Soothing Scripture

Like many Americans today, I try to keep up with the news--at least the major headlines and also happenings in my town. And as I've heard so many people comment--especially in recent years--the news reports seem to get worse and worse.
We cannot ignore what's going on in our country and across the world, but I don't believe anyone wants to dwell on the bad news all the time.
As a Christian I often feel helpless when I hear about (or read) news reports of crime, wars, poverty, etc. ~ It often seems as if evil abounds, and is spreading.
BUT....as a Christian, I do not need to feel helpless or hopeless, because I have Someone in my life bigger than ALL the world's problems and evils. So I do the best I can, pray, and turn to God by reading His soothing reminders. My Bible is my most prized book, and even though I've read all the way through several times (and re-read certain Scriptures many, many times) I am still amazed at how certain passages seem to "grab" me--just when I need them!
This evening I was thinking about news I've read in recent days--fighting, tense situations, and turbulence---nothing good or hopeful.
So I began searching Bible verses for words to offer reassurance and hope. Soothing Scriptures, as I like to call them. The verse below is a wonderful reminder to us all that our hope is in our Lord, and with Him we can have courage and strength--even in a world that seems hopeless.
Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord.  Psalm 31:24

International Cat Day

This evening I was delightfully surprised to learn that today, August 8, is International Cat Day! I had no idea (which is surprising, being the avid cat-person that I am). Now that I'm aware of this special day, I'll be sure and mark my August calendar in the coming years!
I cannot imagine life without my cats. Yes, they DO require work and sometimes do make a mess (when a flower pot gets turned over and the dirt spills onto the floor*sigh*), but that's okay....BECAUSE they are part of my family now, and offer unconditional love (in addition to entertainment with their playful antics)

 

 

. I realize that some people think of cats as "arrogant, indifferent" creatures, but they are actually loving, smart, and affectionate pets. And each one has his/her own personality (or, maybe that should be PURR-sonality!).
So in honor of International Cat Day, I'm featuring a few photos of some of my precious kitties. My "furry children" are such blessings to me, and I'm so thankful that when God created our world, He gave us animals too!

Summer Reading

One of my fondest childhood memories involves books. My sweet mother spent much time reading to me, and helping me learn to read. After I became school-age, every summer Mama took me to our town's small library where I'd check out a different stack of books to read each week.
After I had children, reading to them was my most favorite activity. I wanted them to have a love for books that I've always had! So each summer we'd participate in the "Summer Reading Program" at our local library---such sweet memories.
Now that my children are grown, I'm looking forward to having grandchildren (Lord willing) to read to and share my love of books with one day---that thought makes me smile!
As an adult, I continue to enjoy "Summer Reading"*smile*, and hope to share some blog posts in the next few months that feature a few of my favorite Christian authors. Of course I don't only enjoy their books in the summer, but all year long. So if you enjoy books as much as I do, HAPPY READING!!

Christmas in July

As I purchased some items in a store this morning, a friendly cashier and I chatted about how quickly this year is going. We both shared our amazement at the fact that it's already mid-July. I jokingly commented to her that before we know it, Christmas will be here again.
Now although thinking of Christmas is very pleasing to me (since it's my very favorite holiday as we celebrate the birth of the Christ Child), I do not want to rush time. As the old expression says: Live one day at a time.
I will admit that I've always struggled with worry--especially if I've got a lot to get accomplished in a short amount of time. So many times in the past I've thought: Okay, I'll make the most of each day and enjoy life more after I get these things behind me (referring to whatever I had to do--whether it was a medical appointment or simply lots of projects to finish). But is that really how any of us are supposed to live? I don't think so! As I realized today how very quickly 2013 is zipping by, I decided that in the remaining days of this year, I will try my best to really and truly make the most of each day. And for me personally, that means seeking the Lord's guidance to do what HE would have me to do each and every day!
But I'll confess.....when it IS time to bring out the Christmas decorations and prepare for that special time, I'll have a joyful heart and be wearing a big smile!

    So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.    Psalm 90:12

Making Mountain Memories

I love the mountains. Living in the south, the Smoky Mountains are the closest to us, so for years my family has vacationed there. I have treasured memories of many trips to the Smokies when my children were very young. Since it had been seven years since my family had taken a vacation to the mountains, we decided to go again. So after finally finding dates in June that were convenient with ALL my family, we rented a cabin and drove up last week.
What a wonderful time we had! The days flew by too quickly, and now I'm back home again. But what sweet memories I have of this trip. This was our first vacation to the mountains since both daughters have been married, so my sons-in-law were with us, and seemed to really enjoy the mountains too.
Although we stayed on-the-go quite a bit (and ate a LOT!), one of my favorite activities while there was playing games around the large, wooden table in our cabin. My daughters, son, sons-in-law and I had many laughs as we played games at night.
Another favorite part of the trip was enjoying the mountain views from our cabin--especially when sitting on the deck behind the cabin. It was so peaceful as I sat out there one morning--enjoying God's beautiful creation.
This vacation helped me realize that even though I treasure the memories from my kiddos' childhood days, now that my children are grown there are still many wonderful memories to be made. For that, I am SO thankful!!
    The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth His handiwork.  Psalm 19:1

Oh Susanna!

Two weeks ago, I never dreamed I'd soon welcome another "furry child" into my home--at least not anytime in the near future.
But when a dear friend contacted me to ask if I knew of a good home for a tiny kitten she'd rescued, I took one look at the photo my friend sent me and....that was it. I wanted this kitten myself.
Being an avid cat-lover, of course I think ALL kittens are adorable. But since I lost my beloved Tubby last summer, seeing a picture of this kitten reminded me sooo much of Tubby as a baby. So I prayed about it and told my friend I would try to give the kitten a home myself.
It hasn't even been a week yet, but I must say this precious bundle of energy wrapped in gray fur seems right at home in my house! Even with *large* cats around her---eyeing her curiously--the kitten appears to be happy and ready to play.
Choosing a name for a pet has always been important to me, so I began considering names

for the kitten. My oldest daughter had a suggestion, and I really liked her suggestion. But I still wasn't completely sure, so I sat in a kitchen chair, snuggling the kitten like a baby, and began to sing. Without giving it any thought, the words to "Oh Susanna" came out of my mouth (thankfully no other humans were home at the time, LOL, because they might not "enjoy" my music as much as the kitties do). As I softly sang, the kitten's eyes opened wider and she looked up at me as if to say, "I like that song" and I knew right then her name should be Susanna. In addition to that little incident, the name Susanna is also a Biblical name (most of my other kitties have Biblical names too).
In less than a week, Susanna has already brought so much laughter to our home--her antics are hilarious! (I'd forgotten how active and playful a kitten can be). I'm so thankful that God created precious animals for us to enjoy!
  And God saw every thing that He had made, and, behold, it was very good.  Genesis 1:31

Time Flies

We've all heard the familiar phrase "time flies" and most of us have said that phrase quite a bit. With today being the first day of June, this phrase that I used to say jokingly now becomes very real, as I ask myself how this year can be zipping by so quickly! It seems that not long ago we were celebrating Christmas, and now summer is upon us. When I really stop and think about it, the passage of time is something to be taken seriously. Am I making the best use of my time? Am I doing what the Lord wants me to do? Of course, I'd love to answer "Yes" to these questions, and some days I really do feel that I'm using my time wisely and doing what the Lord wants me to do. Then there are other days....I realize that even though I got some productive things accomplished, I could've done better.
Recently my oldest daughter and I were reminiscing about the fun times when she was very young--activities we did together and special toys she had. Now she is grown, and it's hard to believe so many years have gone by since she was a pre-schooler. I wouldn't trade those days for anything, and I'm so thankful I was able to be at home with her (and my other children). But now that I realize how quickly the years pass, I often tell mothers of young children to treasure each and every day. Because as I've found out--children grow so quickly and time really does fly.
So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.  Psalm 90:12