Christmas message from CANA Bishop Martyn Minns

Just doing some surfing, and came across this wonderful Christmas message from CANA (Convocation of Anglicans in North America) Bishop Martyn Minns. I love it's message, and thought it was worth posting here today... Happy Birthday, Jesus!!!!



Jesus Is Closer Than Ever!

Another poor baby has arrived. He’s homeless. He’s clothed in rags. His mother is unmarried. His people are treated as refugees in their own land. That’s how the First Advent happened.



Well, you don’t need me to tell you that some things haven’t changed that much and the state of the global village is decidedly mixed. Perhaps you now find yourself unemployed or rocked by a foreclosure or facing some overwhelming challenge. In the midst of these problems we may feel that Jesus is so far away. But it’s precisely during these times of turmoil that Jesus is closer than ever.



Jesus’ teaching about the Final Judgment (Matthew 25:31–46) makes the point that the God who became flesh and dwelt among us has never really left us. Jesus foretold that at the Second Advent he will say to the faithful: “I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home. I was naked, and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me.”



For those of us in the depths of despair, Jesus’ words remind us that he so identifies with our problems that he says he is the one who is hungry; he is the one who is thirsty; he is the one who feels like a stranger. We don’t face our problems alone. Jesus suffers when we’re suffering. Jesus is closer than ever.



Jesus’ words also are a clarion call to the church during these days. With longer lines of people at food pantries, with homeless shelters accommodating more and more “middle-class” families, with more people knocking on our church doors for help, the opportunities to feed the hungry and shelter the homeless are not hard to find. Jesus is closer than ever.Your church may feel that the numbers of people needing help are overwhelming, and that your members have so few resources of their own. But we recall the time that Jesus took two fish and five loaves of bread, all that the disciples had to offer, and fed a crowd of more than 5,000 hungry people. They didn’t think they had enough but Jesus took what they offered and blessed a multitude. Jesus is still at work.



I heard about him showing up at a federal penitentiary in Kentucky where CANA Chaplain John Hallock has led many Muslim inmates to Christ this year. Jesus is also at work in Garland, Texas, where Christ the Redeemer Church has initiated a multi-faceted outreach in a public housing neighborhood and many lives have been transformed. Last November I saw Jesus at work in a congregation of 200-some homeless men and women who regularly worship at Truro Church in Fairfax, Virginia. Last week I heard about ways in which Jesus is changing lives at All Saints Church in San Antonio, Texas. Jesus is busy throughout CANA; he’s all over the country. Jesus is closer than ever . . . if we just have eyes that want to see him



.Let us go to the manger. Let us marvel in his presence. Let us bring him our gifts. Let us tell others about him.



Jesus is here!

Your Brother in Christ,

+Martyn

The Rt. Rev'd Martyn Minns

Missionary Bishop of CANA

Update on life... and stuff...

I can see from my last post that it's been almost exactly a month since I've last written here. Alot has changed, and yet, not much has changed. We're a week away from Christmas, and I'm doing my best to focus totally on the birth of our wonderful Lord. My loss is still very much a part of me. I told a priest friend recently that I haven't even begun to deal with my loss, and I don't feel the least bit ready. He reassured me that healing will come in time. (Thanks Fr Jim!)

Ok... so what is still the same.... Let's start by the fact that God's love is everlasting and will never, ever change. His love is the only constant in my life right now, and I thank Him every day for His presence in my life. When I'm at the end of my rope, He whispers peace in my ear... sometimes through the words of others or a gentle hug from a friend-- sometimes by a soft breeze-- sometimes through His Holy Word. Whatever it is, it always comes at just the right moment. Thank you God for loving me and healing my brokenness.

Also the same, for now, is that I'm still living at my friends apartment. Things have been up and down with that for the entire last month. I am SO craving stability and security right now. Her finances also hit bottom, so about a week ago, we decided to get a different and cheaper apartment together in Greenwich (about a mile from CTK). That was going really well... we're actually still scheduled to move in on 12/28.... it's a beautiful apartment in a nice area and very affordable.... but.... yesterday morning my friend's mom died. Yah, so that put a fly in the ointment. I'm praying that the move still happens. It's an ideal situation, and God is making it SO clear that that is the direction He wants me to move in. I think my friend needs to try and see past her grief and attempt to make some good choices... right now that's not happening. I trust God, and am praying that He will guide her heart to the right decisions.

Ok... so what has changed.... alot... alot. Let's begin with the fact that, praise God, the depression that I've been fighting for years, has seemingly lifted!!! That's a huge healing, in so many ways. God continues to speak peace into my heart, moment by moment. He has also taught me, not so gently, but necessary, that life isn't about "things". Life, is about our relationship with God... He wants our ALL. God's word tells is that Jesus told his disciples to leave everything behind and follow Him. I know that's what He wants of me, and I know that by ridding me of "things" He is beginning the process of making that a reality. My only "things" right now consist of some clothes (not many) and a few boxes of memories. I'm ok with that. God did bless me however, with being able to save one of my "babies" and keep her with me. You can't imagine the blessing she's been. Her name is Liebe, which is a German word... it means LOVE. She is a furry reminder of God's love for me.

Hmmmm, ok so what else has changed.... The night of my last post, God led me to a Revival Praise and Worship that takes place every Friday night in my area. It goes to different churches (usually Anglican/Episcopal), on a rotating/by invitation basis. My friend and I have started going on a regular basis, depending on location. The group that goes, is usually pretty regular and we're all becoming very close. They are an amazing group of people!! These are people who love God with all their hearts, souls, minds and bodies. We pray, and prepare ourselves for the return of our wonderful Lord, which we all believe will be soon. The service is a time to lay down our burdens, leaving them at the foot of the cross, and give our hearts totally over to praising God!! Our leaders are some of the most Godly people I've ever had the pleasure of knowing! From Deacon Frank (who is without question, the most "un-deacon-like" person I've ever met (I say that with love)... LOL... but who has an incredible gift of discernment and who gives the best hugs EVER!), Mother Susan and her husband Ralph (who hear words from the Lord on a moment to moment basis that often send us to our knees), Fr Steve (who has a gift for leading us to letting go and letting God just take over our lives- giving it all to Him) to Fr Jim- our worship leader (he has a beautiful voice and can play the piano like no one I've ever met), and his wife Ginny (who are truly two of the most compassionate and loving people I've EVER met) I'm in awe of the gifts of these people who have given their lives over totally to serving God. I want what they have- their gifts of leadership, discernment, gentleness and compassion, speaking words from our God... I believe that God is leading me in that direction. Mother Susan has already told us that just by being at the revival meetings every week, that she considers us part of the leadership team.... WOW!! Yah, that's what I want. Ok, so what has changed.... God has led me to this incredible group of people! Thank you God!!!

Yikes, so this is getting long... very long... sorry! Has it been even remotely interesting? I think I'll wrap up for now and try to maybe write more tomorrow. It feels good to write again, gosh-I've missed this!! So, maybe writing is one of my gifts too...???

Love to all!!!

just a quick PS

On an even sadder note... well, maybe not... just different. I know a lot of my bloggy friends out there were praying for a special little boy named Ben. Remember him?? Sadly, I need to report that Ben earned his angel wings on Columbus Day. So, please pray for Ben's family, especially his twin brother James. Please pray also, for a cure to childhood cancer... no child should EVER have to suffer from such an awful thing.

Fly high little Ben. We miss you so much!!!

a new beginning... and saying goodbye

It's been quite a while since my last post. Since then a lot has happened to me. There has been a lot of joy, but there has been an equal amount (no, who am I kidding... there has been a ton more) of pain and tears.

As I write this, I'm at a friends apartment. She's been kind enough to let me stay here for a while- how long, I don't know, but I'm grateful for each and every moment. This week, after a long struggle with finances- I lost my home. It's the only home I've ever known. Walking away from it has been heartbreaking. Even more heartbreaking though, was having to give up my pets. Just thinking about that moment this past Thursday makes me cry again... this is a different kind of grief. While I know that they're safe with my veterinarian, who is finding them new homes- I just miss them SO much!!! I know that this too will heal... right? Someone tell me that it will heal... right??

I struggle with God's hand in all of this. While I know that He did not cause it, I often wonder why He couldn't have stepped in and changed things around so the ending might have been different. Lord, help me understand Your ways!!

I had hoped this post might have been longer and more eloquent.... but as I write, I realize that I am at a loss for words. The fear, the grief, the confusion... I know there are other words-but just cant be put into words. I am trying with all my heart to believe that God has a plan for me and that He wont fail me- but honestly right now I'm not sure what to think. I think I need others to believe for me right now. My heart hurts- a lot!!

I have an incredible group of friends who are standing by me, as much as they can. At a revival service last night, a dear deacon from CTK hugged me and told me that I had an army of prayer warriors behind me. Yah, so maybe God is telling me He loves me through people like Deacon Lynn, and Sandra, and Lois, and Diane, and Pat, and Gail, and Susan, and Debbie, and Robin, and dear Fr Nigel, (who has spent the last 43 days in the hospital... nearly 40 of that on a ventilator in ICU... but praise God is doing much better.... I know though, that even though he's not aware of the situation that he knows I'm in need of prayer... he always teaches us that God knows the exact need and all we need to do is ask) and and and....

Ok, signing off for now. Don't know when I'll be back, but hope it's soon. I've missed writing and all my bloggy friends.

Love to all!!

prayer please

If there is anyone out there in blog land- I am in huge need of prayer right now.... my financial problems have caught up with me and things are just not good right now... I'm an absolute mess- and never been so scared in all my life!

I was able to get an emergency appointment with Fr Nigel tomorrow (he's not in the office today, but I so wish he were)- talked with one of his staff who prayed with me over the phone- thank you God for Sandra!

I don't want to loose faith-- but right now, I am... and just cant pray. It's not that I don't believe that God loves me- I know He does- He just seems VERY far away right now.

Thanks for the prayers.... they're appreciated!

The Simple Woman's Daybook

For Today...


Outside my window... bright sunny day- temp near 70ish, I think... storms on the way (so what else is new)


I am thinking... that I hope my laundry dries on the clothesline before the storms hit- not promising though


From the kitchen... tuna/white bean/ basil tortilla wraps later for DD and I for dinner (that is unless he gets stuck in an emergency at work)


I am wearing... khaki shorts, red shirt, barefoot


I am reading... (about to read) the summer edition of Philo Trust Magazine (by Christian evangelist J John).... these usually have an awesome message- can't wait to sit back and read it


I am hoping... a solid, un-interrupted nights sleep tonight- I'm tired today


I am creating... not much today, but did do a painting yesterday


I am praying... for a friend whose cat is very sick- that if God must take little Muffins life- He do so quickly and peacefully and that my friend finds acceptance and peace.......for my little hero Ben that this chemo works and that he enjoys his day as bat boy with the Red Sox on Friday...... for a friend from CTK who has some serious mental issues- that she can find the help and healing that she needs....... for Fr Nigel's missing pet turtle- that he be found safely (don't laugh- someone apparently stole Mr Turtle from his office over the weekend- how sick is that... stealing a priest's pet turtle- talk about a need for healing!)...... oh... and that I find a job- like soon!


One of my favorite things... warm, sunny days sitting by the pond at CTK- enjoying the peace and quiet, the friendly visitors, the numerous critters (never know what you'll see there) and the unbelievable presence of Christ

A few plans for the rest of the week... healing service tomorrow- but beyond that, no clue- except for as always, spending time with my wonderful and loving God


Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you...

goats are such friendly creatures... (yes, this is me at CTK )

**to join in the fun and read other Daybooks... go to Grandma Wren's

Friday's Fave Five

Oh my gosh, what a week this has been!! Except for my microwave making a "grand exit", (read: spewing smoke and nasty fumes all through my house), it's been a fantastic week!! Here are a few highlights...

1. Can I take a minute (maybe more than one) to brag about my church??? God has blessed me with the most incredible church and church family in the entire world!! After being in and out of many denominations throughout my life (born and raised Methodist, a couple years in the Catholic church, a couple Sunday's in a "Community" church and a few visits to a "non denominational" church-- etc... you get the picture) I was beginning to feel that I didn't really "fit" anywhere.... but then, when I was going through a bit of a dark time in my life, DD told me about Christ the King Spiritual Life Center (a ministry of the Episcopal Diocese of Albany). He knew I was going through some "stuff" in my life, and thought that attending one of their healing services might be helpful. So... one fateful Tuesday I made the 45 minute trek up to Greenwich to attend the weekly healing service... can I tell you-- my life was never the same!! As I was sitting in their beautiful chapel, with about 100 others- worshiping God in song and word, hearing Scripture, praying and praying and praying (my first experience with "laying on of hands") the first thought that came to my mind was, "oh my gosh- these people "get it"...". For the first time in my life I felt like I fit in! Several weeks later, when meeting with Fr Nigel, director of the healing ministry, for prayer and counseling, for the first time in my life, I felt totally and completely understood!! CTK is Holy Ground... you feel it the moment you arrive on site- the presence of God is palpable- not only in word, but also in the eyes, hands, compassion of everyone there... yes, the people-- gosh, what can I say about the people... they're so special... you feel like family from your first moment there- there is SUCH love- God's love! Three years after arriving there for the first time- I'm in the process of preparing for Confirmation in the Episcopal church, and have begun the discernment process of possibly becoming a Deacon. Thank you God for leading me to this wonderful place!! Ok... so enough bragging... thanks for letting me share... so tell me about YOUR church now!!

2. I'm one of those with a stupid nut allergy... not only peanuts, but all nuts-- it's realllllly annoying!! But I've discovered Sunflower Seed Butter- which is a really great alternative and SO good! (It's a bit pricey, but will go on sale occasionally) I love eating it any way, but am prone to sit here at my desk and dip crackers right in the jar. YUM!!!!

3. While I'm on the topic of food... sort of... I dug out my sun tea jar this week. It's been quite a while since I've made sun tea, and had forgotten how good it was... throw some sugar, and a little lemon kool-aid in and I'm a happy lady. My aunt used to make it with frozen lemonade (that was SO good!), but I cant afford that right now- maybe sometime, but I'm content with the kool-aid for now.

4. I love having long conversations with friends, or anyone, about what a wonderful God we have!! I consider it a blessing to be able to share about all the wonderful things God has done in my life!!! Several times this week, God has put people in my path that need to hear my story of how God has healed me- in many, many ways. What an honor it is, to spread His message of healing!

5. I've been invited to attend a Woman's Cursillo weekend in November. I hear that this is a life changing event. For some reason, that alone is daunting... but at the same time, I'm really excited about the possibilities of spiritual growth and fellowship. If you've had a Cursillo experience, I'd love to hear about it!

Happy Friday everyone... (late post, sorry!) Enjoy your weekend!!!

The Simple Woman's Daybook

For Today...

Outside my window... cloudy and cool, light rain at the moment- supposed to warm up into the 70's later and maybe some sun

I am thinking... about what a great day DD and I had on Saturday... just hanging out at his house for the day- almost like we were married-- snuggled a lot, argued a bit, made up a bit, did some laundry and work around the house... I think I could get used to this!! (Now, if he'll get the hint and propose!)

I am thankful for... Fr Nigel's return after almost a month of traveling (for healing missions/ conferences) to England, Sweden, England (again), diocese convention in Speculator (NY), Colorado and Maine... gosh I missed him! I vaguely remember hugging him after church yesterday and telling him he was gone for too long... LOL...

From the kitchen... fresh radishes from DD's garden- mine still wont grow for some reason

I am wearing... shorts and a sweater, barefoot

I am reading... more cook books- I do so miss cooking

I am hoping... to find a way to fund a weekend retreat that I REALLY want to get to in July... led by Fr Nigel and Bishop Bill on "Healing of Memories"- did the same retreat two years ago on the topic of Forgiveness... it was life changing... expect this one will be too- just need to find a way to make it happen... please God!?

I am creating... a dream- a plan

I am praying... for my little hero Ben- this cancer just wont let up... was supposed to start a new chemo last week- praying that this one works. On a lighter note though, on July 3rd, he'll be on the field with the Red Sox as a bat boy for their game... how cool is this! I'm SO excited for him!

Around the house... so much to do, so little energy to do it with (didn't I say that last week too?... eek!)

One of my favorite things... hoping to start crocheting a prayer shawl this week- looking forward to a rainy day (yes, I love those) to just sit on my back porch, listen to the rain and crochet and pray all day

A few plans for the rest of the week... tomorrow the usual Tuesday healing service at CTK, weeding, trying to put up some sort of fencing around the garden to keep the cute critters from eating it all, hopefully spending a day with DD and as always, spending time with my wonderful and loving God

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you...

~my favorite place in the world~

Friday's Fave Five

It's been an interesting week- (much better than last week) and there is a lot that stands out as being significant, as far as "a favorite part"...

1. God taught me a huge lesson in tithing this week. With being unemployed (still), the funds are hard to come by, and usually only appear through the goodness of DD or friends, and when they do, I try to manage them with an iron fist. Unfortunately, that has meant not giving to the church as I would really like. Well, this past Tuesday, at the weekly healing service I had one dollar left to my name... do you know how scary that is? But, as I was sitting in the service I felt God impressing on me to "give all I have"- meaning, to trust Him enough to give Him that last dollar. For some reason, when it came time for the offering, I didn't find this hard in the least- I guess I'm growing in my trusting, huh? Anyway- lesson here... if we give God all we have, He WILL provide for our needs. Within a short time after the service, one friend had handed me some money and given me a bag of food, and another friend had bought me lunch. Whoa... Ok, I get it Lord! Yesterday, DD called and offered to take me grocery shopping. Do you know what it feels like to suddenly have food, when the pantry shelves were basically empty? I get overwhelmed when I think about God's grace and provision. He really IS an awesome God!

2. The song Days of Elijah is probably my favorite song of all time. We sang it Tuesday at the Healing service and WOW was the presence of God ever among us- it was palpable!! I find such hope and comfort in the coming of our Lord. I pray daily for His return, an wait with joyful anticipation His presence among us! What a wonderful day that will be!!

Watch more Dailymotion videos on AOL Video

3. Yesterday was a seriously rainy day. I know I'm one of the few, but I love rain. I find it beautiful and peaceful. When it's not a cold, icy rain- there is nothing I love more than to take a walk and feel the healing gentleness of God's love washing over me.

4. I've been doing a lot of daydreaming this week about what could be-- making some plans (at least in my head) and trying to figure out a way to make those dreams happen. I love daydreaming- it's provides such hope. There is a saying I remember back from my childhood days... "Hold fast to dreams, for if dreams die, life is a broken winged bird that cannot fly." Yah, so I think I've forgotten how to dream... thanks to God for putting those dreams back in my head, and to Jan for reminding me that it's ok to dream!

5. And, last but not least- and on a much more shallow note LOL... I love hummus (extra garlic, please)!!! Yesterday when DD took me grocery shopping, I got a big tub of it... yes, it's gone already! So, a little self indulgence never hurt- God does want us to be happy, and if that comes from time to time in a tub of hummus, I think He'd be ok with that!

Happy Friday everyone... enjoy your weekend!

For Today...

Outside my window... bright, bright sunshine- puddles everywhere from a brief, recent thunderstorm, with more on the way later today... about 70 degrees


I am thinking... how odd it is that I actually LIKE the storms- they used to terrify me, but now I almost welcome them (not the bad ones, mind you- heavy wind and violent lightening, I can do without!)


I am thankful for... a wonderful guy who brought me homemade rhubarb pie on his way to work this morning


From the kitchen... think I may try making this sometime this week- actually have everything in the house for it, and it looks SO good


I am wearing... khaki shorts, purple shirt, barefoot


I am reading... all my old cookbooks (and there are many... many... many)


I am hoping... that someone-anyone, will respond to my resume- unemployment really STINKS


I am creating... a dream- a plan-- to be who God wants me to be


I am praying... that God shows me how to put the dream-plan in motion (and provides the finances to do so)


Around the house... the garden is in desperate need of weeding- it's embarrassing, trying to clean the back porch- (scrub down the walls, hang curtains (to block view of annoying neighbor), wash blankets on day bed (used over the winter as the comfy home of my adorable little mice- I do like mice, yes, I'm being serious- I just don't want to share a bed with them)...)


One of my favorite things... dreaming about what could be- doing a lot of that lately


A few plans for the rest of the week... not much in the way of errands, but see "around the house" for the other stuff


Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you

this is (was) some of the lettuce growing in my garden...

before the rabbits had a really great dinner....

oh well, they need to eat too!

Then Sings My Soul Saturday

My song choice this week comes from my sweet baby kitty Precious going to Heaven this past Wednesday... (see more about it in yesterday's post) Lord, it hurts SO much!! My heart is just broken in a thousand pieces. Lord, please give me strength and peace!!

Homesick by Mercy Me

You're in a better place, I've heard a thousand times
And at least a thousand times I've rejoiced for you
But the reason why I'm broken, the reason why I cry
Is how long must I wait to be with you

I close my eyes and I see your face
If home's where my heart is then I'm out of place
Lord, won't you give me strength to make it through somehow
I've never been more homesick than now

Help me Lord cause I don't understand your ways
The reason why I wonder if I'll ever know
But, even if you showed me, the hurt would be the same
Cause I'm still here so far away from home

I close my eyes and I see your face
If home's where my heart is then I'm out of place
Lord, won't you give me strength to make it through somehow
I've never been more homesick than now

In Christ, there are no goodbye
And in Christ, there is no end
So I'll hold onto Jesus with all that I have
To see you again
To see you again

And I close my eyes and I see your face
If home's where my heart is then I'm out of place
Lord, won't you give me strength to make it through somehow
Won't you give me strength to make it through somehow
Won't you give me strength to make it through somehow

I've never been more homesick than now

Friday Fill-in's

...and here we go...

1. I grew up thinking that the world was a good and happy and safe place (well, except for my own home- but wont go into that now). Yah, ok, so boy was I wrong.... I guess we wake up as adults, huh? Sometimes I wish I could go back to that place of "ignorance" and just trust again, don't you?

2. Transfiguration's (http://transfigurations.blogspot.com) was the last website I was at before coming here. It's an Episcopal "based" website, that keeps me up to date on the happenings in the EC- the good, the bad and the ugly. I'm not all to happy with the state of the national EC right now, and am encouraged by (and am supporting) the many churches and dioceses that are choosing to split from the national church. Maybe the national church will get the hint, but I doubt it. Great website, if you're into all of that!

3. Why don't you (all of you who are reading this... yes, YOU) leave a comment (friendly please), telling me something about yourself? I know people are reading this... I'd just like to know who!!!

4. A hot bath and a glass of wine, helps me relax. That's on tap for tonight, well, minus the wine because I can't afford it right now... may even go for the candle light tonight too. Hmmm, it is night time yet?

5. Thanks for the love. The love I speak of is the love I've received for the last 13 years from my sweet baby kitty, Precious. This has been a tough week for me... on Wednesday, my baby went to Heaven. As many times as I've been through the loss of a pet, it's always agony and never ever gets easier. With no "real kids", my "pets" really become my babies. The pain of the loss is equal to, or greater than that of the loss of a human. (Trust me, I've experienced more human loss than any person should... more on that another time.) My Precious (aka, "Itty Bitty Pretty Precious Kitty"), was the sweetest little creature I could have ever imagined. She had a temper, yes-- but when she was loving, oh my gosh, she was the most cuddly little calico ball of fur you could ever imagine. My favorite way of being woken in the morning, which I miss SO much, is with her sitting on my chest and lightly hitting me in the face with her paw... how could I not wake up smiling! Anyway... thanks for the love, Precious... I miss you baby, and I'll always love you!

6. Swearing is very off-putting. I guess this is one of my pet peeves. First of all- taking the Lord's name in vain, is just wrong. If you're going to use my Lord's name in a negative way, then you're not going to be spending any time around me. Ok and while I'm on the "soap box", will someone please explain to me why some people seem to use the "f" word, seemingly in every sentence- sometimes every other word.... bleech... why????

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to taking a hot bath, and curling up in bed with a good book, tomorrow my plans include yard work (what else?) and Sunday, I want to spend at least part of the day with David (aka DD)!

The Simple Woman's Daybook

For Today...

Outside my window... an absolutely beautiful day- highs in the 70's, bright sunshine-- perfect!

I am thankful for... my wonderful Women of Prayer friends- no longer really a prayer group (wish we still were), but the bond we formed during our time together will never end- Love you ladies a lot!

From the kitchen... whatever DD brings me this week

I am wearing... t-shirt and Capri's

I am reading... a cookbook with crock-pot recipes- no food, but still love to read recipes... I know that makes no sense- but its one of my favorite things to do

I am creating... a growing garden, IF the pesky critters would stop eating it

I am praying... for the Tinkler family. They're friends from my old church (and even though I no longer attend there, I still have close bonds with the members)... anyway- this morning their son/brother was charged with 2ND degree murder in the death of his girlfriends three year old daughter. While I in no way condone the actions of this man, my heart absolutely breaks for his family. They're beyond devastated. This story is just breaking my heart today- actually making me nauseous. Only God really knows the truth about what happened to this child- it's not for us to judge or condemn... we're called to pray- and that is exactly what I am doing. God please comfort this family- be with them and hold them in Your mighty arms.

Around the house... so much to do- so little energy to do it

One of my favorite things... a long hot bath, with candle light- on the agenda for tonight

A few plans for the rest of the week... healing service tomorrow, spending time with DD... not much else- I soooooooooo need a life

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you...

- Christ the King Chapel... one of my favorite places

(thanks to Jan for this picture)

Then Sings My Soul Saturday

I know I usually post songs that are serious and Holy, and that's all well and good and important, I know-- but this week has been tough and I've really just needed something to make me laugh. God wants us to laugh too! A few weeks ago, when preaching about the importance of loving our neighbor, Fr Nigel shared this . It had everyone just about falling over laughing- but he made his point too. This makes me laugh each and every time I hear it. Hope it will make you laugh too. Enjoy!!!

Friday Fill-Ins

And...here we go!

1. I love being home. I'm such a home-body... seriously, Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz, has it right... "there's no place like home, there's no place like home..." Where else can you totally be "who you are" without people judging you by your looks, actions, words...???

2. My favorite thing for dinner lately has been a big juicy orange. I don't usually think of oranges being really good at this time of year, but these are fantastic. Odd... I hated oranges (orange anything) when I was little (unless it was sweetened with a gallon of sugar)- now I just cant seem to get enough of them.

3. When I go to David's house, all I hear is bark! bark! bark! (With six LARGE German Shepherds, it makes an impression!! LOL)

4. A nice long walk is my favorite thing to do at CTK. With 700 acres to explore, there's always something new to discover, especially at this time of year... new life springing up everywhere! (The pic is taken by my friend Jan when we spent the day at CTK a few weeks ago... this is a Honeysuckle enclosed path leading to the convent... it was SO beautiful! )

5. I could sure use some good news. It's been a tough week... I just need a break!

6. When all is said and done, Christ is Lord.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to climbing in bed with a nice juicy orange, a big bottle of lemonade and a good book, tomorrow my plans include sleeping late and then some weeding in the garden and Sunday, I want to (have planned for a while to) make a really nice dinner for the Ronald McDonald House in Albany with my friends- so-so-so looking forward to this!

Wordless Wednesday

"Letting Go"

This is one of my paintings... it's taken from a photo that was taken six years ago at my Mom's burial. It's a picture of a butterfly balloon, which was symbolic to me of "letting go"... letting her fly free-- free from the pain that she'd been in for the eight years she'd suffered from that horrible Alzheimer's disease-- free from the broken hip, heart problems, a stroke... etc that had consumed the last eight months of her life.... free to fly with her wonderful God!! I miss you, Mom!!!

Something to share...

Yah, ok so today is "one of those days". I think I should have unplugged my phone (oh wait, I did- just not for long enough), and NOT checked email... (but well, I did...) and just stayed in my cozy bed with furry, purring heating pads all day. But no, instead, I spent my day trying to finalize the details of the Ronald McDonald House dinner for Sunday- the plans of which on paper look great, but seem to be going haywire before my eyes-- UGH. But even worse, I spent a good portion of my day trying to deal with my psycho (I'm SO not kidding) ex-boss who is making all sorts of "threatening" comments in emails. Today she is having a fit because she'd asked for the keys to the office, and is saying that I'll need to pay for the locks to be changed, AND if anything is ever missing from the office... well, you know... The wild thing is (and I thank God for a moment of sanity two weeks ago) that I was smart enough to send her precious keys through CERTIFIED mail on 5/21.... hmmm!! Checked with the post office and geee... they attempted delivery LAST WEEK- she's just choosing not to go sign for them. Oh well.... guess the ball's in her court now, huh? Anyway-- somehow I thought that quitting a job would be easier than this??? Ok, well thanks for letting me vent.

Had actually hoped on doing some "real" writing today, but my mood is pretty much, ah... well you know. So, instead of my writing, I'll just share something that Fr Nigel read a couple weeks ago in church. It really spoke to me... really woke me up. I think it was a large part (the other part being the psycho boss) of the reason I chose to quit my job. Hope you all enjoy this and it inspires you as much as it did me! I'm off now to climb in a hot bath, pour a big glass of lemonade (Lordy, I wish I had some wine right now!), and try to find something chocolate- weird combination, I know... but I'm menopausal, I'm allowed. After that I'll be checking in on my bloggy friends! :-) Have a good night, everyone!

In a Pit With a Lion on a Snowy Day

by Mark Batterson

Quit living as if the purpose of life is to arrive safely at death. Grab life by the mane. Set God-sized goals. Pursue God-ordained passions. Go after a dream that is destined to fail without divine intervention. Keep asking questions. Keep making mistakes. Keep seeking God. Stop pointing out problems and become part of the solution. Stop repeating the past and start creating the future. Stop playing it safe and start taking risks.

Accumulate experiences. Consider the lilies. Enjoy the journey. Find every excuse you can to celebrate everything you can. Live like today is the first day and the last day of your life. Don't let what's wrong with you keep you from worshipping what's right with God. Burn sinful bridges. Blaze new trails. Criticize by creating. Worry less about what people think, and more about what God thinks. Don't try to be who you're not. Be yourself. Laugh at yourself. Quit holding out. Quit holding back. Quit running away.

Chase the lion.

The Simple Woman's Daybook

For Today... June 1, 2009

Outside my window... cloudy and breezy- likely some rain tonight

I am thankful for... the big, juicy oranges that DD dropped off to me this morning on his way to work

From the kitchen... nothing from my kitchen (no income, no food, no cooking), but on Sunday will be joining with some friends to make a dinner for Ronald McDonald House... baked ham, sweet potato fries, homemade macaroni and cheese, green beans, rolls, freshly baked cookies and iced tea

I am wearing... my jammies

I am reading... need to start reading my next chapter for my OSL class, but just remembered that I loaned my book to Diane... uhhh, Diane??

I am hoping... to find a GOOD job (without a psycho boss)... SOON!

I am creating... not much... never got to the watercolor painting I was thinking about last week... maybe this week

I am praying... for travel mercies for Fr Nigel as he travels home from England

Around the house... everything I didn't get to last week because of the stomach/intestinal/migraine thing that wouldn't die

One of my favorite things... a kitty on my lap- so content... I need to learn this from her

A few plans for the rest of the week... looking for a job (again, one WITHOUT a psycho boss), preparing for the RMH meal on Sunday, maybe getting together with my friend Lisa-- (Lisa, you reading this??) and as always- spending time with my wonderful and loving God!

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you

"new life"

comments please...

Had an interesting discussion with my boyfriend, dear David, last night. I'd asked him if he'd ever read my blog, to which his answer was no... not a surprise-- but not all to upsetting to me either. What he said next churned my pride a bit and has led me to seek the wisdom of other bloggers. He said that he believed that there would be a much better use of one's time than sitting at a computer and writing something that no one would really care about reading. (GRRRRRR!!!!) (Those weren't his exact words, but at midnight, when this conversation was going on, I think the exact wording got lost in my anger... but you get the gist!) Now, I know that my life isn't exactly novel worthy, nor is my faith anything extraordinary-- but... God has given me the gift and love of writing-- should I put that down because there are other things to do?? Yes, the yard work will get done, the house will get cleaned... all the other chores will be accomplished-- can't I sit and write for a few minutes each day- using this great gift that God has blessed me with?? Ok, so what do other bloggers think??? Does anyone really care about what we write?? Is this just a huge waste of time??

(On a side note, I know I've slightly (maybe more than slightly) made my dear David sound like a bit of an... ogre...grump...OCD pain-in-the---.... but the truth is that in spite of his shortcomings, and we all have them- he really is a good person who does love me (and visa versa) deeply. So in the unlikely event that he does actually read this... I love you DD!!! :-) )

Then Sings My Soul Saturday

My friends will tell you that I often have some "interesting" dreams- quite often with a bit of potential prophecy or Godly wisdom. The dream I had this past Tuesday night was certainly one of those dreams, although I only remember the very end of it. In the dream was a group of teens from a church (not sure which church, but clearly Christian). They had just done some sort of program for a large group. The ending of their program is what has stuck in my head, and has led me to this weeks "Then Sings My Soul Saturday"song... their words were simple and direct... absolutely speak for themselves and I believe, are directly from God...

"... and in the last few days- the final days, God's love will be remembered as the most amazing adventure ever."

This is the song that has been in my heart this week.

The Great Adventure by Steven Curtis Chapman

Saddle up your horses

Started out this morning in the usual way

Chasing thoughts inside my head of all I had to do today

Another time around the circle try to make it better than the last

I opened up the Bible and I read about me

Said I'd been a prisoner and God's grace had set me free

And somewhere between the pages it hit me like a lightning bolt

I saw a big frontier in front of me and I heard somebody say "let's go"!

CHORUS Saddle up your horses we've got a trail to blaze

Through the wild blue yonder of God's amazing grace

Let's follow our leader into the glorious unknown

This is a life like no other -

this is The Great Adventure

Come on get ready for the ride of your life

Gonna leave long faced religion in a cloud of dust behind

And discover all the new horizons just waiting to be explored

This is what we were created for

(Chorus)

BRIDGE We'll travel over, over mountains so high

We'll go through valleys below

Still through it all we'll find that

This is the greatest journey that the human heart will ever see

The love of God will take us far beyond our wildest dreams

Yeah... oh saddle up your horses... come on get ready to ride

(Chorus)

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Friday Fill-Ins

I know that doing the "fill-in's" seems like cheating on writing every (almost) day... but it keeps me disciplined and at least sort of keeps my creativity moving... so...

here we go...

1. It's cold and wet and icky here. I know the rain is good for the garden, and I'm thankful for it- but seriously enough is enough. I so can't wait to get outside without getting drenched-- hopefully this weekend... looking forward to temps in the 70's again!
2.I love tomatoes. Funny thing is that when I was a kid, I totally wouldn't touch them unless they were in ketchup, which oddly enough I wont touch now... hmmm! Give me tomatoes any way... but especially in salsa or in a simple fresh salad. Mmmmm, I'm getting hungry!!
3. My favorite health and beauty product is soap and water. Yes, I'm seriously old fashioned! I just cant see the point of spending a ton of money on (animal tested) chemicals and then putting them on your body, when simple soap and water do just fine.
4. My drive to church is a nice long ride. Leave it to me to find a church that I totally love, and have it be a 50 minute drive each way. Don't get me wrong, it's a beautiful drive- mostly country living, lots of farms... even some alpacas!! But there are times when I get out of a late meeting, or it's nasty weather-- that's when the drive gets to me. But... I love my church, my church family and my priests-- wouldn't give it up for the world!
5. Well, first of all I cant stand sentences that start out like this. Usually it's the beginning of a lecture or scolding... kinda makes me cringe. I'll just change it to say, "Well, first and always, our God is an awesome God whose love surpasses anything we can imagine...
"I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God." Ephesians 3: 16-19
6. A group of teens from a church; those were the cast of characters in a recent dream and it was a great message from God about his amazing love. See tomorrow's "Then Sings My Soul Saturday" post for more about the dream.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to maybe working in the yard for a bit if the weather (and my headache) clears, tomorrow my plans include making a new recipe for Onion Dip , starting to move the furniture around in my living room/bedroom/ entry way and maybe working outside some more and Sunday, I want to spend the day with David!

Thankful Thursday

I'm just starting to come back to life after a couple days with a stomach bug (which I'm starting to think might actually be an ulcer) and then one of my wonderful migraines (hormonal... welcome to "40 something"). In spite of feeling nothing less than putrid (that's the only word for it), I am still finding time today to thank God for so many things... it is after all "Thankful Thursday"...


Thank you God for...

• giving me the energy to finally climb out of bed without pain to sit and write, giving praise to our wonderful God


• for a rainy day (several actually) which is giving nourishment to my happily growing garden (which is weed free thanks to a weekend of weeding)


• my wonderful guy- just for being who he is... even though there are days, ah many days, that he makes me nuts


• for my fur babies who seem to know when I'm feeling nasty and lay exactly where I need them to... little "human" heating pads


• for a wonderful visit this past Saturday with Jan-- beautiful day at CTK, great conversation, great food.... even a bride and her dad on horseback . (Bride- Becky... photo taken by Jan)
• for orange gumdrops...mmmmm!!!
• for God's provision- always
• for the healing hand of God
• and always for the incredible blessing of having God at the center of my heart, working each and every day for HIS Glory!

The Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY- May 25th

Outside my window... beautiful sunny day, blue skies and not a hint of rain for the day.

I am thinking... I should be outside working instead of writing, but oh well...

I am thankful for... so many things, but right now am especially thankful for the love of a wonderful guy!

From the kitchen... if I can afford it, want to try a new recipe for Caesar dip that I found recently... looks SO good!

I am wearing... my jammies, but not for long-- will soon change to my jeans and red tank top- finally warm enough for those

I am creating... (hoping to create) haven't done any painting in a while, may try to get out the paints this afternoon in the garden and see where God leads me.

I am going... not far this week-- likely to David's for a bit tomorrow, but other than that will enjoy hanging at home

I am reading... (again) The Healing Reawakening by Francis MacNutt

I am hoping... and praying for absolute healing for a man in Sweden named Ulf, who suffers from Dystonia, as Fr Nigel and his sister Julie head there to pray with him tomorrow morning (5am- 7am EST... 10am- noon, in Sweden)-- will be on my knees joining them in prayer during that time.

I am hearing... the sound of the fan humming, and the purring of a sweet kitty in my lap

Around the house... so much to do... UGH... more yard work (it's endless) and trying to rearrange the furniture in my bedroom and living room to make it more "summer friendly"

One of my favorite things... a quite day at home-- much to do, but the holiday seems to bring on a quieter pace in the world around

A few plans for the rest of the week: finishing up the plans for the meal my friends and I are doing for Ronald McDonald house in a couple weeks- what a blessing to be able to do this... , continuing to look for a job (please God?!), planting more seeds in the garden (jalapeno pepper- so I can make salsa, and spaghetti squash- one of my favorite's!), and of course spending time with my wonderful and loving God.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

"A Mother's Love"... this is a painting that I did in memory of my wonderful Mom... I miss her so much!!

Then Sings My Soul Saturday

This is the song that has been in my head and heart all week. We sang it in church on Sunday. To see hands lifted and hear voices strongly and beautifully proclaiming the incredible love of Christ just filled my soul to overflowing!!

Lift High the Cross

Lift high the cross, the love of Christ proclaim,
Till all the world adore His sacred Name.

Led on their way by this triumphant sign,
The hosts of God in conquering ranks combine.

Refrain

Each newborn servant of the Crucified
Bears on the brow the seal of Him Who died.

Refrain

O Lord, once lifted on the glorious tree,
As Thou hast promised, draw the world to Thee.

Refrain

So shall our song of triumph ever be:
Praise to the Crucified for victory.

Refrain

Friday Fill-Ins

Cant think of what to write about today, so instead of doing nothing thought I'd make my first attempt at "Friday Fill-In's"... We'll see how it goes.
Happy Friday everyone.

And...here we go!

1. Moving slowly today... not feeling all that energetic. Will be a busy weekend with yard work/garden, so haven't pushed myself.

2.The best things in life really are free.... like the love of my wonderful guy, the peacefulness of purring kitties, sunrises and sunsets, the smell of lilacs, God's amazing love... the list goes on!

3. My best quality is my compassion.

4. People tell me that I'm obsessed with details. I however just don't see that-- maybe I used to be, but now I'm at the stage in my life (think it hit when I turned 40) where I just say, "Whatever"!!!

5. In nearly 10 years, I sure hope (pray) to have some sort of job in ministry- hopefully healing ministry, but I'll take whatever God gives me.

6. Inner peace is what I need right now! (Oh yah, and a job!)

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to going to bed in a little while- (yah, I know, I have no life), tomorrow my plans include meeting my friend Jan at CTK for a picnic and hike (see, I do have a life! LOL) and Sunday, I want to (need to) spend the day weeding the garden!

Thankful Thursday

"Count your blessings, name them one by one...

Count your many blessings see what God has done!"

This week I am thankful for...

• 
  
  a new start... finally resigning from a job that has been an un-Christian thorn in my side for four LONG years... Thank you God for leading me (ok, knocking me over the side of the head with a two by four) to finally do this!


• 
  
  God's provision during this time of transition


• 
  
  the beauty of each new day... and the chance to begin again each day


• 
  
  my growing garden...!!! (In need of weeding... on the agenda for this weekend- and beyond.)
• for my little 8 yr old hero Ben's healing... a semi-easy recovery from a surgery that would leave most adults out of commission for weeks (but he's got such a great attitude that he's back in school just over a week later!) and for assurance and trust in God that his cancer will never ever again return
• for God's protection and love
• for God's protection and travel mercies for Fr Nigel as he travels to England, Scotland and Sweden over the next two weeks to bring God's healing love to a hurting world.
• for mashed potatoes for breakfast.... YUM!
• for REALLY warm weather -near 90 today!!
• for incredible friends who support me in my time of transition and always
• for being inducted as a FULL member of the International Order of St Luke this week... Fr Nigel says that we're not supposed to be proud, but very humbled by this honor... and I am humbled... but cant help but feel a bit proud of my accomplishment
• for the healing hand of Christ and the knowledge that He does still heal today
• and always for the incredible blessing of having God at the center of my heart, working each and every day for HIS Glory!!

Wordless Wednesday

"fellowship"

The Simple Woman's Daybook-- May 18

For Today... May 18th

Outside my window... the sun is trying really hard to peek out from the clouds, the wind is gently blowing... looks like the potential of a beautiful day.

I am thinking... about what more I want to plant in the garden... basil is a must, maybe some oregano, tomato plants coming soon (too cold right now), sweet potato plants, perhaps a hot pepper plant (to make salsa), cantaloupe seeds going in today... any other suggestions?

I am thankful for... my growing garden

From the kitchen... blueberry pancakes for breakfast

I am wearing... my jammies

I am reading... chapter 3: "Prayers of the Heart- Love, Compassion and the Healing Ministry" of Going Deeper- my Order of St Luke study guide... class tomorrow night- haven't started the chapter yet, but looks good from the title

I am hoping... to find a new job, where my God given gifts and used and appreciated

I am creating... a "heavenly" paradise in my back yard

I am praying... daily prayers of Rogation Week from the Book of Common Prayers. Wondering what Rogation Week is?? Here is a good explanation and here (#19)- are the prayers from the BCP.

Around the house... hoping to scrub down the (screened in) front porch sometime this week, maybe even put up some pretty curtains on one side

One of my favorite things... tomorrow's Tuesday Healing services at CTK... am especially excited about tomorrow as I'm going to be formally inducted as a full member of Order of St Luke-- it's been a long year of study looking at the gospel accounts of the healing ministry of Jesus... and I'm SO ready for this induction... not to say the classes or the learning stops- but now we'll, as a group or individually, be able to bring healing missions to churches or groups that may be interested in learning more about the healing ministry. Pretty exciting!!

A few plans for the rest of the week... yard work... yard work... ah, more yard work (that includes working in the garden, which I absolutely love doing!), hopefully spending a day with David (not sure when his day off is this week), tackling the previously mentioned porch, looking for a GOOD job, tomorrow's healing service at CTK, getting together with my friend Jan at CTK on Saturday for a picnic and hike and of course spending time with my wonderful and loving God!

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you...