other's hearts are also holy ground

"Learn to listen to Me even while you are listening to others. As they open up their souls to your scrutiny, you are on holy ground. You need the help of My Spirit to respond appropriately. Ask Him to think through you, live through you, love through you."

Jesus Calling by Sarah Young

Exodus 3:5 Then He said, "Do not come near here; remove your sandals from your feet for the place that you are standing is holy ground."

I Corinthians 6:19 or do you knot know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own.

*****

I have know that the Holy Spirit lives in those who have accepted Christ as the Savior and that makes us the temple of God. I have never thought about when Christians open their hearts to you that you are standing on holy ground. I am to know that I am in the presence of God and respond accordingly: with awe, respect, and love. Today let me recognize holy places in others.

one thousand gifts

258. gentle rain in the middle of the night

259. relief from a migraine

260. clean floors

261. holy ground in my heart and the heart of others

I am with you

"I am with you. I am with you. I am with you. Heaven's bells continually peal with that promise of My Presence. Some people never hear those bells because their minds are earthbound and their hearts are closed to Me. Others hear the bells only once or twice in their lifetime, in rare moments of seeking Me above all else. My desire is that My "sheep" hear My voice continually, for I am the ever-present Shepherd." Jesus Calling

John 10:14 I am the good Shepherd and I know My own and My own know Me.

*****

God is continually calling to all of us, "I am with you." How often do I hear Him?

one thousand gifts

256. Mexican food with Andy, Kelly, Amelia, and Tom

257. a Sunday afternoon nap when I am tired, sore, and cold

Omniscient God

"Linger in my Presence a while. Rein in your impulses to plunge into the day's activities. Beginning your day alone with Me is essential preparation for success... Only I know what will happen to you this day. If you are not adequately equipped for the journey, you will grow weary and lose heart. Relax with Me while I ready you for action." Jesus Calling by Sarah Young

Ephesians 2:10 For we are His workmanship created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.

Hebrews 12:3 For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you may not grow weary and lose heart.

*****

Only God knows what will happen to you this day. God is omniscient and eternal. He has already seen the beginning and the end of our time here on earth. Why would I ever want to exclude God when I am planning what to do?

one thousand gifts

254. safe travel to and from Illinois

255. finding a good home for CoCoa that reunites her with Bubbi (Papi) and Rocco!

life isn't fair

"Do not expect to be treated fairly in this life. People will say and do hurtful things to you, things you don't deserve. When some-one mistreats you; try to view it as an opportunity to grow in grace. Don't be concerned about setting the record straight... Remember that I have clothed you in My righteousness and holiness. This also is not fair, it is a pure gift. When others treat you unfairly, remember that My ways with you are much better than fair." Jesus Calling

Col3:3 bearing with one another and forgiving one another, whoever has a complaint against you just as the Lord forgave you.

Isaiah 61:10 ...For He has clothed me with garments of salvation. He wrapped me with a robe of righteousness.

*****

Life isn't fair, but God is good! Grace should define our lives: the grace we receive and the grace we give.

where to go

"As you become increasingly aware of My Presence, you find it easier to discern the way you should go...Instead of wondering about what is on the road ahead or worrying what you should do if... or when..., you can concentrate on staying in communication with me. When you actually arrive at a choice-point, I will show you which direction to go. " Jesus Calling

Psalm 32:8 I will instruct you and teach you in the way which you should go; I will counsel you with My eyes upon you.

*****

How much time do we spend thinking, planning, and worrying about things that never happen? Today let's concentrate on being with God and trust Him to guide our future.

one thousand gifts

251. "I love you, Amelia" "I love you, Mimi"

252. top down on the convertible 65 degrees

253. Tom home from Denver, where it is snowing

taking care

"This is the age of self-help. Bookstores abound with books about 'taking care of number one,' making oneself the center of all things. The main goal of these methologies is to become self-sufficient and confident. You however, have been called to take a 'road less traveled': continual dependence on Me. True confident comes from knowing you are complete in My Presence. Everything you need has its counterpart in Me.

Luke 15:5 I am the vine, you are the branches, he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit; for apart from Me you can do nothing.

*****

"Taking care of number one" implies demanding your "rights" and being self-sufficient, neither of those are what should exemplify a Christians life. I am to be just as concerned about others as I am myself. And I am not self-sufficient, I am to depend upon God. There is nothing wrong with taking care of yourself. Parker Palmer wrote "Self care is not a selfish act- it is simply good stewardship of the only gift I have, the gift I was put on earth to offer to others."

Today let's take care in all our relationships: with God, with ourselves, and with others.

one thousand gifts

250. beautiful fall scenery on an early morning drive to doctor's

Emmanuel--God with us

"I am God with you for all time and throughout eternity. Let your mind reverberate with the meanings of My Names: Jesus--the Lord saves, and Emmanuel--God with us."

Matthew 21:21,23 And she will bear a Son and you will call His name Jesus, for it is He who will save His people from their sins... they shall call Him Emmanuel which means God with us.

******

Jesus always was and always will be. My relationship with him began the day I accepted Him as my Savior and now will always be. Jesus-- a faithful Savior, Brother, Friend.

one thousand gifts

246. a visit from my Aunt Jeanie and Uncle Dick

247. a four generational dinner--Aunt Jeanie and Uncle Dick, me, Andy,and Amelia

248. McDonald's coffee- when my coffee pot breaks!

rest

Lie down in green pastures of peace. Learn to unwind whenever possible, resting in the Presence of your Shepherd... I built into your being the need for rest... I have called you to walk with Me down paths of peace. I want you to blaze a trail for others who desire to live in My peaceful Presence." Jesus Calling by Sarah Young

Psalm 23:1-3 The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside still water. He restores my soul, He guides me in the path of righteousness for His name sake.

*****

rest.

love

"Open your mind and heart to receive My heavenly smile of approval. Let My gold-tinged Love was over you and soak into the depth of your being."

*****

I John 4:10 In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us...

*****

God loves me just as I am. God's love is unconditional. I don't have to preform any certain task or be anything other than who I am. He loves me!!! And you!!!

one thousand gifts

245. breakfast in bed, not only does God love me, but Tom loves me too!

CoCoa

I gave Cocoa Puff away yesterday. Was even harder than I thought it would be. I'm still not completely sure that it was a good idea. That is probably what is making this so hard. This all started last week when I was visiting home in Illinois. I had taken CoCoa with me for the day. She is really a good traveler. After meeting my Mom, Dad, Pat, Julia, Ashley, and Sherry for lunch, we went to Pat's house to look at wedding and reception pictures of Luke and Rachel. Sherry just loved CoCoa and made the comment that she would love to take her.

I laughed and said "She's all yours."

Tom and I have talked about giving CoCoa away for several months. She is a good dog, but she does like to bark when people come over. It has been driving me crazy. She acts like such a sweet dog when no-one is here, but makes a scene when people come over.

She doesn't keep it up too long, but it is annoying.

The other drawback to having her is that I can't just jump in the car and go where I want to. I love driving to Omaha and spending several days, but I either have to take CoCoa or leave her with Andy and Kelly. Andy and Kelly have been gracious about keeping her, but I don't really think they need to be babysitting my dog at this point in their lives.

I think that Tom and I just aren't dog people....I know I should have this figured out before now. After all first came Madison--dog for a day, then Holly, then Tucker, and now CoCoa. I love the idea of a dog. So many people really love their dogs so much and I want to be that way, but for some reason the responsibility seems to be more than the pleasure for me. I feel like a real failure even having to admit that, almost sub-human.

When Sherry realized that I was serious that she could have CoCoa if she really wanted her, she decided that her husband would not be happy with her if he got home from work and she had a new dog. So I thought that was the end of talk of her taking CoCoa.

Then Friday morning, I got a call from Pat saying that Sherry had talked to her and was interested in having CoCoa. Pat said that while Sherry and her husband were finishing off their house that CoCoa would live with her daughter and boyfriend. They already have a dog Izzy, a twenty pound golden-doodle. Sherry was hoping that I was driving over that day for lunch with my family and would be bringing CoCoa.

To say I was shocked is an understatement. I had about 30 minutes before I would need to leave for Champaign. So I talked to Tom and he said that CoCoa was mine, so I should do what I want. I hate having to make a decision by myself, but he was right. I asked him to give CoCoa a bath and gather her stuff while I took a shower and thought about it. I then loaded the car and thought about it all the way over there. I wish I could say that I felt really good about the decision, but I still wasn't sure.

When I got there I found out that Kelly, the daughter, plans to keep CoCoa--unless she doesn't get along with Izzy. I was not as excited about that arrangement as I would have been with Sherry keeping her. But I was assured that Kelly would love and spoil her. So with shaking hands and tears in my eyes, I gave CoCoa away. There were tears on the way home and tears when I went to sleep.

I think that giving CoCoa away is the best thing for me, but is it the best thing for CoCoa? I am anxious to hear how her homecoming went with Izzy and how she did overnight. We all agreed that any off us could change our mind and that CoCoa would come back to live with us. So for a few days-weeks this will still be up in the air. I don't think I will really be able to get over this until I know that CoCoa is happy in her new home.

CoCoa and her new Mom

find joy

"No matter what your circumstances may be, you can find joy in My Presence...Begin by remembering that I have created this day...Recall that I am present with you whether you sense My Presence or not...Start talking to Me about what is on your mind. Rejoice in the fact I understand you perfectly and I know exactly what you are experiencing. As you continue communicating with Me, your mood will lighten." Jesus Calling by Sarah Young

Psalm 21:6 For Thou dost make him most blessed forever; Thou dost make him joyful with gladness in Thy Presence.

******

Downcast mood--> remember God created this day and His presence with you--> talk to Him

--> rejoice in His understanding--> keep praying--> your mood will lighten!

one thousand blessings

243. God's concern about what concerns us...CoCoa's new home

rebellion

"To live in My Presence consistently, you must expose and expel your rebellious tendencies. When something interferes with your plans or desires; you tend to resent the interference...The ultimate solution to rebellious tendencies is submission to My sovereignty, without which the world would be a terrifying place. But when My sovereign will encroaches on your little domain of control, you often react with telltale resentment. The best response to losses or thwarted hopes is praise: 'The Lord gives and the Lord takes away. Blessed be the name of the Lord.'" Jesus Calling

Psalm 139:23-24 Search me, O God and know my heart. Try me and know my thoughts; and see if there is any hurtful way in me and lead me in the everlasting way.

Job 1:21 Naked I came from my mother's womb and naked I shall return there. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away. Blessed be the name of the Lord.

*****

God's sovereignty or my control--Why would I ever resent when my loving Father has a better plan than mine? ... yet I often do. God forgive me my arrogance and open my eyes to You and what You are unwrapping for me.

*****

one thousand gifts

241. phone call from Deborah

242. water, pure and fresh to drink

aging

"I am your living God...the human body is wonderfully crafted, but gravity and the inevitable effects of aging weigh it down... Don't be anxious about the weakness of your body. Instead view it as a prelude to my infusing energy into your being...Though the process of aging continues inwardly you grow stronger with the passing years." Jesus Calling

Colossians 1:29 And for this purpose also I labor according to his power, which mightily works within me.

*****

Though our bodies are aging and deteriorating-- our spirit is growing stronger.

"We're not getting old, we're getting ready!" Stan Clapp

one thousand gifts

239. rainy days

240. getting older, but growing in God

photo: http://www.freefoto.com/index.jsp

transparency

"Come to Me with your defenses down, ready to be blessed and filled with My Presence. Relax and feel the relief of being totally open and authentic with Me... One of the worst consequences of the Fall is the elaborate barriers people erect between themselves and others. Facades abound in the world, even in My body the church...The best antidote to this artificial atmosphere is practicing My Presence at church. Let your primary focus be communing with Me,

worshiping Me, glorifying Me. Then you will be able to smile at others with My Joy

and love them with My love.

I John 1:5,7 And this is the message we heard from Him and announce to you, that God is light and in Him there is no darkness at all... but if we walk in the light as He Himself is in the light, we have fellowship with one another and the blood of Jesus the Son cleanses us from all sin.

*****

Transparency with God and each other brings cleansing and healing!

one thousand gifts

236. a new chair for Tom

237. vegetable soup on a rainy day

238. the book "Kisses From Katie" reminding me how blessed I am

"Recovering From Losses In Life"

"Loss. It's a simple four-letter word that is one of our common companions throughout life...You have experienced may losses in your life already...How you respond to them or what you let them do to you will affect the rest of your life."

Recently, some friends helped me to realize that there are several losses in my life that I did not let myself fully mourn. The book "Recovering From Losses In Life" by H. Norman Wright was recommended to me. Now, I will recommend this book to you. Here are just a few of the ideas that touched me:

Loss is not the enemy; not facing its existence is.

Perhaps loss traumatizes us so much because it carries with it the message, "You really are not in charge of your life."

The purpose of grieving over your loss is to get beyond these reactions to face your loss and work on adapting to it. The overall purpose of grief is to bring you to the point of making necessary changes so you can live with the loss in a healthy way.

Our grief work is not really complete until we have found some meaning in our grief.

In this book, H. Norman Wright gives information about what grief is, the problems in grieving, and the stages of grieving. He gives information about how to grieve--practical exercises to help you face your loss and to grow through the process. He also gives do's and don't when you are trying to comfort someone else.

This a great book. One that belongs in everyone's library!

go gently

""Go gently through this day, keeping your eyes on Me. I will open up the way before you, as you take steps of trust along the path." from Jesus Calling by Sarah Young

John 10:14-15 I am the Good Shepherd and I know My own and My own know Me, even as the Father knows Me and I know the Father, and I lay down My life for the sheep.

Isaiah 26:7 The way of the righteous is smooth; O Upright One, make the path of the righteous level.

*****

Go gently... it isn't enough just to be on a journey, who we follow, how we walk, and how we treat others is important.

one thousand gifts

233. pizza, c.c. cookies, West Wing, and family

234. Amelia saying "Wing, Josh, Toby, C.J." and getting all three remotes

235. every morning--a new start, go gently

photo www.freefoto.com/preview/01-16-54/Sheep

pizza, chocolate chip cookies, and West Wing

This has been a great day. I have actually felt pretty good. I got a shower and even made my bed this morning. Then I did my devotions, laundry, and made chocolate chip cookies. Now, it's time to have pizza, snack on cookies, and watch West Wing. Sounds like a great mix, but also sounds like a lot of carbohydrates... oh well, sometimes you just have to splurge. Wish Kelly and Matt could be with us, but I will enjoy the family time that I get.

anxiety

"Anxiety is a result of envisioning the future without Me. So the best defense against worry is staying in communication with Me... Remember to listen, as well as speak..." Jesus Calling

Ephesians 3:20-21 Now to Him who is able to do exceeding abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen.

*****

Do I envision the future without Jesus-- or do I not trust Him even when I see Him there?

Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for forgiving my doubts--strengthen my faith--remind me of Your continual presence--let me clearly hear Your voice--show me Your unfailing love.

one thousand gifts

231. the aroma of chocolate chip cookies baking

232. Jesus with me always

comfort

"Look to Me continually for help, comfort, and companionship... When you need comfort, I love to enfold you in my arms." from Jesus Calling by Sarah Young

II Corinthians 1:3-4 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort; who comforts us in all our afflictions so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.

*****

Life contains all kinds of loss, but God is there to hold us, give us comfort, and hope for the future.

one thousand gifts

228. sunshine and cool days

229. a warm home

230. the comforting arms of Jesus

Thursday's Totals on Saturday

As you can guess by this late post. Things have been a little crazy around here. I was on Prozac many years ago. It helped with the depression and also helped with my motion sickness. Then there were new products and I got off the Prozac. I have been having such problems with the motion sickness that I asked my doctor if I could go back. Starting three weeks ago, I switched. I had 10 straight days of dizziness. Then it let up some. I am still hoping that as my body adjusts to the Prozac that I will get the side benefit of it helping with the dizziness instead of causing it.

Then a couple of weeks ago my front tooth fell out. Yep, just plain fell out. Well, actually it wasn't really my tooth...I had a root canal and a crown there and the crown fell out. I went to the dentist and he replaced the crown. After a week, my mouth kept getting sorer and sorer. Back to the dentist. After more x-rays, he discovers the root canal has a crack in it. I will need to get a implant tooth there. This is a multi-step process that will take several months. The good news is that he gave me antibiotics and pain medicine to take until the pain went away.

All of that to say, that I have several weeks of not feeling my best. This has not helped my losing weight. I really didn't have the energy to worry about what I was eating and started taking in more carbohydrates than I wanted. The good news is that although I have done some yo-yoing, my weight on Thursday was the same as the week before.

This week's loss 0

previous loss 15

total 15

My "New" Bible

When Tom and I got married one of his friends, John Sterrett, got us a Ryrie Study Bible as a wedding gift. He even got it embossed with our names. I loved that Bible and used it for many many years until the binding cracked and it was about to fall apart. I then had to start using a new Bible. Now, that Bible's binding cracked and I had to tape it back together. A couple of weeks ago, I ask Tom if for my birthday he would get new binding on my Ryrie Bible.

He found a place on line and sent off my Bible.

A few days ago, my Bible arrived. It has a nice new blue leather cover.

It is like getting re-acquainted with an old friend!

believe

"The way to stay on the path of Life is to keep your focus on Me. Awareness of My Presence is your best protection. " Jesus Calling by Sarah Young

Hebrews 12:1-2 ...let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us and let us run with endurance the rate set before us, fixing our eyes of Jesus, the author and protector of faith...

*****

The sin--disbelief. We are to keep our eyes on Jesus--not to keep us from sinning, but to keep us believing!

one thousand gifts

225. farmers harvesting their crops, God's bounty

226. traveling with the rainbow, God's promise

227. My newly bound old Bible, like reconnecting with a faithful friend

pain and problems...pure joy

"Pain and problems are opportunities to demonstrate your trust in Me. Bearing your circumstances bravely--even thanking Me for them--is one of the highest forms of praise."

from Jesus Calling by Sarah Young

James 1:2-4 Consider it pure joy my brothers whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

*****

trials + faith + perseverance = maturity

one thousand gifts

223. pumpkin pie

224. trips "home"

breathe

"Take time to be still in My Presence...Breathe slowly and deeply. Relax in My holy Presence while My Face shines upon you." from Jesus Calling by Sarah Young

Psalm 46:10 Be still and know that I am God.

Numbers 6:25-26 The LORD make His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn His face toward you and give you peace.

******

Just breathe!

one thousand gifts

220. anesthesia and antibiotics

221. Tom, my personal driver

222. red maple leaves

Bookcase for my office

I needed a small bookcase to sit next to my chair. Something that would hold my Bible study books and be close at hand. Here is what Tom made me:

Just the perfect size!

Love it! Thanks Tom!

God knows me

"Beware of seeing yourself through other peoples eyes. There are several dangers to this practice... it is nearly impossible to discern what others think of you...their views of you are variable...it borders on idolatry. Your concern to please others dampens you desire to please Me, your Creator." Jesus Calling by Sarah Young

*****

Psalm 139:1 Oh Lord, You have searched me and you know me.

Psalm 42:8 By day the Lord directs His love, at night His song is with me.

*****

God is the only One who knows my heart and He loves me.

one thousand gifts

218. chocolate covered caramels

219. the October moon slipping behind clouds

the Giver

Receive My blessings with open hands. Enjoy My good gifts, but do no cling to them. Turn your attention to the Giver of all good things, and rest in the knowledge that you are complete in Me. The one thing you absolutely need is the one thing you can never lose: My Presence.

James 1:17 Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.

*****

All I need, I already have--Jesus!

one thousand gifts

214. Kelly rescuing Cocoa

215. Chili and a frosty brought by Andy and Amelia

216. waking up with out dizziness

217. Tom home from a trip

trust God

"Trust Me enough to let things happen without striving to predict or control them... The alternative is to live fully in the present, depending on Me each moment." Jesus Calling

Psalm 37:3-6 Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Delight yourself in the LORD and He will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him and He will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun.

*****

What am I trying to control about my future? Am I worrying about more dizziness and feeling sick and not enjoying the moments when I feel fine? When does planning what you want to get done turn into worrying and not trusting God?

God, Help me live fully in this day that you have given me!

complaining

"Complaining to others...opens the door to deadly sins such as self pity and rage. Whenever you are tempted to grumble, come to Me and talk it out. As you open up to Me, I will put My thoughts in your mind and My song in your heart.

Jeremiah 31:25 I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint.

Philippians 2:14-15 Do all things without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe.

*****

Right after I write a long blog about how disappointed I am over this weekend and how sick I have felt, I read today's devotion. Now I'm wondering what the difference is between being disappointed and talking about it or complaining. Is there a difference? What do you think?

one thousand gifts

210. Benedryl and Hydrocodone

211. family

212. Fellipo's Pizza

213. weddings and receptions with friends and family to help celebrate

disappointed

My nephew Luke and Rachel got married on 9-10-11 in the Bahamas and they were having a reception this weekend. I have been really looking forward to the reception. This year I have not made it to Illinois nearly as often as I had planned and I have really been missing my family and friends. This was going to be a great opportunity to see a lot of them, plus dancing and cake... it doesn't get better than that!

First I spent several weeks debating about what outfit to wear. I knew I wouldn't go too fancy, but wanted something that looked nice. I finally found a white sweater set to wear with black pants and of course my pearls would add a little class to the outfit. Check. Next on the list was a hair cut. I would rather have Lindsey cut my hair, but figured the schedule would be too tight, so I got my hair cut here. Check. Since I only have grey flats and black heels, next I needed a new pair of shoes. Last Thursday I finally got out to look for them. I found a cute little pair of flats with some bling on the toes. Check. Packed up on Thursday night... ready to go.

Unfortunately, over the last few weeks my front tooth has been hurting me. I had gotten a new crown put on the tooth and it had been aching ever since. Well, it started out as an ache over the weeks it was getting worse. On Thursday morning I decided that if there was any way for the dentist to get me in I better get it checked out. Found out I have a cracked root canal and it is infected. I will need to have surgery and have an implant put in... oh fun... but hey I have this weekend to enjoy, so I'll think about that later. But there is still that little problem of the pain. So Dr. H gives me prescriptions for Hydrocodone and Penicillin. Check.

We wake up early Friday morning (after I have already be up twice in the night to hit the Hydrocodone) finish packing and get on the road. We are going to stop at the Original Pancake House in Fishers to start this trip out right! This is the beginning of the snags... We get in a traffic jam. It takes us 30 minutes longer than it should to get there. Add to that I am waiting to get some food in my stomach before I take my pain pill and antibiotic...by the time we get to the restaurant I am in tears.

We finish our breakfast, which I can't really enjoy because I am in pain. Oh well, I now have the medicine in me and it will start to take affect in say an hour. Arg!! We hit the road. After several minutes, I start to itch... then my lip starts to swell, my body breaks out in hive bumps. I am having an allergic reaction to something. Thankfully, I carry Benedryl with me. So I take a few of those pills. They will take affect in 30 minutes. So we are driving a long and my teeth hurt and my face is covered in hives and I am itching.. Oh, well it's bound to get better. But wait, because I was taking so many other drugs I didn't take any Dramamine... you guessed it... now I start to get car sick.

By the time I hit CU my teeth are hurting again, my face has a green cast to it, with red bumps. Oh well, I had arrived in time to get my nails done with Pat and Rachel and then meet Mom and Patty for lunch. That will be fun. But as I'm sitting waiting for my turn, I just get sicker and sicker. I can't stay to get my nails done after all. I have to go to my Dad's house and lie down. Unfortunately, he is not home when Pat takes me there so I lie down on his front porch and wait for him. Of course, Pat wouldn't leave me there alone. So she and Rachel are late for lunch while we wait for Tom to arrive with the key. I figure I will go in an sleep a little bit and then join them later.

I miss lunch all together. I finally am feeling Okay by around 3pm so Tom and I drive to the Hinton's to look at wedding video and pictures and to have pizza and celebrate Derek's birthday. My teeth are still hurting some and its time for more meds. I take the Hydrocodone and Penicillin again and you guessed it, I have another reaction (I have never had a reaction to medicines before, only to insecticides, so I didn't know that the meds where the reason for my allergic reaction!) I take some more Benedryl, but the reaction is pretty bad, so I have to leave early to go to Walgreens and buy some liquid Benedryl to chug. Then we head to Tuscola to spend the night with Mom. By the time I arrive in Tuscola my teeth are again hurting, my face is a little green with red bumps... I have had enough fun for one day and head to bed! Saturday has to be better.

Well, it's not. I spend the day between being nauseous or in pain. Thankfully, I tried taking the Hydrocodone and Penicillin at different times and there were no more allergic reactions. It is now time to go to the party. The Reception room looks great. A little of the Bahamas look... Sparkly lights on the ceiling, candles on the tables, and flip flops for everyone to wear. Too cute. Rachel is gorgeous in her dress. Pat looks great in her dress. Everyone is ready to party, but me... I am still nauseous and getting hotter. We didn't even make it to the cupcakes. Tom and I had to leave. We rode half of the way home with the top down on the Solara to help me cool off.

I didn't even get any pictures of the weekend. Just this shot that I took when I got home. My two highlights of a disappointing weekend...my shoes and the flip flops!

Tom's project

This is a project that Tom worked on last week. I mentioned that we needed a place to store Amelia's toys. The livingroom was getting a little cluttered. He came up with the idea of building a movable shelf in the space under our stairs.

First he built shelves to put all our paint supplies,

next he built a shelf on wheels

that can roll out when we need to get to the paint,

Then he helped Amelia put her toys on the shelves.

Pretty neat! No wonder I call him my handy man!

Thursday Totals

Unfortunately, there is nothing to report this week. The week was an up and down ride that ended up where I had begun. It is discouraging, but to be expected. That is just the way it goes when you are losing weight. The problem is that it does demotivate me some. It's okay to pass up all the goodies when I'm seeing results on the scales, but is much harder when the scales stay the same. This is the first week that I have seemed hungry and really wanting to snack, especially on chocolate. Hopefully, this coming week will go better.

walking by faith

"Be willing to follow wherever I lead...Though you don't know what lies ahead, I know; and that is enough." Jesus Calling

I Corinthians 5:7 We live by faith not by sight.

John 8:12 ...I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.

*****

Walking in faith, knowing that God sees what is ahead. Why do I worry or doubt. Today, let me just grab His hand, as Amelia grabs mine, feeling secure and excited about wherever we go!

one thousand gifts

207. 3 new white toilets

208. Tom my handy man

209. butterfinger blizzards

the package

I love getting packages in the mail, don't you? I just got one from my cousin Deb.

Here is what was inside:

a note from Deb

some family pictures

a grandma's brag book

a card and a necklace for Amelia

I know that Asher Thomas will appreciate that his pictures won't have to go in the pink picture album that had Amelia's pictures in it. Amelia will also be happy for her pictures to be put in something that isn't worn out. I will be excited to have a brag book again, so that I can show off my beautiful grandchildren! Thanks Deb!

It was so fun to give Amelia her card and new necklace. She loves getting out my pearls and wearing them, so I know she'll love having a "pretty" of her own! Thanks Deb

Enclosed was also the pictures of family: my mom, my dad, sister Pat, niece Emma, Aunt Sandy, Aunt Barb, Aunt Jessie, cousin Susie and Deb. That's a lot of family in one small package. I haven't been home as much as I had hoped and it was very special getting reminders of family times we've shared. Family in the mail, priceless! Thanks Deb! Love you!

joy

"Remember that Joy is not dependent on circumstances. True joy is a by-product of living in My Presence." from Jesus Calling by Sarah Young

Habakkuk 3:17-19 Though the fig tree not bud and there is no grapes on the vine, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, thought there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD. I will be joyful in God my Savior. The Sovereign LORD is my strength: He makes my feet like hinds feet, He enables me to go on high places.

I Chronicles 16:27 Splendor and majesty are before Him, strength and joy in His dwelling place.

*****

Though my teeth hurt and I get sick when I go shopping, though my towels don't match and my hair needs cut... pretty petty things when compared to failed crops and no cattle. How can I not choose joy. But, maybe it's harder to choose joy when almost everything is going well--we accept happiness instead. We don't seek God's presence and miss the joy. Today I choose joy!

one thousand gifts

203. geese eating in the fields

204. errands with Kelly and Amelia

205. Amelia super model

206. the top down on the Solara on October 4

207 joy

my first "wall"

So last night I hit my first "wall" in this new lifestyle of eating healthy. I wanted chocolate and I wanted it by the bagful! I was ready to ditch this protein, vegetables, and fruits thing and dive head first into a vat of chocolate. I'm happy to report that there was no eating bagfuls of candy or chocolate vat jumping, but I can't say that I am completely over the desire. This week my weight has gone up 2 pounds, down 1 pound, up 1 pound... all this while I am eating healthy food in appropriate proportions. I know that women have more fluctuating of weight because of water retention, but it is still very discouraging! I should have lost 2 pounds instead of gained them. I know that I still have a couple of days before my official weigh in, but I'm still feeling down about it.

The solution is to forget how I am feeling right now, these feelings are not based on facts. These feelings are based on lies that tell me it's not worth it to eat healthy, I won't lose weight and won't feel better. The truth is that I will lose weight eating healthy and I will have more energy and feel better.

The feelings are also telling me that I am missing some comfort that I used to get from the chocolate eating. I need to figure out if I want the chocolate to comfort me because I'm not losing weight this week or if it is something else that I need comforted for. Then I need to find a better way to comfort myself.

Any suggestions?

the Holy Spirit

"...Be awed by the Power and Glory of My Spirit within you! Though the Holy Spirit is infinite, He deigns to be your helper. He is always ready to offer assistance; all you need to do is ask. Never neglect this glorious Source of strength within you." from Jesus Calling

John 14:16-17 And I will ask the Father and He will give you another counselor, to be with you forever--the Spirit of Truth. The world cannot accept Him, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him. But you know Him, for He lives with you and will be in you.

*****

The Holy Spirit: powerful, glorious, infinite, helpful, counselor, the strength within us forever. Why do I often ignore my greatest resource? Today I will try to be less self-sufficient and rely on someone who really is sufficient. How about you?

one thousand gifts

200. Amelia dancing

201. West Wing with Andy

202. the Holy Spirit, comforter and guide

choose trust and giving thanks

"When many things seem to be going wrong, trust Me. When your life feels increasingly out of control, thank Me. These are supernatural responses and can lift you above your circumstances... If you choose supernatural response this time--trusting and thanking Me--you will experience My unfathomable peace." from Jesus Calling by Sarah Young

Psalm 13:5 But I trust in Your unfailing love, my heart rejoices in Your salvation.

Ephesians 5:20 always giving thanks to God the Father for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

*****

I am seldom in control of my circumstances, but I can choose my reactions. I want to choose trust and giving thanks which will lead to peace.

one thousand gifts

197. time spent with Andy, Kelly, and Amelia

198. rocking time for Amelia and Papa

199. unfathomable peace

my love story

"Many people spend a lifetime or a small fortune searching for someone who understands them. Yet, I am freely available to all who call upon My Name, who open their hearts to receive me as Savior. This simple act of faith is the beginning of a life long love story. I the Lover of your soul, understand you perfectly and love you eternally." from Jesus Calling by Sarah Young

Psalm 13:5 But I will trust in Your unfailing love, my rejoices in Your salvation.

*****

My love story: Jesus the lover of my soul, who understands me completely and loves me forever!

Jesus is patient, Jesus is kind. He does not envy, He does not boast, He is not proud. Jesus is not rude, He is not self seeking. He is not easily angered and keeps no record of wrongs. Jesus does not delight in evil, but rejoices in truth. Jesus bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things. Jesus never fails. (adaption from I Corinthians 13)

one thousand gifts

194. a bookshelf made for me by Tom

195. sunset and sunrise, another day as a gift

196. Jesus the Lover of my soul

worshipful rest

"Worship Me only. I am King of kings, Lord of lords, dwelling in unapproachable Light. I am taking care of you! I am not only committed to caring for you, but I am absolutely capable of doing so. Rest in Me, My weary one, for this is a form of worship." Jesus Calling by Sarah Young

Matthew 11:28 Come to me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

*****

When is rest a form of worship?

Is it when I realize that I am weary from chasing my own goals and desires, decide to stop all the needless running, come back to God and His plan for my life, and rest in Him? This is worshiping who God is: the King of kings, Lord of lords, and my sovereign Father; and worshiping Him by trusting Him with my life.

Today, let's stop all all needless scurrying around and find worshipful rest.

one thousand gifts

191. a day of no dizziness

192. another sunset

193. shabby chic shower curtains and towels... being loved in the details