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!!

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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...

Consider the Lilies

Then, turning to his disciples, Jesus said, “That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food to eat or enough clothes to wear. For life is more than food, and your body more than clothing. Look at the ravens. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for God feeds them. And you are far more valuable to him than any birds! Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? And if worry can’t accomplish a little thing like that, what’s the use of worrying over bigger things?
“Look at the lilies and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. And if God cares so wonderfully for flowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Matthew 12:22-28

We have such an incredibly awesome God... He knows our hearts so well... better than we do... He knows our needs- physical, emotional, spiritual- before we do... He knows our tears before we cry them. He provides for us in every way, at every moment... we really don't even have to ask. He provides for the "little things" like food and shelter (which seem like big things to us) but He also provides for the "big things", like confirmations, affirmations, comfort and fellowship.

While I see God's provision each and every day, there are times when He has my head spinning, so to speak! This week, has been one of those weeks!!!... Just to mention a few... Last Monday, when I'd made the decision, at God's urging to resign from my current job, (which has been an un-Christian thorn in my side since the day I started working there four years ago) leaving me with ZERO income, I was more than a bit frightened- trying to trust God, but still not sure... I prayed saying, "Ok Lord, if you want me to do this, You need to give me strength and courage." I left the prayer at that and went on with my day, trusting in Him to provide. The next morning I went to the weekly healing service at CTK (my usual Tuesday spot) and was blown away when Fr Nigel's homily was on... yes, you guessed it... COURAGE! When I spoke with Fr Nigel after the service and asked him when God had told him to speak on courage- it turned out to be about the same time I was praying my prayer!! We were both blown away- but not surprised, by that! The messages- answers kept coming last week-- one right after the other.

Yesterday was a tough day, I made the mistake of letting someones judgement get the best of me-- yes, even after God reminding me this week that His opinion was the only one that matters. I gave up on leaving my job and spent the day rather depressed and angry. (Ya think that "it" was happy about that!? UGH! Can't let that happen!) I wasn't even going to go to church today-- but really pushed myself knowing that seeing my "family" at CTK and worshiping our wonderful God would be the very best thing for me. As I went into the sanctuary and was about to sit down, I looked over to see my dear friend Laura! (Hi Laura!!) Now, you have to know that Laura lives a good two or three hours from CTK... her being there was no coincidence! God knew my need!! (Sometimes I think Laura is actually an Angel... she always seems to be at CTK exactly when I need a lift and she ALWAYS says exactly what I need to hear!!) Without even asking Him, He sent me my friend today. He spoke through her so clearly and His message was received and planted deep in my heart. God spoke His love through Laura today! (Thank you God... thank you Laura!)

This is exceptionally long today-- sorry-- but I just felt that I wanted to share about God's wonderful provision. We don't even have to ask-- He knows... and He loves us SO much!!!

Happy Sunday everyone.... God loves YOU SOOOOOOOO much!!!!

Then Sings My Soul Saturday

I've been spending a lot of time working in the gardens and yard this week...(the yard took a huge beating during last December's ice storm -lost at least 6 trees and I'm finally just starting to see that there is light at the end of the clean-up tunnel).. and with the help of my amazing guy I've been putting in a vegetable garden and tending (read weeding) the flower garden I have in memory of my Mom. It's been a busy week (not done yet, by a long shot)... but as I've been outside working amidst the trees, growing veges, flowers, shrubs, chirping birds, buzzing bees... nature-- even digging in the moist soil and dragging downed branches to the road - I've found myself in awe of God's awesome creation.

I think about what a great God we have that He loves us SO much that He would provide us with such beauty and majesty. This song has been in my head all week-- the dogs looked at my funny when I started singing it out loud during our walk around the yard one day... but I just couldn't help myself... Our God is so great and so good and so loving...

How Great is Our God

by Chris Tomlin

The splendor of a King,
Clothed in majesty
Let all the earth rejoice,
All the earth rejoice

He wraps himself in light,
And darkness tries to hide
And trembles at his voice,
And trembles at his voice

CHORUS(1):
How great is our God, sing with me
How great is our God,
and all will see How great,
How great
Is our God

VERSE(2):
Age to age he stands
And time is in His Hands
Beginning and the End,
Beginning and the End
The Godhead, Three in one
Father, Spirit, Son
The Lion and the Lamb,
The Lion and the Lamb

CHORUS

Name above all names
You are Worthy of all praise
and My heart will sing how great
Is our God

CHORUS

Faith-Filled Friday

Some men brought to him a paralytic, lying on a mat. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, "Take heart, son; your sins are forgiven." Matthew 9:2

Then Jesus answered, "Woman, you have great faith! Your request is granted." And her daughter was healed from that very hour. Matthew 15:28

Jesus replied, "I tell you the truth, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and it will be done. Matthew 21:21

"Have faith in God," Jesus answered. Mark 11:22

I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. John 14:12

We live by faith, not by sight. 2 Corinthians 5:7

Are we seeing a common theme here??

FAITH...!!!

Yes, this week God has been speaking to me a lot about "having faith" in HIM. From messages at church, to emails, to various blogs I've been reading, to conversations with friends, to a few down right nasty two by fours that really hurt- but did wake me up. He's letting me know that I need to start trusting in HIM fully, without reservation, without even the smallest bit of doubt. He's telling me, "Step out of the boat, reach out your hand to Me-- trust Me, I won't let you fall."

For months-- ok, years-- I've been praying for God to lead me into ministry, "I want to serve You Lord... show me the way... open doors for me... use me for Your Glory." Now, I know that ALL prayers are heard and answered in some way-- but truthfully I've been struggling with my seemingly lack of direction with my calling. I've taken the School of Healing Prayer classes (even though the topics sometimes terrified me) and I've joined the Order of St Luke to learn about healing. I've attended church each week- several times a week, I've done mission projects, I've witnessed to others about the love of our wonderful God... I've been obedient-- or so I thought.

God showed me clearly this week, that the one element that I haven't been obedient in is TRUSTING HIM... oh yah...!!!

We can to the "outward" obedient stuff- which is all good, but what He really wants is our heart! ...oh yah...!!!

This weekend I'm going to be stepping out of that boat and reaching out my hand to Him in absolute trust... I cant say I'm not a bit scared... not so much about whether or not He'll provide, but I guess rather about what others will think- and as I write this I realize that the only thing that matters is what God thinks... if He knows that my heart is HIS... all will be well with my soul.

I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. Galatians 2:20

Thankful Thursday-

The Little Things

This is my first Thankful Thursday post, although I'm thankful for all of my blessings each and every day, and let God know that every opportunity that I have.

Thank you God for the little things...

• for purring kitties who love to cuddle and help me type :-)



• for rainy days like today (although could do without the wind) that bless my garden.



• for the love I receive from my wonderful boyfriend, who knows when to push, (and push and push...) and when to stop and give me space.



• for the inner peace (God's peace) knowing that a difficult (almost impossible) decision I've made is the absolutely right one.



• for the deep knowledge (clearly from God) that in spite of the difficulties that decision will likely cause- I must always , "consider the lilies".



• for the most wonderful church family ever... I love you CTK Sunday Chapel!



• for the most wonderful priests on the Earth, who guide, love, inspire and pray with us... I love you Fr Nigel and Fr Joe!!



• for the smell of lilacs which fill my back yard and fill me with wonderful memories of my dear Mom.



• for sunrises, and the chance to start again


• for chocolate dipped strawberries (a really thoughtful gift from my boyfriend)


• for incredible friends- just because...


• for the indulgence of a loooonnnngggg hot bath after a loooooonngggg day of yardwork etc.


• for a big bottle of orange kool-aid... don't know why this makes me happy, but it does!


• for the incredible blessing of having God at the center of my heart, working each and every day for HIS Glory!!

20 Of My Favorite Things

One of my favorite past times is "blog browsing". I love to read what others are thinking about and doing. More often than not it inspires me to do, or make, or learn, or think, or grow...! Today I stumbled upon this blog and read about her 20 Favorite Things and decided that would be a fun topic for blogging today.

Happy Tuesday everyone! (Tomorrow- "Wordless Wednesday")

20 Of My Favorite Things

1. Color- periwinkle blue
2. Dessert- chocolate anything
3. Smell- my boyfriend's aftershave :-)
4. Flower- lilac (and lily of the valley and forget-me-nots)
5. Animal- cats and dogs
6. Month- June
7. Beverage- homemade lemonade
8. Pair of shoes- my black clogs
9. Snack- "Mommy Crack Dip" (you MUST try this-- go now... now!)
10. Song- Days of Elijah
11. Book- The Bible (and Book of Common Prayer... and Hand to Hand: From Combat to Healing by Fr Nigel)
12. Fruit-fresh cut pineapple
13. Hairstyle- pony tail when I'm in the garden, loose and comfy otherwise
14. Piece of clothing- my big ripped soft comfy sweater (only wear this at home)
15. Store to clothes shop- Sally R's :-)
16. Season- Spring
17. Hobby- water color painting
18. Thing to collect- frogs (ceramic)
19. Movie- The Sound of Music
20. Restaurant-Panara Bread-- the best chicken Caesar salad EVER!

Time to Start Living Again!

I realized today that it's time to start living again--

It's time to move out of my darkness and look for the incredible Light of God that is always surrounding me, if I choose to seek it. I think I've been "enjoying" the safety of the darkness... but I realize now that nothing can grow in darkness.

It's time to trust in God, and go out on a limb and chase my dreams... as Fr Nigel said in church yesterday, "We have to go out on the limb- that is where the fruit is." His message yesterday, (although I didn't really "get it" until today) really inspired me to move forward with my dreams-- even if the process makes no sense what-so-ever. I fully expect criticism from friends- but I know they love me, so even though I'm likely to ignore their comments :-) they are appreciated. The process wont likely be an easy one-- but I'm trusting in God's words, "Consider the lilies..." I trust You Lord!!

This blog has been silent for too long-- all because I cared more about what someone (many someones) thinks, and less about what God thinks. That was wrong-- very wrong! To silence my passion for writing just because of a few "poorly timed" comments, was really putting the judgements of others above that of God. Lord, forgive me for this!

So life-- I'm back!! Darkness- go away, I'm living in the Light of the Living God.

Watch out world... here I come!!!

Who Do You Say I Am??

I always try to look ahead to see what the scripture readings are for each Sunday. The gospel reading for this Sunday made me smile... it's Matthew 16:13-20

"When Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, "Who do people say that the Son of Man is?" And they said, "Some say John the Baptist, but others Elijah, and still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets." He said to them, "But who do you say that I am?" Simon Peter answered, "You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God." And Jesus answered him, "Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father in heaven. And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven." Then he sternly ordered the disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Messiah."

What made me smile, is that about a year ago at the Tuesday healing services, Fr Nigel was talking about the idea of "who do you say I am", and what to tell someone who asks you why you believe. He gave us an assignment that day to write an essay on "who do you say I am"... the following is my response to that assignment....

Who do you say I am??

I know who you are, Lord…. You’re the Messiah- the King. I worship you and talk with you each and every Sunday and every day in between. You’re the Savior, the Only Begotten Son. You’re the Prince of Peace.

But who do YOU say I am?

Ok, I get it Lord…. Wow, now we’re getting personal, huh?

Who knows you the best? Who knows your heart? Who knows your words before you speak them? Who knows your tears before you cry them? Who lifts you when you fall? Who holds you up when you can't stand on your own? Who stands behind you when the world turns it's back on you?

You do, Lord…

Then who do you say I am?

You’re my rock when I have no strength. You’re my counselor, when I don’t know what to do. You’re my healer, when the pain is so horrible I just can’t go on.

There's more... keep going!

You’re my friend, when I feel completely alone and deserted. You’re my provider when the ends just don’t seem to be able to meet. You’re a strong shoulder to lay my head on when the exhaustion and tears overwhelm me. You’re my conscience when I’m headed in the wrong direction. You’re the loving Father I never really had. You’re my peace that passes understanding, when the battles of life get to be too much. You’re my candle in the darkness. You’re my cheerleader when I need encouragement.

There's one more, you're not done yet!

You’re my life, Lord. Without you I am nothing.

a tough day... but God hears my cries

Today has been a bit of a tough day.... it started by my finding out that my unemployment benefits have run out.... yah so that kind of scared me--- alot!! I spent much of my day doing some serious job searching-- but after exhausting all my avenues for that- I felt the fears of my reality... there were tears... many many many. There were cries of anguish to God... many many many.

But God seldom leaves us empty... in my quiet and listening for His voice, he led me to my very own blog. I haven't been here in quiet a while. My eyes scanned down to previous posts and were drawn to my post about the Easter Vigil at CtK. As I began reading that, particularly about the LIGHT of CHRIST, I heard God's voice so clearly say to me, "I died for you-- and for this you must live... believe in me, trust me- I won't fail you."

Thank you Lord-- thank you! I love you Lord- you ARE my reason to live!!

Lord, Help Me Understand Your Ways

For the last couple months I have had the privilege of praying for a precious two year old named Gabriella. This past fall Gabby was diagnosed with an extremely rare congenital disease called Neurocutaneous Melanosis. There is little known about it, and there is no known cure. It attacks the central nervous system in horrible and painful ways. I came to Gabby's website somehow through a link in my little hero Ben's website. I began praying for a miracle for her here on Earth. A little over a month ago, I was sitting in my usual spot at the Tuesday Healing Service at CtK and a beautiful family came in. After a few minutes, I realized the baby was Gabby. I was blown away to see this precious child that I'd been praying for from a distance, who was now sitting right in front of me.

This morning, as I always do, I checked her website. It broke my heart today, to find that sweet Gabby had earned her Angel Wings last night. While I rejoice that she is no longer in any pain and is running free with our Lord, my heart breaks at the loss of this beautiful little Angel.

Lord, help me understand Your ways? Help me understand how you were able to turn water into wine, feed the multitudes, walk on water... but you're unable to stop people- especially children from suffering and dying from horrible diseases!!! Lord, help me understand Your ways!!!!!

While I don't in any way doubt the love of our wonderful God or question that He really does know best, I just really struggle with the issue of suffering in children. I do believe though, that while today He is happily dancing with Gabby in Heaven, He is also weeping in compassion for those of us who are grieving the Earthly loss of a very special little girl!

God Bless You, Gabby. In the short time I knew you- you really touched and blessed my life! I will never forget you!!