Pet of the week

Two weeks ago, we were enjoying our last day in South Carolina.

This week's pet is a English Retriever.

Looking for his next command.
Now that is obedience.
I almost forgot, his name is Gus. 

Be thankful

Be thankful in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

I Thessalonians 5:18 (New Living Translation)

Food for the Journey

"Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. "
Joshua 1:8

This scripture is from the morning's message at church. 

Great spiritual food for the journey. 

Traveling home after this morning's  message in church.
Lincoln Square Pancake House… great physical food.
I had to have a doggie bag.

Hanging of the Greens

What is the "Hanging of the Greens? Some churches, organizations and universities hold service to decorate parts of their buildings. What is the significance?    The Advent Season is a time for people to prepare both their hearts and their homes for the coming of Christ.

At the  University of the Cumberland in Willamsburg, Kentucky, they will hold their  Hanging of the Greens service on December 3, 2013. The serve will be in the Chapel.

I wonder how they will decorate this area of their building. 

 This is part of the building at the University of the Cumberlands here in Kentucky.
We had dinner in the the restaurant to the right of the staircase.
I bet this area will be even more lovely after it is decorated.

Pet of the week, Moose

"Know yourself. Don't accept your dog's admiration as conclusive evidence that you are wonderful." 

Ann Landers

Moose is a cross between a Poodle and a Cocker Spaniel.
He loves running after this tennis ball.

Home

“There is nothing like staying at home for real comfort.”

Jane Austen

This is such an inviting path.

The door to the store
(like my rhyme? )

If I had a pet, this bed would be cute. 

The Abundant Life

What does the abundant life look like to you?

Last week, one of my favorite phrases was, “ You are living the life!”  What did I mean?  This is in part what I meant… It is a blessing to enjoy good health and resources where you are able to travel and enjoy special times with family.  Living the blessed life does not consist of material resources or possessions.

Last week, we were able to spend time in South Carolina. At our last night in the area, we met a delightful couple. As we were waiting for a table, we had a pleasant conversation.  Our conversation ended  when  Jerry and I were escorted us to a table.

Once seated at our table, I asked,” Jerry, I wonder if they would like to join us for dinner.” 

 A simple invitation allowed us to become better acquainted with this couple.

Our conversation lingered over dinner, dessert and tea.  Tim and Joan are a wonderful example of how living in obedience to Christ  allows us to enjoy His blessings and endure the struggles in life. Struggles allow us to depend on God and rely on His strength.

Tim and Joan… new friends…
Who will you invite to dinner?
What lessons will they share with you?
Joy is contagious!

As my teaching leader so beautifully said this week, “ Jesus forgives our sins so we can walk and live abundantly for Him.” A blessed life is not about living a self centered life.

This is what Jesus said in the Gospel of John,

“ I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.

John 10:10 (b) … (New King James Version)

Buttons from Bluffton

Located near Hilton Head and Savannah, Bluffton might be missed if it were not the quaint

shops. This charming city is a must see every time I visit the area. This year I noticed a newly opened antique store. Hmm, what will I discover inside… antique buttons!
Perfect for the Tuesday’s Common Thread meeting on button bracelets!

Today's buttons are from Lexington.
Today's lesson..
First you measure for the bracelets.
Next, they select buttons for the design.
Then, thread the needle

Monday Musings

  The Merriam -Webster Dictionary defines hero as a person who is admired for great acts or brave qualities. We look at an person's bravery in the midst of difficulties and it makes us want to emulate their strength.

My friend Diana was one of those everyday heroines. In the midst of a cancer diagnosis and treatment, she exhibited extra- ordinary courage. She inspired her family and friends.

Over the past few years, she was valiant in her determination to seek every available treatment for a cure.  Without  complaint, Diana and her husband Joe would travel to MD Anderson for treatment. Once traditional treatment had run its course, she volunteered for clinical trials at M.D. Anderson.

Over the course of her illness, we were able to celebrate each victory. Encouraged by good reports, we savored our visits and talks.  When there were setbacks, I remembered to lift her up in prayer.

As a former airline stewardness, she remained classic in her beauty. She was beautiful. I would always comment on a particular piece of jewelry or sweater. She would share, "QVC!" We laughed. We both enjoyed  shopping on QVC. 

Last month, we had our last phone visit. It was a lovely visit. I reminded of her sweet character.
Tomorrow would have been her birthday. 

Last night, surrounded by her husband, son, and daughter, she died peacefully at her home. 

I will miss her.