lighting-bugs, fresh cut flowers
from my flowerbeds, working along side my husband around our
yard. I love feeling tired at night from a day well spent and
job well done. Another season in my life.....

It is always amazing to me when I think of the four
seasons and what they mean to mankind and how special each one is
to me...Everything all thought out, each season preparing for the next.
I believe the seasons of our lives are intended to be in preparation too.
For that glorious day when we will be with Our Heavenly Father again.
I pray I use my seasons wisely, storing up the important things!
Happy Summer everyone.....

Why Sweat the Small Stuff

That old saying "youth is wasted on the young" has
never rang truer lately, as I approach another
birthday. I think of that old cliche "if I only knew then
what I know now". There have been days when I find myself
reaching back to what was,rather than finding satisfaction
in where I am.

Seems the older we become the faster time
appears to pass. I have to say many things that seemed so
important in my younger years are no longer that important.
Age really has a way of changing priorities.

When we are young we think we are going to live forever.
Age has a way of redefining that!
When we are young we rush to spend every minute of every day
being busy. Age has a way of slowing us down!
Age has a way of making you realize that we really "don't need
to sweat the small stuff".
Especially if we are Christians.
God's word is TRUE and we only need to TRUST Him in all things.
He takes such good care of us!
I am learning with age that
it is good to savor that quiet moment at sunset, or to
stop and watch the puffy clouds moving across a blue sky,
or spend the day fishing with your husband(picture above).

Age has a way of bringing us to a place where we realize
how much we have to be thankful for.

Little Things

Most of us have such busy days and nights,
that if we aren't careful we can get so
caught up in making everything happen in
our daily lives that we miss out on so many
little joyful things.

God is so faithful to us...His blessings are
ongoing, food, shelter, health, happiness and
if we aren't careful we allow the little foxes
to come in and steal our joy and peace.

Yesterday evening Danny and I sat outside and
just enjoyed the view from our own backyard,
and it was amazing. I have so much to be thankful
for!
Keep me close to you Lord and guide me in the way
I should go.

Loving Life

Days like today make we want to go outside throw my hands up in the air and twirl around and around and just praise the Lord.

I like the way the wind feels,it makes me smile to share in its movement, the secrets of where it has travelled and what it has seen whispers to my soul. I like to say to myself the "Chinook" is blowing in, I like saying the word Chinook. The earth is being reborn again.
I say to winter I have loved and enjoyed your icy blasts,those cosy fireplace moments but, now I am ready to taste and feel the warmth of spring.

And even after experiencing fifty-eight spring events...I still find myself filled with child like anticipation. Another new beginning..Violets so tiny yet so strong in fragrance that they take my breath away but,and I find as I turn to go I have to go back for one more heady breath full. Tulips pushing pointed heads up through the cold earth. Daffodils with their sunny bonnets blowing slowly in the warm breeze.
One more season to rejoice.

Birds and their mates singing happy, trilling lyrics as they scamper to find new homes as they wait for the new generation of singers and whistlers to be born.
Hope for the future. Another chance to embrace life.

Welcome Spring and all the new beginnings you bring!

Red Birds

Yesterday was such a beautiful day.

We don't often get snow in East Texas
and yesterday was the second time in two
weeks, and since it is such a rarity I loved
every minute of it.
My husband and I feed the birds and
watch them from our kitchen window.
Those that know me well know that I have a
special place in my heart for "Red Birds".

Yesterday I spied two of the great beauties
in the snow covered tree sampling our suet.
They were all puffed up in their cardinal
coats keeping warm. Their vibrant color against
the snowy background was remarkably beautiful,
yet it's very simplicity was what made it so
glorious to behold.

I could not help but wonder on the sheer glory
of creation. When God created snow did he have
red birds and finches and blue jays in mind?
Did He know that they would be so beautiful in
snow covered landscapes and that we would delight
in seeing them? I think He did.
I think He loves when we notice the small gifts
He made for us.
I pray that I never lose sight
of the wonder of the world around me and
appreciate and embrace the love of the Father
who created all things.

Painful Lessons

Painful lessons are usually doorways to new opportunities.
That is if we are receptive to the lesson being taught us.

With most of us the issue is priorities - we all need to
have a deliberate framework in place to help us make good
decisions, avoid lazy distractions, and increase our
inclination to obey.
When we spin our wheels and refuse to believe that maybe,
just maybe, we might have been at fault, or wrong, or too
prideful and arrogant to admit to ourselves
that we messed up and lost sight of the cross, we
never know what opportunities we may have missed
through our rebellion.

We pray and ask God to guide, direct, and lead us in
all that we do. Then we ultimately head off in
our own direction.
The framework of our life should consist of a daily dose
of Prayer and Bible. We need to be open to the leading
of the Holy Spirit and when we hear that soft small voice
whispering we need to have the courage to follow and obey.

When we know who we are and where we are going we can
live for God like we mean it!

Rebirth of the Godly

I am so proud to be a part of
my church "Bar None Cowboy Church".

Last night the men had a "Testing of
the Bulls" event. Rodeo champ Don Gay
was the guest speaker..over 1400 men
attended.
Praise God!
My belief is that for
years satan has caused moral destruction
and decay through the break-up of families.
Divorce and seperation has led to single parenting
and latch-key kids.
It is so wonderful to hear our Pastor Jason Taylor
preach on the importance of "staying power" in
our marriages, praying over our children, standing up
for what is right and living God's universal law.

Now to see so many men, fathers, husbands, brothers, sons
uniting togther to rebuild an recapture so many things
satan thought he had destroyed is amazing and exciting.

It truly feels like the start of a rebirth of the Godly,
and I am so thankful to be a part of it!

Daily Diets

It is so easy to "fall" out of the habit
of praying and reading our Bibles daily.

There are so many distractions to keep our
time and minds occupied. We feed our minds
with television, radio, videos, telephones,
ipods, cd's, the list is just endless.

When in truth we need to let the Bible
and prayer become the staples in our
daily diet.

Prayer can open our lives to ongoing
fellowship with God and sustain us all
the day long.

Developing a good attitude of prayer can
change us from aimless wanderers to
mighty warriors.

My thoughts have been hard to put on
paper lately. Reflecting on this past
year has brought back to mind a few
things that I thought I had put to rest.

Although this past year had some low points
there were also many good things that 2009
had to offer too.. with many lessons
learned that I will carry with me forever
Most important,
God is still on the Throne and
Master of my life and the Universe.

I have learned that when I am truly
seeking God and listening when he answers,
He will save me and remove me from places of danger,
both physically and spirtually.

I have learned that there 'really" are wolves in
sheeps clothing and they can be very deceitful and
hurtful. I must always guard my heart.

I've learned that a building can be loved more
than the people inside of it.

I've learned that I need not always be so negative
and take the time to look at both sides of things.

I've learned that people get so busy doing their
job, that they forget what their job is...

I've learned that God really, truly does love a sinner
like me and that I need to trust Him more.

I've learned that a kind word and a simple smile can make
someones day, week, world....

I've learned that there will always be those sheep, buildings,
hurts, and disappointments, but life with God at the center will
make it all okay.......