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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Thursday, January 11, 2018
Another Year Starts
Another year has started and the label is 2018. I have a bit of excitement. A couple deadlines that curl my toes, but I have trust in the Lord and myself working together on this.
I ended 2017 with a 35 day cruise with my husband around South America, back in time to start GriefShare January 4th at Gods Cozy Acres farm. This is my favorite place and I am ready for the challenge of the weather. This is a work in progress and its coming about in the Lords Time, not mine. I have to give Him all the credit for any progress we make there.The best of all is that everyone who comes out loves it there and feels refreshed and exhilarated.This is still basically a one woman show and God is the lead. I have a new husband, of five years, but he isn't interested in being in charge. He is my intellectual hero and chief Bible scholar.
Three sessions of GriefShare in 2017 followed by the 35 day cruise has started me on a new task.My new excitement is cooking. The old me said," I'm an artist, I don't cook, I decorate the table and place the food on the plates to look beautiful." Well, during the 35 days at sea, I devoured Chef Jacques Pepin's cooking programs. By the time we got off the ship, my new DVDs and two cook books were waiting for me. I have learned some wonderful things and have started putting them into practice. I am finding fun in the kitchen for the first time. I am not expecting to be writing any cooking books but I think I may learn enough to feel confident to eat my own cooking.
I have, since last year, excelled in my hand made card creations and started selling my cards to bring some funds to Gods Cozy Acres. I really want to share my love of creating cards with other women, because its a great accomplishment and it provides joy to the maker and the receiver.
Mondays I visit two widows and a nursing home. The cards I take (60) computer generated cards to the nursing home, they come with lots of love. All my cards say "Happy Monday" and I get smiles and a few hugs. I want to share the joy I receive by making and delivering cards to those who are on the other side of life now can't get get out any more. There are so many nursing homes all over the country, so many elderly people who are so happy to get a card, even computer generated and a word or a touch from another human being. I actually don't remember how many years I've been doing this, perhaps four. I would like to encourage others to take a little time and do this. I felt sad and missed everyone while I was away on my cruise.
I'm back on track for 2018; cards ready for Monday, and GriefShare is up and running.
I was afraid of some of my challenges until I put them into proper perspective. With God all things are possible and if they aren't really that important, as I think, God will certainly let me know.
My most important task is every night and every morning to have my time with God. I have really found a better way to pray from Priscilla Shirer's book Fervent. This came after the move "War Room" something else that got me started. For me this works and I share when I can everything that has changed life for me. I know who I'm fighting now and its not my husband or family members or anyone else human, its the devil himself. Once I got that understood, I was more able to pray much better. I'm far from perfect but I have a better handle on things when I keep up.
Well, speaking of keeping up. I need to get some sleep, and get this cold under control. This is going to be a GREAT YEAR!
I WANT YOU ALL TO SAY THAT TOO AND BELIEVE IT. NO MATTER WHAT LIFE IS TOSSING ON YOUR PLATE, WITH THE LORD WE WILL HANDLE IT BRAVELY!
Have a great week in the Lord, from your sister in Christ maryanne.
I ended 2017 with a 35 day cruise with my husband around South America, back in time to start GriefShare January 4th at Gods Cozy Acres farm. This is my favorite place and I am ready for the challenge of the weather. This is a work in progress and its coming about in the Lords Time, not mine. I have to give Him all the credit for any progress we make there.The best of all is that everyone who comes out loves it there and feels refreshed and exhilarated.This is still basically a one woman show and God is the lead. I have a new husband, of five years, but he isn't interested in being in charge. He is my intellectual hero and chief Bible scholar.
Three sessions of GriefShare in 2017 followed by the 35 day cruise has started me on a new task.My new excitement is cooking. The old me said," I'm an artist, I don't cook, I decorate the table and place the food on the plates to look beautiful." Well, during the 35 days at sea, I devoured Chef Jacques Pepin's cooking programs. By the time we got off the ship, my new DVDs and two cook books were waiting for me. I have learned some wonderful things and have started putting them into practice. I am finding fun in the kitchen for the first time. I am not expecting to be writing any cooking books but I think I may learn enough to feel confident to eat my own cooking.
I have, since last year, excelled in my hand made card creations and started selling my cards to bring some funds to Gods Cozy Acres. I really want to share my love of creating cards with other women, because its a great accomplishment and it provides joy to the maker and the receiver.
Mondays I visit two widows and a nursing home. The cards I take (60) computer generated cards to the nursing home, they come with lots of love. All my cards say "Happy Monday" and I get smiles and a few hugs. I want to share the joy I receive by making and delivering cards to those who are on the other side of life now can't get get out any more. There are so many nursing homes all over the country, so many elderly people who are so happy to get a card, even computer generated and a word or a touch from another human being. I actually don't remember how many years I've been doing this, perhaps four. I would like to encourage others to take a little time and do this. I felt sad and missed everyone while I was away on my cruise.
I'm back on track for 2018; cards ready for Monday, and GriefShare is up and running.
I was afraid of some of my challenges until I put them into proper perspective. With God all things are possible and if they aren't really that important, as I think, God will certainly let me know.
My most important task is every night and every morning to have my time with God. I have really found a better way to pray from Priscilla Shirer's book Fervent. This came after the move "War Room" something else that got me started. For me this works and I share when I can everything that has changed life for me. I know who I'm fighting now and its not my husband or family members or anyone else human, its the devil himself. Once I got that understood, I was more able to pray much better. I'm far from perfect but I have a better handle on things when I keep up.
Well, speaking of keeping up. I need to get some sleep, and get this cold under control. This is going to be a GREAT YEAR!
I WANT YOU ALL TO SAY THAT TOO AND BELIEVE IT. NO MATTER WHAT LIFE IS TOSSING ON YOUR PLATE, WITH THE LORD WE WILL HANDLE IT BRAVELY!
Have a great week in the Lord, from your sister in Christ maryanne.
Sunday, August 27, 2017
How Small Are We on the Large Scale
As life continues day by day, we jump over bumps on our path or tumble. We may feel discouraged when things don't go exactly how we planned. We may try to control our situations or others.
Viewing the Solar Eclipse on August 21, 2017 was such a wonder. It made me think, how small we are on the large scale of life. Genesis 1:14-19 tells us of the creation of the Sun and Moon etc. on the fourth day. All of these things help me to understand that I can never completely understand our omnipotent, omnipresent and omniscient God. All powerful, all knowing, residing everywhere at the same time.
Isn't it interesting how many try to put God in a box. Scientist, collecting information about rogue waves in the ocean, to help boats at sea, ran into challenges. Allowing different computer programs, around the world, to come together and become compatible for one purpose. They can collect information but they can't send that information fast enough around the world. So, they store it. There is such a large amount of data that it has been stored up for years. Astronomical amounts that we can only decipher a tiny bit at a time. 1-Gigabyte = 1,000 Megabytes. 1-Petabyte = 1000 Terabytes. This all gets very confusing to say the least. I know there is more terminology beyond, but gracious its more than I can wrap my head around. What an awesome God to make our body's with the capability of learning and understanding and using and inventing "Things".
So as we viewed, along with thousands of other in the USA and around the world, we have to see where we are on the larger scale. For myself on the question of where am I on that larger scale, I am smaller than one gran of sand from all the oceans in the world. I think that sums it up.
So, when I'm getting anxious about something, I have to put it all in proper perspective. How important is this really, can I really do anything to change it, or should I find a way to move outside the box and find joy in my little space. Can't say it's easy but the older I get the more I am trying to let go of schedules, and move ahead one moment at a time. I will say, having multiple projects going on at one time is tricky, but I love it. That's me. When one project needs to rest, I move my focus on the next etc.. Accepting that is not always thrilling, but I can sleep most of the time, when I do finally get to sleep.
I know my life has an ending and I would like to fill up my dash as best as I can. 1949-______.
I can look in the mirror and see what a sense of humor God has. I should enjoy being on stage with my daughter Christa, doing stand up/sit down comedy. We can just use our own life to make others laugh, because God gave us all JOY! That"s on my bucket list!
Have a great day in the Lord
Your sister in Christ
Maryanne
PS I hit spell check but I don't have time to review, I'm on the way to my next project, at the farm, then back to make my cards for the nursing home Monday. Thanks God for a wonderful busy joyful life!
Viewing the Solar Eclipse on August 21, 2017 was such a wonder. It made me think, how small we are on the large scale of life. Genesis 1:14-19 tells us of the creation of the Sun and Moon etc. on the fourth day. All of these things help me to understand that I can never completely understand our omnipotent, omnipresent and omniscient God. All powerful, all knowing, residing everywhere at the same time.
Isn't it interesting how many try to put God in a box. Scientist, collecting information about rogue waves in the ocean, to help boats at sea, ran into challenges. Allowing different computer programs, around the world, to come together and become compatible for one purpose. They can collect information but they can't send that information fast enough around the world. So, they store it. There is such a large amount of data that it has been stored up for years. Astronomical amounts that we can only decipher a tiny bit at a time. 1-Gigabyte = 1,000 Megabytes. 1-Petabyte = 1000 Terabytes. This all gets very confusing to say the least. I know there is more terminology beyond, but gracious its more than I can wrap my head around. What an awesome God to make our body's with the capability of learning and understanding and using and inventing "Things".
So as we viewed, along with thousands of other in the USA and around the world, we have to see where we are on the larger scale. For myself on the question of where am I on that larger scale, I am smaller than one gran of sand from all the oceans in the world. I think that sums it up.
So, when I'm getting anxious about something, I have to put it all in proper perspective. How important is this really, can I really do anything to change it, or should I find a way to move outside the box and find joy in my little space. Can't say it's easy but the older I get the more I am trying to let go of schedules, and move ahead one moment at a time. I will say, having multiple projects going on at one time is tricky, but I love it. That's me. When one project needs to rest, I move my focus on the next etc.. Accepting that is not always thrilling, but I can sleep most of the time, when I do finally get to sleep.
I know my life has an ending and I would like to fill up my dash as best as I can. 1949-______.
I can look in the mirror and see what a sense of humor God has. I should enjoy being on stage with my daughter Christa, doing stand up/sit down comedy. We can just use our own life to make others laugh, because God gave us all JOY! That"s on my bucket list!
Have a great day in the Lord
Your sister in Christ
Maryanne
PS I hit spell check but I don't have time to review, I'm on the way to my next project, at the farm, then back to make my cards for the nursing home Monday. Thanks God for a wonderful busy joyful life!
Sunday, April 30, 2017
Time Passes Quickly
God and I have been working a card ministry by God's Cozy Acres. Monday is our day on the road. I listen to a Bible Channel for inspiration. We visit one widow friend, with a cute cat, Hedi, and we make cards together and talk and pray. If enough cards are made they can be sold at an event once a year. I've learned a great deal from her, and given a few ideas myself. The time is well spent, uplifting to both of us!
Then, we drive to a nursing home in the area with 50 cards in hand, made the night before. It's usually the end of their lunch time and we stop at each table and say, "Happy Monday" as I give each of them a card I have made. I love the see the smiles and a few let me know they have been saving the cards for years. Its rewarding to me to take this little amount out of my day visit and drop cards off. It's my fuel for the rest of the week.
Next we visit one more friend, a 93 year old widow, as sweet as she can be. We may make a stop to visit her husbands grave site or stop at the doctors, visit her son, have lunch, pick up groceries or drive out to God's Cozy Acres. Sharp as a tack, and better than a GPS, we can use all the back roads all over town and never get lost. In the past, her family owned grocery store was serving the community. Any stop in town brings a ,"Hello Miss Ruby," with smiles and hugs. She is slowing down now, moving from the cane to the walker more. God has been gracious to allow this wonderful prayer warrior to stay for a long while, and I'm blessed and benefit from our relationship as sisters in Christ. When our visits are over, we've prayed and I'm backing out of her drive way, she comes to the door and we wave and blow a kiss.
While on the road, I call home to check on my wonderful husband, busy with his hobbies. I usually leave the house at 9:30 am and return about 5:30 pm, it's a full day of joy.
We have a special project, started to collect information on a friend who has passed. So, we will see how that project progresses.
As long as God is by my side all the way I am always more blessed than I deserve. I hope to encourage others to talk more frequently with God, He enjoys small talk too!
Have a great day in the Lord! your sister in Christ maryanne
Then, we drive to a nursing home in the area with 50 cards in hand, made the night before. It's usually the end of their lunch time and we stop at each table and say, "Happy Monday" as I give each of them a card I have made. I love the see the smiles and a few let me know they have been saving the cards for years. Its rewarding to me to take this little amount out of my day visit and drop cards off. It's my fuel for the rest of the week.
Next we visit one more friend, a 93 year old widow, as sweet as she can be. We may make a stop to visit her husbands grave site or stop at the doctors, visit her son, have lunch, pick up groceries or drive out to God's Cozy Acres. Sharp as a tack, and better than a GPS, we can use all the back roads all over town and never get lost. In the past, her family owned grocery store was serving the community. Any stop in town brings a ,"Hello Miss Ruby," with smiles and hugs. She is slowing down now, moving from the cane to the walker more. God has been gracious to allow this wonderful prayer warrior to stay for a long while, and I'm blessed and benefit from our relationship as sisters in Christ. When our visits are over, we've prayed and I'm backing out of her drive way, she comes to the door and we wave and blow a kiss.
While on the road, I call home to check on my wonderful husband, busy with his hobbies. I usually leave the house at 9:30 am and return about 5:30 pm, it's a full day of joy.
We have a special project, started to collect information on a friend who has passed. So, we will see how that project progresses.
As long as God is by my side all the way I am always more blessed than I deserve. I hope to encourage others to talk more frequently with God, He enjoys small talk too!
Have a great day in the Lord! your sister in Christ maryanne
Sunday, January 1, 2017
COURAGE DOESN'T ALWAYS ROAR.......
Courage doesn't always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, "I will try again tomorrow." --Mary Anne Radmacher
I stopped to absorb the meaning of the above statement. The encouragement moved across the table, at our GriefShare meetings, is an acknowledgement of everyone's courage. For some individuals, just getting out of bed after the death of a loved one takes courage. Coming out of a comfort zone to attend a GriefShare meeting with people you don't know is a big step. Starting up a new friendship, knowing that death is always a possibility and hurt may again follow, is frightening. To actually re-marry after the death of a spouse, is a big life changing step. Moving ahead with life; taking a risk; putting yourself on the line;stepping out of your comfort zone and then hitting a devastating disaster; will bring you to your knees. This can and does happen to people. This is "Life".
I was there every step of the way, living this, looking for hope, feeling crushed all over again. How would I ever recover now; when it appeared everything was lost, again. I am moving forward slowly but steadily in God's time. "In God's time," That is the hardest thing to work with. When we learn that there is a reason for these happenings, it helps to understand but doesn't make it any easier. I have discovered some wisdom that comes with age.
As I was growing up, my parents always displayed a giving & helping attitude. We were always going to help others from church, the neighborhood or family. Nothing has changed in my life except people have come and gone. Now our daughter Christa continues the with the same attitude and reaches out to help.
For myself and many others: it could be the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, "I will try again tomorrow." Please encourage those you know or don't know, young and old to keep on keeping on so they all will try again tomorrow. Acknowledge courage in any situation for young and old, it will make a big difference and the cost is zero.
Have a great day in the Lord,
your sister in Christ Maryanne
Sunday, January 24, 2016
TIME FLYs SO I GUESS I BETTER SPEED IT UP.......
My current blessing (left over from last year) is the encouragement to see the movie "War Room".
Knocked my socks off, it really spoke to ME! I already pray so what's the big deal. Let me tell you,
I was lifted up out of my seat with encouragement that's the BIG deal! I made a purchase of the book called Fervent, A Woman's Battle Plan for Serious, Specific and Strategic prayer.
This book that will prepare a woman to shoot BEAR! Or be David with a sling shot and knock down Goliath. We each need something that will get our attention and motivate our focus and movement.
I needed to know who the enemy is! I needed to get serious and specific in my prayers. This movie took the heat off every else and put the blame to the one and only Satan. I have to remind myself, I work for God, every day all day long. I am a child of God saved by the blood of Jesus Christ!
One important thing I struggle with is "God's time" not my time. When I think about all the things I wanted at God's Cozy Acres farm to help others and struggled to make them happen by MY strength. Oh my, who did I think I was??? I lost sight of the fact that this is "Gods" cozy acres not mine! I had to wake up to reality of who IS in charge. That would be GOD!
I had to stop and smell the roses and allow God to be in charge. You know how hard that is! With the devastation of the water disaster, gutting the entire lower floor -put me into a depression. However, in God's time; walls came down, furniture, books, special posters, pictures, tools were dumped in the large trash receptacle. Pipes were replaced, electric rewired, insulation went in, new walls went up, drop ceiling was put in, new cupboards and a large island were installed, new refrigerator, stove and microwave installed Now this lower half section of the retreat center will provide enough space for a large group of people, unlike the earlier configuration.
I grieved the work Dennis and I accomplished in this section of the retreat center and accepted the new changes by God. I stand in awe but not surprise of the great job GOD can do if we let him! We are truly blessed!
I was asked to give my little 2000 Toyota Tacoma truck away for a someone's greater need. I knew things would be fine but wasn't expecting to receive another beautiful white 2009 Toyota Tacoma.
Nine years newer really makes a big difference! This one is titled to Gods Cozy Acres, Inc., our first
company vehicle. We are truly blessed!
My life activities seem to be exactly what I promised God, when Dennis died. I work for God. My joy comes from helping others; who have lost loved ones to death, but more than that. Being an integral part of someone's life, just for a moment in time. Helping someone, on their new path in life, find the joy, only Jesus Christ can give.
I will be volunteering for to many things this year, yet again. This will break my new years resolution! I will certainly spend time with my artwork this year, since I am an "Artist" it's time to get some joy in my artistic heart.
Note to share: 1.GriefShare starts March 3, 2016 and runs to May 26 for the first session and then August 4th through October 27. 2.God's Cozy Acres, Inc. will have a re-dedication the last part of August 2016. 3. February 10 showing War Room at my home to friends.
It's time to raise the roof and PRAISE THE LORD FOR ALL HE HAS DONE FOR US!
Your sister in Christ Maryanne Jerome Whitlaw
My current blessing (left over from last year) is the encouragement to see the movie "War Room".
Knocked my socks off, it really spoke to ME! I already pray so what's the big deal. Let me tell you,
I was lifted up out of my seat with encouragement that's the BIG deal! I made a purchase of the book called Fervent, A Woman's Battle Plan for Serious, Specific and Strategic prayer.
This book that will prepare a woman to shoot BEAR! Or be David with a sling shot and knock down Goliath. We each need something that will get our attention and motivate our focus and movement.
I needed to know who the enemy is! I needed to get serious and specific in my prayers. This movie took the heat off every else and put the blame to the one and only Satan. I have to remind myself, I work for God, every day all day long. I am a child of God saved by the blood of Jesus Christ!
One important thing I struggle with is "God's time" not my time. When I think about all the things I wanted at God's Cozy Acres farm to help others and struggled to make them happen by MY strength. Oh my, who did I think I was??? I lost sight of the fact that this is "Gods" cozy acres not mine! I had to wake up to reality of who IS in charge. That would be GOD!
I had to stop and smell the roses and allow God to be in charge. You know how hard that is! With the devastation of the water disaster, gutting the entire lower floor -put me into a depression. However, in God's time; walls came down, furniture, books, special posters, pictures, tools were dumped in the large trash receptacle. Pipes were replaced, electric rewired, insulation went in, new walls went up, drop ceiling was put in, new cupboards and a large island were installed, new refrigerator, stove and microwave installed Now this lower half section of the retreat center will provide enough space for a large group of people, unlike the earlier configuration.
I grieved the work Dennis and I accomplished in this section of the retreat center and accepted the new changes by God. I stand in awe but not surprise of the great job GOD can do if we let him! We are truly blessed!
I was asked to give my little 2000 Toyota Tacoma truck away for a someone's greater need. I knew things would be fine but wasn't expecting to receive another beautiful white 2009 Toyota Tacoma.
Nine years newer really makes a big difference! This one is titled to Gods Cozy Acres, Inc., our first
company vehicle. We are truly blessed!
My life activities seem to be exactly what I promised God, when Dennis died. I work for God. My joy comes from helping others; who have lost loved ones to death, but more than that. Being an integral part of someone's life, just for a moment in time. Helping someone, on their new path in life, find the joy, only Jesus Christ can give.
I will be volunteering for to many things this year, yet again. This will break my new years resolution! I will certainly spend time with my artwork this year, since I am an "Artist" it's time to get some joy in my artistic heart.
Note to share: 1.GriefShare starts March 3, 2016 and runs to May 26 for the first session and then August 4th through October 27. 2.God's Cozy Acres, Inc. will have a re-dedication the last part of August 2016. 3. February 10 showing War Room at my home to friends.
It's time to raise the roof and PRAISE THE LORD FOR ALL HE HAS DONE FOR US!
Your sister in Christ Maryanne Jerome Whitlaw
Friday, October 23, 2015
HOW'S MY NEW LIFE GOING?
How's my new life going? Well, the answer is out and beyond. That seems to express what is happening and perhaps why I neglected my blog for a while! Some time actually.
As you know my new partner in life Joseph T. Whitlaw (Tom or Tommy to some) is a worldly man who likes to travel, or moreover likes to cruse all over the world. No 7 day trip for him! Absolutely not 24 days or more is more like it. Holy cow! I mean these trips are so extravagant to wonderful places I never would have dreamed to visit in person, but rather was quite happy sitting on a couch watching the DVD travel log. Oh my gosh by the time we return home I am not sure if I actually went to these places or not. Seeing the many thousands of pictures I took reaffirms the facts. I actually did travel all over the world.
The last cruse which went from Montreal to London by way of Greenland, Iceland, Farrow Islands, and so much more was mixed in with a 24 day bus tour of the UK. The entire trip took 45 days or so. Outstanding, however depressing. My Joseph developed a blood clot on the bus tour just before we left Limerick, Ireland. That was four days in the hospital for him and I stayed in the hotel at night. This blood clot went through his lung, his heart and out the other side into his lung. My faith was challenged, to say the least. I was not sure if I would be flying home in the upper part of the plane and he would be in cargo.
We missed four days of the tour in Ireland, managed by the grace of God and new medicine for Joseph to be freed from Limerick. A good Samaritan came down from Dublin picked us up and drove back to Dublin; where we picked up the tour again. With the special stockings on his legs now we continued the trip into Scotland.
I kept an eye out for the farms and how they built their barns. Ireland had round tops, Scotland had peaks, but non were like American barns. My very best favorite was the Bulls that looked like 800# sheep dogs. Oh my I would have loved to raise some of them as calves. The country side was green and beautiful.
So much I will have to get another 80 page picture album done in the large book on line. The day before we were to head back Joseph fell and cracked his head open. This was a day in Oxford England. The tour bus came by the hospital and dropped one of our suitcases off and went on to England. When the bus pulled away I waved and the tears flowed like Niagara falls. This was also serious. He could have bleeding on the brain, tests needed to be done. Again I wondered if I was going home with Joseph in the cargo area of the plane. By the end of the day it was determined he was good to go and a cab picked us up from the hospital and delivered us to London. We flew back to American the next day.
That was a quick version of the last part of the trip. The actual cruse was really wonderful too. The best part of that was the Artist in Resident Suzanne Stohl. I have not had time to do anything really artsy or creative for such a long time it was like Christmas every day in the class. It felt so great, I started drawing in the cabin as well. Hey, I used to be good and I still am, if I give myself a chance.
I was so motivated, even Joseph was impressed I think.
Upon our return to American we attended a Whitlaw family reunion with two great grandchildren and their families. This was the picture I wanted in the worst way. Joseph T. Whitlaw holding his two great grandchildren surrounded by his grand children (most of them) and his three children. This was the greatest outcome from this event! Sebastian the great grandson and Farra the great granddaughter, both just a year old. What a blessing for me to be a grandmother and great grandmother. This takes the heat off Christa.
Joseph and I facilitate GriefShare and had to be back to start a new session. Everything started well and we are back in to the swing of things there. A need for us at the house was an elevator, since Joseph is slightly handicapped and stairs and not his friend. Well, I am typing in joy right now because the elevator is finally complete and working well! It was a real special event when He came up the third floor to drop in, His "man cave" is in the basement (first floor) Now, if I was going to leave the house I don't have to worry about him falling down the stairs.
I managed to get back into God's Cozy Acres and see the kitchen cupboards installed and a great island as well as new refrigerator, stove top , microwave and new oven. The walls need another coat of paint as well as the beams. But overall it looks like a million. God's plan was much better than mine that's for sure. Only one catch was the termites that feasted on the wood around the front door . I never remembered that Dennis used to take care of spraying the buildings for bugs. After 6 years (he has been gone 6 years now) the bugs have done a number. So I have been taking down wall paper and actually pulling out drywall to add new wood and new door. Boy, that takes lots of time. I keep reminding myself that the only way you can eat an elephant is ONE BITE AT A TIME. With nice music playing in the background and the dog with me our day is good! I brought out the tractor but I didn't have time to mow.
Monday is my visitation to the nursing home, where I drop off 35 home made cards to the residents at lunch and talk. From there to Miss Ruby's for my favorite widow! At 91 she is a picture! A beautiful woman inside and out. Some times we go for a ride or out to lunch or nothing at all just sit and talk.
So back on track now so to speak. Try to be a good caring wife ; work at the farm and house and out in the community. We wont be going out on any trips until 2017, or that's what I'm telling him right now. I need to get Gods Cozy Acres up and running again. Renovation should be just about done.
I just need the volunteers to help finish. This is all Gods time so I'm not worried but I do get anxious.
Well this is my update. Its quick, as my life is quick or fast. I need to slow down and smell the roses and the art work I can do. I also hope to learn how to play Dennis' guitar. So we will see what happens.
I thanks God for my many many blessings and pray for good health for all! Have a great day in the Lord every day, He is an awesome God! M!y new life is a gift from God my boss
Your sister in Christ, Maryanne Jerome whitlaw
As you know my new partner in life Joseph T. Whitlaw (Tom or Tommy to some) is a worldly man who likes to travel, or moreover likes to cruse all over the world. No 7 day trip for him! Absolutely not 24 days or more is more like it. Holy cow! I mean these trips are so extravagant to wonderful places I never would have dreamed to visit in person, but rather was quite happy sitting on a couch watching the DVD travel log. Oh my gosh by the time we return home I am not sure if I actually went to these places or not. Seeing the many thousands of pictures I took reaffirms the facts. I actually did travel all over the world.
The last cruse which went from Montreal to London by way of Greenland, Iceland, Farrow Islands, and so much more was mixed in with a 24 day bus tour of the UK. The entire trip took 45 days or so. Outstanding, however depressing. My Joseph developed a blood clot on the bus tour just before we left Limerick, Ireland. That was four days in the hospital for him and I stayed in the hotel at night. This blood clot went through his lung, his heart and out the other side into his lung. My faith was challenged, to say the least. I was not sure if I would be flying home in the upper part of the plane and he would be in cargo.
We missed four days of the tour in Ireland, managed by the grace of God and new medicine for Joseph to be freed from Limerick. A good Samaritan came down from Dublin picked us up and drove back to Dublin; where we picked up the tour again. With the special stockings on his legs now we continued the trip into Scotland.
I kept an eye out for the farms and how they built their barns. Ireland had round tops, Scotland had peaks, but non were like American barns. My very best favorite was the Bulls that looked like 800# sheep dogs. Oh my I would have loved to raise some of them as calves. The country side was green and beautiful.
So much I will have to get another 80 page picture album done in the large book on line. The day before we were to head back Joseph fell and cracked his head open. This was a day in Oxford England. The tour bus came by the hospital and dropped one of our suitcases off and went on to England. When the bus pulled away I waved and the tears flowed like Niagara falls. This was also serious. He could have bleeding on the brain, tests needed to be done. Again I wondered if I was going home with Joseph in the cargo area of the plane. By the end of the day it was determined he was good to go and a cab picked us up from the hospital and delivered us to London. We flew back to American the next day.
That was a quick version of the last part of the trip. The actual cruse was really wonderful too. The best part of that was the Artist in Resident Suzanne Stohl. I have not had time to do anything really artsy or creative for such a long time it was like Christmas every day in the class. It felt so great, I started drawing in the cabin as well. Hey, I used to be good and I still am, if I give myself a chance.
I was so motivated, even Joseph was impressed I think.
Upon our return to American we attended a Whitlaw family reunion with two great grandchildren and their families. This was the picture I wanted in the worst way. Joseph T. Whitlaw holding his two great grandchildren surrounded by his grand children (most of them) and his three children. This was the greatest outcome from this event! Sebastian the great grandson and Farra the great granddaughter, both just a year old. What a blessing for me to be a grandmother and great grandmother. This takes the heat off Christa.
Joseph and I facilitate GriefShare and had to be back to start a new session. Everything started well and we are back in to the swing of things there. A need for us at the house was an elevator, since Joseph is slightly handicapped and stairs and not his friend. Well, I am typing in joy right now because the elevator is finally complete and working well! It was a real special event when He came up the third floor to drop in, His "man cave" is in the basement (first floor) Now, if I was going to leave the house I don't have to worry about him falling down the stairs.
I managed to get back into God's Cozy Acres and see the kitchen cupboards installed and a great island as well as new refrigerator, stove top , microwave and new oven. The walls need another coat of paint as well as the beams. But overall it looks like a million. God's plan was much better than mine that's for sure. Only one catch was the termites that feasted on the wood around the front door . I never remembered that Dennis used to take care of spraying the buildings for bugs. After 6 years (he has been gone 6 years now) the bugs have done a number. So I have been taking down wall paper and actually pulling out drywall to add new wood and new door. Boy, that takes lots of time. I keep reminding myself that the only way you can eat an elephant is ONE BITE AT A TIME. With nice music playing in the background and the dog with me our day is good! I brought out the tractor but I didn't have time to mow.
Monday is my visitation to the nursing home, where I drop off 35 home made cards to the residents at lunch and talk. From there to Miss Ruby's for my favorite widow! At 91 she is a picture! A beautiful woman inside and out. Some times we go for a ride or out to lunch or nothing at all just sit and talk.
So back on track now so to speak. Try to be a good caring wife ; work at the farm and house and out in the community. We wont be going out on any trips until 2017, or that's what I'm telling him right now. I need to get Gods Cozy Acres up and running again. Renovation should be just about done.
I just need the volunteers to help finish. This is all Gods time so I'm not worried but I do get anxious.
Well this is my update. Its quick, as my life is quick or fast. I need to slow down and smell the roses and the art work I can do. I also hope to learn how to play Dennis' guitar. So we will see what happens.
I thanks God for my many many blessings and pray for good health for all! Have a great day in the Lord every day, He is an awesome God! M!y new life is a gift from God my boss
Your sister in Christ, Maryanne Jerome whitlaw
Sunday, September 21, 2014
In God's Time....
Everything is IN GOD'S TIME. Get excited, anxious, upset, or whatever we do when we are not please with any outcome. So, where are you when your done, right back where you started, faced with the fact, " No matter how hard you try you will not be able to change God's plans."
Can you admit you have NO control over your life? Are you kidding? You say I have all the control, I do what I please when I please and no one controls my actions, decisions but me.
How about when someone dies. YOU have no control over that. GOD has control of Life and Death.
I found when my husband Dennis died, I had no control of my life, so I gave it all to the Lord. That meant I allowed Him to direct my feet, hands and brain. Oh I didn't do it right away. I belonged to the Lord but I kept control, or so I thought. I learned to prioritize. The net value of everything in life on this earth was $00. So with that in mind I just allowed my life to go with the flow and help others who had the same experience
Well I spoke of that in the past, however as I have been so blessed every day beyond my new husband Joseph and our work. The renovation for God's Cozy Acres was not to be the downstairs area. But, God's wisdom has allowed that to become the new and improved area. I was allowed to learn I can not do this work alone. Waiting for help is very hard to do. Patience is something I have been in short supply of. In God's wisdom the transformation of myself and the retreat center is coming along quite well!
I have that to do list and I keep on adding things on it until the list is to long for me to complete ever. So I have to go back to basics and do one thing at a time. However, I am an artist and miss not working on any art projects, so I sneak them in once in a while. I am heading for burn out and the Lord has taken care of that also. I will be going away on a trip with my wonderful husband Joseph. This should provide rest because I will be to far away from home to spin my wheels for a while.
God's Cozy Acres is a wonderful large property with so many possibilities to build and share with those who have lost loved ones young and older. Also, share with others in the community for special meeting needs. This was dedicated to the memory of my late husband Dennis Leroy Jerome, and as such we want this to become the best for everyone.
So as we move forward, whether fast or slow (in some eyes) God is at the helm and this wonderful God's Cozy Acres will be what God wants in His time.
Well, now back to my dear Husband Joseph, GriefShare, visitations, church things, home duties, other family needs, pets, farm duties and miscellaneous stuff.
Happy in the Lord. Have a great day in the Lord
Your sister in Christ
Maryanne
Can you admit you have NO control over your life? Are you kidding? You say I have all the control, I do what I please when I please and no one controls my actions, decisions but me.
How about when someone dies. YOU have no control over that. GOD has control of Life and Death.
I found when my husband Dennis died, I had no control of my life, so I gave it all to the Lord. That meant I allowed Him to direct my feet, hands and brain. Oh I didn't do it right away. I belonged to the Lord but I kept control, or so I thought. I learned to prioritize. The net value of everything in life on this earth was $00. So with that in mind I just allowed my life to go with the flow and help others who had the same experience
Well I spoke of that in the past, however as I have been so blessed every day beyond my new husband Joseph and our work. The renovation for God's Cozy Acres was not to be the downstairs area. But, God's wisdom has allowed that to become the new and improved area. I was allowed to learn I can not do this work alone. Waiting for help is very hard to do. Patience is something I have been in short supply of. In God's wisdom the transformation of myself and the retreat center is coming along quite well!
I have that to do list and I keep on adding things on it until the list is to long for me to complete ever. So I have to go back to basics and do one thing at a time. However, I am an artist and miss not working on any art projects, so I sneak them in once in a while. I am heading for burn out and the Lord has taken care of that also. I will be going away on a trip with my wonderful husband Joseph. This should provide rest because I will be to far away from home to spin my wheels for a while.
God's Cozy Acres is a wonderful large property with so many possibilities to build and share with those who have lost loved ones young and older. Also, share with others in the community for special meeting needs. This was dedicated to the memory of my late husband Dennis Leroy Jerome, and as such we want this to become the best for everyone.
So as we move forward, whether fast or slow (in some eyes) God is at the helm and this wonderful God's Cozy Acres will be what God wants in His time.
Well, now back to my dear Husband Joseph, GriefShare, visitations, church things, home duties, other family needs, pets, farm duties and miscellaneous stuff.
Happy in the Lord. Have a great day in the Lord
Your sister in Christ
Maryanne
Tuesday, July 22, 2014
In The Lord's Time.......
In the Lord's time is repeated over and over and rightly so. We have no choice but to let go and let GOD be in charge of our lives. As small as we our in the big scheme of life, we are everything to God. We are HIS children (even the bad guys & gals). The sooner we accept that and keep that on the front of our minds the better for each of us.
I can always allow myself the feeling of "I am in charge" Only I can handle this" etc. However, the reality is God allows me to work on HIS plans, on HIS earth with HIS children for HIS children. but HE will make the decisions totally. When I can keep this right in my mind things move along just fine. However, when I get anxious and expect results the way I want results, challenges arise.
So, I said all that so I could read it back to myself again.
I am heading out to the farm Friday (hopefully it will not rain) I need to get ready for Plumber & Electrician by taking down shelves and moving things around. So, even now I know the moving things around will not be something I should do alone. Asking for help is still hard to do. I know everyone has a life and I hate to bother them. However, I know if I try to move things alone, I will most likely hurt myself. My new best buddy Nancy and her honey Bill may be the some ones I should contact. Glad we could work this out.
Note to self: write down what you plan to do and read it back so you can see what you really should do.
OK so silly me..... I thought I was having symptoms of a stroke Sunday. Well, just to check it out I sent a text to my girlfriend a nurse. She suggested I see a Doctor immediately. On Monday morning I called my doctor and went to see her. Better safe than sorry was her comment. So perhaps the blood work will show something interesting that I may be lacking. But, as an eye opener, I started a review of my "office room at home". Working on to many things at one time (my normal) and my dilemma.
Note to self: Stress is the major cause of "stroke" Heart Attack" etc. I am causing my own stress. Perhaps I should bottle the stuff. I have enough stuff to do now I am working on causing stress.
Well, feeling a new path being opened I started, once again, organizing my room. Stacks of paper, things I was saving for some day, things that had to be done by Thursday and Friday and Sunday.
I'm free again. Still more piles to go through but I know have found what it is I must bring for the next two dinners for six from church. I have found all my GriefShare papers and they are all in order on one table. I still have the sewing table to de-clutter and the drawing desk to de-clutter but we can see the bed now. Down to three stacks minimal. The closet had things removed and tossed that really don't matter. What this exercise did was free me from the feeling of being over weighted down. I have breathing room, so to speak. Yea and congratulations once again to me! Good JOB.
Note to self: don't get a big head you have lots to go yet. but you can at least see the path. Thank God for the inspiration, once again.
Well I accomplished getting a little more sleep with my husband and then got some thank you cards out, GriefShare program for Thursday ready, taking of pictures for the surprise for Ruby by going to a lunch, helped my board member Vivian with her lines for a cute play, went to dinner at KFC (husbands favorite) with friends, came home and got rid of all the jelly bellies I didn't need and finally emptied my stomach of everything I had eaten today (not planned). I feel like I can start tomorrow fresh, empty and plan not to eat anything I shouldn't. I will teach those extra 5 pounds a thing or two. I will wipe them out!
Well, its time to hit the sack or read a book in bed so I will do that. Busy day tomorrow, another women's lunch, no nonsense in the food area tomorrow. I will be good! I promise!
Note to self: Be serious and keep your promise, you will be all the better for it.
Thank you Lord for instilling humor in my veins, I love to laugh at me! You are an awesome God!
OK one quick quote: my husband, Joseph noted my cat, Tiger, was walking on my visiting friend's lap and looking at her and Joseph said, " You do realize, you have just had a "cat scan". Now is that great or what! I love this guy! Thank you Lord for my new husband! He is a hoot!
I can always allow myself the feeling of "I am in charge" Only I can handle this" etc. However, the reality is God allows me to work on HIS plans, on HIS earth with HIS children for HIS children. but HE will make the decisions totally. When I can keep this right in my mind things move along just fine. However, when I get anxious and expect results the way I want results, challenges arise.
So, I said all that so I could read it back to myself again.
I am heading out to the farm Friday (hopefully it will not rain) I need to get ready for Plumber & Electrician by taking down shelves and moving things around. So, even now I know the moving things around will not be something I should do alone. Asking for help is still hard to do. I know everyone has a life and I hate to bother them. However, I know if I try to move things alone, I will most likely hurt myself. My new best buddy Nancy and her honey Bill may be the some ones I should contact. Glad we could work this out.
Note to self: write down what you plan to do and read it back so you can see what you really should do.
OK so silly me..... I thought I was having symptoms of a stroke Sunday. Well, just to check it out I sent a text to my girlfriend a nurse. She suggested I see a Doctor immediately. On Monday morning I called my doctor and went to see her. Better safe than sorry was her comment. So perhaps the blood work will show something interesting that I may be lacking. But, as an eye opener, I started a review of my "office room at home". Working on to many things at one time (my normal) and my dilemma.
Note to self: Stress is the major cause of "stroke" Heart Attack" etc. I am causing my own stress. Perhaps I should bottle the stuff. I have enough stuff to do now I am working on causing stress.
Well, feeling a new path being opened I started, once again, organizing my room. Stacks of paper, things I was saving for some day, things that had to be done by Thursday and Friday and Sunday.
I'm free again. Still more piles to go through but I know have found what it is I must bring for the next two dinners for six from church. I have found all my GriefShare papers and they are all in order on one table. I still have the sewing table to de-clutter and the drawing desk to de-clutter but we can see the bed now. Down to three stacks minimal. The closet had things removed and tossed that really don't matter. What this exercise did was free me from the feeling of being over weighted down. I have breathing room, so to speak. Yea and congratulations once again to me! Good JOB.
Note to self: don't get a big head you have lots to go yet. but you can at least see the path. Thank God for the inspiration, once again.
Well I accomplished getting a little more sleep with my husband and then got some thank you cards out, GriefShare program for Thursday ready, taking of pictures for the surprise for Ruby by going to a lunch, helped my board member Vivian with her lines for a cute play, went to dinner at KFC (husbands favorite) with friends, came home and got rid of all the jelly bellies I didn't need and finally emptied my stomach of everything I had eaten today (not planned). I feel like I can start tomorrow fresh, empty and plan not to eat anything I shouldn't. I will teach those extra 5 pounds a thing or two. I will wipe them out!
Well, its time to hit the sack or read a book in bed so I will do that. Busy day tomorrow, another women's lunch, no nonsense in the food area tomorrow. I will be good! I promise!
Note to self: Be serious and keep your promise, you will be all the better for it.
Thank you Lord for instilling humor in my veins, I love to laugh at me! You are an awesome God!
OK one quick quote: my husband, Joseph noted my cat, Tiger, was walking on my visiting friend's lap and looking at her and Joseph said, " You do realize, you have just had a "cat scan". Now is that great or what! I love this guy! Thank you Lord for my new husband! He is a hoot!
Sunday, March 9, 2014
What Happened To You? Where are you?
Life happens to all of us. We move forward, backwards or ahead, it's our choice. Now the speed we travel is our choice the guiding force in the Lord's Hands.
A new life partner is a blessing and with that blessing comes responsibilities. One responsibility is to respect the fact that I have two others to think about now. The Lord comes first in my life, as I work for the Lord. My husband has the Lord first in his life also. The new blend can sometimes be a challenge, but we try (with the help of the Lord) to speak with the Love of Christ in all situations. Next, I ask for forgiveness and guidance as I mess up all day long. I am so glad the Lord loves me and will keep correcting the direction of my path.
Have you been counting your miracles? I forget to put on my miracle glasses most of the time, but when I have them on I can see clearly!
February to September 2013 preparation for fundraiser and helping facilitate GriefShare program.
September 2013 fundraiser at God's Cozy Acres. Such Love from people and businesses in the community and churches.With that we were able to start renovation of the donkey barn into the Tractor Barn October 2013.Structure change was made and the start of moving appropriate tools and equipment was slated to begin.
November 2013 preparation for thanksgiving guests at home, Gods Cozy Acres and Grief Share Holiday Special. Holiday Decorations pulled out of storage and placed all around the house in great anticipation of the celebrated birth of our Lord.
December 2013 preparation for visits of friends from Chimes and others, the close down of the farm for winter and being gone.
One special wish of my new husband Tom, was a trip that would start from Tennessee December 26 taking animals (dog and two cats) to Maryland celebrating Christmas with family and friends, leaving animals for care. January 4, 2014 leave Dulles Airport (Washington DC) for Munich Germany, than to Cape Town, South Africa. Packing for "two" this trip included cloths for temperatures from 0 to 90 degrees. This was a trip I never expected to take in my lifetime and it was the trip of a lifetime for me (Tom had done this and loved to go again). What an experience! We shared the Lord with everyone we met and found a number of couples who had similar life changes as Tom and I.
My heart and mind were forever connected to the faces of God's children around the world, who's faces, living conditions, and customs require prayer! I am so blessed have been born to two wonderful Christian parents and live in the USA.
February 2014 returned to Tennessee to find a new challenge at God's Cozy Acres. Record freezes had caused terrible damage in the retreat center down stairs (kitchen, sitting room, laundry, office, storage room and pantry. The furniture, books, walls, ceilings, carpeting all damaged from water, were all pulled out in the initial clean out and mold was sprayed. We were planning renovation to the other area of the downstairs not the water damaged rooms.
The Lord allows plans to change for His purpose. Walking into this devastation with a mask on, coveralls, jacket with hoody, gloves, a sprayer (defective)with bleach and the attitude that "I" can take care of everything is what God wanted to show me. The reality was "I" could NOT take care of this situation ALONE. Still trying to move a large heavy wet cardboard box by pushing on all fours, pulling with ropes around my waste, using a dolly, sitting on the wet floor and pushing with my back against the box until I gave in crying and said," LORD I CAN NOT DO THIS" I'M NOT STRONG ENOUGH!" To which He replied, " I KNEW THAT! TO BAD YOU'RE SO STUBBORN!"
I went home broken, talking and crying out to the Lord all the way! Have you been there? By the time I got home I let go and turned it back over to the Lord. It is GOD's Cozy Acres not my cozy acres.
I forgot who was in charge of my life and HE reminded me in a way I could really understand.
February 13, 2014 the new GriefShare program started and I needed to Lead with Faith and Love as an example of what the Lord has given me! My joy (as well as Tom's) comes from helping others find their joy through Christ. My energy needed to be here helping others right now.
March 8, 2014 HOW DO YOU EAT AN ELEPHANT? answer: ONE BITE AT A TIME.
The TRACTOR BARN now is filled with the many tools and supplies in a mostly organized fashion. Still need to do more sorting, get the tractor exhaust pipe cut down 2", move in the last big equipment in the new Tractor Barn, and bring the benches from the storage room up and install.
Each step I take, on my work days there are also a closure to my past life with Dennis and what we built together by the grace of God. My blessing being I have a husband at home waiting for me with open arms.
I thank and praise the Lord for His forgiveness, grace, tolerance which is actually HIS LOVE!
A new life partner is a blessing and with that blessing comes responsibilities. One responsibility is to respect the fact that I have two others to think about now. The Lord comes first in my life, as I work for the Lord. My husband has the Lord first in his life also. The new blend can sometimes be a challenge, but we try (with the help of the Lord) to speak with the Love of Christ in all situations. Next, I ask for forgiveness and guidance as I mess up all day long. I am so glad the Lord loves me and will keep correcting the direction of my path.
Have you been counting your miracles? I forget to put on my miracle glasses most of the time, but when I have them on I can see clearly!
February to September 2013 preparation for fundraiser and helping facilitate GriefShare program.
September 2013 fundraiser at God's Cozy Acres. Such Love from people and businesses in the community and churches.With that we were able to start renovation of the donkey barn into the Tractor Barn October 2013.Structure change was made and the start of moving appropriate tools and equipment was slated to begin.
November 2013 preparation for thanksgiving guests at home, Gods Cozy Acres and Grief Share Holiday Special. Holiday Decorations pulled out of storage and placed all around the house in great anticipation of the celebrated birth of our Lord.
December 2013 preparation for visits of friends from Chimes and others, the close down of the farm for winter and being gone.
One special wish of my new husband Tom, was a trip that would start from Tennessee December 26 taking animals (dog and two cats) to Maryland celebrating Christmas with family and friends, leaving animals for care. January 4, 2014 leave Dulles Airport (Washington DC) for Munich Germany, than to Cape Town, South Africa. Packing for "two" this trip included cloths for temperatures from 0 to 90 degrees. This was a trip I never expected to take in my lifetime and it was the trip of a lifetime for me (Tom had done this and loved to go again). What an experience! We shared the Lord with everyone we met and found a number of couples who had similar life changes as Tom and I.
My heart and mind were forever connected to the faces of God's children around the world, who's faces, living conditions, and customs require prayer! I am so blessed have been born to two wonderful Christian parents and live in the USA.
February 2014 returned to Tennessee to find a new challenge at God's Cozy Acres. Record freezes had caused terrible damage in the retreat center down stairs (kitchen, sitting room, laundry, office, storage room and pantry. The furniture, books, walls, ceilings, carpeting all damaged from water, were all pulled out in the initial clean out and mold was sprayed. We were planning renovation to the other area of the downstairs not the water damaged rooms.
The Lord allows plans to change for His purpose. Walking into this devastation with a mask on, coveralls, jacket with hoody, gloves, a sprayer (defective)with bleach and the attitude that "I" can take care of everything is what God wanted to show me. The reality was "I" could NOT take care of this situation ALONE. Still trying to move a large heavy wet cardboard box by pushing on all fours, pulling with ropes around my waste, using a dolly, sitting on the wet floor and pushing with my back against the box until I gave in crying and said," LORD I CAN NOT DO THIS" I'M NOT STRONG ENOUGH!" To which He replied, " I KNEW THAT! TO BAD YOU'RE SO STUBBORN!"
HAVE YOU BEEN HERE?
I went home broken, talking and crying out to the Lord all the way! Have you been there? By the time I got home I let go and turned it back over to the Lord. It is GOD's Cozy Acres not my cozy acres.
I forgot who was in charge of my life and HE reminded me in a way I could really understand.
February 13, 2014 the new GriefShare program started and I needed to Lead with Faith and Love as an example of what the Lord has given me! My joy (as well as Tom's) comes from helping others find their joy through Christ. My energy needed to be here helping others right now.
March 8, 2014 HOW DO YOU EAT AN ELEPHANT? answer: ONE BITE AT A TIME.
The TRACTOR BARN now is filled with the many tools and supplies in a mostly organized fashion. Still need to do more sorting, get the tractor exhaust pipe cut down 2", move in the last big equipment in the new Tractor Barn, and bring the benches from the storage room up and install.
Each step I take, on my work days there are also a closure to my past life with Dennis and what we built together by the grace of God. My blessing being I have a husband at home waiting for me with open arms.
I thank and praise the Lord for His forgiveness, grace, tolerance which is actually HIS LOVE!
Tuesday, November 26, 2013
Make Sure Every Moment Counts
Make sure every moment counts as the sands of time move forward. Again, look at the time November 26, 2013 and where did those moments go and were they well spent?
The September Fundraiser was a success because; we learned so much and accumulated equipment that will make each additional program and fundraiser more spectacular for those participating. We raised a good deal of funds and still have items to offer on our web site.
When you evaluate performance plus and minus overall, we found that the leader (this is me) was not asking for enough help even though starting early on this event.. The check list was made and contacts were established but the leader fell short because of loosing participation of volunteers available. However, volunteers appeared from new contact programs attended by the leader.
So, to that end the PR work is most important. Well, the best thing of all was the new board members that live locally. Redeemer Lutheran brought us new blood and Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church volunteers were back again helping.
We have been able to change the donkey barn to the tractor barn and free up the bottom of the retreat center to be completed. We still have to cut the pipe down on the tractor but the old posts have been moved and there is room for all the equipment to fit in the tractor barn. MORE Progress has taken place.
We have a movie projector, access to old and new movies, movie screen and the desire to start movies on the ridge. That comes with a marshmallow roasting fire and popcorn.
* * * * * * * * * * *
Helping others who have suffered a loss is our job. With Joy in our hearts my husband of one year and I share our story as we see those in need. We are trained facilitators of GriefShare. We encourage others as we speak of hope found by our faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. At our October Church function "Harvest Fest" we spoke of help available to everyone the Lord lead to us. On our October anniversary cruse we spoke to many of our joy and how they can find the same. Those hurting who came to the GriefShare program Surviving the Holidays at our home were in the company of others who understand. Grief Share.org is what we recommend for a loss as a beginning.
* * * * * * * * * * * *
Gathering pictures and making memory books is on my list of to do's. Keeping up with emails is on my list as I added a new email making my list four!
Learning how to cook is falling to the end of my list for sure, I wish I felt bad about it. I am just getting tired of tossing food out. It was fun but it didn't work and that part is discouraging. I like painting or drawing food better than actually cooking.
I made cookies from frozen cookie dough that didn't work out. I made great frosting and covered most of the bad cookies with frosting that was thicker than the cookie. As a sacrifice I ate about two dozen of the cookies, to save anyone else from eating them. Five pounds later someone said they liked the cookies crisp like that. I guess eating my mistakes is not a good thing.
* * * * * * * * * * *
I have a list of things to accomplish on my white board and try to accomplish them. I keep finding more things to add to the list. I will say that starting every day with prayer and ending with prayer is a great thing to do. What I have found that making new traditions is a good thing and laughing is the best for your health! Make sure you get a hug at least 2x daily.
I have a wonderful daughter and other family. Now I am blessed with more family: step-daughters, a step son and lots of step-grandchildren and many new friends. Check out all your blessings and you will see they are coming faster than we actually claim. Smile this is the day the Lord has made be sure to thank Him! I am making sure every moment counts!
Happy Blessed Thanksgiving to all!
Your sister in Christ
Maryanne Jerome-Whitlaw, President
God's Cozy Acres, Inc.
www.Godscozyacres.com
The September Fundraiser was a success because; we learned so much and accumulated equipment that will make each additional program and fundraiser more spectacular for those participating. We raised a good deal of funds and still have items to offer on our web site.
When you evaluate performance plus and minus overall, we found that the leader (this is me) was not asking for enough help even though starting early on this event.. The check list was made and contacts were established but the leader fell short because of loosing participation of volunteers available. However, volunteers appeared from new contact programs attended by the leader.
So, to that end the PR work is most important. Well, the best thing of all was the new board members that live locally. Redeemer Lutheran brought us new blood and Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church volunteers were back again helping.
We have been able to change the donkey barn to the tractor barn and free up the bottom of the retreat center to be completed. We still have to cut the pipe down on the tractor but the old posts have been moved and there is room for all the equipment to fit in the tractor barn. MORE Progress has taken place.
We have a movie projector, access to old and new movies, movie screen and the desire to start movies on the ridge. That comes with a marshmallow roasting fire and popcorn.
* * * * * * * * * * *
Helping others who have suffered a loss is our job. With Joy in our hearts my husband of one year and I share our story as we see those in need. We are trained facilitators of GriefShare. We encourage others as we speak of hope found by our faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. At our October Church function "Harvest Fest" we spoke of help available to everyone the Lord lead to us. On our October anniversary cruse we spoke to many of our joy and how they can find the same. Those hurting who came to the GriefShare program Surviving the Holidays at our home were in the company of others who understand. Grief Share.org is what we recommend for a loss as a beginning.
* * * * * * * * * * * *
Gathering pictures and making memory books is on my list of to do's. Keeping up with emails is on my list as I added a new email making my list four!
Learning how to cook is falling to the end of my list for sure, I wish I felt bad about it. I am just getting tired of tossing food out. It was fun but it didn't work and that part is discouraging. I like painting or drawing food better than actually cooking.
I made cookies from frozen cookie dough that didn't work out. I made great frosting and covered most of the bad cookies with frosting that was thicker than the cookie. As a sacrifice I ate about two dozen of the cookies, to save anyone else from eating them. Five pounds later someone said they liked the cookies crisp like that. I guess eating my mistakes is not a good thing.
* * * * * * * * * * *
I have a list of things to accomplish on my white board and try to accomplish them. I keep finding more things to add to the list. I will say that starting every day with prayer and ending with prayer is a great thing to do. What I have found that making new traditions is a good thing and laughing is the best for your health! Make sure you get a hug at least 2x daily.
I have a wonderful daughter and other family. Now I am blessed with more family: step-daughters, a step son and lots of step-grandchildren and many new friends. Check out all your blessings and you will see they are coming faster than we actually claim. Smile this is the day the Lord has made be sure to thank Him! I am making sure every moment counts!
Happy Blessed Thanksgiving to all!
Your sister in Christ
Maryanne Jerome-Whitlaw, President
God's Cozy Acres, Inc.
www.Godscozyacres.com
Thursday, July 25, 2013
Calendar Pages Move On Their Own
Well, the calendar pages at my home have managed to flip forward at a remarkable rate! Wow, here we go two months has past since we last spoke.
Getting ready for the 2nd fundraiser at God's Cozy Acres. This time it will be a chili cook off with an award and a prize made by Herb West a skilled woodworker. We have a special tag team cooking chili and looking for a winning combination from Redeemer Lutheran Harriman Tennessee along with Chef Mike at Rugby Café in Rugby, Tennessee. We have a challenge by a real expert lady in the kitchen Karen Minninger which will put the fear into Retired Colonel Joseph Tom Whitlaw Jr. as he looks to take the prize away from everyone with his Top Secret recipe. We hope to have one more chef if he is in town, that will really put some fire in the pot and get the competition hot! If we are really lucky our Biggest Surprise Chef will be announced at the last minute, so as not to give the others a chance to back down! WHO WILL DECIDE THE WINNER....YOU WILL!!!! Everyone who attends the Chili Cook Off will be voting for the best!!!! Come on down and get your spoon in the voting pot!
So we are going to have a variety of baskets filled with all kinds of goodies donated from every group I could get to. We will have auction and drawings, food and music. Come out and make a difference as we move forward at God's Cozy Acres Widows Ministry, a twenty five acre program filled with possibilities that will be in our community for many many years to come.
There is a lot of work that goes into a program like this and I am running every day and pushing the keys on my computer as my eyes cross at two in the morning. I have to tell everyone I see every day all the time because we need help, we need funds, we need volunteers that can help us obtain grants to further these programs. Everyone in the future will be a widow or a widower or loose a brother or a father or a sister or a mother. Some of us want to share the Hope God has given to us in whatever way the Lord leads us. Will you look into your heart and help us out?
Tomorrow is more visits to the funeral homes to see about borrowing tents, stores to see about donations, groups to see about volunteers, funds for rocks to fill in the road where the rain washed them away, help to get the 4 wheeler up on my tractor to go into town and get the starter replaced so its ready to go. Then I need to jump on the tractor and bush hog(cut the field down) so we can see the ground.
The best complement my Aunt Phillis could have ever given me was starting a monthly meeting with widows in her area. She said she was inspired by what I am doing. Please, seriously, grab your joy by helping others find theirs. Get a small group together go to or bring in a speaker, share the love of Christ.
Well, I guess I will have my daughter go crazy proofing this blog and I am heading downstairs to do some praying. While you finish up your day would you all pray for God's Cozy Acres and Widows?
Please try my new email address right after you check out the website that has taken me two years. Lots of learning going on in between my running. www.Godscozyacres.com and the email is Maryanne@Godscozyacers.com . How neat is that.
Have a great week in the Lord and drop our name for prayers at church Sunday too! thanks so much.
Your sister in Christ, maryanne
After all this is said, I want you to know that my dream is that enough people find interest in WIDOWS to help with this program and keep it growing long after I am gone to be with the Lord.
There is room for so many great ideas for this Twenty Five acres and everything is a benefit to widows and other who have lost loved ones and those who help build this project. My life has been so enriched when I started working for the Lord on this widows ministry God's Cozy Acres. I may be so busy but I am so happy and I now have a partner in life once again who loves the Lord and helping others who have lost a loved one.
You can not imagine the joy you can receive from the smiles and stories of the people you meet on their journey of grief as they discover their joy. God is awesome and we are walking and breathing proof "survivors" by the Grace of God. My life, which I thought was over in September 2009, is so wonderful and filled with JOY! I am anxiously looking for places to speak about God's Cozy Acres. I have been to Florida (East and West Coast) and around Eastern Tennessee and shared in Maryland around Baltimore. If your church group or organization has an opening for a speaker please let me know. I never planned on speaking in public but the Lord has put me out there and that's what I do now showing what a difference HE can make in your life!
Getting ready for the 2nd fundraiser at God's Cozy Acres. This time it will be a chili cook off with an award and a prize made by Herb West a skilled woodworker. We have a special tag team cooking chili and looking for a winning combination from Redeemer Lutheran Harriman Tennessee along with Chef Mike at Rugby Café in Rugby, Tennessee. We have a challenge by a real expert lady in the kitchen Karen Minninger which will put the fear into Retired Colonel Joseph Tom Whitlaw Jr. as he looks to take the prize away from everyone with his Top Secret recipe. We hope to have one more chef if he is in town, that will really put some fire in the pot and get the competition hot! If we are really lucky our Biggest Surprise Chef will be announced at the last minute, so as not to give the others a chance to back down! WHO WILL DECIDE THE WINNER....YOU WILL!!!! Everyone who attends the Chili Cook Off will be voting for the best!!!! Come on down and get your spoon in the voting pot!
So we are going to have a variety of baskets filled with all kinds of goodies donated from every group I could get to. We will have auction and drawings, food and music. Come out and make a difference as we move forward at God's Cozy Acres Widows Ministry, a twenty five acre program filled with possibilities that will be in our community for many many years to come.
There is a lot of work that goes into a program like this and I am running every day and pushing the keys on my computer as my eyes cross at two in the morning. I have to tell everyone I see every day all the time because we need help, we need funds, we need volunteers that can help us obtain grants to further these programs. Everyone in the future will be a widow or a widower or loose a brother or a father or a sister or a mother. Some of us want to share the Hope God has given to us in whatever way the Lord leads us. Will you look into your heart and help us out?
Tomorrow is more visits to the funeral homes to see about borrowing tents, stores to see about donations, groups to see about volunteers, funds for rocks to fill in the road where the rain washed them away, help to get the 4 wheeler up on my tractor to go into town and get the starter replaced so its ready to go. Then I need to jump on the tractor and bush hog(cut the field down) so we can see the ground.
The best complement my Aunt Phillis could have ever given me was starting a monthly meeting with widows in her area. She said she was inspired by what I am doing. Please, seriously, grab your joy by helping others find theirs. Get a small group together go to or bring in a speaker, share the love of Christ.
Well, I guess I will have my daughter go crazy proofing this blog and I am heading downstairs to do some praying. While you finish up your day would you all pray for God's Cozy Acres and Widows?
Please try my new email address right after you check out the website that has taken me two years. Lots of learning going on in between my running. www.Godscozyacres.com and the email is Maryanne@Godscozyacers.com . How neat is that.
Have a great week in the Lord and drop our name for prayers at church Sunday too! thanks so much.
Your sister in Christ, maryanne
After all this is said, I want you to know that my dream is that enough people find interest in WIDOWS to help with this program and keep it growing long after I am gone to be with the Lord.
There is room for so many great ideas for this Twenty Five acres and everything is a benefit to widows and other who have lost loved ones and those who help build this project. My life has been so enriched when I started working for the Lord on this widows ministry God's Cozy Acres. I may be so busy but I am so happy and I now have a partner in life once again who loves the Lord and helping others who have lost a loved one.
You can not imagine the joy you can receive from the smiles and stories of the people you meet on their journey of grief as they discover their joy. God is awesome and we are walking and breathing proof "survivors" by the Grace of God. My life, which I thought was over in September 2009, is so wonderful and filled with JOY! I am anxiously looking for places to speak about God's Cozy Acres. I have been to Florida (East and West Coast) and around Eastern Tennessee and shared in Maryland around Baltimore. If your church group or organization has an opening for a speaker please let me know. I never planned on speaking in public but the Lord has put me out there and that's what I do now showing what a difference HE can make in your life!
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Have You Really Noticed All Your Blessings?
Have you really noticed all you blessings? My life is so unbelievable and I am so blessed from the time I wake up to the time I close my eyes. By turning my life over to God I have found JOY! Where the worry was taking over every moment of my day I now have the ability to breath without worry. How is this possible you say. Either you believe with all your heart and mind or you don't. That's all there is. I believe the Lord Jesus is my savior and I turned my life over to him. Now I work for the Lord and find that arrangement to be most suitable. I do the best I can every day (well I try to do the best I can) and I know for a fact that my boss "God" is happy with me. I ask for things I need and He gives me the things HE feels I need when I need them.
Oh I can share some stories that encourage you to pray but watch what you pray for because what we expect for an answer in our mind is not always what the answer God feels we need. God has a sense of humor that's for sure.
I have been so busy I have not found the time necessary or should I say I have not prioritized my life lately to cover everything I have on my plate. So this blog has been long in coming. Since my last blog there has been a weekend of widows on God's Cozy Acres. It was a success but I did find this is something I can't do alone. I had one helper but I needed more. So it was a learning experience for me and even though it did not all turn out like I expected everyone had a great time. That was by the grace of God!
Since then Redeemer Lutheran and St. Paul's Lutheran volunteers have come out and helped with other necessary work on the farm. That was another plan of God's and in His time. I hear "Let Go and Let God" that's not easy but I work at it daily.
I see so clearly that God has a plan for each one of us and it is a very intricate plan that we can't even grasp. I know every day I am where I belong to hear or say something that the Lord wants me to relay or learn.
My JOY comes from serving the Lord in the capacity He has presented to me. That is to help widows and others who have lost loved ones. I really enjoy speaking at different churches or organizations as long as my power point is with me. Everywhere I hear from a widow that there is nothing around for widows. This is what the Lord has put on my heart and this is my job.
I have some board members but only one lives in Tennessee. So my task is to find other Board members and helpers for God's Cozy Acres. I know the Lord has a plan and I want others to pray to find what He has in mind for them!
I work for GOD and you can't find a better boss! Similar to the 401K He offers something better "Everlasting Life". This plan is all paid for by the blood of Jesus Christ.
Have a great day in the Lord! Check out your blessings today you will find more than you imagined!
Oh I can share some stories that encourage you to pray but watch what you pray for because what we expect for an answer in our mind is not always what the answer God feels we need. God has a sense of humor that's for sure.
I have been so busy I have not found the time necessary or should I say I have not prioritized my life lately to cover everything I have on my plate. So this blog has been long in coming. Since my last blog there has been a weekend of widows on God's Cozy Acres. It was a success but I did find this is something I can't do alone. I had one helper but I needed more. So it was a learning experience for me and even though it did not all turn out like I expected everyone had a great time. That was by the grace of God!
Since then Redeemer Lutheran and St. Paul's Lutheran volunteers have come out and helped with other necessary work on the farm. That was another plan of God's and in His time. I hear "Let Go and Let God" that's not easy but I work at it daily.
I see so clearly that God has a plan for each one of us and it is a very intricate plan that we can't even grasp. I know every day I am where I belong to hear or say something that the Lord wants me to relay or learn.
My JOY comes from serving the Lord in the capacity He has presented to me. That is to help widows and others who have lost loved ones. I really enjoy speaking at different churches or organizations as long as my power point is with me. Everywhere I hear from a widow that there is nothing around for widows. This is what the Lord has put on my heart and this is my job.
I have some board members but only one lives in Tennessee. So my task is to find other Board members and helpers for God's Cozy Acres. I know the Lord has a plan and I want others to pray to find what He has in mind for them!
I work for GOD and you can't find a better boss! Similar to the 401K He offers something better "Everlasting Life". This plan is all paid for by the blood of Jesus Christ.
Have a great day in the Lord! Check out your blessings today you will find more than you imagined!
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