PRACTICE MAKES YOU STRONGER,
Over the years, I have learned that my age has increased and physical abilities have diminished my strength, but not my faith. God is always in charge. I have entered a new season in my life here on earth and it has taken me a couple years to accept it. Somewhere between 60 and 71 my mind stopped seeing the aging process when I looked into the mirror. Oh, it was there alright but, I saw what I wanted to see. I put the positive spin on everything until reality knocked me off a ladder.
An old desire has become a new reality. Confidence has returned where doubt had managed my heart and mind. I found JOY! In my youth, I was an artist and called an artist, however as I aged my belief in myself dwindled. I would work hard but discouragement came from others I had put my trust and hope into. I tried to be the optimistic person and still do, however unfortunate events claimed my
happiness years ago allowing me to feel depressed and hopeless.
I wanted to accomplish a new task, but not sure if I would be able. Reviewed lessons I had received on my watercolor work and started a project that ended up astounding me. I do have the abilities I thought and I started to peruse my love once again. Now as a bold painter I would reach out and try something more daring. I pushed myself into this project with a vigorous attitude, as I worked on "The Kitchen Maid", the 17 century painting. I wanted to recreate in water color. I would spot my challenges in different areas and worked accordingly. Wicker, seeds on bread and rolls etc. My favorite things to paint now.
My mother, 92, 90% blind and hearing loss wanted me to paint a picture of her in a clown outfit.
I put that aside until such time as I had to make a start. It turned out so much better than I had expected. Now its on its way to Florida to my mom, her friends will make her a clown collar and head band to match what was painted. She want to bring joy to otheres before she leaves for heaven.
Now, I have to decide what picture I will paint next. I'm leaning on a picture of my brother, sister and I at my wedding. This will be a triple challenge, so we will see how this goes, Im rather excited.
The farm has proved to be so much more than I am capable to care for now and I have started thinking about selling it and paying off the debt invoved with it. Just taking care of widows and the seniors in the nursing homes that I make and deliver cards for fwill be enough. When someone wants to learn how do to something, I have no problem teaching them. But we don't have to go to the farm to do that.
Now I need to ask the Lord for wisdom and courage to finish strong. My sweet husband is 88 and I have to manage his needs as I can. I'm sure our november outtings will be spectacular! I cant wait for the stay at home orders to end so we can get to church! Practice on all of lifes neuances make us all better!
Love ya'll
your sister in Christ maryanne
Monday, May 18, 2020
Thursday, January 2, 2020
If You Don't Use It You Loose It
If You Don't Use It You Loose It
Well, I am of the age that understands what that means. Even my blogs challenge me to remember how to do this again.
So, today is January 2, 2020. We leave for a cruise January 6. How exciting you say! Yes it will be another great one, however, I'm tired and not packed or even close. I'm cold, since its cold in Tennessee right now. Panama and Costa Rica won't be 30 degrease, so my packing must reflect the change.
I tossed in a new two piece bathing suit I bought to visit my daughter in Florida last year. Never used it cause her pool was cold. Still cute so I will give it a chance. However my red hair will be touched up tomorrow and it may be to soon to put chlorine water on it. Green hair is only good in March for St. Patrick's day. But with the styles today it wouldn't matter. That's my birthday month and I could get away with it. Not to worry I have two wigs that I will bring for emergency.
Shorts wont be in my luggage, but white jeans and some easy on pants. I bought some turtle neck light weight sweaters that I like and I will bring. With age comes unique things a body does, especially considering the neck and extra sagging. The turtle neck covers the sags nicely, and I'm always cold so it works.
I have a special bag that will go inside my suitcase loaded with my treasures:!!Water Color Paint, brushes, paper, pencils for sketching. This is what I am waiting to do, really we will have a porch and I just want to stay on the porch and sketch and take pictures and paint. I'm bringing a number of ideas that I took pictures of over the year. I will let you know how that works out when I return.
I made greeting cards last year with one of my widow friends. We sold them at craft fair. Interestingly, people liked the water color cards, and the sets of 4 card making kits for grandchildren.
I had a bunch of cards I enjoyed making that were not watercolor but when I have to many choices I get working more than one at a time and I get overwhelmed.
I tell you what overwhelmed is, when your studio is so messed up with the projects that you cant see any table tops. Putting all my cloths away and cleaning up my studio was two things I wanted to have done for the first of the year. Congratulations to me, I did it!
Now for the not so good news. I have not eaten enough today, or had enough water so I in deep doo doo. I was very good when Christa was here cooking for me and taking care of me, cause I was recovering from being sick for a month. I'm almost better but it could go either way if I don't get sleep. So, I will have to cut this blog short for now.
My chair in the bedroom has a pile started of necessary items to pack (water color stuff, tea, ginger candy etc) that will keep me going.
Hair done tomorrow and small list of necessary things for home and trip. I will let you know how it turns out. Keep us in your prayers!
Well, I used it so perhaps I will remember how to do it again.
have a great day in the Lord,
your sister in Christ
maryanne
cold and coughing.
Well, I am of the age that understands what that means. Even my blogs challenge me to remember how to do this again.
So, today is January 2, 2020. We leave for a cruise January 6. How exciting you say! Yes it will be another great one, however, I'm tired and not packed or even close. I'm cold, since its cold in Tennessee right now. Panama and Costa Rica won't be 30 degrease, so my packing must reflect the change.
I tossed in a new two piece bathing suit I bought to visit my daughter in Florida last year. Never used it cause her pool was cold. Still cute so I will give it a chance. However my red hair will be touched up tomorrow and it may be to soon to put chlorine water on it. Green hair is only good in March for St. Patrick's day. But with the styles today it wouldn't matter. That's my birthday month and I could get away with it. Not to worry I have two wigs that I will bring for emergency.
Shorts wont be in my luggage, but white jeans and some easy on pants. I bought some turtle neck light weight sweaters that I like and I will bring. With age comes unique things a body does, especially considering the neck and extra sagging. The turtle neck covers the sags nicely, and I'm always cold so it works.
I have a special bag that will go inside my suitcase loaded with my treasures:!!Water Color Paint, brushes, paper, pencils for sketching. This is what I am waiting to do, really we will have a porch and I just want to stay on the porch and sketch and take pictures and paint. I'm bringing a number of ideas that I took pictures of over the year. I will let you know how that works out when I return.
I made greeting cards last year with one of my widow friends. We sold them at craft fair. Interestingly, people liked the water color cards, and the sets of 4 card making kits for grandchildren.
I had a bunch of cards I enjoyed making that were not watercolor but when I have to many choices I get working more than one at a time and I get overwhelmed.
I tell you what overwhelmed is, when your studio is so messed up with the projects that you cant see any table tops. Putting all my cloths away and cleaning up my studio was two things I wanted to have done for the first of the year. Congratulations to me, I did it!
Now for the not so good news. I have not eaten enough today, or had enough water so I in deep doo doo. I was very good when Christa was here cooking for me and taking care of me, cause I was recovering from being sick for a month. I'm almost better but it could go either way if I don't get sleep. So, I will have to cut this blog short for now.
My chair in the bedroom has a pile started of necessary items to pack (water color stuff, tea, ginger candy etc) that will keep me going.
Hair done tomorrow and small list of necessary things for home and trip. I will let you know how it turns out. Keep us in your prayers!
Well, I used it so perhaps I will remember how to do it again.
have a great day in the Lord,
your sister in Christ
maryanne
cold and coughing.
Thursday, October 10, 2019
AS THE MOUNTAIN STREAM FLOWS
AS THE MOUNTAIN STEAM FLOWS...
I analyze my life current which has moved along more swiftly than imagined. Last post March and now its October 10, 2019. Perhaps I have taken on characteristics of the salmon on the upstream swim. My upstairs room has been named "my studio" and makings of cards are covering two long tables and the floor. The craft fair for the cards is November 6, 2019. I have 50 made and I need 100 minimum. Feeling the need to blog to date. I pushed the card sections aside and slid my computer down so I can reach it without stretching over everything.
I discovered an old desire to water color and that has taken over my creative desires. I am in serious trouble because I would rather water color than make cards. I enjoy making cards and now I am under a crunch to work harder. I have so many ideas but can only work two at a time. Needless to say I am working about 4 cards at one time. Shame on me! I have to keep serious focus to do this! The right hand side top of my main desk has a shelf with water color paints in 3 forms underneath and a black tray with paintings that have been done, ready to make a new run for improvement.
Oh, the special GOLD paints are under the black tray with a small container of miscellaneous items like painters tape. I have a folder where I slip ideas for water color pictures.
My super excitement is going to Florida Monday (10/14/19 return 10/21/19) to visit my Christa Lee and Jeffery. Shakespeare is in the air and Christa is going to perform in a few of "The best of Shakespeare plays". I am so excited to see them, the plays, my grand-dog and 3 grand-kitties.
This means I must push out 3 more days of card making and fill a suitcase with cloths and water color supplies. That will be another blog when I return.
The farm has been in need of repair, some made and some still urgent but no help available. I see these many things that need to be done and say to myself, "No reason you cant knock this stuff out. Get a hammer and crow bar climb the ladder and pull off the outside layer of the upstairs wall on the retreat center, right after you take the metal room off the porch." Put up the wood strips to screw the metal siding on the area you completed the work and job well done.!!!" One small tiny challenge, I have gotten older and fall so ladders are not for me any more. Discover time September 27! I was feeling very depressed that the farm is in disrepair and I can't take care of the work any longer. I was missing Dennis, knowing these things would be done if he was still alive. With the help of Christa's loving conversations; I discovered, by helping everyone else for 8 years in GriefShare; I never finished grieving Dennis' death, September 29, 2009. It's been 10 years. I allowed myself to concentrate on helping others and become the classic widow with unfinished. business. Christa and I cried a bit remembering Dennis and facing the reality before me. Time to pick myself up and dust myself off and move forward in earnest, by the Grace of God. God allows us to go through tough times to improve us, I missed some of my training and it caught up with me. So onward and upward, full steam ahead, so to speak.
Health challenges have brought a new swimming plan for the stream. I'm more like the OLD SALMON swimming up stream than I realized. But, the challenge will require God and the neurosurgeon to repair. So while the doctors get their act together and get the neurosurgeon to call me for consult, I will keep living.
I started square dancing on Tuesday nights with a bunch of people my age, or just a tad younger. Its been great fun. Hour and a half is just right. Its light when I drive in and dark when I go home but I had cataract surgery a few months ago and I can see fine, unless I'm looking at my phone. I invited one widow friend to join me and it has been a good experience for her as well. Since she is younger, swing dancing is also on her list, not mine. But, I am sure enjoying myself on Tuesdays.
Monday still sees me out at 9:45 to visit my widow 80 and make greeting cards, followed by a visit to the nursing home (with a new widow helping) passing out about 75 computer generated cards. After cards distributed and conversations with everyone in front dining room then the memory care dining room gets cards and conversation. Then I pick up my 95 year young widow for lunch. Some times its 2 or 3 or 4, widows; but its joyful every time. Errands are taken care of as necessary for each and I usually arrive at home around 6pm. I work for the Lord and it keeps my life full!
Wednesday is the day I try to help in the kitchen at the Baptist church. I say it's my cooking lessons. I enjoy learning how to cook many things and how not to do things. I am part of a fair size group and enjoy it. However, with my new health challenges, care must be taken on my part not to drop anything or fall. So far so good. I just cut back on the length of time I am there now. It takes me two days to recoup from that learning fun.
Well, its Thursday and the dog and cat are taken care of, my husband is doing his thing in his man cave and I'm in my studio upstairs. I do need to work on my cards now so I must close with: by the grace of God there go I.
Blessings to all
have a great day in the Lord
Your sister in Christ
maryanne
I analyze my life current which has moved along more swiftly than imagined. Last post March and now its October 10, 2019. Perhaps I have taken on characteristics of the salmon on the upstream swim. My upstairs room has been named "my studio" and makings of cards are covering two long tables and the floor. The craft fair for the cards is November 6, 2019. I have 50 made and I need 100 minimum. Feeling the need to blog to date. I pushed the card sections aside and slid my computer down so I can reach it without stretching over everything.
I discovered an old desire to water color and that has taken over my creative desires. I am in serious trouble because I would rather water color than make cards. I enjoy making cards and now I am under a crunch to work harder. I have so many ideas but can only work two at a time. Needless to say I am working about 4 cards at one time. Shame on me! I have to keep serious focus to do this! The right hand side top of my main desk has a shelf with water color paints in 3 forms underneath and a black tray with paintings that have been done, ready to make a new run for improvement.
Oh, the special GOLD paints are under the black tray with a small container of miscellaneous items like painters tape. I have a folder where I slip ideas for water color pictures.
My super excitement is going to Florida Monday (10/14/19 return 10/21/19) to visit my Christa Lee and Jeffery. Shakespeare is in the air and Christa is going to perform in a few of "The best of Shakespeare plays". I am so excited to see them, the plays, my grand-dog and 3 grand-kitties.
This means I must push out 3 more days of card making and fill a suitcase with cloths and water color supplies. That will be another blog when I return.
The farm has been in need of repair, some made and some still urgent but no help available. I see these many things that need to be done and say to myself, "No reason you cant knock this stuff out. Get a hammer and crow bar climb the ladder and pull off the outside layer of the upstairs wall on the retreat center, right after you take the metal room off the porch." Put up the wood strips to screw the metal siding on the area you completed the work and job well done.!!!" One small tiny challenge, I have gotten older and fall so ladders are not for me any more. Discover time September 27! I was feeling very depressed that the farm is in disrepair and I can't take care of the work any longer. I was missing Dennis, knowing these things would be done if he was still alive. With the help of Christa's loving conversations; I discovered, by helping everyone else for 8 years in GriefShare; I never finished grieving Dennis' death, September 29, 2009. It's been 10 years. I allowed myself to concentrate on helping others and become the classic widow with unfinished. business. Christa and I cried a bit remembering Dennis and facing the reality before me. Time to pick myself up and dust myself off and move forward in earnest, by the Grace of God. God allows us to go through tough times to improve us, I missed some of my training and it caught up with me. So onward and upward, full steam ahead, so to speak.
Health challenges have brought a new swimming plan for the stream. I'm more like the OLD SALMON swimming up stream than I realized. But, the challenge will require God and the neurosurgeon to repair. So while the doctors get their act together and get the neurosurgeon to call me for consult, I will keep living.
I started square dancing on Tuesday nights with a bunch of people my age, or just a tad younger. Its been great fun. Hour and a half is just right. Its light when I drive in and dark when I go home but I had cataract surgery a few months ago and I can see fine, unless I'm looking at my phone. I invited one widow friend to join me and it has been a good experience for her as well. Since she is younger, swing dancing is also on her list, not mine. But, I am sure enjoying myself on Tuesdays.
Monday still sees me out at 9:45 to visit my widow 80 and make greeting cards, followed by a visit to the nursing home (with a new widow helping) passing out about 75 computer generated cards. After cards distributed and conversations with everyone in front dining room then the memory care dining room gets cards and conversation. Then I pick up my 95 year young widow for lunch. Some times its 2 or 3 or 4, widows; but its joyful every time. Errands are taken care of as necessary for each and I usually arrive at home around 6pm. I work for the Lord and it keeps my life full!
Wednesday is the day I try to help in the kitchen at the Baptist church. I say it's my cooking lessons. I enjoy learning how to cook many things and how not to do things. I am part of a fair size group and enjoy it. However, with my new health challenges, care must be taken on my part not to drop anything or fall. So far so good. I just cut back on the length of time I am there now. It takes me two days to recoup from that learning fun.
Well, its Thursday and the dog and cat are taken care of, my husband is doing his thing in his man cave and I'm in my studio upstairs. I do need to work on my cards now so I must close with: by the grace of God there go I.
Blessings to all
have a great day in the Lord
Your sister in Christ
maryanne
Maintenance Required on Heart, & Body
2019 Maintenance is required on myself as well as God's Cozy Acres.
I had a bucket list started for my 70th year on this beautiful earth, God gave us. Living was among my priorities. I have been always busy and I don't equate that with living well. When Dennis was alive we were always very busy but we always carved out special time for family and friends. Perhaps I lost sight of that as the years rushed by;l like rushing waters in a stream. You have to look quick to see the fish swim by.
First and foremost was the joyous joint celebration of birthdays, in March. Spending a week with Christa Lee and Jeffrey (who worked most of the time) was wonderful. It was a special time we could visit favorite places, new places and remember our past. Epcot maintains a fondness in our heart and gave us a joyous lift as we walked through the areas. No time clock. No special list to check off. Just togetherness was the most spectacular!.
I brought home two wonderful pictures from art fair and lots of great memories. It was one of my BEST Birthday celebrations. As the stream flows I will end here and move on with a busy life schedule!
God is good, GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME!!!
have a great month in the Lord
your sister in Christ maryanne
I had a bucket list started for my 70th year on this beautiful earth, God gave us. Living was among my priorities. I have been always busy and I don't equate that with living well. When Dennis was alive we were always very busy but we always carved out special time for family and friends. Perhaps I lost sight of that as the years rushed by;l like rushing waters in a stream. You have to look quick to see the fish swim by.
First and foremost was the joyous joint celebration of birthdays, in March. Spending a week with Christa Lee and Jeffrey (who worked most of the time) was wonderful. It was a special time we could visit favorite places, new places and remember our past. Epcot maintains a fondness in our heart and gave us a joyous lift as we walked through the areas. No time clock. No special list to check off. Just togetherness was the most spectacular!.
I brought home two wonderful pictures from art fair and lots of great memories. It was one of my BEST Birthday celebrations. As the stream flows I will end here and move on with a busy life schedule!
God is good, GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME!!!
have a great month in the Lord
your sister in Christ maryanne
Sunday, March 17, 2019
It's Odd, ending a year away from home.
November brought yet another trip, this time to West Africa on Regent Cruise Line. Kitty could stay home and have visitations for feeding, but Cuddles had to go to Maryland and stay while we were gone.
We would be home in Tennessee after New Years 2019. This was a sad trip, for me. My wonderful husband was excited to get on the road! I haven't been home for Christmas for a while, and that makes me sad. No interaction with Church friends, services, decorations happy sounds around everywhere in stores. There was no indication of holiday celebrations once we got on our plane and headed overseas. It was a long flight, with extra challenges, but we arrived; the last couple to board to ship,It was a long cruise, our room was lovely with a balcony, large bed,bathroom, TV, dresser and walk in closet
The ship moved along from North to South; stopping at various islands; moving over the equator twice and finally to Cape Town South Africa. That was the quick version, The islands were full of poverty and sadness except in the children. Children seem to find a way to may them selves happy. Bus tours on a few islands allowed us to get a glimpse of life in this far away country.
Towards the end of the tour, in Capetown, we went on a catamaran to see the seals in this one area. Tom, being a man without sunscreen or a hat insisted on sitting outside in front of the vessel. Knowing I would be burned to a crisp I sat inside. This was a fun excursion, a seal was allowed to come on board, a pelican was allowed to come inside and partake of the fishy treats. Upon our return I noticed Tom was already "RED". That evening a stranger came to live in our cabin. He looked like a prize fighter who had lost many fights. Tom's face had swollen due to sun blisters, his eyes were swollen. His face was weeping, yet he claimed no pain. I was glad for him but I felt hurt just the same, as I had severe sunburn in my past. Eventually,about 4 days, my husband's face reappeared back to normal. We went on a safari, so to speak. A wild life preserve was our next stop proving to be the best of the whole trip. Picked up some great pictures of elephants, zebras, hippos, and a bunch more I cant remember the names of right now.
I had a tiny Christmas tree decorated with lights in our cabin with a miniature nativity. I left that for our room steward to share with her children at home. A gigantic Christmas tree was being dressed by the crew, while holiday music played, in the center of the ship. Large colorful balls and wonderful accoutrements were joyfully placed. Scrumptious festive treats of all sorts, and savory food extraordinaire, ice sculptures, filled the dining room. 4 tables were used for the display of ginger bread buildings decorated spectacularly surrounded by a moving Christmas train. Now there was a feel of Christmas celebration.
We managed,after many delays, to settle in to our seats on a plane home. When we arrived the lights on homes were still aglow, reminding me of the little things I missed. Cuddles was glad to see us and as fast as I could the car was packed to get back home to Tennessee.
No tree, no festive lights, no festive food or treats of any kind, but it was still good to be home at last.
I thanked the Lord for a safe trip home and look forward to Christmas 2019, when my daughter and her husband will join us. Praise the Lord for the ability to see the world and to have a home to return to.
So many blessings I don't deserve.
We would be home in Tennessee after New Years 2019. This was a sad trip, for me. My wonderful husband was excited to get on the road! I haven't been home for Christmas for a while, and that makes me sad. No interaction with Church friends, services, decorations happy sounds around everywhere in stores. There was no indication of holiday celebrations once we got on our plane and headed overseas. It was a long flight, with extra challenges, but we arrived; the last couple to board to ship,It was a long cruise, our room was lovely with a balcony, large bed,bathroom, TV, dresser and walk in closet
The ship moved along from North to South; stopping at various islands; moving over the equator twice and finally to Cape Town South Africa. That was the quick version, The islands were full of poverty and sadness except in the children. Children seem to find a way to may them selves happy. Bus tours on a few islands allowed us to get a glimpse of life in this far away country.
Towards the end of the tour, in Capetown, we went on a catamaran to see the seals in this one area. Tom, being a man without sunscreen or a hat insisted on sitting outside in front of the vessel. Knowing I would be burned to a crisp I sat inside. This was a fun excursion, a seal was allowed to come on board, a pelican was allowed to come inside and partake of the fishy treats. Upon our return I noticed Tom was already "RED". That evening a stranger came to live in our cabin. He looked like a prize fighter who had lost many fights. Tom's face had swollen due to sun blisters, his eyes were swollen. His face was weeping, yet he claimed no pain. I was glad for him but I felt hurt just the same, as I had severe sunburn in my past. Eventually,about 4 days, my husband's face reappeared back to normal. We went on a safari, so to speak. A wild life preserve was our next stop proving to be the best of the whole trip. Picked up some great pictures of elephants, zebras, hippos, and a bunch more I cant remember the names of right now.
I had a tiny Christmas tree decorated with lights in our cabin with a miniature nativity. I left that for our room steward to share with her children at home. A gigantic Christmas tree was being dressed by the crew, while holiday music played, in the center of the ship. Large colorful balls and wonderful accoutrements were joyfully placed. Scrumptious festive treats of all sorts, and savory food extraordinaire, ice sculptures, filled the dining room. 4 tables were used for the display of ginger bread buildings decorated spectacularly surrounded by a moving Christmas train. Now there was a feel of Christmas celebration.
We managed,after many delays, to settle in to our seats on a plane home. When we arrived the lights on homes were still aglow, reminding me of the little things I missed. Cuddles was glad to see us and as fast as I could the car was packed to get back home to Tennessee.
No tree, no festive lights, no festive food or treats of any kind, but it was still good to be home at last.
I thanked the Lord for a safe trip home and look forward to Christmas 2019, when my daughter and her husband will join us. Praise the Lord for the ability to see the world and to have a home to return to.
So many blessings I don't deserve.
Saturday, November 17, 2018
Blessings Abound and Time Rushes On
Well, it's been a while since my last blog, to many things have taken priority.
My trip overseas worked out very well. I made a visit to the museum in Russia, purchased another copy of "The Prodigal Son", cried when I got to see the original painting. It was the highlight of my trip, the balance of the museum was awesome, but time there rushed by quickly! The Russian ballet "swan lake" was the other important stop for me on this cruise. As I imagined this was one of the most beautiful ballets. These two items stand out in my mind more than anything else on the trip.
The other countries we visited were wonderful experiences, but I longed to be back home. I don't like traveling abroad without my husband.
As Thanksgiving approaches next week, we mark the departure for yet another extensive cruise
down the west side of Africa. Regent is the cruise line and its very nice. The flights from
America to Toronto to Germany to Portugal will be lengthy to be sure. My husband has not been down this area before so it's a treat for him as well. This will be a longer trip, as we leave the 27 of November and return on December 25/26 to Maryland. Cold weather to very warm weather is the challenge for health as well as cloths packing. I like to have plenty to do while on a cruise so my crafts will be joining me. I'm actually bringing a small Christmas tree to put up in our room
with a nativity as well as a bow for the door.
I have an obligation to deliver cards to the nursing home Monday so I will have to get them folded
tomorrow. I feel bad if I miss a Monday!
Life has bestowed a new health challenge that certainly wasn't expected. Not cancer, Alzheimer or Dementia, but something that has no cure but a list of side affects. I had retired from GriefShare this year and I ended up helping the pastor do one more. I really wanted to get back the Gods Cozy Acres and get some Bible Studies going again. That is on my bucket list for planning and starting 2019, Lord willing. I miss the farm, the seasonal changes, the animals, the neighbors and the peace.
I have been married 6 years as of October 12, 2018 and as of September 29, Dennis has been gone 9 years. I do thank the Lord for allowing my life to have the changes it has, including the heart attack,
just from moving a few tree limbs. I certainly don't want to let Him down, so I am working two get
my work at the farm back on track. There are some real needs out there with the building, because
Dennis is gone, its hard to find people who want to help. I really want to put up a ladder and climb on the roof like I had done with Dennis in the past, but I know that won't work out well.
My bucket list for the farm is paint and wood and people who can help! I do look forward to having a fire in the fire place at the farm when I come back from our trip. Its so peaceful.
Well, I need some sleep, getting up early to go to 2 churches in the morning. God's blessings on all!
your sister in Christ Maryanne
each day is a blessing...live every day as if it is your last! Remember to Thank God!
Saturday, July 14, 2018
On A New Path Comes Discovery...
Every day is a new day on my path in life, no longer living on a small beautiful quiet farm and now in a lovely noisy golf community, growing in the Lord and trying to help others.
I will tell you, keeping your eyes open does help! One wrong turn and you can stumble, so you must watch your focus. My work now is focus on things that will please the Lord, which sometimes gives me pause. But, as I move along I have been introduced to people I knew, learning their story and listening to their insights.
I am always amazed to see or hear something new. Paul David Tripp, is a pastor, writer and speaker, I met in our GriefShare program over the last 8 years.The Tripp DVD programs have really inspired me so much! I need all the help I can get! I feel more connected to the Lord, by what I have learned. I understand more now about my life as its progressing between the Cross and Forever. I am understanding "Tough Grace" and why its important. I understand more about being a sinful person married to a sinful person, and that really put us on a level playing field right away. Gods not done with us yet!
I have decided to retire from working with GriefShare and move into nursing home visitations, of some sort. My husband and I now share a small Bible Study, on Wednesdays with nursing home residences in Loudon Tennessee. I have kept my visitation of two widows and one other nursing home on Mondays. Its hard to stop something you have been doing for a long time, but if you listen hard you can hear the Lord telling you its time.
I have been a Lutheran all my life and now I am married to a Bible scholar interested in making a difference in others lives with the Gospel. However, He is not satisfied with the information being left out,.as he says. This has led us to attend a Baptist Church. Now, I think I am getting the best of all worlds because I attend BOTH churches. Makes me quite happy. In this process, my husband has introduced different pastors sermons (on Line) to me. We attended a seminar on World Religions, which I just loved. I learned there are two religions Mans religions and Gods religion. That was followed up by a visit to the Ark in Kentucky. Another wow for me.
I am trying to get ready for a trip over seas Tuesday next for 2 weeks. My husband won't be joining me, but I get the privilege of traveling with my two stepdaughters. I must get the house ready for my departure, pack my suitcase, make a list for my husband , who will care for the cat and dog and make my greeting cards for this Monday and the next two Wednesdays. I will see how that turns out. At least I took the time to enter something in this blog.
Have a great day in the Lord and be looking to discover something new!
your sister in Christ Maryanne
Every day is a new day on my path in life, no longer living on a small beautiful quiet farm and now in a lovely noisy golf community, growing in the Lord and trying to help others.
I will tell you, keeping your eyes open does help! One wrong turn and you can stumble, so you must watch your focus. My work now is focus on things that will please the Lord, which sometimes gives me pause. But, as I move along I have been introduced to people I knew, learning their story and listening to their insights.
I am always amazed to see or hear something new. Paul David Tripp, is a pastor, writer and speaker, I met in our GriefShare program over the last 8 years.The Tripp DVD programs have really inspired me so much! I need all the help I can get! I feel more connected to the Lord, by what I have learned. I understand more now about my life as its progressing between the Cross and Forever. I am understanding "Tough Grace" and why its important. I understand more about being a sinful person married to a sinful person, and that really put us on a level playing field right away. Gods not done with us yet!
I have decided to retire from working with GriefShare and move into nursing home visitations, of some sort. My husband and I now share a small Bible Study, on Wednesdays with nursing home residences in Loudon Tennessee. I have kept my visitation of two widows and one other nursing home on Mondays. Its hard to stop something you have been doing for a long time, but if you listen hard you can hear the Lord telling you its time.
I have been a Lutheran all my life and now I am married to a Bible scholar interested in making a difference in others lives with the Gospel. However, He is not satisfied with the information being left out,.as he says. This has led us to attend a Baptist Church. Now, I think I am getting the best of all worlds because I attend BOTH churches. Makes me quite happy. In this process, my husband has introduced different pastors sermons (on Line) to me. We attended a seminar on World Religions, which I just loved. I learned there are two religions Mans religions and Gods religion. That was followed up by a visit to the Ark in Kentucky. Another wow for me.
I am trying to get ready for a trip over seas Tuesday next for 2 weeks. My husband won't be joining me, but I get the privilege of traveling with my two stepdaughters. I must get the house ready for my departure, pack my suitcase, make a list for my husband , who will care for the cat and dog and make my greeting cards for this Monday and the next two Wednesdays. I will see how that turns out. At least I took the time to enter something in this blog.
Have a great day in the Lord and be looking to discover something new!
your sister in Christ Maryanne
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