Friendship Friday

"Thank you for being a friend.

Travel down the road and back again.

Your heart is true, you're a pal and a confident.

And if you threw a party, invited everyone you knew.

You would see the biggest gift would be from me

and the card attached would say,

thank you for being a friend. " 

Lyrics Andrew Gold

 In Honor of Betty White 1922 - 2021

While this song was the theme song for the Golden Girls. I think this song is appropriate for any group of friends. 

As 2021 draws to an end, I trust you have fond memories of dear friends and look forward to making new memories with friends in 2022. 

The picture below is of a group of men that exercise at the Y. In the past,  due the pandemic, they would  meet in the parking lot. More recently they are meeting in the lobby at the Y. 

I pray God will be bless you with health, peace and joy in 2022. 

Bring Us Great Joy

"Father. let us remember that the good news of Jesus' birth has the power to bring us great joy this Christmas season. Our joy isn't dependent on what is going on in our life, our world or the people that we are with. It doesn't depend on the gifts we give or the gifts we find under the tree. No earthly thing can ever complete joy. Our joy come from you. That joy that flooded the hearts of the Shepards, the angels, the wise men, the hosts of heaven, and Mary and Joseph is the joy that still has the power to overwhelm our hearts with rejoicing."

Hope Bolinger offered this prayer.

This prayer was offered as one of many for Family Blessings Christmas Dinner that was available online. 

Christmas Week preparations ...

 Over the past  several weeks, friends are quick to share about their Christmas preparations. Friends are asking the question,"Are you ready for  Christmas?  Folks are willing to give  details  about their menu planning, cookie sharing, stocking stuffing and  Christmas tree decorating plans. 

Yet... in the midst of Christmas preparations.

We also take care of normal daily duties... dentist appointments, annual physicals, and screenings. Some reports are good... some not so good. 

While we prepare for each season that God allows us to experience ... we ask God for His grace and strength to do the ordinary duties of every day life.

Thrifty Thursday

  Do you love hunting for treasures in thrift stores? Do you head for the clearance rack to see what goodies you are able to find? I like the hunt for deals.

I'm on a email mailing list that alerts me to seasonal bargains at a local store. In the past, this store will have shoppers lined up for blocks to find great deals. Giddy shoppers would shop with eager anticipation to see  what bargains would be available. Once inside, you will find table after table of assorted sale items. 

What would you find? You might find sweaters, bags, napkins, tablecloths, table runners, napkin rings, classes, cups, trays, pillow cases and so much more.

 No frills shopping. Tables covered in great bargains.  Yes! 🛍 I left with a bag of goodies. 

Old School House

"Old School Coffee . Where ethically source meets fast and friendly service! We believe coffee is more than just a beverage. It's an experience that needs to be celebrated and shared. Our customers deserve a quality cup of coffee from a verified source, and they should be able to get one without being late to work. "

Where is Old School Coffee located? 

This unique place is located in the historic Dudley Square. Originally constructed in 1881 where it served as Public School #3. It operated as a school from 1881 to 1925. This building still maintains it 'old school' charm. 

If you every travel to my city, I will treat you to a great cup of coffee. 

 

Tasty Tuesday

In the midst of the tragedy from the havoc of the tornados, organizations, businesses, and churches are providing food for the survivors and the first responders in western Kentucky. 

Here are just a few of the businesses  who are providing food for our neighbors in the Mayfield and other cities in western Kentucky.

• Tyson Foods donated 600,000 meals
• Seven Louisville Food Trucks have been delivering food
• Mercy Chefs deployed their first meals less than 24 hours after the tornadoes hit the cities within a 250 mile radius. 

Prayers and actions are going together to make a difference to those who are suffering and pain. 

Monday Musings

In the past, a Sunday School Christmas program at our church would include prayers, scriptures, songs and a time for fellowship. 

That was before the pandemic. 

Last year, in the midst of the pandemic and before the vaccines were widely  available, our faith  community like many others had to  creative in offering worship options. We gathered around our computers to attend virtual services. It was different.

Yesterday, we gathered on our church grounds. We were bundled up in our  coats, hats, scarves, and mittens.  We had a portal heater that offered additional heat. Although the weather was chilly, it was a glorious sunny afternoon. 

What did this gathering look like? Our students read scriptures,  offered prayers, sang Christmas hymns, and played Christmas theme games. We even had a Hot Cocoa and S'more stations. Our children even created Christmas cards that they will deliver to a local nursing home. 

While our gatherings looked different. In person or virtual ... The Good News continues to be shared!  The truth of scriptures does not change.

 Our pastor delivered the Good News. A Savior is Born. God Loves Us.  He offered a wonderful question. What Gift would Jesus like?  

Advent ... Joy

 "And the angel said unto them,  Fear not: for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. 

Luke 2:10 

Friendship Friday

 "Friendship isn't a big thing,

its a million

little things

The Art of Female Friendship"

Author: Becca Anderson

Advent truth ...

"The darker the world becomes the 

more I long for the light

The light is coming 

Ready yourself to see the light and 

to show it to others still drowning in 

darkness

The light shines in

darkness and the darkness has

 not overcome it  Be the 

light  Show the light" 

Karen Prior Swallow

Jesus speaking:

"I am the light of the world. He who follow me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of the life." John 8:12

Mercedes

 

Friendship Friday

 An Irish Prayer

May God give you, for every storm, a rainbow,

For every tear, a smile,

For every care, a promise

And a blessing for each trial.

For every problem life sends, a faithful friend to share,

For every sigh, a sweet song.

And an answer for each prayer. 

Author unknown

Thrifty Thursday

"Goodwill Industries was founded in 1902 by Rev. Edgar J. Helms, a Methodist and a social innovator. Helms collected used household goods and clothing in wealthier areas of Boston, then trained and hired those who were poor to mend and repair the used goods. The goods were then were either resold or given to people who repaired them. The system worked, and the Goodwill philosophy of "hand up, not a hand out was born."

"Goodwill. America's Original Thrift. "  Quote was from South Carolina's Goodwill Web site. 

This young man serves at a local independent coffee shop.  Where did he get his sweater? At a local Goodwill Store. 

Musings...

 I love a good Hallmark movie. Do you think I should pitch this storyline to Hallmark Channel? 

Here is the plot synopsis:  There is a beautiful young woman travels the world teaching in several countries. A handsome young man travels the world serving in the military. She is from Indiana. He is from Michigan. They met at US Embassy event for  expatriates. They meet... fall in love... and get married while he is stationed on an island.

Is this story believable?  What do you think? 

Advent

Our Pastor's Sermon title:  Advent Announcement 

Scripture: Isaiah 7: 10 - 14

The four Sundays preceding  Christmas represent Advent. The candles on the Advent wreath represent four virtues, hope, love, joy and peace. 

Catholic and some Protestant church observe Advent... the anticipation of the birth of the Messiah, Jesus. 

Billy Graham said this about Advent: 

"Some churches emphasis the Advent Season more that others, but all Christians look forward to celebrating Christ's birth during this season of the year. Why was Jesus' birthday so important? The reason is because slightly over 2,000 years ago, God stopped done from Heaven and became a human being: Jesus Christ. As the Bible says.

The Word become flesh and made his dwelling among us.

John 1: 14 (NIV)

Here is a picture of our Advent Wreath. 

Online resources are available regarding Advent. 

Pudge, Pet of the week

 Pudge is adorable.  He is a big bundle of cute.  Pudge is an English Bulldog. 

"Animals are such agreeable friends - they ask no questions; they pass no criticism."

George Eliot, British Author

Pudge brings his owner such joy. Walks on the beach and life in South Carolina. What could be better? 

Friendship Friday

There is a special bond between first cousins. "Cousins are often a child's first best friend. They are friends which are related to you, which is even better." 

While there is a genetic bond between cousins, we are blessed because we share so much more. We are fortunate because we share our faith, hobbies, recipes, stories, hints, books, and so much more. 

Grateful this Thanksgiving week, I shared Thanksgiving with my cousin Cindy. 

 

A Taste of the South ... Shrimp and Grits

Earlier this month, on November 16, I attended a cooking demonstration facilitated by Nettie. After her demonstration, each participant enjoyed a bowl of  Shrimp and Grits. 

Who were the participants? We were travelers from all across the country. People were from Pennsylvania, Ohio, Kentucky, Colorado, Florida, and Quebec. In a little over an hour, we bonded over a meal.   I hope everyone will embrace this week of Thanksgiving and make gratitude a daily lifestyle.

"Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend."

Melody Beattie 

The grits were the best! 

Monday Musings ... Thanksgivng Week

Are you busy preparing for a busy Thanksgiving week?  Are you  busy cleaning, preparing, and cooking for a traditional get-together. One friend reminded us not to let the preparation cloud the importance spending time with the people we love.  

What will your Thanksgiving Day look like? Will you enjoy a quiet day? Will you travel to visit friends or family? Or maybe you will   share a meal with friends at a local restaurant.  I have heard this saying for the past two days, every day is a day of thanksgiving.  Do you agree? 

\

I like this quote from Annette Bridges:

"Gratitude, 

helps us to see what is there instead

of what isn't" 

Shout for joy ...

 "Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth.

Worship the Lord with gladness, 

come before him with joyful songs.

Know that the Lord is God.

It is he who had made us, and we are his.

We are his people, the sheep of his pasture.

Enter into his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise;

give thanks to him and praise his name.

For the Lord is good and his love endures forever,

his faithfulness continues through 

all generations. 

Psalm 100 

What motivates you?

 Last evening, I attended our Wednesday night Bible Study via Zoom. Our pastor posed this question: "What motivates you?"

This question was used as an introduction to the evening's study in his series of teaching Building Bridges:  Sharing the Good News.

 I loved the question, because it made me pause the think.

What really motivates me? Loving God, Loving People, and sharing God's love with others.

At one point in my life, pleasing my parents was my motivation. Then, I recalled a memory of of Daddy. What motivated my father? Every morning, my dad would begin his day by reading the Bible.  Each evening, he ended his day on his knees praying to God.

Today would have been my dad's 96 birthday! My Dad's example is a precious memory.

What motivates you? 

Monday Musings ... vacation

"Traveling in the company of those we love is home in motion."

Leigh Hunt

For five days,  our family experienced a sweet time of  vacationing together. Traveling from different parts of the country, we gathered for beach time. What did our time together look like? Walking on the beach, collecting sea shells, trying new recipes, exercising,  gathering around the dinner table, listening to music, laughing, discussing world events, and relaxing. 

... house on the sand

 " Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against the house; yet it did not fall because it had its foundation  on the rock., Everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.

When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowd were amazed at his teaching, because he taught as one who had authority, and not as their teachers of the law."

Matthew 7:24 - 29 (NIV) 

Pet of the week, Maddie

 

Maddie is Cairn Terrier. This terrier breed  has its origin in Scotland.  The breed is one the country's earliest  working dogs. 

 Maddie works at a boutique store in Hilton Head. She is a working dog that wears pearls.  Maddie is  a lovely example of keeping busy as you age. Maddie is 16 years of age. Other pearl necklaces are available for purchase. 

seeking friends ...

"Let us seek friends that will stir us up about our prayers, our Bible reading, our use of time, our souls, and our salvation."

J.C.Ryle 

Veterans Day

 

To our men and women in uniform,

past, present, and future,

God Bless you and keep you.

Thank you.

Source: unknown

A Taste of the South

 This afternoon I attended a Taste of the South: Southern Cooking Demonstration and Tasting 

Nettie's Fennel and Bean Soup

Ingredients

1/2 cup of chopped fennel from the bulb

1 cup of chopped onion 

1 tbsp of minced garlic

1/2 c of chopped celery

2 cans of diced tomatoes

1 box of chicken stock

1 can of great northern beans

1 can of cannelloni beans

1 pack of mild sausage

1 pack of Italian sausage

1 container of spinach

Steps

1. Saute onions, fennel, celery  and garlic. Cook until garlic is  light brown
2. Add in broth. sausages chopped into half an inch slices. Sautee until skin loosens and turns light brown,
3. Add tomatoes into the mixture
4. Add chicken stock, simmer until all ingredients combine about 20 minutes
5. Rinse beans in cold water. Drain. Add to mixture
6. Add a handful of spinach. Let simmer until soft about 10 minutes
7. Serve in a bowl with cornbread
8. This recipe serves 8... generous portions and more for leftovers. 

It was delicious! 

"To feel safe and warm on a cold and wet night, all you really need is soup."

Author: Laurie Colwin 

Monday Musings... birthday

 As I grow older

I'm grateful for the gift of life, family, and friends.

I am thankful for this incredible gift of another birthday.

Thank you God! 

💖🎂

So in everything

 "So in everything, 

do to others what you would have them do to you, 

for this sums up the Law and the Prophets." 

Matthew 7: 12

Pets of the week, Anna Rose and Teddy

"Happy is the home with at least one cat."

This Italian proverb speaks to those who love cats.   There is something so endearing and sweet about  Teddy and Anna Rose. Teddy is the gray kitty. Anna Rose is the sister to Teddy.

Special thanks to  Rhonda and Jeff for sharing this picture

These two have convinced me to become a cat owner. I just need to persuade my husband and dog. 

cats, books, and sunshine... perfect

Friendship Friday

 "If a person you are talking to doesn't appear to be listening, be patient. 

It may simply be that he has a

 small piece of fluff in his ear."

Winnie the Pooh

Monday Musings ... All Saints Day

All Saints Day  is celebrated on November 1 by the Roman Catholic Church. In addition,   the following  Protestant churches also celebrate this day; Lutheran, Anglican, and Methodist.

"All Saints Day is a a Christian solemnity celebrated in honor of all the saints of the church, whether they are known or unknown." Wikipedia

"Stoned to death around 35 CE, Stephen was the first Christian martyr to die for his beliefs. He is frequently portrayed as a young man wearing a deacon's cloak, holding stones used for his execution and palm fond indicating his matrydom. The painting of sculptures, known as polychromy, began in antiquity and was common until the last sixteenth century, persisting in Germany and Austria in the 1700's" Source Josyln Museum 

 Saint Stephen 

This sculpture is located in the Joslyn Museum, Omaha Nebraska

 

Super Saturday

 

Some people give the gift of love and truth to every life they touch. My friend is  blessedly reliable, dependably good, predictably pleasant, loved and treasured. My friend is treasure! 

This quote was adapted from Naturally Irish 

Today, we took time to celebrate her recent birthday. It was  joy to hear how God has blessed her, guided her, and comforted her in time of need. What a sweet time of joy and fellowship. 

#80looksgoodonher

Thrifty Thursday

My Daddy had many sayings. I like this saying the best.  "It is not how much you make,  it's what you do with what you make."

Indeed.

It has been my goal to be a good steward of the resources that of which God has entrusted to me. Stewardship includes more than finances. It includes our time and  health.

In 1789, John Wesley preached a sermon entitled, The Use of Money.  "John Wesley wasn't  against people having money, nor did he think money was evil. "For Wesley, "Money was an excellent gift from God, answering the noblest ends. In the hands of his children it is food for the hungry, drink for the thirsty, raiment for the naked."

Budgets are a tool to help us make the most of our financial resources. 

What is your favorite season?

"Fall has always been my favorite season. 

The time when everything burst with its last beauty, 

as if nature has been saving up all year for the grand finale."

Lauren Destaefano 

... who can explain God?

 "Have you ever come on anything quite like this extravagant generosity  of God, this deep, deep wisdom? It's way over our heads. We'll never figure it out.

Is there anyone around who can explain God?

Anyone smart enough to tell him what to do?

Anyone who had done him such a huge favor that God has to ask his advice?

Everything comes from him;

Everything happens through him;

Everything ends up in him.

Always glory! Always praise!

Yes! Yes! Yes!

Romans 11: 33-36 ( Message) 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

oreo

Oreo is the pet of the week. Oreo like other guinea pigs must have access to fresh water, hay, pellets, and vegetables. 

One of my exercise buddies shared these words regarding Oreo. 

"One mans trash is truly another's treasure. Oreo was free on a swap site and from the day we pick him up, he has brought our son unlimited joy." Becky

Becky's son Sam is the happy caregiver for Oreo. Sam attends a local school in our community.  

Friendship Friday

Turkish Proverbs offer a fresh way of examining every day life.  What is a proverb? This is one online definition: a short pithy saying in general use, stating a general truth or a piece of advice.

 Pick a subject, I bet there is a Turkish Proverb for the situation. For example,  this Turkish Proverb is about friendship: "Real friend talks bitter."

What does it mean? 

"A real friend always tells the truth - 

including when their friend is wrong -

even with it hurts."

I am grateful for the friendship of Ayse. 

Thirfty Thursday

 "Have you ever made a purchase you were not intending to make? Maybe you saw a beautiful handbag and thought to yourself - I need that! This type of purchase is called an impulse purchase and Americans are estimated to spend $182.98 a month on them. In fact, research shows that in 2020 we spent 18% more on purchases as the pandemic went on." 

"Obviously, shelling out  nearly $200 in unplanned expenses a month isn't a good idea for your budget." Source: Clever Girl Finance

Last week, I made two impulse purchases. Where? One was in a bookstore and the other was in the grocery store.  

Before going to a store, I made a list of the things I need.  Then, the impulse to buy something got the better of me. 

What are your tips for avoiding impulse purchases.

Here are mine.

•  Beware of the items at the check out counter at grocery stores. 
• Don't sit and look at  any home shopping networks. They are designed to entice buyers.
• Pose this question to myself ... Do I really need this? Or do I want this? 
• Set a time for a fast. Buy only items I need to prepare meals. 

This magazine was at the check out counter. $13.99 

Tasty Tuesday

 "A meal is the whole experience is getting together and sharing with friends.

It is more than food." 

Jinny Fleishman

Monday Musings

 "Never neglect small details, even to the point of being pest. Moments of stress, confusion, and fatigue are exactly where mistakes happen. And when everyone else's mind is dull or distracted, the leaders must be doubly vigilant. Always check the 'small' things." 

Colin Powell

1937 - 2021

Be on your guard

 "Be on your guard;

stand firm in the faith;

be courageous;

be strong.

Do everything in love."

1 Corinthians 16: 13 -14

Tasty Tuesday

Are you able to list some indigenous foods? Here is a short list.

Squash, Pumpkin, Kale, Corn, Quinoa, Sweet Potato, Beans, Peppers, Wild Rice, Amaranth, Chia Seeds, Sunflower Seeds, Pine Nuts, Acorns...

Native America Cuisine include what has been called as the "Magic Eight" Corn, Beans, Squash, Chiles, Tomatoes, Potatoes, Vanilla, and Cacao.

If you travel to Minnesota here are some Indigenous Restaurants you might visit.

• Gatherings Cafe
• Indigenous Food Lab
• Owamni by the Sioux Chef
• Niiwin Indigenous Food Market
• Pow Wow Grounds
• Minneapolis American Indian Center

Monday Musings ... 1492

 "In 1492, Columbus sailed the ocean blue ..."

I remember this little saying from my elementary days. It was a simple rhyme to help students remember this date. Many years later, I learned that historians believe that  Lief Ericksson actually reached North America nearly 500 years earlier. So when Columbus reached the Bahamas on October 12, 1492, he was not the first European to arrive in North America. 

"While Columbus never discovered America but his voyage was no less courageous." He did reach the coasts of Cuba, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic.  Today, there is a plethora of information regarding Columbus .

The Biography Online Newsletter sums up their online article "Good or bad, Columbus created a bridge between the old and new world. "

This tiny sailing vessel has little in common with the vessel that Columbus navigated.

...do not give up.

"Let us not become weary 

in doing good,

for at the proper time

we will reap a harvest 

if we do not give up."

Galatians 6:9 (NIV)

 

Pet of the week, Cookie

 Cookie lives in Indiana with my niece and her family. I appreciate that they are responsible pet owners. They are attentive, aware, and sensitive to the needs of guests. 

Not everyone is comfortable to be around dogs. As a dog owner, I understand how many friends  may not feel comfortable around dogs. When family or friends arrive, our dog is secured in another part of the house.

Special thanks to Dawn for sharing this picture of Cookie.  Earlier this week, I was able to enjoy a short visit with them while they are on Fall Break. 

Friendship Friday ... good stuff

Giving credit to Lysa TerKeurst for sharing this on her Instagram post tonight. 

"Three things to help a friend going through something tough.

Instead of "Are you okay?" text this:

1.  "You are strong and brave. And if you ever have a day you forget that, I'm here to remind you." 

Instead of, 'What can I do text this:

2.  "I have a gift bag of practical items I always seem to need - so I just hung it on your front door. You are loved and thought of today."

Instead of unsolicited advice text this: 

3. "If you ever want to feel less alone in the hard stuff. I'm here to listen, share my our current brokenness, or just cry with you."

good stuff

Monday Musings ... life

 "The precious gift of life alone

is more than enough to 

give thanks to 

God on a daily basis."

Unknown

Macy and Mary Lou

 Macy and Mary Lou are Miniature Dachshunds. They are the smaller version of the standard Dachshund. 

While they may be small, they have big  personalities. Donna (their owner) describes Macy as the perfect princess. Mary Lou is a wicked little monkey. As she has grown older, Mary Lou is more mellow and not as naughty.  Dachshunds have a soft spot in my heart.  Heidi was my first pet. She was a Standard Long Hair Dachshund. 

Linda and I became friends as we exercise daily at the Y. 

Friendship Friday

On this first day of October, I am looking forward to cooler temperatures, cups of hot cider, chili, tailgating at football games,  and talking with friends over a cozy fire pit. 

Our  friendship has grown over the years.  Where did it begin?  Bible Study Fellowship. Maureen was the Teaching Leader when I was called into leadership.  Since then, they provided home cooked meals when I was recovering from surgery, several summer Bible Studies were held in their home, and providing transportation for my physical therapy sessions. 

Today, Paul is busy professionally in the medical community. Maureen serves a volunteer with CURE. 

What is CURE?  CURE International is a Christian non-profit organization that operates  a global network of eight children's hospitals providing world class surgical care and intentional spiritual care to children living with treatable disabilities. 

Thrifty Thursday

 "Industry, thrifty, and self control are not sought because they create wealth, 

but because they create character."

Calvin Coolidge ( 1872 - 1933) 

What are you afraid of?

 That was the question posed in tonight's Bible Study from Nashville, Tennessee.  I attended this study virtually via Zoom. Our facilitator listed a whole list of fears that the  participants shared. What are you afraid of?

My take away from tonight's lesson, The Word and the Spirt are indeed enough.  God indeed will help me through our fears. 

I need to keep my focus on God. 

Tasty Tuesday

 a party without

CAKE

is just a 

meeting

Julia Child

Monday Musings ... war zones

 Early this morning, I was chatting  with a friend at the Y. As we chatted, I asked her, 'How is work?"

She said ... 

"I know what it must feel like to be in a war zone. Each day, I feel like I am in one. We are short staffed, under stress and face so many challenges. We are seeing many people in their twenties are very sick. "

I had no idea ... 

To compare going to work as a war zone is quite terrifying. Please pray for individuals who are doctors, nurses, and all of the medical staff. 

John Le Carre said this about War Zones.

"In every war zone that I've been in, there has been a reality and then there has been the public perception of why the war was being fought. In every crisis, the issues have been far more complex that the public has been allowed to know.

In the war against sickness and disease, we know that there are many front line workers.  We don't hear their countless stories from inside hospital corridors and emergency rooms.

While we many never know their individual stories, our all-knowing God is aware of every hurt and ache in every hospital room. 

 

Pet of the week, Quimby

 Quimby is this week's pet. Attentive, well behaved, and a bundle of sweetness. Why do we love our pets? Why did God create dogs? 

One political operative gave his thoughts in an  opinion article he penned September 16, 2021. While you may not agree with his politics, I think we can agree with his thoughts. Here is quote from his piece.

" ... God grants us pets to encourage us to give and receive unconditional love - to see loyalty personified and to remind us that we must balance joy and delight with loss an grief in this transitory life." 

Karl Rove

Friendship Friday

 "Friendship is a sheltering tree;

Oh the joys that came down shower-like,

Of friendship, love, and liberty, ...

Samuel Taylor Coleridge

I treasure my friendship with these dear women. Our conversations offer a safe place to share what is on our hearts. 

Monday Musings... two huge lies

"Our culture has accepted the two huge lies. The first is that if you disagree with someone's lifestyle, you must fear or hate them. The second is that to love someone means you agree with everything they believe, say or do. Both are nonsense. You don't have to compromise to be compassionate."

Dave Chappelle 

Friendship Friday

Keep your 

~ FRIENDS Close ~

and your

Bourbon 

Closer

Rev. Elijah Craig was a Baptist minister and is reported to have discovered bourbon whiskey more that two centuries ago. 

Today, there are nine bourbon distillers in Kentucky.  The Commonwealth of Kentucky is known for the Kentucky Derby, the Creation Museum,  Mammoth Cave, Kentucky Wildcats Sports, and the city of Lexington as Horse Capital of the World. Kentucky has also been described as the Front Porch of the South. 

Friday tip... plan a trip to enjoy the Bourbon Trail with friends. You don't have to drink to enjoy the history of Bourbon and its impact on Kentucky and the country.  

Wednesday in the Word

This past April,  I was a member of a study, "The Feasts of the LORD. This fall, I am participating in the study titled, Stepping out in Faith: A Visit to a Portrait Gallery.

I'm looking forward to what I will learn in this class. 

 

Tasty Tuesday

 Ale -8 - One is Kentucky's Original Soft Drink. This drink has a unique combination of ginger and citrus flavors.  The company's slogan:  The Best of the BLUEGRASS in green glass.This company is based in Winchester, Kentucky since 1926. 

In addition to its special  taste this company remains the oldest privately owned  bottlers in the United States.  Coca Cola owns  40% of the company.

Where is Ale 8 is available? You may purchase this drink in Kentucky, Indiana and Ohio. In addition, individuals may purchase it  through Amazon. 

Monday Musings ... Family

 Our annual Carter Family Reunion was held this weekend.  For sixty-six years, our family have gathered  Labor Day Weekend to reconnect with family.

 This year's gathering was especially sweet since last year the pandemic prevented us from meeting in person.  The weather was glorious! Music, laughter, and the aroma of food filled the air at the park. 

Our family is circle of strength;  

founded on faith, 

joined in love, 

kept by God, together forever."

Unknown. 

...forgive anyone who offends you

 " Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility. gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other's faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember. the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony."

Colossians 3: 12 - 14 (NLT)

Savannah

This week's pet is Savannah. I met Savannah and her owners today at a rest stop in Kentucky. They are from Illinois, spending the night in Kentucky and tomorrow they will continue their travels to North Carolina .It is amazing how much information we share when we talk about our pets.

Savannah is a Goldendoodle.  This "designer dog" is a hybrid resulting from breeding a Poodle and a Golden Retriever.   This crossbreed is popular because of its many positive qualities. For example, they are know for their intelligence, trainability. and friendly disposition.

 

Thrifty Thursday

"Did you know that Americans use more that 13 billion paper towels each year and that number is growing steadily?" That is a staggering number!  In the same  online blurb, "it states that globally 254 tons of paper towels are discarded each year." Source: Online  

Those numbers are astonishing. 

Over the past several months, I have reduced my use of paper towels by increasing the number of rags I use for cleaning.  It also serves as one way to save money. 

Products like this Swedish dishcloth  pictured below are designed to help reduce the number of paper towels you use. They are more absorbent than paper towels and are able to be used over and over again. You are able to pop them in the washing machine or the top rack of the dishwasher.  The company states that you can wash it up to 200 times. Hmm. We will see. 

How do you cut down on your paper towel usage? 

September Days are here...

 By all these

lovely tokens

SEPTEMBER

Days are here,

with summer's best of

weather

and 

AUTUMN'S

best of 

cheer.

Helen Hunt Jackson 

Tasty Tuesday

 This Sunrise Drink is available at First Watch Restaurants.   This non- alcoholic drink is tasty. 

Monday Musings ... light

Is there really light at the end of the tunnel?  Or, are current circumstances the new reality? Each day there seems to be  a constant but certain flow of troubles, disasters, and tragedies.  Unless I am  intentional about  finding places of joy, I will be in a constant state of fear and dismay. 

 It is hard to escape the sobering news from television, radio, and social media. It is also challenging to find any hope in the midst of everyday sadness.

Yet. Hope is available. 

On a recent walk to the park, I saw a people who are bringing light into dark situations.  In the midst of this  pandemic,  organizations and churches are finding ways to help individuals who are struggling with addictions.  

Last Saturday, Overdose Awareness Day was held at a local park.  This was the eighth annual event  which supports recovering people and their families and honors those lost to substance use disorders. 

One church was on site providing  free flavored coffees Another  church offered free sandwiches and drinks. Information booths were available to help people become trained to offer assistance. 

Yes. There we know there is hope. While we offer prayers,  we must combine our faith in Jesus with deeds of kindness.  Overdose Awareness Day is just one example of bringing light into dark situations. 

Currently communities in Louisiana and Mississippi  are suffering from the aftermath of Hurricane Ida.  HelpSalvationArmy is one place where individuals may offer help. I'm sure there are organizations that preparing to bring truckloads of food, water, and necessities to those who are hurting. 

FREE NARCAN

Do you know someone at risk of an 

OPIOID OVERDOSE?
FREE NALOXONE
TRAINING AND
NARCAN KIT

...good deeds

 "You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses it saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out trampled  underfoot.

You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. "

Matthew 5: - 13 - 16