Category Archives: Celebrating

Blessings, Celebrating, Christian Living

Tell Me Something Good Monday – New Beginnings

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“We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain, where our forerunner, Jesus, has entered on our behalf. He has become a high priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.” ‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭6:19-20‬ ‭NIV‬‬

It’s tell me something good Monday! My good news is getting a little rest after Christmas. I had a couple of days off and enjoyed waking up slowly, cuddling with my pets and reading. I even binge watched a little Netflix. It was nice. However, I’m also glad to be back at work today.

This morning I’ve been reflecting on how our lives have changed over the past year. A new puppy joined us early in the year. Later in the year we welcomed a new granddaughter and was able to spend time with our grandson while our daughter was in the hospital. In January, I started a youth class at church with the wonderful assistance of my sweet friend Melissa. The teens designed their own shirts and enjoyed three fun outings. My husband celebrated 30 years at his job. At the end of the year, I published my first book and I have started on the second. It was definitely a busy year, full of exciting times. However, there were some challenges during the year, including my sister miscarrying her twin daughters, one of which was named after me, and her later finding out that her health is bad.

Whether your year was all that you wanted, or a little more challenging, the new year brings about thoughts of new beginnings and opportunities. It’s good to reflect on the past, but move on to the present and enjoy every moment. Find your hope for the present in Jesus. May God Bless You!

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Blessings, Celebrating, Christian Living, Faith

Tell Me Something Good Monday – Things Are Getting Better Slowly

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“Jesus saith unto him, Rise, take up thy bed, and walk.”
‭‭John‬ ‭5:8‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Good Morning and Happy Monday!  Today, it has been two months since Hurricane Michael came through our town.  My good news is we are slowly recovering.  It’s going to take a long time for life to get back to normal, but officials are meeting day after day, and constantly looking for ways to help businesses and people with housing issues.

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Have you ever felt so depressed that you didn’t care if Christmas just passed you by? I have felt that way at times.  Our minister shared a story that warmed my heart yesterday.  His wife wanted a live Christmas tree, which is their tradition.  The box stores in our town did not have any because their corporate offices decided we didn’t need them here after the hurricane.  He went on to explain how he traveled to find a live Christmas tree.  The best part of his story was how we are strong despite the setbacks we may face in life.  God made us that way.  We shouldn’t let the corporate offices of box stores determine how we are going to celebrate the birth of our savior.

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It’s normal to feel sorry for ourselves now and again, but we need to pick up our beds and walk.  We need to take the initiative to make things better.  Speak positive words.  Sing Christmas songs.  Get out of the house.  Give to others.  Do something fun and enjoy Christmas!  When we do our part, we’ll notice God stepping in to handle the rest.  Plus we will feel better.

In past years I have gone to see the Nutcracker and many other different things.  This year I plan to go with a friend to see Natalie Grant and Danny Gokey’s Christmas concert.  What better way to enjoy the holidays!

I hope you have a wonderful day and enjoy the holiday season.  God bless you.

Blessings, Celebrating, Christian Living

Tell Me Something Good Monday – On Waiting

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“‘There will be signs (attesting miracles) in the sun and moon and stars; and on the earth [there will be] distress and anguish among nations, in perplexity at the roaring and tossing of the sea and the waves, people fainting from fear and expectation of the [dreadful] things coming on the world; for the [very] powers of the heavens will be shaken. Then they will see THE S ON OF M AN COMING IN A CLOUD with [transcendent, overwhelming] power [subduing the nations] and with great glory. Now when these things begin to occur, stand tall and lift up your heads [in joy], because [suffering ends as] your redemption is drawing near.” Then He told them a parable: “Look at the fig tree and all the trees; as soon as they put out leaves, you see it and know for yourselves that summer is near. So you too, when you see these things happening, know [without any doubt] that the kingdom of God is near. I assure you and most solemnly say to you, this generation [those living at that definite period of time preceding the second coming] will not pass away until everything takes place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away. “But be on guard, so that your hearts are not weighed down and depressed with the giddiness of debauchery and the nausea of self-indulgence and the worldly worries of life, and then that day [when the Messiah returns] will not come on you suddenly like a trap; for it will come upon all those who live on the face of all the earth. But keep alert at all times [be attentive and ready], praying that you may have the strength and ability [to be found worthy and] to escape all these things that are going to take place, and to stand in the presence of the Son of Man [at His coming].’”
‭‭LUKE‬ ‭21:25-36‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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Happy Monday!  New beginnings fill us with joy of opportunities for second chances.  We have now entered a new liturgical year beginning with Advent.  Advent is a season of waiting and being penitent.  We wait to celebrate the birth of Jesus, and we wait for his rebirth and second coming.

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Advent is not a season of sitting around in fear of what’s to come.  It’s a time to stand up and believe that our world is so safe that God allowed us to live here.  It’s a time to rediscover our relationship with God.  It’s a time of giving and loving others.  No one knows when Jesus will return, so we should always be ready.  However, that readiness should be with gladness, not fear.

We often get so caught up in the secular Christmas celebrations that we forget to stop and remember the one who was born of a virgin and sacrificed everything for us.

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Where I live the devastation is present every day.  Over the weekend we had flooding, and there are many living with tarps for roofs.  There are many living in tents.  It’s hard for me to feel the joy of the Christmas season.  Others I know had Christmas trees set up before Thanksgiving.  Everyone deals with stress differently.  However, I do feel the presence of God all around and anticipate with great joy the celebration of Jesus’s birthday and the second coming of Christ.

Today, welcome the season of advent into your hearts.  God bless you.

 

Celebrating, Christian Living, Daddy, Faith, Family, Forgiveness, Gratitude

Use Your Gifts to Change the World Wednesday – Thankful During Good and Bad Times

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“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.”
‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3:15‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Good morning and happy Wednesday!  Today is a special day for my family.  It’s my husband’s birthday.  I know most of you do not know Britt, but he is the rock of our family.  He holds us together and has always been willing to do whatever it takes to make sure we have everything we want.  I met him during a time when I was struggling in life, and I’m so glad God sent him to me.  He’s my best friend and the spiritual head of our home.  Every Sunday he helps me prepare for Sunday School, gathering up supplies and doing whatever is needed.  For many years Britt worked two jobs to make sure our children and I had everything we needed.  So, today I hope Britt has a relaxing day at home.  Happy Birthday Britt!

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Have you ever prayed repeatedly only to feel like the answer is no?  Sometimes the answer is no.  Sometimes to grow spiritually, we need to go through lessons in life.  I 7107700C-7B80-4DBD-AFFD-C9FD6D4B57E8know in my life there have been some situations that lasted years before I had a breakthrough.  The problem wasn’t with God, but me.  The breakthrough came when I was able to stay devoted and learn the lesson.  I might be a little stubborn, because it usually takes a while for me to learn the lesson.  However, once I understand, I make the necessary changes.

 

If you are going through challenges, don’t give up on 2EAA43B6-CF40-4F31-AFFF-1C76D956A626God.  Keep the faith.  Study His word and pray regularly.  The answer may be no now, but the result is probably good down the road.

Have a wonderful Wednesday!  God bless you!

 

Celebrating, Christian Living, Emotional pain and suffering, Faith, Forgiveness, happiness, Journey

Forgiveness Thursday – Stability

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Lord, You have been our dwelling place [our refuge, our sanctuary, our stability] in all generations.
‭‭PSALM‬ ‭90:1‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Happy Thursday!  It’s a great day to forgive others and yourself.

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Have you ever been blown away be an event or unexpected occurrence that you felt was unfair?  If so, how long did you dwell on it – minutes?  Hours? Days? Weeks? Years?  Did you rant, fuss and complain?  Did you get mad at others who didn’t understand your emotions?  If you answered yes to any of these questions, don’t feel alone.  I recently read that it is important for leaders to be emotionally stable.  At first, I was thinking “this isn’t a problem for me”.  Then, God reminded of the many times I have been upset about events or happenings that I thought were unfair.  Each time I approached those around me for comfort and understanding.  I just wanted someone to say they saw things my way.  I never realized that my roller coaster of emotional instability was driving everyone crazy.

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The good news is Colossians 2:5 tells us that even though we may feel alone, we can find emotional stability and “unwavering confidence in His power wisdom and goodness” (Amp).  The bad news is we have to work at this.  It’s not enough to just know that God provides our emotional stability.  We have to practice being emotionally stable.  You may not believe it, but I know people including myself who have stayed upset about something for years.  I have more good news though.  Over time I have improved.    Most things only upset me for a few hours or a couple of days, instead of months of years.  However, if it was something really painful, I rarely forget.  I’m striving for letting go of bad events in five minutes or less without anyone ever knowing.  It’s a good goal to have.

If you have struggled with emotional stability, find your strength in God.  God bless you.

 

 

Celebrating, Christian Living, July 4th

Use Your Gifts to Change the World Wednesday – Anxiety

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Casting all your cares [all your anxieties, all your worries, and all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares about you [with deepest affection, and watches over you very carefully].
‭‭1 PETER‬ ‭5:7‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Happy 4th of July!  When you’re birthday is on the 4th of July, the entire country is happy and celebrating.  Even knowing the temperature has been over 105 degrees on many days, in Florida people are cooking outdoors, going to the beach or pool, eating burgers and watermelon, and enjoying the fireworks.  It’s a good day to be surrounded by friends and family, and celebrate the freedom our forefathers fought to create for us.  So, take time today to reflect on the history of America the Beautiful.

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There are some who have so much anxiety they are unable to enjoy this or any holiday.  Social anxiety is serious and prevalent in society.  Some people are having anxiety about things such as: how to pay bills; what they will eat; where they will live; if they will find a job; how to keep from losing their children; or what to do about a parent with Alzheimer’s Disease.  If you are one of these people, I have good news for you.  Regardless of the problem, God understands.  You are never alone and He is always there.  Turn to Him. If you know someone who is having anxiety, be there for them. Help them.  Pray for them.  Go celebrate with them.  You will be blessed beyond measure.

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Dominic has a little social anxiety today.  He usually disappears when company arrives.

Have a blessed holiday.

 

Blessings, Celebrating, Christian Living, Faith, Faith healing, Family, Gratitude

Forgiveness Thursday – God Leads Us When We Least Expect It

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I’m hurt and in pain; Give me space for healing, and mountain air.
‭‭Psalm‬ ‭69:29‬ ‭MSG‬‬

Happy Thursday.  Remember to forgive others and yourself.

A few weeks ago, I was speaking before a local civic organization and a very nice lady spoke out about how our City, in this case meaning me, should do more to hold on to new businesses just starting out.  I explained that I have featured the new businesses on our city’s website, and before I could continue she cut in and said “who reads a website, you need to send flyers home with the children at the schools”.  While this is a good idea that I have not disregarded, with summer upon us God led me in a different direction.

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After selling my boss on my God inspired idea, which is in addition to my other duties, I called the newspaper and asked if I could interview new business owners and submit articles for publication.  It was almost too easy to get the official yes.  So, three weeks ago, my first three articles appeared.  Since then, I have had six more articles published.  This week the competing newspaper requested I send my articles to them as well.  I was excited that they would be interested.  Along the way, I realized how much I enjoy this new assignment added to my already long list of duties.  I’ve been staying later than usual and enjoying listening to the stories and helping the business owners.

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Over the past six months the enemy has been using Rheumatoid Arthritis to beat me up.  While I know I am healed by Jesus’ stripes, I am still tackling the physical and emotional symptoms.  My biologic treatment that was working in the past doesn’t work anymore.  It lowers my white count too low.  So, I’ve tried a couple of different treatments.  The one I’m taking now requires a daily injection, and it is the last available treatment option.  Most of the time people can’t see my symptoms, but lately it has been obvious.  My eyes look like they are bleeding and I’m not able to physically do what others are doing.  It’s so embarrassing, and I want to keep up physically.   The more good I do, the more I feel like the enemy attacks me.  However, the more I’m busy helping other people, the less I notice.

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I share this for my readers who are tackling physical and emotional pain.  Don’t give up.  We all have a lot of work to do.  So, don’t let anything stop you from your calling.  Every person can and does make a difference.

Have a great day!  God  bless you.

 

Cajun, Celebrating, Christian Living, Creole, Legalism, Let your light shine, New Orleans, Peace, Thankful

Try Something New Tuesday – Goodbye New Orleans

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Grace to you and peace [inner calm and spiritual well-being] from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ
‭‭GALATIANS‬ ‭1:3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Good morning from the very beautiful New Orleans.  The sky is cloudless this morning as I prepare to depart this city rich with culture.  The visit has been a wonderful opportunity for me professionally and personally.  However, I miss my husband and  I’m ready to return home.  If you ever visit New Orleans, the food is magnificent.

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During my stay I worked on my studies some at night.  I’m currently studying the Book of Galatians.  The first chapter is packed full of information.  I spent three or four hours last night studying Galatians 1 and I’m still working on it.  One theme that jumped out at me and I wanted to share is “Grace versus Legalism”.  I often hear people say legalism, but I didn’t realize what they meant until now.  It’s completely understandable as Christians that we feel obligated to do something, but that is legalism.  It could be dressing a certain way, following Old Testament laws, or feeling obligated to go or serve at Church.  Legalism puts the focus on us rather than on our sweet Lord.  Rather that working to please God, we should focus on working for God because we love Him so much and in thanksgiving for all our blessings.  You see, we have salvation by faith and spirituality by grace.  There is nothing we can do to be saved, but accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior.  As our verse today tells us, peace is a part of that grace (Galatians 1:3).  Isn’t that great!  Then, the “works” we do should be in thanksgiving and a way of honoring our Lord.

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So, today try something new by spending your time pleasing God in thanksgiving.  Have a super day!  God bless you.

Celebrating, Christian Living, Faith, Forgiveness, Goodness, Love others, Praise, Prayer, Thankful

Try Something New Tuesday – Ladies Bible Study

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May the Lord direct your hearts into God’s love and Christ’s perseverance.  1 Thessalonians 3:5

Good Morning.  It’s Try Something New Tuesday.  What will you try today?

I have found that when we try new things, our perspective changes.  It can be something as small as sitting somewhere new in church.  Many of us are accustomed to sitting in the same place every week.  Try a different location.  Things will appear different.  With my job, I have a different perspective depending on whether I am walking or driving the area.  I notice different things.

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In this time where everyone wants gender integrated civic clubs and meetings, I’m going to suggest something bold.  It’s okay to have meetings where there are only women or only men.  I don’t say this because of fear of affairs or rumors of affairs when the two mix, but because sometimes women learn from and enjoy the company of other women.  The same holds true for men.  Sometimes men learn from other men and enjoy the company of other men.

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I’ve been attending a Monday night Women’s Bible Study class for a little over a month.  The class is held by a different denomination in a nearby town.  When first invited, I must admit I was hesitant.  I only knew one lady, and the meeting was twenty miles away after a long day at work.  I’m so glad I took her up on the offer.  I have gained new perspective on Scriptures and I have made about 20 new friends.  We call each other sisters.  It’s definitely girl fun time, but not the kind of fun time you see in movies.  It’s a time of caring for one another and studying God’s word.  I realize to some of you this might sound boring, but I assure you it isn’t boring and at the end of the day, my conscience doesn’t bother me.  I didn’t realize I was missing this in my life.  Sometimes God answers prayers when we aren’t paying attention.  This has been an answered prayer for me.

I encourage you to seek out a Bible Study group in your area.  God bless you.

 

Blessings, Celebrating, Christian Living, Faith, Family, Forgiveness, Gratitude, Healing

Saint Patrick

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Top of the morning to you!  Happy Saint Patrick’s Day!  A few years ago I ordered an Ancestry.com DNA test.  I’m excited to say that I’m 10% Irish.  Maybe that’s The origin of my green eyes.  When I was a child, we wore green on Saint Patrick’s Day to avoid getting pinched. When I was in college, the local bars around the university had green beer. I’ve never drank green beer, but every year our family eats corned beef and cabbage.  I also enjoy the delicious Shamrock Shakes at McDonalds. Do you participate in any traditions?

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Have you ever wondered who Saint Patrick was and the origin of the holiday?  Saint Patrick was born in Great Britain near Kilpatrick, Scotland in 395 AD.  The holiday began as a religious feast day in the 17th century.  When he was sixteen years old, he was kidnapped and taken to the mountainous countryside of Ireland.  There he was enslaved and forced to tend sheep.  After about six years God told him in a dream to flee to the coast and find a ship to return home.  He was able to escape and after he made it home, he had a second dream.  This time the Irish people were begging him to return. Saint Patrick, still a young man, began studying to be a priest.  He became a bishop in the Catholic Church.  At the age of about 40 he returned to Ireland to spread Christianity.  He reportedly baptized 100,000 Irish over time and 12,000 people in one day in an area near Killala.  He created new churches.  He converted priests and nuns, and he ministered to princes and paupers.   He refused money, was placed in chains, beaten and faced execution many times.  On March 17, 462 AD Saint Patrick died after nearly 30 years of missionary work.  He is buried at Down Cathedral in Downpatrick, County Down, Ireland.  He is most known for being the Patron Saint of Ireland and spreading Christianity to Ireland. For the most part he was forgotten for centuries.   In the 17th century March 17th became an official feast day for the Catholic Church.  Over time March 17th became more secular celebrating Irish culture and ancestry.  Boston celebrated the holiday the first time in 1737.  New York City enjoyed the first Saint Patrick’s Day parade on March 17, 1762.  George Washington created the American holiday in 1780.  I’ve heard it reported that every year 40 pounds of dye are used to turn the Chicago River green for Saint Patrick’s Day. In Ireland the holiday is solemn and Holy.  I’m particularly fond of Saint Patrick’s prayer.

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I wish you a wonderful Saint Patrick’s Day.  God bless you.