HE Hasn't Changed !

With all the "drama" relating to the recent elections, there has been much talk and concern about our country's future. Many people are wondering what changes will take place regarding our economy, our military, and the list goes on and on. Some people are hopeful, others are downright worried and even scared. ~ As Christians we know we need to pray for our country, and we know WHO is in control. But with all this talk of changes, something else we must do is remember that our Lord does not CHANGE!! He has always been there for us, and always will be. He has the ultimate control, not political leaders. So when I'm feeling overwhelmed, I need to stay focused on the truth of the Bible verse in Hebrews that reminds me: Jesus Christ the same yesterday, today, and forever.

VOTE !!

On this much anticipated Election Day, I hope everyone has voted (or is planning to vote today). This is such an important part of being an American citizen, and not to be taken lightly. ~ ~ This particular Presidential race has been the most "anxiety-filled" one I have ever lived through (in my many years-LOL!) and so much is at stake for our great country. ~ ~ Feeling strongly about my choices and beliefs (particularly being anti-abortion and knowing we MUST always defend Israel) I, like many others, have fretted about "what ifs". What if the other candidate wins? What will happen to our precious country then? ~ ~ I've decided to focus on the Bible verse in John 14:1, as this reminds me WHO is really in control. ~ ~ May God always bless America!

A "Purr"-fect Day!

Although I love all four seasons, Autumn is my very favorite. The cooler temperatures and the beautiful leaves turning crimson, yellow and orange always give me a little "burst" of energy this time of year. This week here in my part of Georgia, we have had some beautiful weather!! It's the kind of weather that "just makes you feel good" when you go outside. I walked to the mailbox the other day and couldn't help but notice the brilliant blue sky, a cool breeze blowing, sun shining, and lots of birds twittering to me as I walked along my driveway. ~ I'm reminded of the Bible verse that says: The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handiwork. (Psalms 19:1) ~ ~ I've posted a picture of two of my kitties, Levi and Moses, as they sit by a window to enjoy the day's beauty!

WHERE THE HEART LEADS

Each time I read a book by Christian author Kim Vogel Sawyer, I decide that particular book is my favorite. Now I think I have truly found my very favorite book by Kim, Where the Heart Leads. Taking place in the early 1900s, this book tells the story of a young man with Mennonite roots who must make some major decisions in his young life. I enjoyed this book so much that when I finished reading the last chapter, I didn't want it to end! Kim makes her characters "come alive" and the settings so real that it's easy to imagine you are there. Kim also weaves a spiritual message throughout the story, adding so much to the story without "preaching a sermon". ~ ~ I highly recommend Where the Heart Leads and, although I don't usually re-read books (who has time?!), I want to read this one again!

* * NOTE: At a Christian writers conference I recently attended, I had the honor and pleasure of meeting Kim IN PERSON and also taking a workshop from her! WOW !! This lady is precious! She was so kind to me, and was also a wonderful workshop instructor (not to mention at the Banquet she won ANOTHER Award!!). * * You will be blessed when you read her books.

ACFW Conference

On September 18 my oldest daughter and I flew to Minnesota so I could attend my very first writers conference, American Christian Fiction Writers. What an amazing experience! I learned so much, made so many new friends, and met my VERY favorite Christian authors. The picture above is me with Deborah Raney and Tamera Alexander, two awesome authors and now my friends! Meeting these ladies was wonderful, and they were so kind and encouraging.

September Already?!

Wow! I cannot believe that September is here already! This particular month has always been a busy one for my family....we jokingly refer to it as our "Family Birthday Month" due to so many birthdays. It makes for a fun, although hectic, few weeks! This September will be extra-busy for me since I'm planning on attending the American Christian Fiction Writers' Conference in Minnesota (which I'm so excited about!). I need to make sure though, that no matter how busy my days are, to always start out my day by spending some quiet time with the Lord. I've always found that my days just seem to go better when I do this. That sure doesn't mean my days will be trouble-free, but at least I can handle those trials better when I've started the day out with some time in the Word. ~~ It's so easy to get caught up in the rushing and busyness of our schedules, but we all need to take time to read our Bible and reflect on the blessings the Lord has given us. ~~ I've posted a picture of my kitten Delilah, as she looks reflective while resting on my piano bench!

Left-handed People Celebrate!

Today (August 13) is National Left-handers' Day ! Being a left-handed person, I always try to remember that this is "our special day" each year. However, very few people are aware that we lefties even have a special day, so I take it upon myself to remind others each year. I don't know who started it, or when it was started, or even how August 13 was determined to be THE special date for lefties, but several years ago I discovered it on a calendar and made a point to remember the date! Being a left-handed person is not easy. I remember way back in college taking a golf class....I was the only lefty in the class, so the instructor always had to "reverse" his demonstrations for me. Same thing with other activities too (tennis,etc.). For me personally, the most "annoying" thing is when I write with ink and my little finger ends up with ink after I'm finished writing (from dragging along the words I've just written). I've heard it said that "it's not a left-handed world" and I agree....most things are geared to right-handed people, since they are the majority. But I've also heard it said that "left-handed people are creative and special" and I LOVE that saying! So if you're a lefty, enjoy this special day, and we'll just be thankful we have hands to use....no matter how awkward things can be sometimes!