"GODS DREAMS FOR ME"

Dabee and Yaya Adventures Begin

2012-01-26T15:37:00.000-10:00

I remember David and I lying in bed one night thinking of what we'd like our grandchild to call us.

David's a funny guy so he went along the lines of a few nicknames he gives himself. Dabeed, Dabeedoo, and more. He cut that short and it became Dabee. I had Reid look up Hispanic terms for grandmother. Somewhere in there we found that Yaya was slang for grandma. It totally matched the playfulness in me.

I told everyone I could the story. When he's old enough to talk people will ask him, "Where are you going today?" and he'll answer, "I'm going to Dabee and Yaya's house." Sounds fun right?! When he's in college it won't sound so bad either. I can just hear his "man" voice saying it.

The grandparent adventure was a surprise. We hadn't planned ahead for that one, but we talked about getting our health in order and lives in order so we'd be healthy for our grandkids. Thank goodness, I'm well enough to really enjoy our grandson and have fun. This one truly helps me linger in each moment of the adventure.

We planned for the adventure of empty nesting. We heard so many stories of people not looking forward to it and becoming depressed. So, we planned for it. When each of the boys turned 17, we got ourselves ready for them becoming independent. Not to say it was easy watching our first son fly, but it did help to have plans for what we would do when they went off on their own. Like traveling, saving, and living different dreams. Parenting adult children is a blessing and challenge. So worth the bonding.

In this season of our lives, I find the adventure is in the planning. It may not be so for everyone or for every season. But, here we are in this season where it is true for us. Not every plan was able to work. But making those plans together was absolute fun! We discover more of ourselves, each other and how it's all changing now. This journey is hard sometimes, gets weary too, but what an adventure!

My apologies if this is all over the place - the whole clan is sick this week. But, I had to even take up this adventure and write anyway.

Soul Refreshment:

Proverbs 19:21
We humans keep brainstorming options and plans, but God's purpose prevails.

Thank you for reading my ramblings.

Thank you also to those of you who quietly visited.

You all bless my life.

Today's One Word is Adventure.

Check out more Faith Jammers voicing it here.

Fooled by Annoyance

2012-01-24T17:56:00.001-10:00

I don't how, but I let myself go there. I usually pick my battles. All of a sudden, I found myself not only easily annoyed, but letting everyone around me know it. More than that, I let 'em have it too! I'm not proud it at all. My evil twin sure did feel good at the time though.

Day 1: I yell extremely loud at David in front of our younger son. I wasn't even sorry.

Day 2: I lost it at David in front of our older son, daughter-in-law, and grandson. This time, I was a little sorry. How so? I apologized with a "but" attached to it. The half apology. I'm so embarrassed at myself right now.

Day 3-6: Anyone and everyone who annoyed me got the rolling eyes, ahem, and a view of the back of my head.

Day 7: This is where it all began to change. I finally fell apart and asked aloud, "What's wrong with me?" and "Why am I acting like this?".

I realized I was still recovering from exhaustion, coming down with a bad sinus/maybe cold, and giving away time I didn't have. That is no excuse. I should've rested, said no to begin with and had my down-time.

Day 8: I finally sat still, said no to a few gatherings and lingered in the quiet. I let God collect me off the floor, walls and ceiling. What a horrible mess. I felt so ugly. Being with Him brought rest. I could feel Him begin to redeem and restore.

Day 9: I got this verse on my flip calendar for Soul Refreshment: Proverbs 12:16 ~ Fools show their annoyance at once, but the prudent overlook an insult.

Aha! An answer. I had given in to self. That's what happens when I forget my best is with Jesus and jump on the self-reliance cycle. Self loves to be irrational, stressed out, irritated, and yes, easily annoyed.

Day 10: Doing better, still annoyed here or there, but seeing the better in the ones I love. The joy and wonder is a little more easily found than Day 1. I missed being here so much. In the grace, gratitude, joy, and love.

Rats! Fooled by annoyance.

Have you ever been fooled by annoyance?

How did you get back to gratitude, grace, and joy?

If you've quietly slipped in thank you for visiting. I pray you find more of Jesus here today and take Him with you.

Week In Photos ~ Slowing Down

2012-01-20T13:14:00.001-10:00

The past two weeks David has taken up his Christmas gift and has been making memories with his new camera. I keep forgetting to upload the photos he's taken for me. Anybody else do that too? So for this week, I want to share two that stand out and make me smile such a huge smile that my heart overflows.

God bless You all and have an amazing weekend.

Seek out time for refreshing and find little joys to fuel your road ahead.

He notices us now. He watches what we do and listens when we talk.

Take notice, watch, and listen.
You might be surprised by a few small wonders.

I love watching David capture memories.
His expression as he takes it in and then "clicks".

This weekend, truly see and take in what and who is around you.
Linger in it all.
Let it and them fill your heart.

Encouragement:

The everyday can be so chaotic, at times painful, and almost seem "not worth it".
The everyday is also filled with so much goodness for us to receive.
Remember to look up and let Him open you to the little joys and small wonders He surrounds you with - His gifts to you and me.

Soul Refreshment:

Genesis 13:14 ~ "Open your eyes, look around. Look north, south, east, and west.

Colossians 3:1 ~

Look up, and be alert to what is going on around Christ—that's where the action is. See things from his perspective.

Share any thoughts you like in the comments and thank you for spending time with me today.

If you've quietly slipped in, remember you are always welcome here.

A Little Joy in the Downpour

2012-01-18T22:28:00.001-10:00

Over the past few months the little joys have been multiplying. Is there such a word as poly-joy? If there is it would completely describe it for me. It has also been pouring challenges and trials. I've run out fingers to count them on. Heck, I don't even have enough hands to count them on.

Those little joys are my fuel to continue living out loud. I know I have to watch for them.

Hope and some fun:
A little joy, a little rain, a little more joy. This has been the pattern. I think I'm about ready to die! Then, God graciously sends in the joy patrol.

Can you just see it? There I lie on the stretcher after nearly drowning in the flood of challenges. The little joy paramedic yelling "clear" as another one uses those joy paddles to zap the chaos and get my heart beating again. Ha, ha, ha. A few days of rest and prayer restores new creative energy. I'm headed in the direction of my dreams once again. All smiles.

Encouragement:
Don't sell yourself short. Don't count yourself out. The road to your dreams is rough more often than smooth. Keep steadily at it without being too hard on yourself If all you can do is one thing in the direction of your priceless dream, do that one thing. The dream is His gift instilled in you. Go live it. You are definitely worth it. Now, smile.

How can I pray for you in this area today?
Feel free to leave a comment below...or message us on our facebook page in a private message or email us at godsdreamsforme@gmail.com.

If you've quietly slipped in to slip out, I'll still be praying for God's clear direction in every step you take toward your dream(s). Also, that He fill you with joy in the process.

Soul Refreshment:

Mark 6:31 ~ Jesus said, "Come off by yourselves; let's take a break and get a little rest."

2 Timothy 1:7 ~ God doesn't want us to be shy with His gifts, but bold and loving and sensible.

Insecure and Empty ~ Secure and Full

2012-01-17T09:44:00.001-10:00

That morning I read through Psalm 23 in my message bible. I reminded myself to be awake to the life words on the page and found myself lingering with Him, with Jesus.

I read verses 1-2 and prayer flowed spontaneously. "But Jesus, I feel like I need so much. I feel so empty. How do I get to where I don't need a thing?" Verse 4 tugged at my heart and again, "I don't feel secure. When the challenges come I'm a wreck. As soon as the trial hits I freak!"

Well, by then I'd had enough. I sat there feeling hopeless and a failure in being a woman, wife, and mom. A ton weighted me down and shutting down was my first defense. I didn't realize though that I had made one awesome decision that morning. I had chosen to linger with Jesus in it. The next few minutes would refresh my soul.

My eyes fell on these words in verse 5, "You revive my drooping head". I felt my heart jump. I realized I wasn't looking up when I felt empty. I hadn't set my eyes on His gift of security and safety. No wonder! I took another look and slowly waded through all of Psalm 23. Before, I knew it I was soaking in strength. He truly was reviving me.

He was calling me to linger in His truth of protection, provision and love. He wanted me to remain in Him until I caught my breath. I saw that He wouldn't leave me guessing on what to do. Verse 4 promised He would "send me in the right direction" when I felt insecure and empty.

Let's just say since it's still a continuous adventure. But, life is an ongoing process and it's okay as long as I keep on. There are many times I want to be the problem solver and find "stuff" to fill my empty. In those times, I can trust that He'll remind me to look up in prayer and to look into His life words.

He never fails to take me from insecure and empty to secure, safe, and full.

Do you relate to that fearful insecurity and unsatisfied emptiness?

Will you let Him take you to security, safety, and a full life?

Will you let Him take you often?

We'll live in this process together.

Whether you've quietly slipped in to slip out or join in the commenting conversation ~ we're so glad to have you share in our everyday.

Soul Food:

Lamentations 3:28-30 ~

When life is heavy and hard to take,
go off by yourself. Enter the silence.
Bow in prayer. Don't as questions:
Wait for hope to appear.
Don't run from trouble. Take it full-face.
The "worst" is never the worst.

Becoming a Lingerer

2012-01-11T13:37:00.000-10:00

I printed this out to encourage my becoming a lingerer. My first quote ever!

The days are full of being with family. I love them and these times together.

The days are also full of being with me and seeing who I am -- easily stressed, quickly exhausted and yet perseverant. In my perseverance I see I'll live each day in spite of the low and hard times.

Now I see why God's word for me is timely and important ~

Linger. Find the small joys. Discover the small wonders. Linger in them with Him. He's taking me from a pause to actually stopping, lingering. I love the becoming.

I find the little joys and discover small wonders everyday. But, I don't linger in them. I forget to linger in my everyday with Jesus. Linger not just in the moment, but the fullness and beauty of it. Linger with Him in that beauty and in my challenges.

Oh, it's already been such a crazy adventure ~

Me yelling when the stress comes and then the extreme opposite of "leave me alone, I'm exhausted now." Then getting my second wind and running with it - the answer - until again I'm exhausted.

I sat with God and asked about this wonderful word "linger" and He showed me that photo ~

The one I've shared before. I felt these words refresh my soul ~ "In the slow, deep, breaths of lingering are wonders for discovering and joys for lasting memories." Ah. Lightbulb. It's not the quantity of joys and wonders. It's the lingering in them that makes it soul food, spirit manna. Yes. To linger with Him...such a privileged rest.

This year, I'll be sharing much as I become a lingerer, His lingerer ~

I will look forward to hearing from you on this topic as well.

Feel free to share your one word in the comments.

If you wrote about it, be sure to include a link to that specific post so others can be encouraged.

If you have a photo that describes your one word come over to our facebook page and share it.

One Word encouraged by Bonnie at

Photo to describe my one word inspired by Mary at

A Quick Hello and Happy New Year

2012-01-09T16:03:00.000-10:00

Wow. The time flew by. It doesn't quite seem like we took off all of 17 days. At the same time, there were many days when I missed being here with you all -- sharing joys, wonders, and pauses. My visits to some of your facebook and blog homes during the holidays filled my heart.

This week takes our family into new routines and lots of household "stuff -- decorating, rearranging, and de-cluttering. Not necessarily in that order. I also get to start recipe book testings and nutrition articles once again - my work is delicious. My personal self is a freak and looks forward to regular exercise routines. I know, I know. I just love it though.

Here's wishing you a Happy New Year filled with blessings of adventures, wonders, and more joys.

Soul Refreshment and our prayer:

^{2 Thessalonians 2:15-17 ~}So, friends, take a firm stand, feet on the ground and head high. Keep a tight grip on what you were taught,

whether in personal conversation or by our letter.

May Jesus himself and God our Father,

who reached out in love and surprised you with gifts of unending help and confidence,

put a fresh heart in you, invigorate your work, enliven your speech.

How did you all say goodbye to 2011 and hello to 2012?
What does this second week of January hold for you?

Can't wait to read about it.

Just so you know, not one single plan we made turned out during the holidays. It was crazy how it all worked out anyway.

We got all dressed up just to say goodbye to 2012. We stayed in and had a relaxing time together.

Toasting in 2012. I love that we toasted first, paused, and then took this photo.

Outside on New Year's night.

Coming soon -

2012 words post with accompanying photo and quote (hint--I've already used the photo here. It says it all.)

Links to other sites with great projects going on.

Our Week In Photos ~ Merry Christmas Everyone

2011-12-23T17:21:00.002-10:00

A quick note for you: We'll be on holiday until January 9th! Pausing, refreshing, and family.

Although away from our blog home, we will be on facebook here and here, randomly. Do come and visit us there for our little happenings.

On our hearts today...

It may be a wonderful time of year or a difficult time of year for you. Our little family is in both places.

We have been on amazing adventures. We have had enormous challenges to face. Right now as I write to you, we are both grateful and interceding. We are excited for all God is doing and exhausted in the midst of the battle.

No matter where we are, the ones who are stronger lift the ones who are weak. It's a continuous cycle of love.

No matter what we're going through, the dreams still come true and the healing still progresses. God continues to breathe grace on us strengthening us to look for the little joys...discover the small wonders. His constant reminder is to pause and slow.

A wonderful woman's insightful words to me..."God's is saying for you to follow the joy, Jeri. Just follow the joy."

And so we embark on the adventurous journey of trusting God --

believing His best is for us
trusting His promises are true
knowing He desires to give us every good thing...even in the battle
walking beside His still waters, together
resting in His lush green pastures, together.

Our little family we'll be better than okay. We have the highest connection possible...Jesus.

You all, are our blessings too. If we had your photos, we'd have a collage of all of you too. We have you in our hearts. The words you've shared were not wasted. Your quiet visits lift us. Thank You.

Merry Christmas to you all. Our prayer is, "Lord, your grace in every area of our lives...healing, relationships, connections, and the everyday. Amen."

It's very difficult, but we know that...

{With His help} we'll find the little joys and discover the small wonders

in our everyday

in each other

and all around us...

to get us through.

Soul Refreshment:

Romans 12:1 ~

God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering.

Mary, Her Adult Son, and Me

2011-12-22T00:14:00.002-10:00

This holiday season has me reflecting often.

I’ve reminisced on those who are no longer with me. I've thought about the times spent together that have filled my heart for what I’m living out today. I’ve recalled holidays past with those I’ll be seeing in the next few weeks.

The memories standing out the most are of our adult sons. It’s probably related to having a new grandson and daughter(in-law). I can’t say for sure. Since October, I’ve seen our sons as little again.

I wonder if Mary saw Jesus “little” as she watched Him move into his adulthood.

I wonder if she worried as he worked and ministered.

The boys could be watching a game on television and start cheering and fist pumping and I’ll see them playing termite football. Even flashback to those flag football days.

It makes me smile.

I just sit back and take it all in. Now they have Ezie watch with them. He’s only 5 months old and being molded.

I wonder if something Jesus would do sparked a memory in Mary of his little hands reaching up to her for a hug or comfort.

Today, Reid and I had a moment to crack up at his long hair getting stuck in the Vornado. Not to worry, it was out faster than it wound in. We both laughed so hard that we hugged at the same time.

Later in the day, Shilo stopped by after work. We talked a little, ate a snack, and then he watched college ball and relaxed with Shadow on the couch. I thanked him for forgiving me enough to allow me a part in His life.

I gave him a tight hug.

All by God's grace.

I wonder if Jesus went back to visit Mary, His mother, just because.

I wonder if they laughed so hard they hugged spontaneously.

I wonder what they talked about.

I wonder what her heart felt.

There are times I feel so helpless as the boys, now men, go through their seasons, and my role is to just be here for them. Sometimes all I can do is listen, pray with them, pray for them, and do nothing else. I also realize my words may not bring comfort or relief as they grow through it all.

I wonder if Mary felt the same.

I wonder if she also was as proud as I am of all they do to press through and find their own way.

I wonder if she smiled, just like me, as she pondered “these things” of her adult son.

Your turn ~ Let's sit for awhile and talk...

Do you relate to Mary as mother of an adult child? What do you wonder?

You may be parent to little ones, pre-teens, or teens. Do you ever wonder of their adulthood?

And you who have slipped in so quietly, thank you once again for visiting.

I pray your time of pondering blesses you.

Bonnie has us pondering on which character we connect with

in the Christmas story.

Wanted to let you all know:
I'll be taking two weeks off for pausing, refreshing, and family.

Join me tomorrow for my last post of 2011. The whole family chipped in.

Simple Joys and Small Wonders - Meaningful Gifts

2011-12-20T15:59:00.002-10:00

How does one cultivate mindfulness and gratitude for the present moment and the people in it? I don't think there is just one specific answer to that. We can all contribute to how we've overlooked and/or taken notice.

There is so much going on in one day it sometimes takes everything we've got to slow down...slow flow... slow the mind... slow the body...slow the breathing.

Slow, and be here in this moment.

Letting go of the work and creating.

Singing my grandson to sleep.

Lingering in the sounds he makes as he drifts off.

Texture and love stamp courtesy of Kim Klassen's 12 Days of Textures - so beautiful for creating memories.
You can mouseover/scroll over and see the transformation that saved this memory for me.

Oh, to be mindful of our condition so we can let go...how?

Let go of the tension, crowded thinking, over-colored schedules.
Let go so we can ooh and ah.
Let go enough to enjoy the kids shouting with joy because you've walked in the door.
Let go and let the dog lick our faces off. After a few minutes, you can take 5 and wash up.

In those 5 minutes we can ponder the simple joys that just occurred. Let it warm us.

Allow the grace of that moment to overwhelm.

So gratitude overflows.

I'm finding that it's not a one time thing and then all is well. It's daily awareness. It'll be up and down. Yet, it's worth noticing the simple joys and small wonders. It's a gift we can give to ourselves. There will be "those days". The gift is completely worth it.

The simple joys and small wonders in our everyday will overshadow the "not-so-hot" times. Because we can carry it with us wherever we go. We can carry the beautiful people attached to those joys and wonders where ever we go.

Something in our everyday may just turn into a lasting memory we might otherwise overlook.

How do you slow down to really see and take it all in?

A few wonderful ladies have received simple joys and small wonders through different kinds of meaningful gifts. They were part of a giveaway we hosted over the weekend. Each comment had me going "aw" and smiling.

I'd like to share them with you:

The Gift from a child ~
Angie: I teach. So end of term in December often brings Christmas gifts from the children...So the gift I remember best is one I received from one of the children yesterday.

Jack loves school - so much so that he was sad on the last day of term. He didn't want to stop coming every day and wrote in his card (lovingly handmade) to me: 'I like school and you might know it!' With the card came a little present: beautifully wrapped, with a delicate wire gift tag, it contained a pretty little bracelet in my favourite turquoise. He had chosen, wrapped and presented it entirely on his own. He is nine years old. With that gift, I feel he gave me a little of himself. That's too special for words.

The Gift that says I know you well ~
Lisa: The last gift I received was a week ago from my daughter who works in landscaping. She brought me a beautiful amaryllis for my birthday. It means a lot to me because plants are now a common bond between us, and she knew that I would love this.

The "since you couldn't be there" gift ~
Jennifer: My brother recently went to NYC with his college's drama club. He knows how much I love snow globes and how jealous (or Godly longing, shall we say) I was that he was seeing NYC at Christmas time. So being the sweet brother that he is he brought me a beautiful snow globe with a NYC scene. :) Of course I love it!

The gift of connecting ~
Katie: It isn't a physical tangible gift I can hold. The gift I treasure in my heart, community in which to share my tears tonight at our Blue Christmas.

The gift of forgiveness and acceptance ~
Brad: I was given a great blessing by my exwife and her awesome husband "Great Man"!. What you guys did for my family was very thoughtful and kind. Thank you for all you have done. It has opened many doors. Jesus lives in your hearts and I'm thankful for that. God Bless you both.

We're so glad you spent this time with us here. We are grateful for you and pray God's blessings of all kinds into your lives.

If you've quietly slipped in we're glad you did. It was wonderful to have you visit.

I'm so happy to connect with Emily

on this last day of unwrapping December.

Head on over for a visit.

Our Week In Photos ~ How We Connect

2011-12-16T13:14:00.001-10:00

And now we head into our time off-the-grid, but first...

How We Connect

There are so many ways we connect with each other. Lisa-Jo has prompted our 5 minutes of unedited writing with a word close to my heart -- connected.

Friends - coffee time, phone calls, emails.
Neighbors - hellos, friendly waves, quick catching up at the mailbox.
Family - they are most dear to me. My highest priority next to God. I crave time with them in any way shape or form...

Connecting with Mele and Ezie

So, you can only imagine that after 9 days of not seeing them (when we usually see each other all the time) I was ecstatic to see...

I had to hug her and then hug him and then...well, just so excited!

She's always thinking of us and making sure we have time with Ezie. Shilo and I had been under the weather so the visits were postponed. Of course, Shadow was excited and beside himself.

Ezie is getting so big and at the stage of recognizing, reaching, and grabbing. Mele's informed me that he laughs now! What a great holidays it's going to be with a baby laughing in the house.

Soul Refreshment

Jeremiah 30:19 ~

Thanksgivings will pour out of the windows;

laughter will spill through the doors.

Connecting with David and plans for connecting with the kids

David and I have been connecting over decorations this year. We're excited to have Mele and Ezie in our lives and wanna be as festive as we can. The boys will see familiar and new. It's all coming together nicely. The message of Jesus all over the house now.

Connecting here and there

A new of connecting for me is through facebook, twitter, other social networks, and linking up together at other blog homes.

Connecting here with all of you.

Today, these words here are inspired by Lisa-Jo's 5-Minuted Friday prompt where I'll be connecting in link-up.

I close with these photos for camera phone Friday link-up and connecting with Dawn over at her place.

A time of lunch, play, rest, getting out and coming home to decorations.

It keeps getting better.

1-2) Lunch with David 3) David measuring to hang decor 4) Testing lights 5-7) Snuggle, play, and nap with Shadow 8) Couldn't believe I found this at the discount book store. 9-12) Outdoor lights/decor almost done. 13) Reid checking it all out before he leaves 14) David & Shadow hanging on the porch amongst the lights 15) lighting the nativity candles 16) Our Santa band - now a least 13 years old.

Have a wonderful weekend everyone.

I pray -

blessings on you in finding rest,

recognizing little joys in each day,

discovering small wonders in the people who surround you,

and that you live life fully.

Do you have a favorite way of connecting? Hang out for a little while and share about it.

If you've quietly slipped in, we want you to know we're so glad you came by today.

Connect at Lisa Jo's place

Connect at Dawn's place

Gifts that Encourage (Dayspring Review/Giveaway)

2011-12-14T21:57:00.000-10:00

Update: and the winner is....Jennifer Adams of

This is the Story of a Girl. Picked by random generator.

Thank you for participating ladies.

We've been unwrapping Jesus all month long with Bonnie over at her amazing blog home. Unwrapping the heart of Christmas. Unwrapping the miracle of Jesus' birth. Some writings unwrap the pain this time of year holds for many and the hope of connecting in and through that pain ... onto healing.

Today we're unwrapping the tangible and the material. These also point us to Jesus and keep our minds on things above. Gifts with meaning and messages to keep us mindful and conscious. Gifts that encourage us to reflect and ponder. Especially when the days aren't as bright or cheerful. Gifts that comfort and realign.

A Few Days Ago:
David got online at the Dayspring store and put in his black Friday order. I watched him and he was having some kind of fun there. The box arrived the other day and He had an awesome surprise in it for me. I had been wanting the bird cage card holder. It just so happened to be on sale at the time. Right on time. He bought for himself to decorate, the nativity trio light holder.

Yesterday:
My product for review arrived. One of the things I love to do is recall the Names of Jesus that speak strength back into me when I'm drained or speak joy into me when I want to celebrate. Dayspring's Names of Jesus - Wooden Letter Block will be doing that for me this season. I've already set it out and slowly turned it to look at each name -- Immanuel, Jesus, Messiah, and Saviour. I love that each name has a verse attached to it.

Just What I Wanted:
The extra touch is the little gifts the tucked into that shipment. I couldn't believe it. I was just telling David that I wanted to buy these particular mugs for us and there it was! I had to step back. Shilo had stopped by and was here when I opened the boxes. He had a smile on his face that celebrated with me. It's from the Love Came Down Collection -- which is Dayspring's 2011 Christmas theme. It's the Names of Jesus latte mug which is perfect for me... and the Love Came Down Christian Mug perfect for David!

Today:
We want to share a $20 giveaway for you to spend at Dayspring's online store. All you have to do is leave a comment below and/or on our facebook page about a gift you received that holds special meaning for you...even you bought it for yourself.

The entire Love Came Down Collection is on sale right now. Have fun shopping all those gifts with a message. You'll leave their store completely uplifted. If you like, you can order through my Dayspring website as well. I just became a consultant last night. Thank you in advance.

Deadline:
Giveaway will run until Sunday, December 19th, 12a.m. and the winner will be announced on Monday, December 20th.

There are Days When...

2011-12-13T14:54:00.003-10:00

There are days when our hearts are so full of joy
we just have to burst out in celebration.

There are also days when we are so tired and drained

it takes everything we've got to even whisper a prayer.

There are days when the love is filled to overflowing

and we can't help but share the outpour.

There are even days when we think we can't take the "one more thing" and getting out of bed
is the toughest task in the world.

There are days when His grace grips our soul
and sends our spirits soaring in humble gratitude.

There are also days when we can't even piece the thoughts together and no words come.

Then, there are days that roll around again.
Because of all we've done...

to stay close to His heart,
to trust His promises,
believing that the hope we have will manifest an answer...

And then it does.

And once again...

Our hearts fill with joy.

The love overflows.

His grace grips our hearts and we fall to our knees

-- humbled and oh, so grateful.

Today, like every day, He hears our hearts.

He hears every spoken and unspoken word, thought, and feeling.

Today, He identifies with us right where we are.

That's why He came. That's why God's love came down ...Jesus.

Soul Refreshment

2 Corinthians 1:3-5 ~
He comes alongside us when we go through hard times,
and before we know it,
he brings us alongside someone else
who is going through hard times
so that we can be there for that person
just as God was there for us.

I'm so happy to connect with Emily

and the wonderful people at her place today.

Color: Our Week In Photos

2011-12-09T13:26:00.001-10:00

Here's wishing you a wonderful weekend with hopes of rest, little joys, and small wonders. We hope you enjoy our week in photos. There are a few November camera phone pics at the end as we took the Thanksgiving holiday off.

Thank you for being here. See you next week.

And if you've silently slipped in just to read, we want you to know we truly appreciate your quiet company.

Here we go....

Colors have a way of changing moods. The way it brightens my day or feeds my soul rest. Fall colors and deep winter colors are my eye candy.

How certain shades inspire creativity

How about the colors of baking...mmm

Some colors give you permission to relax and just be

There are even colors that feed the soul

How is it that colors can even encourage play?

Colors of the heart as he tries to surprise and decorate

Those colors that reflect you and memories of the season

What are the colors that reflect you, your soul, the season your heart is in?

I've linked up with Lisa-Jo

for 5 minutes of unedited writing

Today's topic: Color

And for camera phone fun with Dawn....

We did a lot of hangin' out after Thanksgiving:

1) David & I waiting for our massages - Thank You Reid
2) First Holiday photo of the season
3) Matching cups at breakfast
4) Having fun with fashion

Who doesn't love good food? ;-)

1) Breakfast before decorating
2) latte and granola mix with almond butter
3) I love the foam
4) Mele's scone recipe - we made mini's
and of course it's vegan!

How I Pictured It ~ Resting in His Light

2011-12-08T06:00:00.000-10:00

Soul Refreshment:

Isaiah 9:2 ~ The people who walked in darkness
have seen a great light.

For those who lived in a land of deep shadows—
light! sunbursts of light!

We've quietly begun to decorate. Well, David did most of the work hanging all those lights out front. Indoors, I've started to set out the candles. This year it's cranberry scented candles.

Lights and candles are my favorite decorations. There's something about the glow and warmth. So calming. It gets me thinking on how Jesus brought light to so many dark places in my heart and in my life.

I always pictured the manger scene to be warm, serene, sweet and .... perfect. I had a preconceived notion about the decor and aura.

But, I'm sure baby Jesus cried. I'm certain His parents, Mary and Joseph, tried to soothe him. I don't doubt that the animals made their normal sounds and did their normal "business". I can't help but wonder if the hay was even fresh or the stable cleaned out when they arrived. It seemed to be a crazy-busy time of year. I bet there wasn't much light in that stable or cave either.

Still, in the busyness, Jesus was born. That precious little baby our promise of hope. Hope to bring light to our darkness. Darkness of loss, mistreatment, divorce, loneliness, abandonment, sickness...

Still, over the animal noises, the wise men worshipped "The One" who arrived with hope. Hope for healing and a better future. Hope for wholeness. Hope for love.

Still more, even in the foul smell and mess, the most beautiful gift and greatest miracle of all was given. The beauty of His making "all things" right. The miracle of Him making "us" right.

In the darkness of that stable/cave, his birth shone brightly. The smiles on the faces of Mary, Joseph, and the wise men lit up the place. The angels singing to the shepherds lit up the field. That one lone star shined so bright it lit the way to hope for three men. It lights the way for each of us, even me.

When we let Jesus into our busy, messy, smelly, imperfect hearts - He makes miracles happen. It's His specialty --To slow flow and un-rush us, so we make memories of the everyday moments. To become the fragrance that fills our lives and we spread as we let him lead us in our day-to-day. To have our imperfect hearts made perfect by one selfless act.

All required of us is to simply say...

"Yes, Jesus. I believe you give this gift to me and I receive it."

"Let him in to the mire and muck of our world. For only if we let him in can he pull us out." ~ Max Lucado

So thankful Bonnie has us thinking on these things this December

The quote comes from Max Lucado's book

(we're reading this right now)

Unwrapping a Good Rest

2011-12-06T12:58:00.001-10:00

Soul Refreshment:

I'm discovering how a good rest can come in so many ways --
"resting in", "resting from", "resting with" and the classic "resting up".

Resting from the ordinary and doing something different or new can be refreshing.

Resting from, when the timer goes off and tells me to get up and move around.

Resting with, sometimes comes in play form. Gets my mind off the "doing".

How restful to sit with Shadow and stroke his fur. Of course, he loves that too.

Resting up has made space for creating.

A good rest comes in being with those who lift your spirits.

A good rest is found in activities that refresh the heart.

A good rest has even come out of a really good belly laugh.

I still opt for that uninterrupted quality sleep. Who's with me on that one? :D

Let's throw in a few naps for good measure. Resting up for sure!

An awesome read gets me some good rest too. Love being in those books that draw me in.

A long, slow walk with David and Shadow brings rest as the sights catch my eye and I breathe in God's beauty.

Letting go of the past and giving it permission to enrich my present has brought me rest from the hurts, bitterness, and other negative emotions. I can rest in breathing again.

The ones I can trust with my heart, has brought deep rest. It took awhile to find them. I'm so glad I didn't stop looking for them. I'm even more joyful that some of them have found me.

My favorite rest is in the quiet. Oh, how stillness calms me. Solitude is so healing. Being with God, in His presence, basking in His grace and love.

I'd love to hear from you ~

Will you share your ways of resting with me?

Have you discovered a new kind of rest?
And if you've quietly slipped in just to read, I'm glad you came by today.

So wonderful to link up with Emily for a December-only of Tuesdays Unwrapped.

Do I Rest or Push Through?

2011-12-02T10:54:00.001-10:00

Today, my 5-Minute Friday post and our Week in Photos are combined. Have a wonderful, fun, and restful weekend all. Praying we all discover more of His love for us each day.

Let's start with 5-Minute Friday ~

Our session this morning was amazing! After we hung, up I felt so refreshed in all the revelation.

She taught me to know the difference between the times when I need to push through or times when I am exhausted and need to rest.

Need to Push Through:
I know I can push through when there is still creativity flowing. If I were to be distracted in any way, I can still be refocused. Here, my joy is still intact. The task can be accomplished, and the goal can be achieved.

Need to Rest:
If I find myself drawing blanks, forgetting too often, or jumping all over the place then it’s time to slow flow. I need to walk away from it all and take time to breathe or even nap if need be.

I head into my weekend off the grid in obedience to the choice that leads me to joy.

Are you at a place where you “need to push through” or do you “need to rest”? 

Photos from our time off last week:

Took time for each other over the holiday

Got lots of rest and did relaxing things

Happy Raiders Fans - watched the game with him.

{Unwrapping Jesus} ~ Resting in His Righteousness

2011-12-01T00:00:00.000-10:00

Resting in Jesus gifted me with being a part of this moment - okay, I'm tearing now.

Soul Refreshment

Galatians 5:22-23 ~

But what happens when we live God's way? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard—things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, able to marshal and direct our energies wisely.

Rest every chance I get to:

I’m looking forward to seeking out rest every chance I can throughout this holiday season. I want to soak in the people I love and be completely present in being with them. I don’t want to miss their personalities, quirks, the beauty of their individual characteristics, and the hugs. Oh yes, definitely the hugs.

The more mindful I become of resting in soul, body, spirit, and mind I find myself more grateful, compassionate, and in tune to those around me. Selflessness is a freeing rest. I experience more of His grace, as help, for my everyday details.

But first...

Letting go of self-righteousness (justification): The Unrest

I must let go of past hurts, scars, and injustices. Holding on to them imprisons me to experience the pain constantly. It puts me under the control of that pain to the point I justify my anger and bitterness. It robs me of the joys He gives me. It steals the quality of my encouraging relationships. It keeps me in the dark and under the covers. Self-righteousness pulls inward. It brings turmoil devoid of rest.

His righteousness (justification): Complete Rest

I sincerely choose to open my hands and let God take them all. As quick as He’d like to. Letting go positions me to heal, forgive, and become. Letting go doesn’t make what was done right. It releases me to freely receive the gifts of His righteousness. His justification. He will create a right heart in me and with Him. I will focus on what matters most. The distractions of the past will become blessings for my present and future.

He lovingly tailors those blessings to each of our unique needs. Now that is a revealing of how He loves each of us individually.

The key is to let go each time it occurs. An offense may happen soon as you are done reading this. Let go to be free and stay freed.

Be free to enjoy what He came here for. Here is where complete soul rest exists. Here is where it is freely available.

His birth and death reminds me to hope often:

His birth gifts me with a life of affection, exuberance, and serenity. A life better and fuller than what I would choose if I hold on.

He was born and died so I could be free to love, give, receive, create, play and laugh as worship to Him. What a gift. What a beautiful and freeing gift.

A prayer for us:

Lord, I pray that each of us receive your gifts of righteousness, joy and peace this season. That this will be the start of a truly free life. Help us to let go of each hurt, scar, and injustice of the past and present. Help us to let go of those who have done wrong to us as well. Let your forgiveness wash through our souls. Blow away those dark clouds that have hung over us too long. Shine your love, selflessness, creativity, laughter and ability to enjoy into our lives. Remind us to continually thank you for the littlest joys in our everyday. In Your Name, Jesus, Amen.

Woohoo!!!

More Soul Refreshment from Bonnie's post on Monday:

Luke 2:11-12 ~
“A Savior has just been born…This is what you’re to look for: a baby wrapped…“

This season I'm looking for rest that frees me to enjoy His gifts.

What are you looking for?

Bonnie's inviting everyone to unwrap Jesus all December long.

{Gratitude} ~ Almost All Tapped Out

2011-11-28T16:29:00.001-10:00

She gives me permission to be the "crazy" aunty...lol.

Soul Refreshment ~

The company of grateful hearts, heals the soul and lifts the spirit.

A heart broken for Christ welcomes His love, hungering. You are where you belong.

Here I am barely making back from Thanksgiving weekend. We added a girl's lunch to the mix today (Monday) and stretched out my time off-the-grid.

Going into the holiday I could feel I was almost reaching the "all tapped out" point. My body was getting tired, my mind needed rest from thinking, and my soul hungered for some time with encouraging and uplifting people.

You know....The ones who sustain you long after your time together. The ones who make you smile inside at just the sight of their faces.

My soul could not have been more nourished than with that girl's lunch. It was something she and I talked about for years. We waited until I was healed enough to eat out and enjoy it. Today, though, we had another young woman along and it gave me just that right shot of fuel. To top that off, I had gave a wonderful woman a call and spirit-to-spirit we lifted each other up. I'm more than good now.

Back to the holiday weekend.

This is my favorite photo of all. Gramps with his son, grandsons and great-grandson. Funny, it's blurry, but it's my favorite. Have a blessed week all.

*November's life-words are being dedicated to gratitude and dwelling.

Every Monday in November we just plain wrote! Click here to join in on this last link up or to just read along.

A place to share gratitude

{Gratitude} ~ The Week Off

2011-11-21T12:53:00.001-10:00

Seems I get to have the week off. Yaaaay!

Mostly for catching up on personal stuff and for organizing toward creating. I'm so thankful for that. This will be our post for the week. I've also included links for today's Photo Blog collages if you'd like to check those out (at bottom of post). We're still in the process of figuring out wether to merge the blogs.

I'm so glad David snuck some photos of me getting our home office set up. It's actually our dining area, but it'll double. Small spaces are very doable.

Renovating, decluttering, and beautifying one room at a time...for creating.

Have you ever found that time off to balance out "catching up" and "resting", seems to free your creativity?

It can be creating of any kind. Maybe you bake or sew. You could be a homeschooling parent. Do you like working on cars, renovating, building, gardening, writing? You see where I'm going.

How you create is unique to you. I'm so thankful for how we each do this in our own way. I love to visit your pages on facebook, your blogs, or your websites and see how you "create" in your everyday. I'm filled as I see you fashion your lives. It's amazing and beautiful.

This week, take time for you. It doesn't have to be a whole week. It can range from a few minutes of breathing, relaxing your whole body, praying gently, giving thanks for the "small"...That's all it takes to get your mind freed to create.

God Bless You all and Happy Thanksgiving. I can't wait to come back on Monday and check out what I've missed.

If you do comment here, please feel free to leave the address link to anything you'd like to share with me.

Soul Refreshment: God speaking to his people then, invites us to find rest today...

Isaiah 41:1 ~ Quiet down, far-flung ocean islands. Listen!

Sit down and rest, everyone. Recover your strength.

Gather around me. Say what's on your heart.

Together let's decide what's right.

Unwrapping in Photo Collages: Click on the link you want to visit and feel free to look around while you're there.

September Living

October Life

November's update

*November's life-words are being dedicated to gratitude and dwelling.

Every Monday in November we're just plain writing! Click here to join in.

Words of Thanksgiving are a plenty over at Bonnie's place.

Head on over to the Jam.

{Gratitude} ~ Week in Photos

2011-11-18T15:20:00.001-10:00

Here's a glimpse of a few things that took me to His presence in Gratitude.

The hiking photos were on my mind because I looooove hiking. But, they are from October...lol.

1- (lg photo)Shadow after stitches removed 2- He kept wanting to snuggle 3- My fave fall mug. She only comes out in the fall 4- front porch office 5- My grease monkey (fixing my jeep) 6- Okinawa care pkg surprise from a beautiful lady 7- Last hike before rain 8- fallen tree on hike

Linked up with Dawn of My Home Sweet Home

{Gratitude} ~ Too Busy? Take Notice

2011-11-17T02:00:00.000-10:00

*November's life-words are being dedicated to gratitude and dwelling.

Gratitude...taking notice of the blessings.

Soul Refreshment:

Psalm 5:12 ~

You are famous, God, for welcoming God-seekers,

for decking us out in delight.

Whenever I get too busy, I make myself take a walk. I practice noticing. I leave my camera home, take my cell phone instead, set it on silent and click away.

I seek out the delight He's surrounded me in...and...

I notice...

I purposely step on leaves and notice the crunch - love doing this.

A tree filled with colored leaves against the gray sky.

A fellow walker generously smile and nod.

Another walker pause, light up with smile as she watches David and Shadow play run - up and down a steep hill.

I notice...

A congregation of birds squawking and hopping around in huge trees. Their commotion causing leaves to float to the ground.

The dog who was sick is better again and out walking with his owner.

All of a sudden...I notice...I'm quieted...once again. The busyness has dissipated.

The gratefulness for all God's given and opened for me overwhelms me again.

Then, I notice...

How David's hand feels in mine as we head home.

I feel I'm in the Shadow of God's wings again.

My spirit notices...

In the darkness, I walk slowly and find His light.

I hear His voice again...

He's never too busy for me. He'll never be too busy for me.

I know where to go from here and He goes with me.

I pause, breathe it in, and am filled with thankfulness.

Will you ~

Idle the busy and take notice today?

Take a walk physically or... close your eyes and let your thoughts take a walk into His presence.

I'd love to hear how it went.

*November's life-words are being dedicated to gratitude and dwelling.

Today's Jam topic is "Gratitude".

{Gratitude} ~ Awareness

2011-11-16T00:30:00.000-10:00

Gratitude is a state of thankfulness that stems from a heart alert in the receiving.

It’s much easier to be thankful for the tangible gift or goody bag. Much harder of the intangible day-to-day. We miss the beauty of what and who is right in front of us. Awareness veiled by the searching for something new.

We overlook all done right in front of us...especially when we're exhausted

~ The thoughtful one who started the coffee brewing while we got ready.

~ The newspaper delivery boy who walked all the way up to the front stoop and quietly

placed the Sunday paper to allow our sleeping in.

~ The son who washed our dish left in the sink.

~ The daughter-in-law who makes sure we see our grandchild often as possible and updates

us on all the new things he can do this week.

~ The neighbor who always takes time to holler, “Good morning. Have a great day at

work.”

~ The spouse who fluffs our pillows just right before bed.

~ The one who does all the laundry from start to finish just to give us rest.

Take some time each day to breathe in, inhale, and own the priceless gifts of those in front of us.

Take a moment in the day-to-day and familiarize with the small wonders to discover and little joys to unwrap.

In His presence, we are attuned. Soon it will be of no effort to recognize them one by one...God's gifts showered on us daily.

Your Turn ~

Did anything or anyone come to mind who needs recognition?

Write them a note
Give them a card
Graffiti the bathroom mirror with your gratitude.
Hugs are great!
Any other ideas you come up with

Soul Refreshment:

1 Corinthians 14:1 ~

Go after a life of love as if your life depended on it—because it does. Give yourselves to the gifts God gives you.

*November's life-words are being dedicated to gratitude and dwelling.

{Dwell} :: Spiritual Weaklings - I Think Not

2011-11-14T11:46:00.001-10:00

Dwell in prayer and praise.

The day-to-day can be overwhelming to the point of dread. Who wants to wake up and face a day filled with too much to handle. The heavy burdens and challenges leave us feeling like spiritual weaklings. We feel displaced of God's will.

Fear, stress, doubt, worry, and even dread does not mean that we are spiritually weak or that we are out of God's will. The stress is very real, but so is God's restful, hope-filled presence. The negative experiences does not keep Him far from us. He is near.

Sometimes we're just in the wrong place and choosing the wrong thing. We've positioned ourselves to be under the dark clouds and it's pouring rain. We've tuned our ear to the howling winds and thunder. We keep our eyes on the crashing lightning.

Truly it is overwhelming.

It is too much.

Run to Him and say it is.

We don't have to be the strong ones.

It's okay to fall apart in His arms. It's safe there.

He doesn't judge us.

Dwell in His peaceful presence....in the deafening storm.

We can bring ourselves to Him. We can enter His welcoming arms of comfort. Let ourselves be embraced in His quieting even while the storm looms. Ours is the first move - to reach for Him. Ours is the first step - to enter His presence.

We dwell instead in His peace. We dwell instead in praise for what we know is true of Him and His promises for each one of us. We dwell on knowing we're not alone even if it feels so.

If possible, we dwell with supportive people - in person, on the phone, email - who can pray and praise with us.

Instead of being overwhelmed by the fear,

Unwrap His comfort.

Dwell in the gift of it for as long as you need.

Soul Refreshment:

Lamentations 3:28-33 ~

When life is heavy and too hard to take,

go off by yourself. Enter the silence.

Bow in prayer. Dont' ask questions:

Wait for hope to appear.

Don't run from trouble. Take it full-face.

The worst is never the worst.

Why? Because the Master won't ever

walk out and fail to return.

Psalm 12:5 ~

God speaks: "I've had enough; I'm on my way

To heal the ache in the heart of the wretched."

Psalm 20:6 ~

That clinches it - help's coming,

an answers on the way,

everything's going to work out.

Psalm 13:5, 6 ~

I've thrown myself headlong into your arms -

I'm celebrating your rescue.

I'm singing at the top of my lungs.

I'm so full of answered prayers.

*November's life-words are being dedicated to gratitude and dwelling.

Every Monday in November we're just plain writing! Click here to join in.

{Dwell} :: Kinks and Tweaks

2011-11-13T00:03:00.000-10:00

Dwelling...on all that goes wrong magnifies the challenges.

Side Story:
Social networks have brought us some challenges the last few weeks. The companies are adding new apps and tweaking out the kinks.

Meanwhile, multiple posts or drafts are being published rather than the normal. It always works out, but my first reaction is to get peeved.

We've recently been renovating our blog home and just so happens in the middle of all this are the site glitches. It had me frustrated to almost a little scream I must confess. Okay, big screams. Well, it all has me laughing now. But, I wasn't a few days ago.

Dwelling...on what I'm capable of and am able to do can be frustrating.

Our current story:
We've been dealing with tweaking the kinks in our home life and relationships. It's hard work! The small signs of progress build hope and bring rest a little more each time. The changes are necessary as we have new things going on in our family. Huge helpings of change are all around us and in us.

Past experiences always get in the way when you try to move forward. We hold memories of how "it's" always been or "he or she" always behaves. I hear myself thinking "Yeah right. We'll see if this (change) lasts." How rude of me, right?! It's only natural to go through this process as we take the next step in anything. We must choose to let go of the way we always perceive, expect, and respond for the beauty of change to refresh us.

Dwelling...on what He can do for me, in me and through me...mind, body, and soul rest.

His story for us:
One thing God keeps reminding me is that the old behavior will only change when I realize I can't do it myself. He's the master pro of tweaks and kinks. He'll work it out. I picture him as the best masseuse ever massaging my knots. His kneading renews my muscles and relaxes the tension.

I'm breathing again. The aches are relieved. Only God can do that. That's what His grace is all about.

By His Grace:
By His grace means with His help, in His strength. Him in us and through us. The beautiful thing of His grace is how it comes from the foundation of His love. He love us so much. He makes it possible for the kinks to be tweaked. We just need to give Him the time.

Soul Refreshment:

Psalm 9:7

God holds the high center, he sees and sets the world's mess right.

Romans 14:17

God's kingdom isn't a matter of what you put in your stomach, for goodness' sake. It's what God does with your life as he sets it right, puts it together, and completes it with joy.

~Your Turn ~

Any kinks being tweaked in your life? How are you dealing with it? I'd love to hear your thoughts on it all.

*November's life words are dedicated to gratitude and dwelling.

Week in Photos - Family

2011-11-12T12:00:00.000-10:00

Dwell...in the company of family and friends who lift you up. Dwell...in gratitude of the everyday moments.

Dwell...even on the little things that bring you joy. It's alright ;-)

May your weekend be blessed with slow flow in His grace...with His help.

*November's Life words are being dedicated to...
Dwelling and Gratitude.

Camera Phone Friday - Fall

2011-11-12T10:20:00.000-10:00

I'm so glad Dawn put together Camera Phone Friday. I can't always take my regular camera with me and feel bummed I can't catch that "great" photo.

Using my phone reminds me it's not about the camera, but of capturing what gets me to pause and breathe in the given moment. Mindfulness...ah, yes.

Feel free to join in at her site. As always you're welcome to share your own feedback on what gets you to pause.

"On the walk" below was clicked by David.

I hope to collect camera phone photos from the family to include each week.

Let's see how that goes.

for Camera Phone Friday with Dawn using PicPlz.

Dawn suggested it to me since I don't have iPhone/Instagram. Thank You Dawn.

Android market has the the PicPlz app for free download.

*November's life words are dedicated to gratitude and dwelling.

{Dwell} :: The Unexpected ~ Thoughts and Memories

2011-11-11T10:56:00.001-10:00

Dwelling...on thoughts and memories of possibilities and encouragement.

From my heart:

Every November, I don't even think and God will bring Pastor Glen to fill my memories. Once again, my dreams come alive. I'm filled with encouragement and God possibilities.

Unexpected possibilities:
He just walked up to me. That day in October 2005. He said, "I see it in your eyes. God put a dream in your heart." Pastor Glen White was new to our church. His spirit permeated a father's heart. Full of life and full of joy. His face showed it all.

The following weeks he'd fill me with possibilities toward my dreams. He even took myself and our son under his wing to mentor. The heart of a father. He mentored us with so much joy and love.

Unexpected loss:
He thanked us, but already had plans for Thanksgiving weekend. "See you Sunday." A few days later the phone rang. A thoughtful friend realized who he was in our lives and broke the news. Pastor Glen slipped out of our lives and quickly as he entered. No wonder, God has us learn from him at such a fast pace and that we could retain it all. No wonder.

Unexpected joys:
Pastor Glen loved paddling canoe. He had the heart attack while he was paddling. I spent time with his wife over the following weeks. She shared how mentoring us put the twinkle back in his eyes. She told of how he came home every day so full and excited. He made future plans because his dreams were reignited through mentoring us. The pain was now replaced with joy so quickly. She let me know her life was touched by our family. I left her so full. In her pain, she breathed life words of joy.

Unexpected influences:
Dreams. Our dreams touch the lives of others without us even trying to. One person's dream sparks another to have one. A dream in someone's heart and reignite his/her dream that was tucked away for God's perfect day.

Thank You for letting me share with you today. This verse came to mind as I wrote.

Soul Refreshment:

Phillipians 4:8-9

~ Summing it all up, friends, I'd say you'll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse.

Put into practice what you learned from me, what you heard and saw and realized. Do that, and God, who makes everything work together, will work you into his most excellent harmonies.

Today's topic "Unexpected" really dug into my soul. Visit Lisa-Jo's place for more unedited, impromptu writings by others.

*I'm dedicating November's life words to gratitude and dwelling.

{Dwell} :: To Count of Esteem

2011-11-10T06:53:00.001-10:00

Dwelling...logizomai: To count of esteem.

The best gift I could've ever been given is finding my own voice. God added more to that gift by surrounding me with people to encourage my voice every day. He's building my faith to take that first huge step into one of my dreams.

I've always been a peace keeper insofar as I would give up pieces of myself to make sure everyone and everything was in balance. Until finally I realized I had lost my worth and esteem.

Oh, but God has been taking me on a journey of discovering and exploring. He has me unwrapping amazing wonders and joys in my everyday and in who He's created me to be. I can't keep it to myself. I have to share it all. To think that God values what I have to say and think completely blows my mind.

I've found my voice in writing about and photographing it all. It doesn't matter if anyone reads, sees, or even likes it. That is an extra bonus. Finding my voice has given me confidence to do it just for God.

So, I write the book on His wonders and hallelujahs when I put pen to paper, tap at the keys, strum up my guitar, or click the shutter button. My faith grows to assure I'm right where I belong. I'm doing exactly what He wants me to.

There's also a huge step I've taken that I'll share about in the future. It's all in the beginning stages right now. If you feel led to, do keep me in prayer and praise. I thank you in advance.

Your turn:

~ How has "dwelling" with God solidified His value of you?

~ How does He reminds you of how much He esteems you?

Soul Refreshment:

Psalm 9:1-2 ~ I'm thanking You, God from a full heart.

I'm writing the book on your wonders. I'm whistling, laughing, and jumping for joy; I'm singing your song, High God.

*I'm dedicating November's life words to gratitude and dwelling.

Today's Jam topic is "How is God currently calling you to walk by Faith".

Attributions:

Texture - Phoebe by Kim Klassen. Preset - Bronzer by Pretty Presets for Lightroom. Font - 2Peas High Tide by Two Peas in a Bucket.

{Dwell} :: Hang All Night

2011-11-09T06:00:00.000-10:00

Dwelling with friends...so grateful for the time they've invested into me.

Two definitions of dwell really caught my attention. First, to hang all night. Second, to remain with you all night. It reminded me of all the new relationships I've developed over the past 5 years. I reminisced on the relationships that remain, but are not as close and those who have come and gone. I do love them all.

Getting sick brought me closer to God in healthy isolation. Once I was able to get out and about again, I hit the book stores. One of my ultimate slow flow activities. I met strangers in those book stores and had amazing conversations. It felt like I had many different bible study groups during those times. It all happened in one hour's time.

They didn't realize they hung out with me in my night and remained with me until I was filled. Then off we went. I never saw the same person twice. My soul was well-fed.

God has showered me with so much grace in the area of relationships. He's gathered new people around me who are even more to my soul than I imagined. They didn't come right away. They trickled in one at a time. I think that's the only way I could receive them, grow to accept and trust them, and finally love them as my family.

These are the people that came during the hardest part of that time. They truly hung out with me all night and have remained part of my life. People of all different ages and in different seasons of life seasoned my soul.

Your turn ~

Have you "dwelled" with someone as you made small talk in line or at the bookstore?

Maybe others stayed with you and hung out all night. I pray the memory of them blesses you to gratitude today.

Soul Refreshment ~

Hanging out with friends who really know you leaves breathing space to just be together. No words, just hanging out all night long.

The kind words of strangers can be the best soul comfort.

*I'm dedicating November's life words to gratitude and dwelling.

{Dwell} :: Power Tool Symphony

2011-11-08T00:00:00.000-10:00

Let God take over and set it all right.
He won't let you go

Dwelling stirs gratitude.

Isn't it amazing how clicking that pause button in our day can bring all the craziness to a screeching halt? A few quality seconds to breathe in the middle of the noise can still the soul to such peace. To deliberately pause allows me to unwrap my life. That in turn, allows Him to stir up gratitude.

Our back deck is my favorite place to sit and be with God. The sweet silence. The healing warmth of the morning sun. Even the gentle rain is soothing. Then all of a sudden, power tools all go off in unison. As if a conductor lifted his baton and cued them all in.

A concerto of neighborhood renovations, including us. This past weekend was all about cleaning and labor. So, this morning I was ready for my serene back deck getaway. In the crescendo of that power tool symphony, I found a way to sit in silence. I know! It totally tripped me out.

More than anything, I just wanted to "be" with God. I needed refuge in Him. I had a hunger for tranquility. My soul completely sat still. The power tool orchestra seemed to quiet their concerto. I realized it was still blaring, but it didn't matter. I had so much to be thankful for. I wanted to thank Him for His words spilling into me and changing me. For His works on my behalf - healing, providing, and bringing my dreams to life.

Now the power tools seem like perfect background music. He overwhelms me with grace surpassing what I ever realized possible. I'm totally tripping out!

Your Turn:
~ How is God overwhelming you with grace that stirs gratitude?
~ How do you turn down the volume of your power tool symphony?

Soul Refreshment:
Psalm 9:4 ~ You took over and set everything right;
when I needed you, you were there, taking charge.

*November's life-words are being dedicated to gratitude and dwelling.

I joined in on this a little late. Every Monday in November we're just plain writing! Click here to join in.

{Dwell} :: Unwrap, Discover, Dream and Give Thanks

2011-11-04T23:57:00.000-10:00

Dwelling...

I'll be taking the weekends off from social networking to make room for quieter living. I like to call it slow-flow. After 31 days of writing, it's gonna be hard to do. I had so much fun!

This is the perfect month for slowing down. During November, I'll be mindfully unwrapping the small wonders I discover. You're invited to come along and share too. I can't wait to see what God blesses us all with.

That said, the weekends be for photos while I slow-flow. Photos of what God gifted me with throughout the week. It may be one photo or a whole mosaic. Maybe even two! I also hope to link up with Dawn for Camera Phone Fridays.

The weekends will be for celebrating God's unwrapped discoveries that fuel my everyday dreams. I can only pause, breathe and give thanks for them all. I know I'll enjoy sharing them with you. I hope you'll enjoy the weekly peek into our lives.

1) Shadow & Ezie 2) David in the quiet before... 3) Renovations 4) Ezie's fall before he tries again

5) Shadow's playfulness 6) Morning walks 7) Writing life words 8) Family meal together

For Camera Phone Friday with Dawn

1) Coffee while we wait. 2) Errands together 3) The pretzel is back for fall.

4) Found this magazine at Walmart. 5) Free Starbucks 6) Chrismas being promoted already?!

Soul Refreshment: excerpt from Revitalize Your Spiritual Life

"God's dream for our lives has nothing to do with our performance.

It has everything to do with our hearts....

When we have come to the end of ourselves,

God is waiting to give us a new dream." ~ Sheila Walsh

*I'm dedicating November's life words to gratitude and dwelling.

{Dwell} :: Gifts in the Unplanned

2011-11-03T11:21:00.002-10:00

Ezie's Nose Dive

Dwelling...to sit. So grateful to sit in the unplanned.

The past few days have allowed me privilege to watch God as premier master planner. I'm truly blessed to share His simple rescheduling of my days.

Monday morning surgery at the vet gifted me with Shadow snuggling on my lap all the way home in the afternoon. The wait unwrapped couples time for us in lunch, a walk, and coffee. It gave me the simple joy of popping in to see a sales girl I'd been thinking of. That gifted me with catching up, smiles and laughs.

Monday evening made for family Halloween fun that turned into a sleepover. The unplanned presented late night talks and hanging out filled with yawns. The being together completely over ruled sleep. Eating, laughing, and cleaning up took precedence over work the next day. It was worth staying up. Ooh, and sour candies were the extra for me...lol.

1) Aye Matey's - Angelica and Captain Jack Sparrow 2) Zorro, Gorilla n his banana
3) 1st Mate Shadow 4) Angelica and Safari Jane

Tuesday, my regular routines were set aside for time with my daughter-in-law and grandson. He's starting to push with those little legs and crawling will soon be the event to follow. He holds himself up pretty well when he's seated. We caught so many photos of him falling left to right and forward. It's so cute and hilarious.

Wednesday was an unplanned nap. I loved it! I really needed it.

Today, my morning call was postponed. After all that happened this week I started to look for gifts in this particular "unplanned". The hour to myself allowed my heart to quietly ponder and spend gratitude. It was cold, crisp, and drizzling, but I went out on the back deck anyway. Light scarf, favorite beanie, and Shadow curled up and snuggly.

Soon, Mele and Ezie will be here for another visit. Oh, they just arrived! Better finish up.

The unplanned and unexpected first give reaction to frustration and frenzy. If I just pause for a moment. If I just breathe. Then, I remember He truly does have good plans for me. The unexpected and unplanned are becoming opportunities to seek out and unwrap hidden treasures.

Soul Refreshment:

Psalms 19:11-13 ~
There's more:
God's word warns us of danger
and directs us to hidden treasure.
Otherwise, how will we find our way?
Or know when we play the fool?
Clean the slate God, so we can start the day fresh!

Your turn:

Look back at your last unplanned and unexpected.

What treasured gifts are there to be unwrapped?

It's not too late to seek out the hidden treasures.

We're jamming on gifts today. come on over to Bonnie's

*I'm dedicating November's life words to dwelling and gratitude.

Refreshing Day 31 ~ Renovations

2011-10-31T01:02:00.003-10:00

Update: Post links now included for shared writers below. oops :-)

Welcome to our newly renovated blog home.
Go ahead and take a look around.

We saved the blog makeover for this last day of our 31 Days of Refreshing. No worries though. All the Refreshing posts have a home in the tabs above.

God has been renovating us as well...to discover, become, refresh, and continue to dream.

We are being refreshed beyond our fears to step into the new and embrace the gifts He's given us to unwrap.

To celebrate, may we share some of the homes we visit often? They welcome us in with faith-filled conversation to build our dreams. We'll share more homes soon. Some will even be activity fun like photography. But, first...

Faith Barista - Bonnie Gray is serving up fresh shots of faith. On Thursdays, writers of all caliber are invited to join in the Jam.

Feed Your Soul::{Day 10} Look at the Stars takes us faith gazing. All you need are your PJs.
Feed Your Soul:: {Day 16) De-perfect encourages us in our imperfections.

Heart to Heart with Holley - Holley Gerth's life words offer every day encouragement for the hearts of women.

It's Time to Kick the Lies Out of Your Life short post to remind us that God created us with purpose.

5 Things You Can do While You're Waiting - Keeps us mindful of the now while we pursue our dreams.

My Home Sweet Home - Dawn Camp shares her family, faith, and fun with photoshop.

31 Days of Real Life: You are More than Your Stats (Day 19)
releases us from needing to perform to be accepted.
31 Days of Real Life: What is the Source of Your Joy? (Day 24) refocuses us on internal joys.

We're looking forward to sharing more of God's dreams for us

in our everyday.
We can't wait to hear about yours.

Here's to the adventure of unwrapping our days.

~~Are you being renovated? How can you tell?~~

Becoming...Discovering...being Refreshed

Earlier Days of Refreshing

are here

Other 31 Dayers
and their wonderful topics here.

Refreshing Day 30 ~ Just Because

2011-10-30T12:39:00.001-10:00

I'm on the back deck today. Taking a slow Sunday. That means this post is later than usual.

I had an amazing time pondering where we've all come from, where we are now, and where we're headed to...and how we're not alone anymore. We have God if no human, and if you're here then we have each other.

I'm celebrating Shilo today and wanted to share with you. I bought this card for him about 8 years go and believed that the dark, hard place he was in would bring him true success one day.

Quote by Booker T. Washington

He is now 27. He's upstairs helping his Dad put in the new bathroom vanity so we can have our front porch back for our get together tomorrow. He called and asked if we needed help. His beautiful wife and 3 month old son sit inside, relaxing. I'll be in there playing and laughing real soon.

He had a hard life. He had been mistreated by so many, abused, stepped on, beaten down. His dreams crushed and forgotten. Over the last two years we watched him change, grow, and become independent. He lost his faith in God then. Slow, he now lets God's love back in.

His dreams came true earlier this year as he married, a few months ago had his firstborn son, and just recently is employed at a company he's finally happy working at. He's a laborer and hardworking.

Today, I'm giving him this card. Praise God for His grace to bring us from where we were and allow it to be a blessing to so many others.

I thought of you.

I knew you needed to be told these very words too. So I recreated it for you. I celebrate where you've come from, where you are now, and cheer you on to where you're headed to.

inside Shilo's hallmark card

Soul Refreshment:

Acts 20:1 ~ Traveling through the country, passing from one gathering to another, he gave constant encouragement, lifting their spirits and charging them with fresh hope.

1 Thessalonians 5:13 ~ Gently encourage the stragglers, and reach out for the exhausted, pulling them to their feet. Be patient with each person, attentive to individual needs.

Earlier Days of Refreshing

are here

Other 31 Dayers
and their wonderful topics here.

Refreshing Day 29 ~ God dreams and the Present

2011-10-29T00:00:00.000-10:00

Dreams are so forward moving. They sort of whisk you into the future as you ponder all that will become. Ah, dreams. They also require quality investment of your time and energy.

What about the present?

Okay, time to pause. Feet grounded. The future hasn't happened yet. What about where we're at right now? Spouses, kids, grandkids, dishes, laundry, cooking, cleaning, jobs...

God dreams live in the present. They are actively creating, growing, and getting ready to bloom here. They are full of passion and wonderful expectation now. Oh the faith it takes to believe and keep at it as you do the daily tasks.

How do we live passionately in the present while we work on at wait for our God dreams to become?

We appreciate being in the right now. We unwrap the joy in each moment. Really see the ones God has placed in our lives, and we express gratitude and love to them today.

We let the Holy Spirit lead us in the everyday. That's true success. The God dreams ahead will be even sweeter as we remember that His dreams in our today.

Trust that God ensures our future.

Soul Refreshment:

Psalm 27:14 ~

I'm sure now I'll see God's goodness
      in the exuberant earth.
   Stay with God!
      Take heart. Don't quit.
   I'll say it again: Stay with God.

1 Corinthians 7:29 ~

I do want to point out, friends, that time is of the essence.
There is no time to waste, so don't complicate your lives unnecessarily. Keep it simple —in marriage, grief, joy, whatever.
Even inordinary things—your daily routines of shopping, and so on.

I'd love to hear what you have on your mind?

Earlier Days of Refreshing

are here

Other 31 Dayers
and their wonderful topics here.

Refreshing Day 28 ~ Life of Relevance

2011-10-28T00:01:00.000-10:00

Relevant. Now this is one power-packed word.

This prompt took me right to the Thesaurus for some reason. I'm glad it did.

Right away the words "a life of relevance" flowed into my soul.

Take a look at its amazing synonyms:

Appropriate
Admissible
Applicable
Becoming - now this is my favorite. This one implies "grace". Oh, I love becoming.
Fitting
Pertinent
Important
Relative
Significant

Now, let's personalize those beautiful words:

Jeri's life is appropriate to God's purposes for her
Jeri's life is admissible in God's presence
Jeri's life is applicable to God's calling over her
Jeri's life is becoming all God has created her to be
Jeri's life is fitting in this season of her walk with God
Jeri's life is pertinent in situations that God's places her
Jeri's life is important in God's heart
Jeri's life is very relative to today's generation
Jeri's life is significant to God's heart.

Your turn. Go ahead. Place your name in front of those synonyms.

Every word is true of you whether you believe it right now or not. Let it's truth take root in your soul.

Yours is a life of beautiful and powerful relevance.

Soul Refreshment:

1 Peter 2:9-10 ~

But you are the ones chosen by God,

chosen for the high calling of priestly work,

chosen to be a holy people, God's instruments

to do his work and speak out for him,

to tell others of the night-and-day difference he made for you—

from nothing to something, from rejected to accepted.

Woohoo!!!

Come join us over at Lisa-Jo's

for more on Relevant

Earlier Days of Refreshing

are here

Other 31 Dayers
and their wonderful topics here.