Two Years Ago

Two years ago today I was in a major Atlanta hospital, undergoing the first two of four spinal surgeries that would change my life for the better. My neurosurgeon had planned on completing the work on my spine in "only" three surgeries, but due to complications during the third surgery, he had to bring me out of the anesthesia and let me rest for five days. Thankfully the fourth surgery went well and was a success, so after that it was a matter of recovering and rehab. ~ My stay in the hospital was about three weeks, and there were some extremely rough, painful times. However, I have NO regrets at all about having the surgeries done, and my severe spinal conditions have been greatly improved as a result. There were also an abundance of blessings that came from that time in my life---and for those I am truly humbled. People I didn't even know were praying for me, and the acts of kindness shown to me still boggle my mind today. ~ The day before I went into the hospital I was filled with a mixture of emotions. Although I had an idea of what was to be done to me, there was still the anxiety of "fear of the unknown" and the dread because I knew there was the chance I could even end up paralyzed. So as I read my Bible that day, I re-read a verse in Isaiah that I clung to, and still do. This verse has give me (and continues to do so) great comfort and peace, and I've included it below. ~ May I always cling to The Only One who can truly give comfort and peace that we all need. ~ Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. Isaiah 41:10

It's About Time

Time management has been something I've been working on for many years--in fact, I have a collection of books and articles advising me how to make better use of my time! Often I'll think I'm improving; other times I feel frustrated because I want to accomplish more. ~ Now that my children are older and I'm no longer teaching school, my schedule is completely different than it was even a few years ago. I still stay busy (somedays I'm convinced someone has sped up my clock because the hours zip by!) but don't have the constant rushing and hectic pace I once did. ~ Lately the Lord has placed thoughts on my heart that I'm taking very seriously: As a Christian woman, am I making the best use of my time? Am I spending my time as the Lord would have me spend it? It's really dawned on me that time management isn't just about "getting more things done in a certain amount of time" but rather accomplishing what the Lord wants me to accomplish--and meeting His standards rather than the world's. ~ Although I make sure to spend time daily in my Bible and prayer, could I spend more time? Are there other ways I can serve Him? For me personally, the answer is YES! So that's what I'm focusing on these days, and with the Lord's help--I'll be a faithful steward of the time He so graciously gives. ~ Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Ephesians 5:16

Another Day in Paradise!

As I type this post, I'm looking out my bedroom/office window at a beautiful blue sky, bright sunshine, lush green trees, and my window box with pink Impatiens growing in it. A truly lovely view! As I was silently saying a prayer of thanks earlier this morning for this gorgeous day and my very nice view, it suddenly occurred to me that I have my "very own paradise" here next to my computer. Now that may sound silly to some folks--as many people would describe "paradise" as somewhere exotic or tropical. Sure, those places are great and can be fun to visit. But for me (okay, I'll admit I'm somewhat of a homebody, haha) being able to gaze out my window and behold the Lord's handiwork in my own yard is wonderful. Yes, a kind of paradise for me. So today I'm thanking the Lord for what some folks would call "simple pleasures": the gift of eyesight, a nice window with a lovely view, and my cats sitting close by as I type. MY kind of paradise! ~ ~ The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth His handiwork. Psalm 19:1