tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-796411167043931082024-03-05T15:34:50.611-08:00Barb's TreasuresThoughts, ponderings, family and more.Barbara Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08740517393541058936noreply@blogger.comBlogger380125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79641116704393108.post-23793464362021592942017-04-12T19:01:00.002-07:002017-04-12T19:01:18.241-07:00Morning Thoughts<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE3OHJvlSEWxJz74PmUnMZSCd-JlEfD2ZRpjyR-ISUGA18zKnnnvm_Kw4r1Oxe8q30G1pKqItjJw6k_JkMGHc3Wm12Gi8ASfdUjafKHY9K6KcrJrubxGJ3y42Nz6ZTeClBg9uVw02YKg/s1600/crazy+hair+at+awana+isabel+and+ava+oct+2006.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE3OHJvlSEWxJz74PmUnMZSCd-JlEfD2ZRpjyR-ISUGA18zKnnnvm_Kw4r1Oxe8q30G1pKqItjJw6k_JkMGHc3Wm12Gi8ASfdUjafKHY9K6KcrJrubxGJ3y42Nz6ZTeClBg9uVw02YKg/s320/crazy+hair+at+awana+isabel+and+ava+oct+2006.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
GOOD MORNING EVERYBODY!<br />
I've been up since 4:30 this morning, so it seems like half the day is over now.<br />
It's a good thing it's not though, since i have a list long enough for 4 days to take care of today.<br />
Seem familiar?<br />
<br />
I called an office to find something out this morning, and couldn't figure out why the lady came in so late. (It was only 8:30.) And can't these electric and phone companies come in early so i can get the bills paid before i go off and forget again?<br />
<br />
Now, this is being written by the lady (me) who used to sleep till 9 or 10 every day! I can't even imagine how i did that and got anything done! But I did seem to get it all done, and I don't remember it being such an effort. My neighbor and i used to have our work done by 11 in the morning, and sit around in the afternoon and watch our kids play, (3 each) and drink ice tea. Now even getting up at 4:30 doesn't give me enough day. And i stay up till 11 most nights, later others. Mind you, I do not get up early to get things done, it's just when i wake up, and can't go back to sleep, so i get up.<br />
<br />
So, what has changed. There are still the same number of hours in a day, still some of the same responsibilities, (minus the 3 kids, but add back in 4 grand kids). Gotta love that math!!<br />
There are still bills to pay, yard work to be done, cars to be fixed, friends to help, church to serve at, errands to run, and pretty much the same things we had years ago. (won't say how many years).<br />
<br />
There is the added element of opening my own business, but it seems i was busy before, just busier now. (a great kind of busy, meeting new people, creating new things.)<br />
My husband is more helpful than he was years ago, (or maybe I've just learned to appreciate it and him more.) And he is trying to maintain 2 properties for the last 13 years.<br />
<br />
Some of you are sitting there saying, "Yes, but you are older now. You've slowed down."<br />
I DON'T THINK SO! You may be getting older, but I'm staying at 35, thank you very much!! =)<br />
<br />
OK. Seriously, if I can't figure out what is going on, or how to change it, I'd better just figure out how to deal with it.<br />
I can tell you right off the bat, that running around in a frenzy is not the answer! Nor is adding more things to the mix. That frenzy thing can just make us grumpy and hard to live with, and we just get more stressed in that frame of mind. No one can move fast enough or in the right direction when we are like that. Traffic is too slow, the signals aren't set right, the person in the grocery line is causing problems with her coupons, and the clerk doesn't know how to do things.<br />
What in inept world anyway!! Can't anyone do anything right except me?<br />
<br />
WHOA! Hold on there. I'm getting in a frenzy just thinking about all that!!<br />
<br />
Back to the answer. Going faster doesn't work, so how about if we try slowing down??<br />
Sounds crazy doesn't it? But I'm going to try it. I'm going to take a deep breath, fix myself a cup of tea, maybe even look at a magazine!! Or better yet, bask in the presence of the Lord, and thank Him for His many blessings.<br />
HAVE I LOST MY MIND? No, Ive just found it. That list of things we deem so important,<br />
how much of it really is? How many pumpkins do I need to make to sell? Who is gong to notice if my curtains are 'fluffed' just right at the store? Will anyone even care if my area rugs match?<br />
Will my frenzy make me any friendlier when people come in for a visit? Should that letter of complaint wait till I'm not so upset?<br />
<br />
Bottom line for me. I have to reevaluate my priorities. And here's a really hard question I've had to ask myself: What of all these things, all these pressures i put myself under, all my expectations of myself and other people, makes me any closer to the Lord? What am i doing of any real eternal value?<br />
<br />
With that in mind, I'm fixing that cup of tea now, and instead of a magazine, I'm just going to ponder that very hard question: what of all the things i do, has any real eternal value? It may be time to reevaluate some things in my life.<br />
<br />
Blessings on your day. May it be peaceful, and full of joy as you serve Him. <br />
<br />
Barbara jean<br />
<br />
<br />Barbara Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08740517393541058936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79641116704393108.post-57616220021386494232016-09-26T11:45:00.001-07:002016-09-26T11:45:41.891-07:00Choosing Joy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTp40RM5QcJnz35zeJirNHyO6LEp2mh0nRD0Fz6UsNp2aDhNQ86vqaG3-QrlUoGEbuoe1Q9gF0qLlygUpMgcVojudR2n-zXEIyORAfYh8V0asvQweFQs_AiMNJ1c_lXKKHmvPCb32wNA/s1600/IMG_4541.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTp40RM5QcJnz35zeJirNHyO6LEp2mh0nRD0Fz6UsNp2aDhNQ86vqaG3-QrlUoGEbuoe1Q9gF0qLlygUpMgcVojudR2n-zXEIyORAfYh8V0asvQweFQs_AiMNJ1c_lXKKHmvPCb32wNA/s400/IMG_4541.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
Where to begin....maybe just some random thoughts.<br />
<br />
I'm 68. I'm a young 68, if ya know what I mean. I walk each day for exercise and love it. I have my own business, and love it too. And we have most of our family living close to us. So grateful.<br />
<br />
I am married to a wonderful man of 71. (I choose for him to be a young 71, but sometimes he feels old.)<br />
We have aches and pains...too many, for being so young, but we have generally good health. And we thank God every day for that.<br />
<br />
We know a lot of people who are struggling with health issues.....Cancer, Alzheimers, bodies wearing down and giving out.<br />
We have friends who have lost loved ones.....too young. Long illnesses, surgeries and a deteriorating life, or suddenly gone. 58 years old, healthy, then suddenly sick and die 13 weeks later.<br />
<br />
Those losses, and the heartache of those left behind have been heavy on my heart. They weigh me down, sometimes to the point of becoming depressed if I am not careful.<br />
<br />
I have to choose. Do I let them get me down, or somehow lift myself out of that pit and choose joy? It is very hard.<br />
<br />
So, tho my heart is filled with tears for others who are suffering, I choose joy.<br />
<br />
I choose to go out and enjoy the life and good health God has given me. Walk in the sunshine, do some fun things. Take days off from work....go for a drive, or walk by the river. Not big things, just little things that keep me connected with God and His creation.....<br />
And I ask God for hope.....and for comfort for those who are suffering.<br />
<br />
My prayer is that we will choose joy, and pray for the broken hearted.<br />
<br />
Blessings, Barb<br />
<br />Barbara Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08740517393541058936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79641116704393108.post-89545923357587584252016-04-07T10:21:00.002-07:002016-04-07T10:27:19.817-07:00Delineating Duties<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoYz5rNCsOhHKusEC_AVwlPAEI5yu9kKQ-Ep7pxw2NQJKSReNE5eQX6DsSFTG2m40DycLS_kH9BsF7uHJVKqVd1IbfpxN8zI0eYPxO_doLjld8ZdSqgfGqLcmJvPo8zCCqV3Nu2cQu2g/s1600/IMG_1304.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoYz5rNCsOhHKusEC_AVwlPAEI5yu9kKQ-Ep7pxw2NQJKSReNE5eQX6DsSFTG2m40DycLS_kH9BsF7uHJVKqVd1IbfpxN8zI0eYPxO_doLjld8ZdSqgfGqLcmJvPo8zCCqV3Nu2cQu2g/s320/IMG_1304.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
In your marriage or other relationships, do you delineate duties?<br />
Have you figured out which things you will do, and which things your spouse will do?<br />
<br />
Is it a written list, or just in your heads?<br />
Does it change, or stay the same?<br />
<br />
What about in your relationship with God? Have you delineated duties?<br />
Is there a list of what you expect God will do,<br />
and what you are supposed to do?<br />
Is it written down, or in your head?<br />
Does your list change?<br />
<br />
Do you have things you feel like you can do yourself? the easy, every day things?<br />
no need to bother God with those. you are quite capable to handle them yourself, right?<br />
<br />
so, you only go to God with the big things. how do you think he feels about that?<br />
OK,
here is the scenario. you are going along in life, it's running smooth,
then, bam! a big and not usually good event knocks you for a loop. then
you call on God, right?<br />
<br />
think about this a moment: how
would you feel if a 'friend' never called you to say hi, or visited, or
seemed to care a thing about you, then bam, out of the blue they had
some catastrophe in their life and they desperately need your help. well
like, who are you? you need what?<br />
<br />
Just something to ponder....Do you call God your friend? Talk to Him each day? Stay connected?<br />
Or is He just your "911" in emergencies.....<br />
<br />
blessings allBarbara Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08740517393541058936noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79641116704393108.post-13350611413083148342016-01-04T18:36:00.001-08:002016-01-06T17:23:17.978-08:00Serious Question.....Aging, and Perplexed<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_20KDW336uFuhyphenhyphenhcQNsS0PsNf9v5deaxUu_Uon7nmqvrZcWhydBamEyfJgVTF-mgS95YQdPSneJ3s0Zao9MDU2OBh54WL96m9tT7cdfU-UW1LEazVTd1zIQ37zFEbDg_ElwDWhZHGog/s1600/Scott+and+Barb+2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_20KDW336uFuhyphenhyphenhcQNsS0PsNf9v5deaxUu_Uon7nmqvrZcWhydBamEyfJgVTF-mgS95YQdPSneJ3s0Zao9MDU2OBh54WL96m9tT7cdfU-UW1LEazVTd1zIQ37zFEbDg_ElwDWhZHGog/s400/Scott+and+Barb+2015.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Hi friends<br />
I just need to get something off my chest and throw it out there for some feedback.<br />
(It is too long for FB so I am putting it here.)<br />
<br />
That picture is us. My sweet fella is 70 now, and I am 67.<br />
We have been married 48 years, and very very happy.<br />
We are in good health barring aches and pains that seem to come with age.<br />
<br />
Here is what I am perplexed about:<br />
<br />
We have a lot of friends and acquaintances who have serious health issues.<br />
Cancer, heart attacks, Alzheimers, strokes. Some younger than us have passed away already.<br />
We are more grateful than words can say for our good health, and overall state of well being.<br />
We love the Lord, and people, and are so grateful for our lives.<br />
<br />
But I have been having this feeling that we need to 'do something'. Anything. Not just sit around and wait for one of those health issues to hit us. We really have no desire to travel...(well, my sweet fella is most content to just stay home and relax.....he is retired and deserves that.) He helps with things around the house, and I run my little store with a lot of help from my Mom, granddaughter, sweet fella and friends.<br />
We live a comfortable and usually content life, looking for others to help. God has blessed us so we can bless others. <br />
<br />
But there is still that nagging...that 'get up and do something so we do not regret not doing it later' feeling. I think my 'adventure' spirit is urging me to go have some fun, and I enjoy it most when my fella is with me.<br />
Neither of us are feeling a 'calling' to foreign ministry, but do try to minister to those God puts in our lives every day.<br />
But the "Urgency" to do something still nags me.<br />
<br />
So, while we spend out days and evenings praying for marriages, addictions, and serious health issues for others.....I remain.....perplexed.<br />
<br />
This is a chance I hope some of you will take to either give me feed back from things you have learned along these lines, or think of your own lives, and what you are doing, or not doing, while you still can.<br />
<br />
Blessings in Him<br />
Barb<br />
<br />
<br />Barbara Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08740517393541058936noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79641116704393108.post-21315316312479639422015-10-12T08:08:00.001-07:002015-10-12T08:10:04.198-07:00Learning To Let Go<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkW4xcRKm6V9BYRAOIA08y1q-SrGNoTEmycxnu-HaBzqGM05qhLjGZei2MDgI4CzCi7zWGNNGq6yA9K8kQTBBWRrM5EeYf5vff2bETo7n13T07XK7jfkCzptudw7Vnk_1qmj86Npuqjg/s1600/IMG_1128.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkW4xcRKm6V9BYRAOIA08y1q-SrGNoTEmycxnu-HaBzqGM05qhLjGZei2MDgI4CzCi7zWGNNGq6yA9K8kQTBBWRrM5EeYf5vff2bETo7n13T07XK7jfkCzptudw7Vnk_1qmj86Npuqjg/s320/IMG_1128.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I am learning that there is more than one way of doing things.<br />
And I am learning that we do not have to be in control, or do it ‘our’ way in order for things to turn out right. (or sometimes even better than if we had done it out way)<br />
<br />
For instance: in years past, if I had a project, but needed help on it, I would try to ‘supervise’ so that it would be done how I thought it should be done.<br />
Scott would get irritated at me because I wanted to know how he was going to do something I asked him to do, because if he was not going to do it my way, I needed to understand every step he was going to do to make sure it would turn out how I wanted. He would get frustrated, then I would get frustrated, and usually walk away upset. Not a good experience for either of us, and usually took longer to get what I wanted.<br />
Or someone else would be helping me, and while I was busy doing something else, they would do it different than I had planned….I would come back to see how it was going, and it was not how I thought it should be…<br />
<br />
But you know what I have learned? My way is not the only way, or always the right or best way to do something.<br />
I have learned that there are a lot of ways to get something done, and some even better than the way I thought it should be done. I have learned (am learning) to let go, to let others do it their way. It gets done, and with a lot less stress on all our parts. (And sometimes it is even better than my plan was.) =)<br />
I have also learned that while they are working out a plan to get something done, I can be doing some other work that needed to be done, instead of trying to ‘supervise’ how a job I gave them is being done.<br />
<br />
And this is what it has helped me learn too. God has His own way of dong things, and it is the right way.<br />
And it is often a totally different way than I would have thought. And if I let it go, there is a lot less stress.<br />
His timing, His way, is perfect. And also, while He is working out His perfect plan and timing, I can be doing the other things He has called me to do.<br />
<br />
Thank you Lord, for using people to help me grow. For using situations to help me see how you work in us.<br />
Thank you that your plan and your timing is perfect. Help me to trust you more, and walk in stride with You.<br />
Amen.Barbara Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08740517393541058936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79641116704393108.post-13844000233120945402015-09-21T09:31:00.002-07:002016-04-07T10:11:19.674-07:00My Morning Walks With God<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ_lTXqL4IzMO6rJCcZ6hGiQefsT8vY-s8FzFPrZ-y0EkARiJUYHPPyWTHvcbpmIUjZyVArnILbODOo8LZWyITIOuld7GcBIwiOESEhOdelPwgFHK3R2Q-kgS7A_gYAt6Uh9kpuiDDOA/s1600-h/IMG_3587.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5391565817604946338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ_lTXqL4IzMO6rJCcZ6hGiQefsT8vY-s8FzFPrZ-y0EkARiJUYHPPyWTHvcbpmIUjZyVArnILbODOo8LZWyITIOuld7GcBIwiOESEhOdelPwgFHK3R2Q-kgS7A_gYAt6Uh9kpuiDDOA/s320/IMG_3587.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span><br />
On my walk a few days ago,<br />
I saw, off in the distance,<br />
running across a big pasture,<br />
4 HUGE dogs.<br />
<br />
My first thought was,<br />
"Hope they are friendly".<br />
Then,<br />
"Is that pasture fenced?"<br />
Then quickly realized it wasn't.<br />
<br />
About then, they 'ran' across the road.<br />
Only they weren't really running,<br />
they were gracefully 'leaping'.<br />
<br />
Yes, it was 4 deer.<br />
Four beautiful, deer, crossing the road in front of me.<br />
<br />
They were running into an area of trees,<br />
and on the other side of the trees was a pasture.<br />
<br />
I hurried down the road a bit,<br />
and quietly moved into the area where they had crossed.<br />
<br />
I could see three of them, a bit of distance from where i was,<br />
then i saw one in the trees, closer to me.<br />
<br />
I slowly walked across the manure filled pasture,<br />
waiting, watching, slowly moving forward,<br />
careful not to scare the deer off,<br />
looking for the very best picture i could get.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3ExV0i4NwARN_QJJMYQnFf6nkArKtKzt3x6J1C7Shm9Ygl6JQcALgLw2DMfvDFM1hJO2M1V7Q-BR7iGwmiaVrnILFc10qJrecYWc_cJPX1ca2Abhd0TPhFvWD5XjbnhTFU_4HMcRIGQ/s1600-h/IMG_3588.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5391565809264355170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3ExV0i4NwARN_QJJMYQnFf6nkArKtKzt3x6J1C7Shm9Ygl6JQcALgLw2DMfvDFM1hJO2M1V7Q-BR7iGwmiaVrnILFc10qJrecYWc_cJPX1ca2Abhd0TPhFvWD5XjbnhTFU_4HMcRIGQ/s320/IMG_3588.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
The deer looked up,<br />
and knew I was there,<br />
but did not run away.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
She would eat a bit, and look up to check on me,<br />
Then eat a bit more.<br />
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7nPqEfMjwP60Q4R78GAu7TMITM3vex8IjCw5q8rX-lnybD4K96bEpMwI69eA86c1qPKmdsewTJUHLJgc1Pn-3r3y4ee-vxCBOyjMmncV_cIWS67g0DEjaEs5CVeX1fgsolKKOkd7IVA/s1600-h/IMG_3589.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5391565799740041282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7nPqEfMjwP60Q4R78GAu7TMITM3vex8IjCw5q8rX-lnybD4K96bEpMwI69eA86c1qPKmdsewTJUHLJgc1Pn-3r3y4ee-vxCBOyjMmncV_cIWS67g0DEjaEs5CVeX1fgsolKKOkd7IVA/s320/IMG_3589.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
And then finally she meandered off down the trees to<br />
cross the meadow with her friends.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTxQBOuyRBvVAfM10yrlGLhPDJA_DMC3Pr3HYIMdJgVRK-CGkwWDrEs1DhCv4O5-dQe5FcF2P9NeoeMSAFCwrWZQ8QDa4uuffJOy8LNJEROpgFLiNf8-Cu7G9vgs8S3UjxX3Tofy5UiA/s1600-h/IMG_3590.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5391565792826717298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTxQBOuyRBvVAfM10yrlGLhPDJA_DMC3Pr3HYIMdJgVRK-CGkwWDrEs1DhCv4O5-dQe5FcF2P9NeoeMSAFCwrWZQ8QDa4uuffJOy8LNJEROpgFLiNf8-Cu7G9vgs8S3UjxX3Tofy5UiA/s320/IMG_3590.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
When we were done,<br />
and as i walked my way back across<br />
the area and to the road,<br />
I was thinking about how i had been totally<br />
focused on getting those pictures.<br />
I had carefully taken every step.<br />
Looking for the best picture i could get.<br />
<br />
<br />
I was not thinking about anything else.<br />
I was totally focused on one thing.<br />
I had not one thought of the day's problems.<br />
No anxiety, no worries.<br />
<br />
<br />
" Lord to help me do that in my walk with You.<br />
Help me to stay totally focused on You.<br />
Waiting, watching, slowly moving forward<br />
always looking for Your best."<br />
<br />
Blessings friends,<br />
<br />
Barbara Jean<br />
<br />
This was re posted from last summer for you to enjoy.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Barbara Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08740517393541058936noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79641116704393108.post-15828813338733196082015-09-21T09:31:00.001-07:002015-09-21T09:31:10.275-07:00Pondering Life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Just thinking:</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> We know several people, relatives, friends,
acquaintances, who are either seriously ill, or have had family members
pass away lately. My heart aches for them.<br /> And it is making me
ponder our life, Scott and I. We work, a lot. Yes, my work is also my
fun, and I love what I get to do. But I am aware, that any of the
illnesses or heartaches that have fallen on others, could happen to us,
at any given moment. And of course, God is in control of all of that.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="text_exposed_show">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
But it makes me wonder if we will be part of the huge percentage of
people who will be sorry they did not take more time off, go on more
trips, walk by more rivers, spend more time with friends.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /> And, in pondering this, we may need to make some changes. <br /> Life is precious. Do not take it for granted.<br /> Say I love you, TODAY. Give the extra hug to someone who needs it. Relax and have a little fun. Live each day to the fullest!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> That's all. As I said, just pondering.....Be blessed everyone.</span></div>
Barbara Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08740517393541058936noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79641116704393108.post-57633533177740994282015-03-27T19:12:00.001-07:002015-03-27T19:12:57.685-07:00Weird, Warm and Wonderful.<br />
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<br />
Have you ever had something so wonderful, but unusual happen, that later on, even the thought of it brings back the warm fuzzies of it all?<br />
That happened to me last week.<br />
<br />
A friend that I had not seen for some time came in to see me at the store.<br />
We greeted each other with a hug. (a pretty normal thing at my shop.)<br />
But <b>THIS HUG WAS DIFFERENT.</b><br />
As we embraced, a <b>warmth and peace came over me</b>, from the top of my head, down to the bottom of my feet. I could even 'see' with my minds eye, a thin cloud surrounding me, going down over my body, and settling peace into my spirit. I did not even want to let go, it was so wonderful!<br />
<br />
I stepped back. slowly, trying to keep hold of that peacefulness, and could barely speak the words, "that was, really, weird, and...wonderful." Then I tried in my feeble way to describe what I had just experienced.<br />
A brief 'event' that went beyond words. But she understood.<br />
So, here I am again, trying to explain this to you, and there are just no words, but the 'feeling' is restored as I speak of it here.<br />
<br />
My friend and I proceeded to sit down and visit for awhile. (and this having been a very busy day at the store, I felt God gave us this wonderful time between customers.)<br />
My friend told me how in the last few months she had such a hunger for God, knowing Him, knowing His word, spending quiet time with Him. She could not wait each day till after work to get home and read, and learn more about Him, and take more of Him 'in'.<br />
It had changed her life. She was filled with so much love, and peace, it somehow washed over me in our hug. <br />
<br />
Our time together visiting was so uplifting and encouraging, I cherish that we had it.<br />
<br />
And it changed me. I wanted 'it', whatever 'it'<br />
was.<br />
I spend time with the Lord, I love Him, and am blessed He walks with me each day. And I have love to give, but this, this was different, and I wanted it. I wanted to share it with others. I wanted them to feel that peace I felt, from head to toe. It takes my breath away to even talk about it now.<br />
And I wonder now if she could feel the 'peace' flow out of her, as Jesus felt
when the woman with the 'issue' touched Him and His healing power went
out to her. <br />
<br />
Now, since you have read this, I will tell you, if someone shared this with me, I would probably be 'skeptical', or draw a blank as to what on earth they were talking about, but the reason I am sharing is for those who will take it to heart, and use it to help them grow, like I want to grow.<br />
<br />
God has this gift of His peace for all of us. And He has enough to fill us to overflowing, so that we may give it out to others.<br />
<br />
This is my prayer, for myself, and all of you who desire this extraordinary peace and love Jesus has for us to share:<br />
<br />
Lord, I am so grateful for this 'experience' that showed me for a few moments the intensity of the peace you have for us. I pray that my desire for you might grow, and that I might be so filled with your loving and peaceful spirit that it may overflow into the lives of those you send my way.<br />
As I sit here, I am breathing in more of your spirit and promises in my life, and I know you will honor this prayer, as it is what you want for all of us.<br />
Living for Jesus, and in His Holy and Powerful name.<br />
Amen<br />
.Barbara Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08740517393541058936noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79641116704393108.post-45910699650443237652015-02-08T14:53:00.000-08:002015-02-08T14:53:42.035-08:00Dancing....why am I not dancing?My Mom and I were driving thru the small town she lives in, and saw a man crossing the street, and he was dancing, and smiling and waving his hands.<br />
<br />
Two ladies were crossing the walk going the other direction, and well, 'avoided' him, and looked at him like he was crazy.<br />
<br />
When he waved at us, I smiled and waved back. It was fun, and I was actually jealous that he could walk around dancing and singing and waving his arms.<br />
<br />
My Mom said he is around town all the time doing that, and that she was told he is harmless.<br />
<br />
I longed for the day that I used to dance, even in my own home. I would turn on my praise music, and actually dance around, and sing, and sort of 'exercise'. I loved it. It was so free. I was free.<br />
<br />
What happened to those days? What happened to singing and dancing before the Lord?<br />
Has life gotten so busy, so filled with business and other things, that I do not 'feel' happy enough to dance any more? How do I get that back?<br />
<br />
I am bipolar, but have been stable for a long time....no big ups, no big downs.<br />
Each morning when I wake up, I CHOOSE to smile, and great the Lord, and give him my day.<br />
Do I usually 'feel' like smiling? No. It is a choice I make.<br />
And I choose to get up, get dressed, go for my morning walk, and sing.<br />
Yes, I sing. Not because I feel like it, but because it is a good thing to do.<br />
I sing praises to my God.<br />
<br />
When I get home, I read devotions, and pray...well, sometimes I just get busy with my day and do not really' pray' but God is on my heart all day long, and as people come to mind, I lift them up to Him.<br />
<br />
Sometimes, on my sort of average days, I wonder if it was better when I was really down for a season.<br />
I know after that there was a high time....life was more exciting, more visit, I laughed, and sang and danced.<br />
But I remember those down times too clearly. It was not worth it. seems like it was forever I would be down, and only a short time I would be up.<br />
<br />
So, I'm choosing to live a contented life. I 'choose' to smile, I choose to sing. Am I dancing yet? not quite.<br />
But it will come. It WILL come.<br />
<br />
What will your choice be today? Will you make choices that will help your day be better? Or will you let yourself stay down, stay secluded, stay.....unreachable. Those walls will have to come down eventually.<br />
Why not today? God has given you this day. It is a gift from Him. Make it the best day you can.<br />
<br />
And if you cannot make it better for yourself, make it better for someone else. Do something kind. It will help you quit thinking about your own sorrow, and you will bless someone else.<br />
<br />
Be blessed everyone.<br />
Hope you did not mind me thinking out loud here.<br />
<br />
BarbBarbara Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08740517393541058936noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79641116704393108.post-68235341059662830892015-01-24T18:07:00.004-08:002015-01-24T18:07:24.315-08:00A Poem, from long ago.<u>The Busyness of Life, or, Where Did God go?</u> Aug. 2005<br />
<br />
Day begins, so much to do.<br />
Make a list, maybe two.<br />
Hurry, hurry our the door,<br />
add to your list more and more.<br />
Help me God, along life's way,<br />
Bless me God, Bless my day.<br />
<br />
I help, I serve, I work a lot.<br />
Sometimes I'm thanked, sometimes not.<br />
They ask for help once, then twice,<br />
they think that I'm so very nice.<br />
"We need you here, we need you there".<br />
There's no more of me to spare!<br />
Help me God, along life's way,<br />
help me make it thru today.<br />
<br />
I should spend time with friends, I know,<br />
but my list of things just seems to grow.<br />
Maybe next week, or maybe next month<br />
I might have time to go to lunch. <br />
Or maybe just a cup of tea,<br />
whenever they catch up with me.<br />
Help me God to get it straight,<br />
Should I work, or keep the date?<br />
<br />
My quiet time is gone these days.<br />
Lists of things get in the way.<br />
Pay the bills, dig the yard,<br />
sometimes it is so very hard.<br />
As for God, there is not time,<br />
Maybe He could get in line.<br />
Help me God, anyway...<br />
Bless me God, Bless my day.<br />
<br />
Not enough time under the sun,<br />
not enough strength to get it all done.<br />
I lay down, and cry for rest,<br />
God I've done my very best.<br />
Am I approved? Did I stand the test?<br />
Is it OK that I ask to be blessed? <br />
Bless me God in my weariness. <br />
<br />
"This was not a test at all my child,<br />
I wanted to show you your life is to wild.<br />
Too many sports, too much TV,<br />
too may things put ahead of me.<br />
So take a deep breath, put your list away.<br />
Spend time with me, read, and pray.<br />
I will bless you, I will guide your way,<br />
I will bless you, I will Bless your day.<br />
<br />
by Barbara Jean Simmons <br />
<br />
<br />Barbara Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08740517393541058936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79641116704393108.post-52268141266643263622014-12-29T18:07:00.000-08:002014-12-29T18:07:24.328-08:00Who are we praying for?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
It is amazing to me, how we can get so caught up in ourselves, we forget how good we really have it.<br />
<br />
Take me, for instance.<br />
I had surgery about 6 weeks ago. Major surgery. And I have been laying around complaining about how I am not getting better fast enough.....tired of laying around, need to get back to the store. (I own my own shop. wonderful help, but they cannot help forever). I miss being around people, so much to do, and so on and so on.<br />
<br />
Now, to think of others:<br />
I am on FB, too much really....when I see a notice from a friend asking for prayer for a young man who has been in a serious accident, and is in critical condition in ICU, and needing surgery....but having to wait till they can do one thing in order to do the next.<br />
The picture showed his car. Totaled, as in, I had a hard time figuring out which end was which. And this nice young man was pictured next to the picture of the car......<br />
It does not sound good.<br />
<br />
My whole point here is, that sure took my mind off my own little problems....<br />
Now my prayers are not for myself to get better quicker, but for this young man, his parents, and sisters....<br />
<br />
God thinks of us more than there are grains of sand, (Ps.139:17,18) and He has our overall best in mind in all His plans for us, and for those who love us, and love Him.<br />
<br />
So, who and what are we praying for? something we want? a 'thing'? better health for ourselves?<br />
How about praying for those who are much worse off than we are. It is not hard to find them if we only look outside ourselves.<br />
<br />
be blessed<br />
BarbBarbara Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08740517393541058936noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79641116704393108.post-28696568468857958482014-04-09T12:19:00.001-07:002014-04-09T12:19:14.661-07:00"LATE"<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
On my walk this morning, I passed a man who was going the opposite way.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"How you doing?" he asked quietly.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
" Great" I said. "How about you?"</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(All this while walking quickly past him.)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Oh", in a lowered voice he said, "I guess OK." </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and he slowed his pace even more.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
In my rush to get home I gave him the thumbs up </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and "better than horrible."</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
ouch!!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
did i just really say that?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
how would i feel if i was just doing 'OK' and wishing someone cared?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
what could i have said? </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
'hope it gets better'?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
'pray it gets better'?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
`````````````` </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"I'm late. I'm late. gotta get ready,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
gotta get there.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm late I'm late. can't take time to care." </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
should i have paused, in my hurried world, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and taken time to care?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"I'm late I'm late....."</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
get where? church?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
for what?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
to sing, to hug, to get fed?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
to hope someone cares more about me more than</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I cared about a hurting person I passed on my walk?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
or should i have stopped and taken time to </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
care about his person, maybe a lost soul?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I think we all know the answer to that.... </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Not that there is anything wrong with all the hugging,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and being fed ourselves, but there are times when we need</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
to reach out to others too.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Maybe even those who are not in our building</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
on Sunday mornings.....</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm late. I'm late.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
but gotta take time to care.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Be blessed everyone.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Barb</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Jesus took time to care...</div>
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<br />Barbara Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08740517393541058936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79641116704393108.post-81499595060056298522013-08-23T23:33:00.002-07:002013-08-23T23:33:26.872-07:00Walk on beach<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Last year at the Beach:<br />
<br />
Scott, "Take my hand."<br />
<br />
I did not ask where we were going or what we were doing.<br />
I just took it and let him lead.<br />
(In previous years I would have asked 'why', or 'where' are we going?)<br />
But I was learning to trust. <br />
<br />
Carefully he guided me over jagged rocks, then a couple of feet onto the beach.<br />
Scott, "now we can say we walked on the beach".<br />
It was a simple thing. <br />
<br />
When I thought back about that, and realized how much that is like our walk with God.<br />
He stretches out His hand to us.<br />
<br />
We start out unsure, not fully trusting maybe.....<br />
Wanting to know the 'why' and the 'where', or for 'how' long. <br />
<br />
He wants us to take his hand, trust Him, let Him lead us.<br />
Maybe it is just a few steps over jagged terrain,<br />
or maybe a longer walk and more difficult journey.<br />
No questions, just taking his hand and trusting him.<br />
<br />
We do not learn that over night, and He understands that.<br />
<br />
So, where are you today?<br />
Is He reaching out?<br />
Are you asking "Why"? <br />
Or "Where"?<br />
or "How long"?<br />
<br />
Or will we simply take His hand,<br />
and trust that He will lead us in a safe path.<br />
He promises to never leave us or forsake us,<br />
and He promises to take care of His children.<br />
<br />
Thank you Lord.<br />
<br />
Be Blessed everyone<br />
BarbBarbara Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08740517393541058936noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79641116704393108.post-3423333288951555542013-05-05T23:00:00.002-07:002013-05-06T09:44:52.753-07:00Getting Motivated or (How to get on your little red trike and get somewhere.)<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"> </span><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBd9svCPWviQZ804SHHgBjDlAn67XB05qJTVxC91900-nM3xVQlRQwmc26zNiMSzYIKX1Ls4S0SKGSglDHYL2bvNUuZHIJenM8h1J7Vtmhpw-3fqsS6VruoyEKJ3eAIzn-y1IVC9CQdQ/s1600/IMG_0990a.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBd9svCPWviQZ804SHHgBjDlAn67XB05qJTVxC91900-nM3xVQlRQwmc26zNiMSzYIKX1Ls4S0SKGSglDHYL2bvNUuZHIJenM8h1J7Vtmhpw-3fqsS6VruoyEKJ3eAIzn-y1IVC9CQdQ/s400/IMG_0990a.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></span><br />
<br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"> Hey,
anyone out there feel stuck? So many projects you do not know where to
start, feel overwhelmed, and you just cannot get motivated to do
anything?? Sometimes even just go take a nap, then get up feeling the same way again?<br /> <br /> That is what my friend posted on FB earlier this evening,
so, seeing that I have that same problem myself, I 'challenged' her to
go get one of those things done in a half hour. I would go do the same,
then we would meet back here to tell what we got do<span class="text_exposed_show">ne.<br /> <br /> Well, what a great idea that was. (Must have been the Lord. =)<br /> We both worked 1/2 hour, then met on FB to tell, and we got so much done. <br /> So, we did it for the next half hour! And again, got so much done.</span></span><br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show">(I think part of why this worked, is you do not have time to see all there is to do, you just choose one and go for it.) </span></span><br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show">I also noticed that I keep up that energy and work for awhile after we stopped 'checking' on each other. </span></span><br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><br /> So, find someone to be accountable to, set a time limit, then come back and share.<br /> And feel free to share this idea too. It works!!</span></span><br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show">(if you do not have anyone to be a partner with you, you can leave a comment here any time to let me know what you got done. So excited to hear from you all.)<br /> <br /> Thanks Lord!!!</span></span><br />
<br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show">Blessings all,</span></span><br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show">Barb</span></span><br />
<br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"> </span></span><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show">PS I told my friend, next time she feels unmotivated just set the
timer, work one half hour on anything! Then come let me know what she
got done. =)</span></span><br />
<br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show">PSS would love to hear any adaptations of this that works for you, too. =)</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #351c75;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show">OK. Someone said tell what I got done. Here it is.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #351c75;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show">In 1 hour I...</span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #351c75;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show">spray painted two frames and a little metal chair</span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #351c75;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show">started laundry</span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #351c75;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show">cleaned bird feeder</span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #351c75;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show">put some stuff away</span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #351c75;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show">picked up boards from driveway</span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #351c75;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show">cleaned 2 pieces to be painted</span></span></span><br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: #351c75;">got bank deposit ready, and added names to my business email list. </span></span></span><br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBd9svCPWviQZ804SHHgBjDlAn67XB05qJTVxC91900-nM3xVQlRQwmc26zNiMSzYIKX1Ls4S0SKGSglDHYL2bvNUuZHIJenM8h1J7Vtmhpw-3fqsS6VruoyEKJ3eAIzn-y1IVC9CQdQ/s1600/IMG_0990a.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<br />Barbara Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08740517393541058936noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79641116704393108.post-28947793989932457992013-04-22T11:35:00.002-07:002013-04-22T11:35:37.607-07:00A Page From My Journal<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkd2HtyckIyqy1wM9mZ0nGGPpadBjFUpSG7g2aMX3_VMEfLCGEfW7KKkVrEr18o97jm-70_5AzhGx4Erlo15zgD2PN59aHASocWiEbfZ5c0r3hbtxDB7yAs1HOJxtjhWuut1aNwVOVOQ/s1600/IMG_1305.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkd2HtyckIyqy1wM9mZ0nGGPpadBjFUpSG7g2aMX3_VMEfLCGEfW7KKkVrEr18o97jm-70_5AzhGx4Erlo15zgD2PN59aHASocWiEbfZ5c0r3hbtxDB7yAs1HOJxtjhWuut1aNwVOVOQ/s400/IMG_1305.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A page from my journal:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">"OK Lord. Today is Friday, Dec 21, 2012.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">Help me to trust you for my needs today, </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">1 minute, <span style="color: black;">1</span> hour, 1 step at a time.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">Help me to remember, You Are my peace, my protector, </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">my provider; you are my answer when I call for help, </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">you are my guide, my deliverer, my help, my God and my King.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">You have a plan for me, for today.. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">Help me not to think about tomorrow, or even my next step today,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;"> knowing you will guide me through it.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">You will give me enough love, your love, enough strength,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;"> your strength, for today, for my next step.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">Help me be mindful of that, with each step I take.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">Help me be mindful of You, with each step I take."</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Be blessed my friends.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Taking one step at a time with Him.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
barb</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Barbara Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08740517393541058936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79641116704393108.post-15648765975244677322013-04-10T10:26:00.002-07:002013-04-10T10:26:46.338-07:00Resting in Him<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGZ8BaYsPlHa9WrTwTJln8YMyE7XD499YpJ-XhAv2_60maPl6zykvvcs-ASaxCdh3xfgas9mJF4GsbP_wTRYBCkWzB2Qo9xTXuMzfjRhCvgDxrXOYslDtn9pLWVblaA1Cv5U1ZSBwABeO2/s1600-h/card_4_1_1.jpg"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi429giAMjyc6nOdyTRs5u47JA9Q2bPVW45oG9FBI3tSd8il2hac7836lecsAsNzq3LsOIPYCA3oceLLxbBHqGnvzvzlgPyjjDkAoWwWpWE_bOT6hFvA6dffKNbS22vP9YnYcbOBnZ5bWuK/s1600-h/card3_3_1_1.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5351365154527454578" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi429giAMjyc6nOdyTRs5u47JA9Q2bPVW45oG9FBI3tSd8il2hac7836lecsAsNzq3LsOIPYCA3oceLLxbBHqGnvzvzlgPyjjDkAoWwWpWE_bOT6hFvA6dffKNbS22vP9YnYcbOBnZ5bWuK/s400/card3_3_1_1.jpg" style="display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 234px;" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Oh Boy do I need this today.<br />
<br />
Blessings fellow bloggers.<br />
Peace and His rest to you this day.<br />
<br />
barbara jean</div>
Barbara Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08740517393541058936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79641116704393108.post-35255031883320129342013-04-01T16:15:00.001-07:002013-04-01T16:15:25.832-07:00slow or fast pace?<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMbteAEoJbzTE6NpVZv90V-YEZlfuYz6V8xbOHUHAEw8ijQgWi_DcBQeAeqiJLgcnkiYZtptytTBr-MazL42Bt9BBAyNZwCzVvvDKD5GCONRHGvdCMNT4xcH5TDL07fL7UZkVOR6CZgQ/s1600/IMG_0485.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMbteAEoJbzTE6NpVZv90V-YEZlfuYz6V8xbOHUHAEw8ijQgWi_DcBQeAeqiJLgcnkiYZtptytTBr-MazL42Bt9BBAyNZwCzVvvDKD5GCONRHGvdCMNT4xcH5TDL07fL7UZkVOR6CZgQ/s400/IMG_0485.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
slow pace or fast pace.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I've been noticing different families lately.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Observing the pace at which they do things.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And, of course, it has got me pondering life again.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Some families are rushing from one activity to another. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Always pushing their kids to go faster, get ready, hurry up, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
get out the door, we'll be late. Cramming so much into a day everyone is</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
too tired to be civil when they do stop.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Or the TV is on, or computer, or games....</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
no need to interact, just fill our time with activity,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and our brains with noise.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then I've noticed this new friend. She is very laid back. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Made me notice how her child was.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pretty laid back. Kind of just enjoying a slower pace of life. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Taking time to 'be still', enjoy nature, enjoy people, hear God.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
No TV blasting, no texting, no computer going for hours.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Made me wonder what we are teaching our kids??</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Are we starting them out in life not taking the time to</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
enjoy things, but to just rush from one activity to another? </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Do they even know how to be still? Or do quiet things? Or hear God?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Or have they inadvertently taught them to ignore the very one who created them?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The one who longs to have relationship with them?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm not saying you have to get rid of your TV,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
your computer, your phone,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
just try moderation, and try teaching your kids moderation. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So, just ponder a moment, when is the last time you were still, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
or you encouraged your children to be still?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Try it....then remember what it was like, and teach it to your children.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Be still and know that I am God".</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Enjoy the beauty of His creation.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Enjoy the sound of the Wind,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
the singing of the birds. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Stop and smell the roses.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks for stopping by.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
be blessed</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
barb</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMbteAEoJbzTE6NpVZv90V-YEZlfuYz6V8xbOHUHAEw8ijQgWi_DcBQeAeqiJLgcnkiYZtptytTBr-MazL42Bt9BBAyNZwCzVvvDKD5GCONRHGvdCMNT4xcH5TDL07fL7UZkVOR6CZgQ/s1600/IMG_0485.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
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<br />Barbara Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08740517393541058936noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79641116704393108.post-76701058409982482772013-03-31T10:43:00.003-07:002013-03-31T10:44:09.916-07:00Christ is Risen<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHRitoBrXA90f-F8oaeZPUOZF5GJmPjUbuVc6Ox0keIQCrcoyciKiFwFq41Ism4irtNGuWcONoek-vHbfaT2kaqeCODAMNRqOwXhUQmbNl1hUol9EFqoETmBcEQlHyUViQ0E3kXay_Yg/s1600/IMG_0712.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="117" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHRitoBrXA90f-F8oaeZPUOZF5GJmPjUbuVc6Ox0keIQCrcoyciKiFwFq41Ism4irtNGuWcONoek-vHbfaT2kaqeCODAMNRqOwXhUQmbNl1hUol9EFqoETmBcEQlHyUViQ0E3kXay_Yg/s400/IMG_0712.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Christ our Lord is risen today!!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Hallelujah!! What a savior.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Blessings all as you clelbrate the new life we have in Christ,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">because of His sacrifice for us.</span></div>
Barbara Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08740517393541058936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79641116704393108.post-47811264233639453382013-03-20T09:26:00.003-07:002013-03-20T09:26:38.257-07:00Thank You Lord<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYuocUwdCGrjHOaAlEMTlwDUZhr0MxyaGrKNrLP_d3RhddSANPASeB8oZM2_XQZqw5HN-5eivLF_YVUa-hhnB_R-NSBFx0eTY2VW5EktjVls0EapWoT7aAJY0h2FYpOkrgDnMQ9ghp_Q/s1600/IMG_2373.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456846199149961938" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYuocUwdCGrjHOaAlEMTlwDUZhr0MxyaGrKNrLP_d3RhddSANPASeB8oZM2_XQZqw5HN-5eivLF_YVUa-hhnB_R-NSBFx0eTY2VW5EktjVls0EapWoT7aAJY0h2FYpOkrgDnMQ9ghp_Q/s320/IMG_2373.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
Thank you Lord, for all the beauty you surround us with.<br />
<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1kyizJ3PqEp2hoeMWhZoZ5tXLhVUjxjqnRrNKX5T9DWwQm48PqsGuNuoqnBL7G7rA-GReuhoSbilatAFrQHiOr1AI0PKT9jhc5Lyq1oZBZ9rBpBuY9ClbEonhqz36PdzqCDP7CxTw7w/s1600/IMG_2308.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456846140619398466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1kyizJ3PqEp2hoeMWhZoZ5tXLhVUjxjqnRrNKX5T9DWwQm48PqsGuNuoqnBL7G7rA-GReuhoSbilatAFrQHiOr1AI0PKT9jhc5Lyq1oZBZ9rBpBuY9ClbEonhqz36PdzqCDP7CxTw7w/s320/IMG_2308.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 285px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
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Help us pause and enjoy it. </div>
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Help us slow down, and listen for your voice.</div>
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Blessings everyone.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
barb</div>
Barbara Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08740517393541058936noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79641116704393108.post-45522145904025372932013-02-16T21:06:00.001-08:002019-02-17T11:33:47.760-08:00Lord????? Here I am....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsAUewIXkAZgxQMgIOxJwR90i8aQZevhyJpTqmfon6MUsIAHs4ESqxluHRKUt_Kw3jXu-34z_IPic1vfg7qT8ScEDHxkEdtNio4P7dDfvsVReiiI_cIW_2ZbIx2hwAuKDCTLJYOjkJHw/s1600/IMG_0740.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsAUewIXkAZgxQMgIOxJwR90i8aQZevhyJpTqmfon6MUsIAHs4ESqxluHRKUt_Kw3jXu-34z_IPic1vfg7qT8ScEDHxkEdtNio4P7dDfvsVReiiI_cIW_2ZbIx2hwAuKDCTLJYOjkJHw/s320/IMG_0740.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Lord, some times I just do not know what to say to you.</div>
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Maybe I am tired......or cannot quite figure out just how I am feeling.....</div>
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or feel a little stunned by life.... like a little birdy just learning to fly,</div>
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and not making it on my first effort.</div>
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Maybe I am puzzled about how to even go about it all...</div>
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this walking with You,</div>
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this soul searching, this walking day by day.</div>
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I'm not sure just what it is....</div>
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Maybe it is the sad of life around me..... </div>
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people I know, and don't know, suffering through things.</div>
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So, I'm quiet. I think of You, and what your Word says.</div>
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I know you are here with me.....</div>
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I know you have a plan for me....</div>
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You chose me...... </div>
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You created me, </div>
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You know me better than I know myself.</div>
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You have created in my heart and empty place,</div>
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that can only be filled with You. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT2XCkLNoIv7MHb1h_lre5AG1ZhjNK5bjho8Gj04Jl3wEWfgMXWGDgV7lZKngbbZWFTFviiGiCcizfkcdLtmOxGZDyF5TiYeCnQYdreT_pfd5wW_TeA69wFPmEMbirelYXiZvB66enwA/s1600/IMG_0737.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT2XCkLNoIv7MHb1h_lre5AG1ZhjNK5bjho8Gj04Jl3wEWfgMXWGDgV7lZKngbbZWFTFviiGiCcizfkcdLtmOxGZDyF5TiYeCnQYdreT_pfd5wW_TeA69wFPmEMbirelYXiZvB66enwA/s320/IMG_0737.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Lord, thank you, that even on the days I feel like</div>
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I cannot fly, you are here. Your hand feeds me, You love me,</div>
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You wait for me.......</div>
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I will be nourished, by your word and your love.</div>
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And tomorrow, I will try to fly again.</div>
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One day at a time.</div>
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Thank you sweet Jesus.</div>
Barbara Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08740517393541058936noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79641116704393108.post-49826167321607510842013-01-22T12:20:00.001-08:002013-01-22T12:20:48.373-08:00Update For You- Newness of Life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0sluvC9Bj2HmE1bSAP4WCnVpAaNvX3mnJjGjsBBY2KzT3NuASzVwMg5Y-l6oGD6S3sNJtAsLIb2nOcBe0qpFC6FXLK1tz1Knc8C5vd4CHsbHJvt8pTWoYC4iMLbM1k8SVAIuw0tXNuQ/s1600/IMG_1305.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0sluvC9Bj2HmE1bSAP4WCnVpAaNvX3mnJjGjsBBY2KzT3NuASzVwMg5Y-l6oGD6S3sNJtAsLIb2nOcBe0qpFC6FXLK1tz1Knc8C5vd4CHsbHJvt8pTWoYC4iMLbM1k8SVAIuw0tXNuQ/s400/IMG_1305.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Newness of Life.</div>
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Yes, that is what Christ gives us.....</div>
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We muddle along, doing the best we can.</div>
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We wait, try to rest, call upon His name....</div>
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each day may seem the same as the day before, for awhile.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNMhDv5R620aKVDjHb4E3rn7h8-PIIncAOUMn6Y-ZXGLkIDGvbkduZ62DrR1mddKZhUw_zajodXYU9aMIjObParI3ALi6oDO0MGLEKx6vQXVrBzRy3azgn6w-FLvKSUoRk_0raSZWa3A/s1600/IMG_1303.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNMhDv5R620aKVDjHb4E3rn7h8-PIIncAOUMn6Y-ZXGLkIDGvbkduZ62DrR1mddKZhUw_zajodXYU9aMIjObParI3ALi6oDO0MGLEKx6vQXVrBzRy3azgn6w-FLvKSUoRk_0raSZWa3A/s400/IMG_1303.JPG" width="300" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu56fGpHN0SQzW6Y1pgDUwNOloIShS0emFk5vx3PVc3YHftL_zSOIA8JMTDtT2scR_kFMtlgy_Ty7LmqT0kjVRf5-k0st3ndaS-svvNnOEcXizGNvTG0k2nj16FgX1XB-nxC1hZWk4hg/s1600/IMG_1304.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
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Sometimes He sends someone to help point the way,</div>
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or to say an extra prayer for us.....</div>
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He is so good that way.</div>
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Friends prayers, encouragement and support, </div>
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and most of all quiet time with God,</div>
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have brought back my smiles. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu56fGpHN0SQzW6Y1pgDUwNOloIShS0emFk5vx3PVc3YHftL_zSOIA8JMTDtT2scR_kFMtlgy_Ty7LmqT0kjVRf5-k0st3ndaS-svvNnOEcXizGNvTG0k2nj16FgX1XB-nxC1hZWk4hg/s1600/IMG_1304.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu56fGpHN0SQzW6Y1pgDUwNOloIShS0emFk5vx3PVc3YHftL_zSOIA8JMTDtT2scR_kFMtlgy_Ty7LmqT0kjVRf5-k0st3ndaS-svvNnOEcXizGNvTG0k2nj16FgX1XB-nxC1hZWk4hg/s400/IMG_1304.JPG" width="300" /></a> </div>
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I am hopeful.</div>
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I believe God has a plan for me.</div>
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I know He is with me... </div>
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And, as one sweet friend said it, </div>
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<b>"God has a plan for me, and I am smack dab in the middle of it". </b></div>
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Have you ever thought about that?</div>
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<b>No matter where we are, </b></div>
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<b>we are "smack dab" in the middle of God's plan.</b></div>
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I find great comfort in that,</div>
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knowing God will use whatever happens in my life,</div>
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even lostness, loneliness, and grief, to</div>
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make me into who He wants me to be.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Be blessed sweet friends, and know you are not alone.</div>
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He is right there with you.</div>
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Taking one step at a time. </div>
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<br /></div>
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barb</div>
<br />Barbara Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08740517393541058936noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79641116704393108.post-61487179691173103662013-01-16T13:33:00.001-08:002013-01-16T13:33:41.997-08:00In the waiting room<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfuaXzHJA134bnI0Ecg5geGY5WpMbGIkaDYZLIz8GA0BXEnE3A9kbUiWD79oPeMFd3CpGwsp2QsBuXR4hSIKkVVh38aikt3Jz6ZlBZ1_LFD94mGuCD65xDqDnXOyOO7AEjPF3NPyZJvA/s1600/IMG_1786.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfuaXzHJA134bnI0Ecg5geGY5WpMbGIkaDYZLIz8GA0BXEnE3A9kbUiWD79oPeMFd3CpGwsp2QsBuXR4hSIKkVVh38aikt3Jz6ZlBZ1_LFD94mGuCD65xDqDnXOyOO7AEjPF3NPyZJvA/s400/IMG_1786.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
yep. in the waiting room.<br />
hard place to be.<br />
things change....and we have to figure our whether to persevere through it, or put it aside.<br />
<br />
My store, which I have had for almost 5 years, and have loved so much,<br />
has had some very abrupt changes.<br />
Or, maybe it is me who has changed....or needs to change.....<br />
<br />
So, I am waiting....energy sucked out of me....lots of tears,<br />
lots of trying to trust the One who loves me and has a plan for me.<br />
<br />
and, in the midst of it all, I am right where I am supposed to be.<br />
<br />
loving all of you...<br />
barbBarbara Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08740517393541058936noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79641116704393108.post-71360961167690987762012-11-25T12:34:00.002-08:002012-11-25T12:34:54.988-08:00Sacrifice and the Cross<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3k33aRT7HmbTP6cBVd1z12a_rO1jqzhlV97aESUxKcyjhnLF5QSTfho1eNz4Dcw7jJfWDhFAZaI9CRIQP7QXa8xi8rBNoYbhhBh1JOo6lhsiXPtKxZ5aMsDj6odB0_pMhRFmumTV50w/s1600/IMG_0670.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3k33aRT7HmbTP6cBVd1z12a_rO1jqzhlV97aESUxKcyjhnLF5QSTfho1eNz4Dcw7jJfWDhFAZaI9CRIQP7QXa8xi8rBNoYbhhBh1JOo6lhsiXPtKxZ5aMsDj6odB0_pMhRFmumTV50w/s400/IMG_0670.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I had some thoughts in mind to share this morning,</div>
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and I like to always post a picture for you too.</div>
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But when I chose this picture, I realized suddenly,</div>
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that my message would be different.</div>
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So, I'm going by the Holy Spirit flow.....</div>
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These crosses are made by my husband,</div>
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and sold at my store, for various fundraisers...</div>
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They are beautiful. A labor of love...</div>
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Hand selected wood, mastering a design so they</div>
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would fit together perfectly;</div>
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routed on the edges for an added touch,</div>
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then finished with stain and oil </div>
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to preserve them.</div>
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This time when I saw them, they looked so small....</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
so....incomplete, so not representative of Jesus,</div>
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of the sacrifice of His life, for us.</div>
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Of the suffering, the pain, the rejection, the death</div>
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that He took at the cross for us.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglVZZFVFOq4nPBaTc2qq1GMLUtqm-thpAUxhoDVdb5Fg3CkjkHJhgcPdyRT9_zLsYxH_W0mARkF837bZWMfc3X0qExDL6fqSRunmPbB1phyHYeT4UlcqDeefn3ucMk6tpJ9YC0g7nycA/s1600/IMG_1141.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglVZZFVFOq4nPBaTc2qq1GMLUtqm-thpAUxhoDVdb5Fg3CkjkHJhgcPdyRT9_zLsYxH_W0mARkF837bZWMfc3X0qExDL6fqSRunmPbB1phyHYeT4UlcqDeefn3ucMk6tpJ9YC0g7nycA/s400/IMG_1141.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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But is there any cross we can make.....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaXRxV_eeoDWmy-1COvQLaLUN-El8oocndwARpJPipbyKIZhmrWmSaE7lOA88bsTPo9ir22ZnvZscYw7wUf34qjrHAW7Na5ENw0N5PQCA9iucdGOfTF1M9gfOtJXegw9L1o-cKXucCGw/s1600/IMG_3599.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaXRxV_eeoDWmy-1COvQLaLUN-El8oocndwARpJPipbyKIZhmrWmSaE7lOA88bsTPo9ir22ZnvZscYw7wUf34qjrHAW7Na5ENw0N5PQCA9iucdGOfTF1M9gfOtJXegw9L1o-cKXucCGw/s400/IMG_3599.JPG" width="300" /></a> </div>
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Whether painted on paper...... </div>
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made of wood, or even scraped into rock,</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwo3yD8hJt1xuTB62psMOawPTZjpmayFFOQz5Uvn4g12wHV7TuYVTv-LsuBtkqBaoZMJz_FfQ5yJG6SPK_ADqABKMptWUi52MilAasucmfzKtJk9mq4hDFf9J9jHsjBXgAxu7zYsXYhw/s1600/IMG_1143.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwo3yD8hJt1xuTB62psMOawPTZjpmayFFOQz5Uvn4g12wHV7TuYVTv-LsuBtkqBaoZMJz_FfQ5yJG6SPK_ADqABKMptWUi52MilAasucmfzKtJk9mq4hDFf9J9jHsjBXgAxu7zYsXYhw/s400/IMG_1143.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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that can ever be big enough, beautiful enough, perfect enough.....</div>
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to represent the cross of Jesus?? </div>
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To equal Jesus Love and sacrifice for us??? </div>
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No, but we can use them</div>
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to help us Remember...</div>
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Jesus Love</div>
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for us......</div>
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During this season we use to remember Christs birth.... </div>
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let's do that.</div>
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Let's take a moment....to</div>
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Remember whose season it is,</div>
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and celebrate His birth. </div>
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Blessings in Him</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
barb</div>
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Barbara Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08740517393541058936noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79641116704393108.post-4774873357821206672012-11-20T16:21:00.002-08:002012-11-20T16:21:37.778-08:00A Labor of Love<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJJPyZ-a7aEj_qag7Y9IehK38_UqBeWYOckub2lrZAKAR0uzHIPog9dMj47p_h7hn-Jes93mCpBxPR5N6G3v4wEDcqVqZLJxiZHsvUbUAs3dUosGtR_GkdUitmG3uvsArjtG16az1YXA/s1600/IMG_1960.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJJPyZ-a7aEj_qag7Y9IehK38_UqBeWYOckub2lrZAKAR0uzHIPog9dMj47p_h7hn-Jes93mCpBxPR5N6G3v4wEDcqVqZLJxiZHsvUbUAs3dUosGtR_GkdUitmG3uvsArjtG16az1YXA/s400/IMG_1960.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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This is the flagstone patio my little brother made for me years ago.</div>
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He did not just go buy a pallet of flagstone,</div>
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he drove out to the mountains and gathered it himself!</div>
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And you know that stuff is not just laying on the side of the road.</div>
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It was down steep banks....He climbed down, and carried each piece up....</div>
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over and over, till he had enough for this 10x10 area.</div>
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It was a true labor of love. </div>
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Here is the patio today.</div>
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It has not changed much.</div>
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The leveling job he did lasted well,</div>
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though the moles have tried several times over</div>
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the years to make it an uneven mess.</div>
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The garden area around it does not look much different</div>
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but it has grown up, been cleaned out,</div>
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and grown again several times over the years.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf3_auu4KLg5p_hVpNwIg3z4ws_KJGamSa4ND7UwgMBf-m-9A22KcfbhTY5uOoFmF9gx3i-0sAtJPD9ap_b0lifZZTacbao1RehqFWrS4UhyphenhyphenKQmAz-kkCTjlZ8s6470m6_e0ruReHe8w/s1600/IMG_0655.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf3_auu4KLg5p_hVpNwIg3z4ws_KJGamSa4ND7UwgMBf-m-9A22KcfbhTY5uOoFmF9gx3i-0sAtJPD9ap_b0lifZZTacbao1RehqFWrS4UhyphenhyphenKQmAz-kkCTjlZ8s6470m6_e0ruReHe8w/s320/IMG_0655.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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There is a bit more moss on this old cement bench...</div>
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but still home to the same bunnies as before.</div>
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It is truly something I love, and have enjoyed for so many years.</div>
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But even more than the patio itself,</div>
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is the blessing of knowing it was made with so much love.</div>
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So, my thought, after all this, is, how much labor am I willing to put in for the Lord?</div>
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And, am I doing it with love......</div>
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Cause, whatever I do in love, whether big or small,</div>
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will bless our Lord's heart, and make Him smile.</div>
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blessings on your day everyone.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
barb</div>
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<br />Barbara Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08740517393541058936noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79641116704393108.post-44544825788731089382012-11-08T22:17:00.002-08:002012-11-08T22:19:27.356-08:00The Power of I AM<h3 class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyBUSJQNgJWEXKSXs8wtlgsKKqNAjGozaW_xPfKT_7Bg51N7nFLqmhBOy-LQtJ4bKw0f0_edSr_40hw9UA-DqcqIOHp2SIn2HupWx2yHUaRZGc7pvEehFli-2PXJmLwbANPuGrhNSiAjpi/s1600/DSC_4766.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyBUSJQNgJWEXKSXs8wtlgsKKqNAjGozaW_xPfKT_7Bg51N7nFLqmhBOy-LQtJ4bKw0f0_edSr_40hw9UA-DqcqIOHp2SIn2HupWx2yHUaRZGc7pvEehFli-2PXJmLwbANPuGrhNSiAjpi/s320/DSC_4766.JPG" width="320" /></a></h3>
<h3 class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name">
I have met a new blogger..</h3>
<h3 class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name">
Her name is Sherry, and her blog is</h3>
<h3 class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name">
<a href="http://therustypearlshop.blogspot.com/">The Rusty Pearl.</a></h3>
<h3 class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name">
She has great tips on this and that, and wise words to share.</h3>
<b> I especially enjoyed this post from a few days ago.</b><br />
<h3 class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name">
<span style="color: #674ea7;">
The Power of I AM !!!!
</span></h3>
<div class="post-body entry-content" id="post-body-2390497111306919815" itemprop="description articleBody">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b>Happy Sunday everyone... .This evening I watched the life class with
Oprah and Joel Olsteen and I must say that It really moved me. I thought
I would take the time to blog about it. ... Have you ever said I am
this or I am that.. I am poor, I am fat, I am tired etc...The list of
our recordings go on and on.. However If we will wake up each day and
simply start off with THANK YOU !!! See what they mentioned was true
(GOD HAS ALREADY WRITTEN OUR STORY) .. So if you dont like the page you
are on...SIMPLY hang on and turn the page. We really are where we are
supposed to be. It is truly (I THINK ) how we handle it that matters.
Start your new I AM"S .. tell yourself that your amazing, Fabulous,
...Even beautiful. ( When I heard them say ..Tell yourself your
beautiful !!!! I was like WHAT ? ? ? WHO does that ? ) God does. When
we honor and respect ourselves, I think we honor GOD.... SO having said
that I hope that you change your recordings that you play in your mind
and start new positive ones... I will start my day when I wake up from
now on with simply ...I AM THANKFUL.... Tell me what you think ... Have a
blessed week everyone .
</b></span></span></div>
<span style="color: #674ea7;"><b><span class="post-author vcard">
Posted by
<span class="fn" itemprop="author" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/03520286983487648033" rel="author" title="author profile">
<span itemprop="name">Sherry at The Rusty Pearl</span></a></span></span></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #674ea7;"><br /></span>
<span class="post-author vcard"><span class="fn" itemprop="author" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="http://schema.org/Person"><span itemprop="name">Thank you Sherry.</span></span></span><br />
<span class="post-author vcard"><span class="fn" itemprop="author" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="http://schema.org/Person"><span itemprop="name">So glad to have found your blog. </span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span class="post-author vcard"><span class="fn" itemprop="author" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="http://schema.org/Person"><span itemprop="name">Blessings to all of you!</span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span class="post-author vcard"><span class="fn" itemprop="author" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="http://schema.org/Person"><span itemprop="name">barb </span> </span></span><span class="post-timestamp"><a class="timestamp-link" href="http://therustypearlshop.blogspot.com/2012/10/the-power-of-i-am.html" rel="bookmark" title="permanent link"><abbr class="published" itemprop="datePublished" title="2012-10-28T20:45:00-07:00"></abbr></a>
</span>
<span class="post-comment-link">
</span>
Barbara Jeanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08740517393541058936noreply@blogger.com0