Psalm 63: 3-7

"Because Your lovingkindness is better than life, my lips will praise You! So I will bless You as long as I live; I will lift up my hands in Your name....for you have been my help....and in the shadow of Your wings I sing for joy!" 

Praise God for my renters

I must tell you that I almost cried when I walked into my house in Jacksonville yesterday....God handpicked my renters.....I drove into the driveway....and, it was a......" home"........flower baskets.....hanging from the eaves.......I had a warm feeling before I entered the house...and when I walked in....the beauty of the "home" took my breath away! I want to blog more later...but, I right now I have to shout it from the rooftops....THANK you, O God....for Larry and Sandy!

Two more days in Orlando

We have 2 more days here...Lots of packing to do today...and, time always seems to race when you need it to slow down...yes, I should be packing..but, God is so worthy of my praise. I must tell you that He is an incredible God! Yesterday, I had multiple appointments in Jacksonville...only He could orchestrate yesterday for me....Up at 4:00, left by 5:15, drove to Jax...dropped Demi to the vet by 8, breakfast, dropped Ashley off to her hair appointment at 9:00, drove to visit my renter's in Jacksonville, off to lunch, now to my hair appointment by 12:30, on to the doctor appointment by 4:15, pick up Demi 6:30 ande back to Orlando...got home at 10:00....I should have logged the distance....just to tell you more about how He accomplised all this for us...and, we even had a stop or two along the way...one was to cash in a year old 70.00 massage gift...we traded that for shampoo products....God is good! So much to do...but, no stress....everything timed like an orchestra....we sooooo underestimate the abilities of God!

The Presence of God

I cannot imagine life without His presence....I have a replica of the Ark of the Covenant that I picked up from The Holy Land in Orlando. I imagine the Jewish priests preparing to pick it up and carry it when God said it was time to move on.....I imagine them carrying it....step by step.....setting it down for the night....always having the presence of the Lord with them.....How thankful I am that I am never alone....and that I do carry the presence of God with me.....and that, He.. carries me.....

"Made me Glad"

"I will bless the Lord forever, I will trust Him at all times, He has delievered me from all fears, He has set my feet upon a Rock, I will not be moved, but I'll say of the LORD, You are my shield, my strength, my portion, deliverer, my shelter, strong tower, my very present help in time of need. Whom have I in heaven but You, there's none I desire above You, You have made me glad, and I'll say of the Lord....you are my shield, my strength, my portion, deliverer, my shelter, strong tower, my very present help in time of need......

Demi does the hula!

Demi went to the groomer today...poor thing....she was looking more like a sheep dog than a yorkie! She has never gone that long without a haircut...I couldn't even see her eyes...But, now...she is cute again!....I took her to Luna's Pet Luau!  When I picked her up...she was wearing a lei! (Pictures to follow)! 

Walking with Jesus...

...makes me a better person...if I have said that already...let me say it again! Jesus changes my life....every day...for the better.....

The value of ONE

"Mama...will you always follow me.....wherever I go....like, Aunt Naomi follows Ashley?"  This was a question my 10 year old neice asked her mother....God has a plan for each of our lives...my "following Ashley" to Orlando, and now to Knoxville....is God's plan....for us.......God continues to teach me about Himself...through my children.....Probably the most important lesson I am learning as a parent is the value He places on ONE individual. The truth is..I'm not following Ashley...We are following the Lord...and He has us walking arm in arm....supporting one another...encouraging one another...I need her....she needs me...Mother and daughter...sisters in Christ!

To Tythe or Not to Tythe

I have to admit that, along with my many weaknesses, tything is still a challenge for me...I have robbed God...and, I am not proud of it....it is a security thing....but, when you are obedient...what a blessing! I know that when I don't tythe..I am not only robbing God...but, robbing myself of the blessings of giving! But, today, I really sensed the Lord telling me to tythe...and I did....and would you know...that I needed to buy more packing boxes this afternoon... packing paper (that would have cost 8.80) a box...got to the UHaul store....and in their "free box" section....was a dish box...the size I needed..... FULL of paper....no need to buy paper now...and so many boxes that I could have for free....I just stood there stunned! I love those overwelming moments when you know that God has just blessed you for being obedient....for...blessing others! I stood there and praised the Lord outloud in the store....Halleluia! 

America

Thank you, God, for allowing me to be born in America...home of the free....and, thank you for making it possible to stay free...in Christ....for all eternity!

Being real

I want to clarify my mood today...and to tell you the truth...I am not even sure I know....I have reached the "I don't want to pack anymore," stage...and "I am just ready to get there." stage and the "not one more garage sale!" stage...I am a bit grumpy! Money is tight, I need a job...dread looking for one...alright...maybe I should just get all the grumps out in one blog and be done with it. I want to be real. My goal is to allow Jesus to live through me at all times, and many times I achieve that...but, there are days that Naomi takes over, and she gets worried, scared, frustrated, disappointed, discouraged, depressed...I appreciate God.....He didn't use the entire Bible to tell us about all of the great moments in the lives of His saints...He let us see that they were real! They were men and women that God dearly loved...who dearly loved God..but, they too got worried, scared, frustrated, disappointed, discouraged and depressed. So in counting my blessings today...and I have many....I want to thank God for making the Bible real.....and for using real people like me....to bring glory to His name!

Cow udders

You can always find humor in a day...if you are connected to the right encouragers....Ashley and I have had chapped lips..and can't really find anything that works. She was on a website, and discovered that "Bag Balm" is great for chapped lips....now, this is the stuff the cow farmers rub-2 times a day if they are good to their cows-to keep the udders healthy~! So, I am officially trying it...will let you know in a few days! :) 

What keeps me going?

What keeps me going through my trials of life? ."The Hiding Place.".... a movie that still continues to impact my life....Lice, beatings, suffering, and Betsy's words "No hate, Corrie....No hate." What luxuries I have enjoyed as an American....

Doubt

to be inclined to disbelieve...be skeptical of....to be fearful or suspicious of....to lack confidence in...to be uncertain.....there are levels of doubt that one might have in a relationship with God. There are those that doubt that God exists, that He really did come to this earth, that He is the only way to eternal life, that He is love, and just, and merciful, and.......but to have spent time with God...will leave little doubt that He is who He says He is.....but walking with Jesus means we cannot expect a life of certainty...God is master of the "unexpected." Jesus was walking on the water one day, and calls Peter to, "Come." Eyes on Jesus...he jumped out of the boat and started walking ON water. Recorded in the same chapter of Matthew was the beheading of John the Baptist...John spent his ministry IN the water....assured that Jesus was the Christ..."Behold, the Lamb of God, "he said, "who takes away the sin of the world! I myself have seen and testified that this is the Son of God. (Jn. 1: 29-34). Strong men of faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, in today's language we would say that these men were "on fire for Jesus Christ" and yet...doubt...."But seeing the wind....he became frightened.....and beginning to sink.....(Matt. 14:30) Peter became "uncertain." About to be beheaded....for following the will of the Lord...John the Baptist became, "uncertain." "Are you the Expected One, or shall we look for someone else?"John asked.(Matt. 11:3) Yes, I believe God is who He says He is and can do anything with His power. but, there are times I am tempted to doubt... ....We can love Jesus with all our hearts...believe He is who He says He is...but it is the "unexpected" that can catch us off guard...I admit, I like certainty. I like money in the bank, a nice steady job, immediate answers to all of my requests. Though I like to see the Lord perform miracles..I don't always like the situations He puts me in....Jesus brings us to a place that we cannot depend on ourselves for the faith we need to handle the circumstances He places us in. With confidence we look to our sister in the faith...Fannie Crosby...blind from birth who wrote:

"All the way my Savior leads me, what have I to ask beside? Can I doubt His tender mercy, who through life has been my Guide? Heav'nly peace, divinest comfort, here by faith in Him to dwell! For I know, whate'er befall me, Jesus doeth all things well. For I know, whate'er befall me, Jesus doeth all things well! All the way my Savior leads me, cheers each winding path I tread, gives me grace for every trial, feeds me with the living Bread. Though my weary steps may falter, and my soul athirst may be, gushing from the Rock before me, Lo! a spring of joy I see; Gushing from the Rock before me, Lo! A spring of joy I see! All the way my Savior leads me, Oh, the fullness of His love! Perfect rest to me is promised in my Father's house above. When my spirit, clothed immortal, wings its flight to realms of day, this my song through endless ages; Jesus led me all the way; This my song through endless ages; Jesus led me all the way!

For truly I say to you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, "Move from here to there, and it will move, and nothing will be impossible to you. Matt. 17: 20

Our ways/His ways

I just booked a flight from Knoxville to Orlando for 2 men I just hired that are helping me move....our ways are not God's ways. In some ways...this is not going to be the easiest route...and, I am not saving THAT much money...If I used the mover....they pick up my things...I get to spend a few days with my parents...get to Knoxville...they drop everything off and walla...wellaa??? Tadaa??  Anyway...that's that....Instead, I am now going to pick up a Budget truck, drive it to my house, they load, I book a motel and 2 flights back, spend less time with my family, and..oh, and I will now need to take them to the airport. "Are you SURE God, this is what you want me to do?" Isn't it interesting that we are ALWAYS leaning toward looking out for ourselves? Well, maybe YOU aren't...but, I tend to be this way...I am competitive...agressive...don't want to think I got the bad end of the deal...ever....I like things to be easy, smooth...and....I want what works out best for ME! God wants to bless them...that's all I can tell you.....and, it's really not even my job or God's will for me to try to "figure it all out!" I am a little unsettled at the moment..."Well, maybe I should just try to talk the other guy down." No, it's done....I can't be wishy washy...the tickets are now paid for...non refundable....I have no idea what God is up too, and maybe never will...I walk by faith...yoked with Jesus...it's His money....His plan....He is LORD....and HE is so  not like me....He is not selfish...doesn't look out only for Himself...doesn't always take the easy path....is willing to go out of His way.....inconvenience Himself...to show love.........

"Greater love has no man than this...that he lay down his life for his friends...."

"I am Blessed" Rachel Lampa

"I am blessed, I am blessed...from when I rise up in the morning, till I lay my head to rest, I feel you near me..you soothe me when I'm weary, O Lord...for all the worst and all the best....I am blessed."

Encouragement

I am so thankful for the encouragers in my life....most importantly...the LORD....but, it would really be tough if I didn't have people in my life like my Mother, my daughter....they are like God's bookends for me......I look left and right....and find 2 reasons why I am who I am....they are my encouragers, my cheerleaders....my source or accountablity....my friends.....

Eating an Elephant

How do you eat an elephant??? One bite at a time...or so my Mother reminds me! :) She even sent me a stuffed elephant as a reminder! Yes, as I look around this house...I will just eat this elephant one bite at a time..."Will it all get done, my Lord?" "Yes...my love....it will!" I am greatful for the help of the LORD each and every day! He gives me peace, strength, and gently reminds me...stay focused on today.....one day at at time.....and sing along the way.......

Job 28:26/Rain

"For He looks to the ends of the earth and sees everything under the heavens....

When He imparted weight to the wind and meted out the waters by measure, when He set a limit for the rain and a course for the thunderbolt.....

I have been thinking about yesterday's post...regarding the ravens cry....God sees everything....I am fortunate to have a pond behind my house. It is a retention pond with a fountain in the middle.....that is always flowing...the birds love it here....I have been watching this white bird for days....he walks around the pond all day.....fishes...wanders up to the neighbors houses...door to door...and then back to the pond to fish some more....Nature belongs to God...everything is God's...and God said that nature was "very good." He loves His creatures....and yes, we need the rain....but, so do the animals...and creatures of this world.....

"His eye is on the sparrow...and I know He watches me..... I sing because I'm happy, I sing because I'm free....for His eye is on the sparrow....and I know He watches me!"

The LORD's favor

Sing to the LORD with thanksgiving; sing praises to our God on the lyre, who covers the heavens with clouds, who provides rain for the earth, who makes grass to grow on the mountains. He gives to the beast its food, and to the young ravens which cry.  He does not delight in the strength of a horse, he does not take pleasure in the legs of a man. 

The LORD favors those...... who fear Him....those who wait.....for His lovingkingness!

Timing

It's been a busy couple days...getting ready for the move. I worked almost 50 hours last week, and am so thankful for the work! When my supervisor picked up my handheld computer, I breathed a sigh of relief...simply thankful for the timing of the LORD! And, thankful for the peace I have in knowing that He is in control of my life. "That chapter is closed," I thought...How thankful I am that I don't have to try to work, and pack, and move...all at the same time...at least I can put all of my focus on the move. God is so good! He knows our limitations...He cares....He loves me....He loves us...He really does....He delights in His children! He takes pleasure in us! He loves to hear us sing and dance...even when we are working....Jesus is orderly, and His plans make sense....we don't have to worry...His timing is perfect!

Psalm 149 Celebrate!

PRAISE the LORD! Sing to the LORD a new song! And His praise in the congregation of the godly ones! Let Israel...and Naomi....and YOU....be GLAD in his maker! Let the sons of Zion REJOICE in their KING! Let them praise His name with dancing; let them sing praises to Him with timbrel and lyre. For the LORD TAKES PLEASURE IN HIS PEOPLE! 

Nature

There are so many things in each day in which to be thankful...the blue sky, the way it changes colors and shapes with each passing moment...the clouds...the birds...trees..., eyes to see.....I was out working yesterday, and came face to face with a sand crane. He/she? was as tall as me, walked over to where my car was parked, started walking toward me...and stopped between me and my car. I started walking toward my car, and he didn't move...in fact, he stepped closer to  me. We were standing about 4 ft apart....eye to eye. He just looked at me with these curious eyes.. On one hand I was thrilled for the experience, and on the other hand..I wasn't sure if he would attack me...so, I carefully tried to "shoo" him away...he didn't seem to want to budge. I "shooed" him a couple more times...and finally, he backed away for me to get in the car. I had to laugh! Sand cranes really are cute! Later that day, I saw a family of sand cranes...a young baby was following along...the family was walking down a quiet road...next to a field of purple flowers...it reminded me of a field of lavender...what a moment! When I got home, I was stopped by the hoot of an owl. I tried to see him but he was too dark...I walked on...and momentarily stopped, only to hear a hoot. I looked up, and there was an owl above my head sitting on a telephone pole...."Did you follow me?" I wondered.  Today it was the buzzards...ok, yes, I had to stop to watch 20 of them fight over some fish parts...while another huge bird chomped on a fish....I really love being outside. My manager told me that had I been assigned to the Ocala team, I would have had some unique experiences. They have been getting stuck in the dirt/sand, and had to call 911 yesterday...bears were trying to attack.....nature...you have to love it! I kinda wish I would have been there...for the adventure! 

*Look at the birds of the air, that they do not sow, nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet Your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not worth more than they?”                                                                                                  

* Are not two sparrows sold for a cent? And yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father.

* I know every bird of the mountains."

(Matt. 6:26, 10:29, Ps. 50:11)

Blessings...treasures...Adam

I received a Mother's Day card from my son today...late...yes...but, oh, what a treasure! God has taught me so much about his love for me through my son, Adam. Though I rarely see him, my love for him is as strong as the day he was born! Just hearing his voice brightens my day....what a gift from God....

Matthew 11: 28-30 The Yoke of Jesus

Jesus said, "Come to ME, ALL who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take MY yoke upon you.....and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light." 

Yoke: Wooden frame placed on the backs of draft animals to make them pull in tandem. The simple yokes consisted of a bar with two loops either of rope or wood that went around the animals necks. More elaborate yokes had shafts connected in the middle with which the animals pulled plows or other implements.

Jesus invites us to join Him in His work. We are not working to get to Him, we respond to His call to join Him....to  be a part of something  far greater than ourselves...a life lived by the side of the ONE who bore OUR sins- and the sins of the entire world- on the wooden frame of Calvary, and who tells us that walking with Him means we will daily take up a cross ....yoked with Him..shoulder to shoulder.... but one day..this gentle, humble Jesus..will take the throne of David...the Promised Messiah...the Promised King....King Jesus!

"Blessed be the Lord, who daily bears our burden, the God who is our salvation!" 

"Cast your burden upon the LORD and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken!" 

(Ps. 55:22, 68:19))

Lease signing/God is in control

We're signing a lease today. I have to tell you about the way God orchestrated this whole thing. I emailed my sister (Cindy), who emailed her college friend in Knoxville (Mary) who called her realtor friend (Emma Bea) who called her friend from church. (I'll get back to you on her name later.) This church friend had seen a condo around the corner from her house, so Emma Bea went out to the condo units to inquire. She found 3, and in the meantime "bumped" into a friend of her daughters who was considering leasing her condo...she was Condo # 3. So, I called Condo 1 and left a message, spoke to condo 2...it was too much, and Condo 3 was Celeste...Emma Bea's daughter's friend. Celeste and I got excited thinking that God has put US together, because everything that came out of both of our hearts was the same. But, she needed to talk to her husband. They were trying to sell the condo, were building a house, it might not be ready until the 2nd week of June...IF it didn't rain...which it did for almost the entire month of this process....Anyway, in the meantime, condo 1 called back...which is the one I am leasing...Turns out that he and his wife are friends with Mary's inlaws.. in fact...they are in the same Bible study together...they started it together! Now, how is that! Celeste called back and said God had moved on her heart to continue to sell hers...so...there you go! God had laid this verse on my heart before the whole process began....."For My yoke is easy....and My burden is light." Matthew 11: 30. I am in the YOKE with Jesus Christ. ...No burden is too heavy....that He is not right there with me.....clearing the path....pulling the load...singing along the way!

Hot Dogs

Now, I know you might be surprised to hear me talking about hot dogs...but, I just found a hot dog that I can eat, and I think I have had 4 since Saturday! This is one of those times you think you have died and gone to heaven! Ketchup, mustard... Anyway, I had walked into Publix before Mother's Day, and they were promoting hot dogs up front. I got this huge craving for a hotdog..even bologne...now, I haven't had  a hotdog or bologne in over 20 years!  I have had migranes for 21 years, and I can't eat things with nitrates...and such...so, I went to the back of the store to see if anyone "out there" was making a hot dog I could eat...and yes, Maverick.....all beef hotdogs without preservatives! I buy Maverick meats whenever I can.  Thank goodness for Maverick..a little pricier...but, worth it in the long run for overall health. So, I have been munching on hotdogs...2 of them have been for breakfast! So, while you are having your cup of coffee in the morning..think of me....I might just be having a hot dog!

Change

Life is all about change....isn't it? We are constantly changing. I am 49 now, I color the grey, I need braces now due to teeth grinding....my back hurts a little more often.....but, change is also a good thing. I turned 49 in April, and since then I have started blogging, a new job, am moving back to my roots, and have joined....facebook!  What fun I am having  reconnecting with my friends! It is wonderful seeing pictures of their families, hearing about their lives...Ihonestly didn't realize I missed everyone so much until I saw their faces! And, July 4th weekend, I will attend my first high school reunion...yes...we have not had a reunion since....ok.....1978! I am really looking forward to seeing everyone...I mean, that is...if the move doesn't keep me away! So, I have 2 months to lose those last couple of pounds I have been procrastinating about....

Cindy-my sister

Today is Cindy's birthday...she is in Papua New Guinea. She and her family are missionaries with Wycliff Bible Translators. I miss her...but thankful she can be about the Lord's work. She is coming home next month...for a year! Furlough! It will be good to see her. She is a dear sister, and I thank God for her! Happy Birthday, Cindy! I love you!

Her name... is Faith.....

Sixty seven years ago, God placed part of Himself on this earth......my Mother...Faith.........

When Jesus was about to leave the earth to go back to the Father, Philip asked Him, "Lord, show us the Father...(John 14: 8). Jesus said, "He who as seen Me, has seen the Father." (John 14: 9)

If you were to ask me, "Show me your Mother, " I would say to you....He who has seen my mother...has seen Jesus....

"Jesus got up from supper, and laid aside His garments, and taking a towel, He girded Himself. Then He poured water into the basin, and began to wash the disciples feet and to wipe them with the towel which He was girded. "You call Me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. If I then, the Lord and the teacher, washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. For I gave you an example that you also should do as I did to you." John 13: 1-17.

Mother has the heart and the actions of a servant....she has walked with the Teacher....she has walked with the Lord....

There is an indention on her couch...where she sits..... and reads....and meditates........and prays......She is a faithful student of the Word....a faithful teacher of the Word.....a faithful doer of the Word.....Mother is a faithful Christian, wife, mother to four, grandmother to nine, friend, and neighbor. She is a talented pianist, cook, seamstress, schoolteacher, and homemaker. She is witty, intelligent, creative and fun. 

Mother is everything a mother should be...and more......

Forty nine years ago....God blessed me...by placing me inside the womb of a 18 year old teenage girl....I have never seen anything but love in her eyes........She is my cheerleader, my encourager, my mentor...my friend......

A Proverbs 31 lady, I count it a priviledge to be her daughter. Though she will humbly tell me that I have raved way too much, I can only tell you and her that there will never be enough or even adequate words to describe the heigth and width and depth and breadth of who she is, and the impact she has had on my life!

Thank you, God...for Faith.....Thank you for my mother!

Happy Mother's Day, Mother...thank you....for everything!

I love you!

On a Funny Note

Ashley just walked in the room and said,  "Mother, I have a new song for you...."On the blog again.....just can't wait to be on that blog again....." Ha! I really AM working while I write. Part of my job is updating addressess with a handheld computer, and it is slow......so, while I am waiting, I can type a few lines. Ashley makes me laugh....God knows that I can be too serious sometimes, so He has woven people into my life like Ashley....

Being a Mother

I am thankful for the opportunity to be a Mother! God entrusted me twice with His sweet gifts! Being a mother has allowed me to understand more about God's love for me. God loves me unconditionally, wants the best for me, (which doesn't mean that I get everything I want), hurts with me and for me, protects me, cheers for me, laughs with me, and just wants to be my friend. He wants me around Him all the time, and loves to see me "come through the door" into His presence.He loves to listen, and wants me to become all that I was meant to be. He forgives me, understands me, and is just happier when He knows that I want to spend time with Him. He loves to see me love others, and is more concerned about my character than my comfort. He loves me enough to say no...and discipline me....and tell me why....no question is too irritating, I am never a "bother" to Him...He doesn't want me to be fake about my anger toward Him. He doesn't mind the question"why."......He wants an honest and real relationship....He welcomes my point of view....and gently allows me to see truth one step at a time. He is always there...He is always the same. His love for me is eternal...He sacrificed His own life for me....He is love....Thank you, God...for allowing me to be a mother.

A Christian Crew Leader/A Christian Mother

I am blessed to have a Christian Crew Leader (manager). It's so nice to be able to freely talk about the LORD, and enjoy each other. We met together this morning to work on an assignment, and she told me that her mother went to be with the LORD in November...Mother's Day for her this year is difficult. I am thankful for my Mother, for the fact that we have a great relationship..and for the fact that I can still see her, talk to her on the phone, and spend time with her. Oh, how I will miss her when she goes to be with the LORD.  Mother and I talk on the phone almost every day..how I love to hear her sweet voice! What an encouragement she is to me...what an inspiration! I encouraged my manager to blog......about her mother.......as I plan to do about mine.........I have really enjoyed blogging.....if no one ever reads my blogs....I can tell you.....that is has been fun for me, and has given me a place to express myself.  Ashley found the cute background for me...it really suits me....and, counting my blessings each day....just....makes me happier! 

Dad and Mother

How thankful I am for my parents! I will not attempt, at this late hour, to even begin to try to express my gratitude for them! Only God knows the hours they have spent in prayer for me, the sacrifices they have made, and the impact they have had on my life. God has blessed me. I have been priviledged to be their daughter for 49 years, and to have observed a man and a woman..in love with God, His people, the lost,  family and friends, and each other.  Mother and Dad, thank you....thank you...thank you......for leading me to God, for loving me, for everything you have done for me...seen and unseen....you are the greatest! And, I love you!

For Richer or Poorer

Things are moving rather quickly. I have talked to movers, been talking to folks in Knoxville about housing, getting things in line for the move. It's like walking to the Red Sea and wondering how you are going to cross...and then turning to look at Jesus and remembering..oh, yea...the sea is Yours. No worries. It's all about choice. You choose to believe..or, you choose not too. You choose to insult Jesus...or love Him enough to believe....

With all of my heart....I want Jesus to know that I love Him, I trust Him, and I believe in Him. I want Him to know that I will stand by Him if He blesses me or not.  I want Him to know that in sickness and in health, for richer or poorer, through the good and the bad, I will stand by His side and love Him...as He so loves me. 

 

Lifeway

I am transferring June 1 to Lifeway Christian Bookstore in Knoxville. I spoke to my new manager today, and had a wonderful conversation. I have worked part time for Lifeway since February 2008, and I have met some wonderful people. How I love working in this bookstore! I started with Lifeway in Jacksonville, transferred to Orlando, and now transferring to Knoxville. What a ministry! One day I will share more about some of the experiences I have had in working there. One of my favorite moments was watching a mother leave the bookstore with her 2 young daughters and 3 Bibles...one for each of them. We spent a good bit of time together looking at options. How it warms my heart to think of them sitting at their house...learning to love God's word as much as I do! How I love the word of God...it is so facinating! God is so intricate. Just this week I was listening to Beth Moore's tapes on "Just Give Me Jesus" as she was talking about the thorns in Genesis....how the thorns were the curse...and Jesus wore the curse on his head....you think you have read Genesis and should know it by now...and then......We, brothers and sisters, need each other. God reveals Himself to each of us in different ways, and what a blessing it is to learn from each other. That's one reason I love the bookstore so much....I was thinking this week that I have so many people to thank...who have inspired me, and challenged me, and taught me....all from the pages of a book! 

Praise to our King-Psalm 145

"I will extol YOU, my God, O King, and I will bless Your name forever and ever. Every day I will bless You, and I will praise Your name forever and ever. Great is the LORD, and highly to be praised, and His greatness is unsearchable. One generation shall praise Your works to another, and shall declare Your mighty acts. On the glorious splendor of Your majesty and on Your wonderful works, I will meditate. Men shall speak of the power of Your awesome acts, and I will tell of Your greatness. They shall eagerly utter the memory of Your abundant goodness and will shout joyfully of Your righteousness.

Ps. 86: 11-13

How thankful I am for the WORD of  God! What comfort I receive from God! There are days I wake up and seem to be bombarded by all the cares of this world, but a WORD from God gives me encouragement, and perspective. I had written this on a notecard, and it "fell" into my hands this morning...I plan to carry it with me today. 

"Teach me YOUR way, O LORD; I will walk in YOUR truth; unite my heart to fear YOUR name. I will give thanks to YOU, O Lord my God, with all my heart, and will glorify YOUR name forever. For YOUR lovingkindness toward me is great, and YOU have delivered my soul from the depths of sheol. 

Halleluia to the LAMB of GOD! Worthy is the LAMB to receive power and riches and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and blessing! 

Eyes on the Shepherd..Eyes on the Lamb...Listening to truth.....from the GREAT I AM!

More work!

After lunch, I got a call from my manager. She had called her manager, requesting more work, and he agreed to move us to another territory. We will continue to work! God is so good! I spent so many days worrying in the past...and found that God always works things out. For the most part, I really try not to worry. It is HARD, sometimes, but I think of God's provisions in the past...and take Him at His word. God loves us and will never fail or forsake us!It has been a HOT day today, but beautiful! Orlando is full of animals...it is fun seeing the many different kinds of birds..the sand cranes are fun to watch.. I love watching the birds! I often see deer, rabbits, raccoons, armadillos...I love nature! After spending 11 years in a call center, the only place I wanted to be was...outside! I enjoy being outside, but finding shade around here is a challenge! So many of these subdivisions have few trees! But, I do manage to find shade. I am doing my best to stay hydrated. I hope you have had a great day! I have! Keep pressing on! Let's keep counting our blessings!

Speaking of setbacks

I just spoke to my manager who told me that my job would probably be finished by Friday. This job was supposed to be a 40 daylight hour, 8 week assignment. It hasn't been. The hours were cut back to 35 at one point, there was no work somedays, and the only reason I actually have work to do this week is because I asked to go to another area. Disappointed, yes. Tempted to worry, yes. . Tempted to complain, yes. Then I come home to make a sandwich and the bread I just bought is moldy. Ok...The reason I chose "Singing Along the Way" for my blog name is because I want to be a joyful Christian. I want to Sing when things look gloomy. I want to allow Jesus to shine through me...even when things in life get frustrating. So, I "cast my care upon the LORD" for He loves me and will continue to guide me...through the rough spots of life. I will not complain today, I will sing and be thankful for the work that I have to do today. Jesus said, "So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of it's own." Now, to share the praises of today, I have a realtor in Knoxville working on my housing, the day is beautiful, I DO have food to eat, I had a wonderful conversation with my dear Mother...and it's only noon. So, back to work...who knows what the LORD has in store for the rest of the day. I press on...We press on toward the upward calling of God in Christ Jesus. Isn't it a blessing to remember that one day we will be on streets of gold, and there will not be these little problems! How thankful I am that the King of Kings chose me, saved me and is daily by my side! 

Demi Anne

Demi is our yorkshire terrier. She was given to Ashley, by her dad, for Ashley's 15th birthday. She was 2 1/2. When I agreed to having our first "pet," I told Ashley that I would not spend more than 15 dollars on this "free dog." And, she was not to be on the furniture, on the beds, and she better not make a mess! Well, that was 7 years ago! She is now not a "pet" she is our baby! She has 15 outfits..most of them in pink...and has full range of the house. In fact, every night she sleeps with me! To tell you how things have changed...I woke up this morning to a strange smell...I opened my eyes to find the backside of a dog about 2 inches from my face! Demi has been a great pet. She is well trained, lovable, and has taught me why people love their pets they way they do. I remember having a neighbor, years ago, who talked and talked about her poodle. I thought she was nuts! Now, I understand. We must find hotels that accept dogs, and have never left her with anyone, other than family. We have just found our first "sitter" and we love her. The company is called Fetch, and if you need a great sitting company...just check out this company. Anyway, Demi is always by my side...sometimes to my annoyance...but, she has brought Ashley and I so much happiness that we don't mind. I have to tell you that Demi has had cancer, has IBS, has needed stitches after falling off my bed into an end table, eats 6.99 pound hamburer meat twice daily....she is no longer "free" but, we love her. 

The eyes of Jesus

Ashley was supposed to babysit yesterday for the neigbors, but to stay positive....disappointments, frustrations...are always going to be a part of life on planet earth. Yes, people can be rude, forgetful, and forget to call you and tell you that plans have changed..but, what can you do? We decided to go to Epcot, since we had a paid day left that needed to be used, so we started out for Epcot. I realized I was out of gas, so I stopped at the gas station and pumped 7.00 worth of gas, and the pump shut off. I was told the pump was now out of order...and to pull to another pump. ARGG! I had to drive to another pump and start again. I really do try to walk in the peace of Jesus, but...I will tell you...I do have those human reponses. So, while I am "stewing" about having to start at another pump.....Ashley notices a young man, probably early 20's, sitting at a pump next to us. His windows were rolled down, babyseat in the back (no baby), counting his change so he could get some gas. The car was an older car...it was a moment when you realize there are people out there who are having problems worse than yours. Ashley brought it to my attention, and we helped him. I don't tell you this to "toot our own horns"...only to say that we both were reminded that frustration of plans is-in many ways-the LORD's way of helping another. Had Ashley been babysitting, we would not have been at the pump. Had the first pump not shut off, we would not have been at the pump beside this fellow who clearly needed help. Does God see? Oh, yes! "HIS eye is on the sparrow...and I know...He watches me! Matthew 6. "My daughter noticed you might need some help...actually Jesus noticed you might need some help...we would like to give you some gas money." His eyes lit up..."Thank you...I was just trying to count this change." "Jesus loves you, and cares...this money is from Him." This experience spoke to Ashley and me. We drove in silence for awhile..thanking God for the opportunity to help someone. What a good feeling it is to help someone in need...thank you, God for teaching us that frustrations are all in YOUR hands for your purposes and YOUR will. May we walk with our eyes wide open...may we have the eyes of the LORD everywhere we go! And when we encounter frustrations or change, I hope we will remember to look around for what the LORD is going to do next!

God's gift-Ashley

God gave me a beautiful gift 21 years ago...my daughter, Ashley. And before I take one more step, I want to publically thank God for Ashley...so, Thank you, God! " And, I want to publically thank Ashley for all that she means to me so...Thank you, Ashley!" Ashley and I have become wonderful friends. I really enjoy her company. God has kept us on the same path, and I'm glad. She is one of the few that can make me laugh until my insides hurt. She is one of the few that I can really be myself with. We have had a lot of fun over the years, but as she has walked with me, she has also experienced some of my pain, my sorrows, my confusions, my mistakes. The bond of friendship develops when 2 people experience the highs and lows together, and still stay committed to the relationship. Well, I need to get going. I have lots to do today...believe it or not, I plan to move from Orlando to Knoxville by the end of the month..and, I have no idea where I am going to live or work....what movers I am going to use...if I am going to sell furniture or not....and all of those decisions you have to make when you move. Oh, and...I am moving because Ashley has been accepted to UTK...and I am going, too....someone has to keep her.....I mean.........me, straight! 

Back to Tennessee

I am getting ready to pack my bags (and a 26 ft truck), preparing for the next chapter of my life. I am headed back to "God's country," a place that I really love. I was born in Tennessee 49 years ago, and left when I was 10. I found my way back there for college, and left when I graduated. They say you can take the country out of the girl, but you can't take the girl out of the country...or, something like that. I have to say, I have really missed Tennessee. I miss the mountains, the snow, the changing of the leaves in the fall, country fall fesivals, and finding neat places to hike. I love the outdoors. I have so many fond memories of living in Tennessee....but, that is for another post. The verse that God gave me on March 17, 09 is this: "For you will go out with joy, and be led forth with peace; the mountains and the hills will break forth into shouts of joy before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands." Isaiah 55: 12. God is so good! It's as if the LORD said, "Naomi, the mountains have missed you, too, and can't wait to see you return." I can just imagine the mountains and the hills clapping when I get there! And then I thought, "But the biggest applause will be for Jesus...for He will be leading the way....my Prince of Peace...Jesus...leads the way! He is my shepherd. He is my Savior! He is my friend! Feel free to join me on this journey. I am on my way to Tennessee...but, I am also on my way home...walk with me when you can...I hope to be of encouragement to you...