Moments Captured in Time

Out with the old...

2011-05-02T16:50:00.001-04:00

Around the corner from my house, a new city block is being built.

The old buildings have been torn down, the piles of rubbish removed, the land has been excavated, and the BIG pipes have been brought in.

Every day - twice a day - coming and going - I sit at that intersection - watching. Some days it's quite obvious that it's just a mess - interrupting traffic and causing delays just to turn the corner! In this daily routine, I do NOT see progress.

Yet, someone has a vision for this block. Somewhere there are plans & blueprints to follow. The building has begun - am curious to see it's end, although I am experiencing the mess in the middle.

In my life...

What needs to be torn down, removed, and cleaned up? What needs to be built with a new purpose? What are my plans and blueprints?

Reflecting on these intersecting moments,

Telling a story...

2011-04-23T14:49:00.000-04:00

The disciples asked him, "Why do you tell stories?"

Jesus replied, "You've been given insight into God's kingdom. You know how it works. Not everyone has this gift, this insight; they haven't received it yet. Whenever someone has a ready heart for this, the insights and understandings flow feely. I tell stories to create readiness, to nudge the people toward receptive insight.
- Matthew 13:10 -

Jesus said that he told stories to ready the hearts of the people.

Go now, write it on a tablet for them,
inscribe it on a scroll,
that for the days to come
it may be an everlasting witness.
- Isaiah 6:10 -

A lost & dying world is willing to get lost in a story.

What is in your heart to write?

Looking for new moments to listen & write,

What's in your hand?

2011-02-26T17:10:00.002-05:00

This morning I'm eating a bowl of cereal with blueberries from Chili, blackberries from Mexico, and bananas from Colombia.

I am praying that God will raise up His sons & daughters to teach & preach the gospel in these nations. Father, stir an awakening in their hearts of Your love for them and their love for each other. Pour out of Your Spirit upon ALL flesh and that their sons and daughters will prophesy and have dreams and visions. You love the whole world and desires that none would perish! Let there be revival in those nations...

What's in your hand at this moment? He's listening...

Christmas snow...

2011-01-15T13:48:00.006-05:00

What do you do with 14 inches of snow?

You build an igloo...

On Christmas day it began to snow - and snow - and snow - and within 24 hours we had 14 inches!

I have never liked cold weather which I considered any temperature under 50 degress - let alone a pile of snow!

That day a friend posted on Facebook from Job 38:22 where God says that "snow is from His treasury". Those words spoke tenderly to my heart.

Hmmm - if God describes it that way, then I really should reconsider my attitude. So, I repented which means I changed my way of thinking (I'm sure I go through this each winter) and bundled up to enjoy some time outside with my son!

Choosing in each moment to make a change,

Your summer story...

2010-09-06T14:42:00.005-04:00

August is now over & that means we're halfway through the year. As we round this corner, are we ready to shift and make any necessary transitions so that we finish strong?

It's a good time to reflect on where I am & where I'm headed. When you're a child, it's easy to say "I'm headed into the next grade level". As an adult, where am I headed and what is my next level?

Every summer tells a story. So many of my pictures taken this summer have been 'high' points - tops of building, mountains, airplanes, ski lifts & roller coasters.

It appears that the theme for my summer of 2010 is seeing things from a higher perspective.

In Isaiah 55:9 God says that His ways & His thoughts are higher than mine. Sometimes I think so BIG just for fun - perhaps He's just hoping that I catch a glimpse.

What kind of story do your summer pcitures tell?

Looking for higher moments to enjoy,

The view from the top...

2010-08-07T21:48:00.001-04:00

Josh and I just got back from a week in Spokane, WA. We spent one day in northern Idaho where we rode the ski lift to the top of Schweitzer Mountain. From here one can see Montana, Washington, Idaho and Canada. It is a magnificent view.

Enjoying new moments on the mountaintops,

Chalk art festival

2010-08-01T21:42:00.000-04:00

My son, Joshua, is a naturally gifted artist. He loves to sing, draw & paint, and make a beat! In July he participated in a Chalk Art Festival in Virginia Beach. This took him 4 hours to draw & color in chalk.

Enjoying new moments,

Heat of summer

2010-07-27T22:15:00.009-04:00

For the last 4 weeks, the temps have sitting in the 90's & 100's - way too hot! The heat of summertime reminds me of life when the test & trials & fires gets turned up and you wonder if you can take that heat - but I love the way God gives usreminders in the flowering Myrtle Crepe trees. In the middle of summer - the hottest time of year - they bloom with brilliant colors in hues of pinks, purples & white.

Ours began to bloom recently - a simple reminder that with Him there is beauty to be found in our hottest days! We can trust Him to bring us through the tough hot times in living color.

Looking for new moments to enjoy,

Instructions...

2010-05-30T20:17:00.002-04:00

Recent instructions in our neighborhhood...

It reminds me that sometimes life has a way of running us over - a list of things to do that never gets completed. Take the time to slow down and nest. Spend time alone - reading, meditating, listening to music or just sitting quietly.

Mothers Day 2010

2010-05-09T21:23:00.001-04:00

We went strawberry picking today and found all of the BIG juicy ones. It brought back memories of my 13 & 14 yr old summers picking strawberries and making $1.25 a flat - that's for 12 small boxes! I would pick 8 - 10 flats a day for 4 weeks. I would work for 8 hours plus it was an hour bus ride each way. My mom packed my lunch & I got one can of soda. In those days, we didn't wash our hands, wash our fruit, wear sunscreen or have bottled water! I think we drank water out of a hose in the fields. Ahhh, but they are fond memories & I smile every time I think of those summers.

Making new memories of the good ole times...

April 30 - Arbor Day...

2010-04-30T21:16:00.003-04:00

Today is National Arbor Day - a day to plant, nurture and celebrate the value of trees.

For the first time in 50 years, I hugged 3 trees today.

I am reminded of God's handiwork when I look at trees. He designed trees to clean the air on our planet, to reveal the beauty of His marvelous works in nature, and as a reminder of strength & resislience.

Enjoying new moments in nature,

Now I lay me down to sleep...

2010-04-11T18:50:00.001-04:00

My cat loves to sleep on the bible. He does this all the time whether the book is on the table, my bed or a chair. His name is Favor and he is a Himalayan. We got him as a kitten for Christmas of 1998.

Country music...

2010-03-20T21:41:00.001-04:00

Invited by a new friend, tonight I went to my first country music concert. I've never listened to this kind of music and didn't know any songs; but we enjoyed ourselves and had a great time.

Martina McBride ended the concert with one of my favorite Journey songs "Don't Stop Believing".

Push yourself beyond the familiar and look for ways to change your experiences. You will taste and see that life is good & to be enjoyed.

Enjoying new moments this year,

...

The snowstorm of 2010...

2010-01-31T19:46:00.002-05:00

Our first snowstorm in a long time...6-8 inches on Friday night and it made for a cozy weekend at home. We made snow angels, threw snowballs, went sledding down the golf course hills, enjoyed several fires in the fireplace, played games & watched movies.

On Sunday Josh made $150 shoveling snow off the neighborhood driveways. After a long hot shower, he is ready to eat dinner & call it a day!

I've never looked forward to cold weather & snow BUT I was determined to enjoy the time at home with my family.

Even the unending pile of wet clothes at the front door did not move me to complain.

Catching new moments to enjoy this year,

Michael Vick...

2010-01-16T17:24:00.006-05:00

We love football at our house! Over the years I have rooted for many teams but NEVER for the Atlanta Falcons. A few years ago their star quarterback, Michael Vick, got into a mess, lost his starting position, and went to prison. Since I wasn't a Falcon fan, I didn't think much of it, until God placed it upon my heart to pray for this young man.

As his career was taking off, his life turned into a mess. Investigations, accusations, finger pointing, guilty, a prison sentence.

For whatever reason this Christian mom was led by God to pray for him many times over the next few years. I focused on three things:

1. That God would capture his heart & life.
2. That God would turn his mess into a message of 2nd chances.
3. That God would give him another chance to play football for Him.

He began to turn his life around, got out of prison, and this past football season he played for the Philadelphia Eagles.

This morning my 13yr old son, Joshua, had a school basketball game. One of the other team players is a cousin of Michael Vick...and guess who showed up at the Jr High boys game? Guess who went into the locker room with the boys afer the game.? Guess who had their picture taken with the team?

Michael Vick. He was kind and gracious to the these 12 & 13yr old boys.

Joshua, the sports fan that he is, was thrilled and excited.

As for me, I was encouraged to keep on praying for people. Sometimes while I'm waiting in line at Walmart, I pray for the people in line and other times I pray for the people on the magazine covers. A small part to play in the grand story called life.

God hears. God saves. God delivers. God changes peoples hearts & lives.

Every once in awhile I get a glimpse of His plan...

Praying without ceasing,

Sleeping beauty...

2010-01-08T10:38:00.009-05:00

All across the earth, the church is waking up because she has been kissed by her prince. The gleam in His eye is all we need. Arise & shine for your light has come...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JGWfv4M5K5E

A blue moon...

2009-12-31T22:27:00.000-05:00

Dec 31, 2009...a full moon, it was the 2nd full moon of the month which is called a blue moon.

It takes us into the new & the next.

What do you desire that would be classified as as a "once in a blue moon" thing to believe for or desire for your life?

Go for it & grab hold of something new.

Dream BIG.

God puts signs in the heavens...

Christmas 2009...

2009-12-25T10:18:00.000-05:00

Under the tree I see a variety of presents each a different size & shape. They are wrapped with the prettiest paper & adorned with shiny bows & ribbons of every color.

As I unwrap my gifts this morning, I am asking Him to continue to unwrap His gifts in me.

I am full of a variety of gifts & talents. If only I could see them.

Blogging is my first creative endeavor.

Release the gifts in me and let them flow like rivers bringing life to all they touch.

When we are faithful to release His gifts in us, to the world they will look like presents adorned with bows & ribbons of every color.

Facebook...

2009-12-13T18:30:00.007-05:00

It's been a month since I've posted because I have been enjoying spending time on Facebook. Only recently did I sign up at the nudging of my husband to "check it out". It's a whole other area in this world wide computer life called the internet.

At first I just looked around and asked a few people to be my friends and then I realized that God was involved in this. I have met an amazing group of people...an artist who lives in Japan, an artist & worshipper who praises the Lord with flags (like me) in HI, a couple who have opened their home to teenage girls in Kenya, missionary friends in China who just gave birth to their daughter in Thailand, a woman in Canada who worships the Lord with her violin, and a woman whose passion is to make cookies & cupcakes. There are plenty who do not know the Lord yet He is so giving when I ask for His words to write. Infiltrate & release like an arrow...

The most amazing aspect is the influence that my words now have around the world as I comment on their posts. Sometimes it will be a sentence asking God to release His presence, His passion, or His purpose in their situation or life. I am in awe of Him that He does...

One testimony is from a young black teenager who struggles with His walk with God. So many times, the words have been written like a sword to penetrate the darkness & the lies that want to keep him bound.

I do believe this is a season that the Lord is releasing the mothers to nurture or maybe He is releasing me to nurture as a mother?

Only by His Spirit on this little box called a laptop...

The Nor'easter

2009-11-12T16:38:00.005-05:00

The remnants of Ida is all around us. Forecasters say it hasn't been this bad since '98 or '03. The winds are rough & tough and there is ALOT of rain. They say that we could be 7 feet up at high tide this afternoon. The roads are flooded, the traffic lights are out, and we were sent home early today with instructions to watch the morning news for any work delays tomorrow.

Only a 13 year old boy would ask his mom to pick up burritos on her way home during a Nor'easter.

Dreams do come true...

2009-10-31T16:13:00.010-04:00

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Count Your Blessings: 101 Stories of Gratitude, Fortitude, and Silver Linings
by Jack Canfield

My friend, creative mentor, and sister in Christ has a published story in the newest book from the Chicken Soup for the Soul series.

I'm buying my copy today. I'm so excited for her!

Did you know that what God has done for one, He will do for all?

What dream has God placed in your heart? He is THE dream giver and dream maker.

Dreams do come true.

Continue to expect as you watch through the eyes of faith.

Some day...

2009-10-24T16:40:00.008-04:00

I would like to

1. Live one year on an island with no makeup and spending no money.

2. Travel the whole Mediterranean coastal area.

3. Visit an Ice Hotel in Iceland.

Logan the "Sky Angel Cowboy"

2009-10-22T19:32:00.001-04:00

YouTube - Logan the "Sky Angel Cowboy"

My birthday...

2009-10-09T21:08:00.007-04:00

Today is my birthday and God has done exceedingly above all that I could ask or imagine!

When my son was smaller, he would have 2 or 3 get togethers for his birthday. You know, Chuck-E-Cheese one day but some people couldn't make it, so we'd have another one later at the park, and usually he would have a friend for a sleepover. They were birthdays that lasted for a week!

This year for the first time ever, my birthday lasted ALL week.

I've worked in the same job for 9 years. Other than advancements within that department, I have stayed there very content.

Last week a door opened and I was offerred a promotion. A promotion! In a time when we did not get pay raises, when we had two major lay offs in 18 months, and we had a reduction in our 401K, I was given a promotion! One of the first sentences that the manager said when she interviewed me was..."Margie, your reputation preceeds you".

WOW...really? I always minded my own business and honestly never really cared about being noticed. I was dependable, faithful, and willing to serve. The closer I get to Him, the less I have been concerned with a title or "what I do" for a living.

Several months ago He instructed me to meditate on Isaiah 54 which talks about enlarging my territory, stretching myself, lengthening my chords, and strengthening my stakes.

In August within a few weeks of each other, I had gone to three different meetings that were not related at all BUT the message each time was "to get ready to dig new wells".

For my birthday, He was preparing a promotion for me. I am digging new wells by leaving my comfort zone, enlarging my original 9 year territory and strengthening the stakes of that same territory.

I was offerred the job on Monday and then I spent the next 3 days at a training seminar. It was filled with passion, energy, life, creativity, color, excitement and so much more. He has stirred the embers of the flame within.

I am excited as He begins to release new gifts & talents in me...

Driving to work...

2009-10-04T21:26:00.003-04:00

Recent observations while driving to work...

I realized that I usually look right and not left. So, I began looking left for my 1.5 mile drive out of my neighborhood to the main road.

Sight...rolling green hills of a golf course, sand traps, people playing their favorite sport early in the morning with friends, flags, lakes with fountains of rushing water

Sound...Children at the bus stop talking, playing, excited for their day

Taste...vanilla latte as I sip it during the ride...hoping that I stop at the light to avoid spilling

Smell...the clean fresh autumn air

Touch...the dirty steering wheel that I think I will clean later

Mood...enjoying His presence & praise as I drive through the neighborhood

Why have I not looked left before?

What else have I missed OR what else will I now include?

Autumn...

2009-10-03T21:20:00.001-04:00

Autumn has arrived and so has her warm colors yet cooler days. I wonder if that is God's way of bringing balance?

As the leaves change their colors to gold & red and they fall away from their trees, so I too look for changes in the color of my life and what needs to fall away. So that when winter comes & its time to hibernate, I've got that which matters most in place.

Dog sitting...

2009-09-26T12:15:00.003-04:00

Josh has a new job. He is dog sitting a neighbors two labs, Savannah & Madison.

He has figured out how to pet them both at the same time. They are such lovers!

Good news...

2009-09-18T15:43:00.004-04:00

God does not call those who are equipped.

He equips those whom He has called.

- Smith Wigglesworth

Amazing...

2009-08-22T12:47:00.003-04:00

Have you taken the time lately to gaze into the starry sky?

God, the creator of this universe, placed each star in it's course.

YET...

He holds my life in His hand AND He lives in this earthen vessel.

The Warriors...

2009-08-19T20:48:00.004-04:00

My son turned 13 in March and lately I can tell that he's a teenager!

I've asked the Lord for wisdom in how to stay connected with him as a teen. I am thankful that the Lord gives creative ideas on how to do that.

The Warriors are ready...that's MY very own fantasy football team! Josh has his teams and dad & I each have our own. The beauty is that I already know how the game is played & although I don't watch football alot, I do catch the highlights on Monday morning. I wanted to name my team the Dancing Warriors BUT Josh thought maybe NOT this year!

He's excited that we're all playing and we are looking forward to a GREAT season!

But it's much more than a game...it's an assignment. As we play, we pray. I am excited to see what He will teach me through this activity.

Advancing the Kingdom in everything we do!

Splashing glory...

2009-08-18T08:05:00.001-04:00

All I can say is...please visit Splashing Glory and read her last couple of posts. See my link to the right.

The last few days when I awaken I hear "I have a never ending love for you" singing over me. I don't really like country style music BUT He has a sense of humor and loves to get in on the details of our lives.

We just gotta pay attention...

Turning the corner...

2009-08-10T20:38:00.003-04:00

It's August now & that means we're halfway through the year. As we round this corner, are we ready to shift, make transitions so that we finish strong?

Time to reflect on where I am & where I'm headed. It's easy when you're a kid because like my son his answer is "I'm headed to the 8th grade". But, where am I headed?

I met an awesome young lady who is an artist, a teacher, and a mentor. I've been praying for a mentor AND I've been looking for someone to help me take a first step in expressing myself in art.

My father died when I was 12 years old & in the 7th grade. I'd always had As & Bs until the 2nd semester of that year. For the first time, I got a C or D...can't really remember which..but it was in my art class. As I stared at the bowl of fruit in the middle of the art table, I can still remember thinking, "That's OK, I'm just a book learner not a creative person". I believed that for almost 40 years. Although I really never gave it much thought over the years, it kinda annoys me now that I bought it for so long. Father, redeem what the locust has eaten!

The year that I turned 50, I began to cry out for more of Him and creative trickles came from deep within me. For the first time, I realized that "not a creative person" was a lie. Let that sink in...it was a lie! I had believed a lie for all those years! I repented for believing it & asked Him for help in releasing whatever He has put inside me.

He is the author of creativity. He is Creator! He has put gifts & talents in each one of us. That creativity that is released shows up in the form of a word, a smile, a deed, a look, a touch. It's Him being released through this earthen vessel called you and me.

My blog has been a big part in allowing me to release writing. Several other blogs that I follow are mentors to me in their unique way.

Funny thing is....I thought my next mentor (the one that I prayed for) would be a business woman in her 50s not a young black woman in her 20s and an artist at that!

God has sense of humor!

The REAL To Do List...

2009-08-06T08:10:00.001-04:00

Sing.
Smile at strangers.
Keep Learning.
Notice kindness.
Eat ice cream.
Hope.
Count your blessings.
Laugh.
Love.
Love some more.
Eat chocolate.

Favorite quote...

2009-08-02T18:07:00.005-04:00

When I replied on a friends blog, I was reminded of this quote that I love & it has moments in it...
My favorite quote from Winston Churchill:

"To every man there comes in his lifetime that special moment when he is figuratively tapped on the shoulder & offered a chance to do a very special thing - one that is unique to him & his talents. What a tragedy should that moment find him unprepared for the task that could be his finest hour. "

Preparing moments together,

Any Minute...

2009-07-25T09:59:00.009-04:00

I've just finished the new novel, Any Minute, by Joyce Meyer & Deborah Bradford.

I enjoyed the book because it's about forgiveness, second chances, hope, inner healing and all the good stuff that God brings.

I was reading the book at the pool, relaxed and settled in for the afternoon. Read, eat, take a nap, read some more...that was my schedule. I reached in my bag and pulled out a glass bottle of cold pomegrante juice. Yum! As I popped off the lid, the bottom of the glass literally fell off in one piece and all of the juice fell fast & hard onto my lap and the book. I didn't really care about my lap because I was at the pool BUT my new book! I quickly grabbed my towel and begin to separate each page & gently blot it dry. The heat of the day began to dry the pages quickly and they were already turning a red tone, stained, and curled up at the corners as they dried.

In a moment, I saw it. So it is with our lives. We try to keep them new and clean and fresh...each page perfect. Yet, life has stains. We will get wet, encounter heat, and our pretty look will change. Why do we try to protect oursleves? He is more than willing & able to forgive us, cleanse us, refresh us, and use those stains as a beautiful testimony that we have overcome. And so can others!

Revelations 12:11 They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and did not love their lives to the death.

Moo...

2009-07-20T21:35:00.006-04:00

It's amazing what I will do for a free combo at Chik-Fil-A. My son, his friend, and I dressed up like cows to receive our free chicken wrap combos. We wore black & white bandanas that said moo & had black cow spots all over us. I had a pink sign (because I'm a girl} that said Will MOO for food. Josh wore a sign that read I don't taste good EAT more chikin. We had FUN...

Back from Cuba..

2009-07-19T21:41:00.001-04:00

My husband has returned from a missions trip to Cuba. I've been blogging over there for the last week.

Please visit www.prayingforthenations.blogspot.com

Friends forever...

2009-07-11T08:18:00.004-04:00

Ding dong! I opened the door and looked into the face of a handsome Japanese young man. Although I hadn't seen him for 5 years, I would recognize him anywhere. As I squealed in delight, he motioned back to his mom to get out of the car.

Several years ago they were our neighbors while our boys were ages 4,5,6,7. Their dad was training at the local Canon facility. We had many good times together as the boys played unaware of their cultural differences & language barriers. They went back & forth into each others homes as though they lived there. Then, they moved back to Japan. We kept in touch by SLOW mail....weeks for the Christmas cards to arrive! Then, as it happens, we stopped writing and lost contact.

They have since moved back to Long Island,NY for more training at Canon. They had come down to the VA area for a visit and stopped by the neighborhood! I felt as though I had been given a second chance to stay in touch with a beautiful family.

I love second chances!

Pictures from the Blaze...

2009-07-08T08:04:00.005-04:00

There is something about praising God outside in a field and on the riverbank that is invigorating and refreshing. Now I know why Lydia & her group met for prayer at the river. Acts 16:13

Try it...you'll like it!

Blaze Manifesto...

2009-07-01T16:11:00.006-04:00

Blaze: a sudden, intense outburst, as of fire, passion, or fury

Manifesto: a public declaration of intentions, opinions, and objectives

Dream: I saw a man playing his guitar in Williamsburg VA. As he worshipped he was completely in the spirit to the point that he didn’t even realize the people around him. Suddenly a voice said, “We have been waiting for someone to release the sound in the historic triangle. "

Vision: I saw a triangle on fire. The Lord revealed to me that the 3 spiritual components to ignite a fire in this region were the 3 cities that make up the historic triangle.

Mandate: The BLAZE MANIFESTO will be located in the Historic Triangle also known as the cradle of America. We will be publicly releasing the sounds of heaven in the strategic and historic sites of Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown, VA. The Lord has called us to prophecy to the womb of the United States through a new sound and a new song. We are to contend for a rebirth to take place. The Lord has been revealing that the purpose of this Blaze Manifesto is to revisit the infancy of the nation and call forth her true destiny, even in this hour.

The Blaze Manifesto is a declaration of a new course for the nation.

Williamsburg is called the Revolutionary City as it was the very place where the dream of freedom and independence was birthed and a Revolution was declared.

Yorktown was the ground on which the Revolutionary War found its victory. We are after another great revolution for this nation. Join us as we return to the starting point, as we revisit each point of the Historic Triangle and contend for a redemptive sound to be released over our nation.

Jamestown, America’s first permanent English colony, in Virginia in 1607 – 13 years before the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth in Massachusetts – sparked a series of cultural encounters that helped shape the nation and the world.

Join the revolution...July 3 - 5

http://www.blazemanifesto.com/

Ladybugs...

2009-06-25T20:24:00.007-04:00

It's the time of year when all of God's little creatures come out and about. Something to keep in mind the next time you see a ladybug...

A ladybug symbolizes change, letting go of fear, and setting out on new adventures!

According to history, ladybugs appear to us when we have an opportunity to succeed, grow, and start something new. All of the beetle family go through a process to transform from larvae to adult.

Gentle reminders from nature that we too can live a transformed life with Him.

Fishing...

2009-06-13T20:47:00.006-04:00

Since my husband was playing in a golf tournament, I volunteered to spend the morning fishing with my son at a local lake. How hard could it be, anyway? Don't you just sit in a chair and wait for the thing to bob? I brought my chair, a good book, and an umbrella in case the sun was too hot. We spent an hour checking out several locations until he chose a very peaceful spot with a wide opening in the reeds. He cast in both lines in and I settled in with my book.

What an enjoybable time at the lake. He caught 5 rainbow striped fish and said that his favorite part of fishing is in the struggle. He has to hold tight while he reels them in, smiles at his catch, loosens the hook, and throws them back in the water.

Sometimes life is like that. We must hold on tight while it appears we are being reeled in by the enemy BUT God in His mercy & grace smiles on us, loosens the hook, and throws us back in the water for yet another swim.

These light afflictions are but for a moment...

A smile..

2009-06-07T20:20:00.001-04:00

A smile is universal because it speaks every language.

Refreshing times at the beach...

2009-05-31T20:07:00.002-04:00

I love the beach! We spent the last week of May at the Outer Banks in NC. These are some of my favorite things...

Collect buckets of sea shells
Admire pelicans as they fly in perfect rhythm
Relax under the brightest umbrella on the beach
Drive the convertible
Wear flip flops everywhere
Watch dolphins swim
Drink coffe at the Front Porch Cafe
Smell honeysuckle
Shop in a store called The Good Life
Climb to the top of the lighthouse

The rain...

2009-05-05T18:15:00.009-04:00

Today was a long quiet day at work. We found out that we won't be receiving pay raises this year. It's disheartening but I know things will get better!

The day is over and I'm home to relax and eat lasagne for dinner...thanks to my hubby! As I head upstairs to put in a load of laundry, I had to tell my son to come in out of the rain. No, we don't need to play catch in the rain. Why? Because I don't need you cold & wet was my reply. Laundry in, changed my clothes, and a quick check of my emails before I go back downstairs.

Here it is...something I saw at work today and forwarded home to post on my blog. I just love it!

Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass. It's about learning to dance in the rain!!!

How quickly I had forgotten!

Azaleas...

2009-04-25T22:38:00.007-04:00

Baseball season has started and now that Josh has moved up to the 13yr old Junior league, we have to drive an additional mile through the park to get to his field.

As we turned the corner, I was delighted at the marvelous display of nature that we saw. The azaleas have bloomed and they are everywhere along the road and throughout the woods. They are red and pink and FULL of color! These shrubs bloom for only 2-4 weeks every spring. It's a magnififcent display of His creation.

Today as I opened the blinds in the bathroom, I saw them. There are nine azalea bushes in my neighbors yard. I will look at them everyday and enjoy them!

Have you seen your azaleas this year?

Song of Songs 2:12 The flowers appear on the earth for the season of singing has come.

Enjoying the simpler things...

2009-04-22T15:41:00.000-04:00

I read this on my friends blog last week and it ministered to my heart. Since it's time for spring cleaing, this has encouraged me to clean the clutter so that I may re-focus my joy and blessings on simpler things in my life.

We went to look at a house yesterday! I pray it is for us. It has a vegetable garden, a Pecan Tree, and a built in bookshelf! I think I'll call it Canaan, for surely the Lord is bringing us to the land of milk and honey!

Ecclesiastes 2:24 One can do nothing better than to eat, drink, and find satisfaction in his work. This is from the hand of God, for without Him, who can eat or find enjoyment? God gives wisdom, knowledge and happiness.

A windy day..

2009-04-19T20:08:00.008-04:00

Today was a sunny, yet cool & very windy day! Still it wasn't going to keep the boys away from the park. As they played basketball, I sat in the car where it was warm & cozy - reading, writing, and thinking. Too bad, I thought, that it's not warmer outside...then it would be a perfect day!

A moment later I glanced over my shoulder and saw a little girl with her dad. They were looking up and as I followed their gaze into the sky, I saw a lady bug kite flying high and gracefully gliding in the wind.

Guess it really is a perfect day...especially if you're a kite in the hands of a young girl!

Psalm 135:7 He brings out the wind from his treasuries.

Winter is past...

2009-03-21T16:49:00.006-04:00

We were enjoying banana splits at the local Sonic drive-in when I saw her out of the corner of my eye. I knew she wanted money by the look on her face. Not now, I thought. The moment my banana split came through the window on the left, she tapped on the window on the right. Apologetic, she needed just $10 more to get a room at the motel across the street. She had finally left him. She had put up with enough over the years. Constantly hearing that she wasn't good enough and that no one would ever love her had been sown deep into her heart. She said she knew better, she was raised in church. Along the way life happened & here she was 45 years old with no place to go. She needed a fresh start.

I forgot about my banana split and reached for her hand. I prayed that God would reveal Himself as the One who loves her most, gave her a couple of phone #s to add to the list she already had to call in the morning, and gave her the $10. I reminded her that she could trust Him for the strength she would need to keep moving forward and not look back and that I would be praying for her.

Sometimes winter lasts 3 months and sometimes it seems to last a lifetime. Whatever the length of time, there will come a change to the cold seasons in our lives and they will give way to spring time...a time for a new beginning...a time of hope.

Song of Songs 2:11
Look, the winter is past, the rains are gone and the flowers are appearing on the earth!

Favor...

2009-02-22T16:18:00.006-05:00

Walking down the hallway I glanced into my son's room. In his dresser mirror I saw our cat laying on his keyboard...the musical kind of keyboard. Our cat NEVER lays there.

I smiled as I heard in my spirit..."Listen to the sound of favor..it's in the house".

Our cats name is Favor.

Only God can make me smile like that!

Psalm 5:12 With favor you will surround me as with a shield.

Winter...

2009-02-08T20:07:00.002-05:00

What is the purpose of winter? Can anything good really come of short cold days with blustery winds that chill you to the bone? Granted we've had it pretty mild here in VA compared to the rest of the country. My brother lives in Spokane and they've had enough snow for 100 years!

Personally for me, January was a tough month. It was an ongoing, what appeared to be never ending, list of tests and trials. One right after another and it started on Day 2 of a 21 day fast. My first ever and boy was I prepared & excited. I knew just what I was going to do and I knew God would be so proud of me! Ha...

Needless to say, my fast..altho still a fast..turned out different than my plan BUT He showed Himself strong when I was weak. Through it all, there were a couple of things that He settled once and for all in our family and now we are stronger for the tests and on a sure foundation that cannot be shaken!

During winter in the life of a tree, they become dormant, they slow down and store that energy in their root system. Those with good root structures grow back faster & better when the weather conditions are right.

So it is in the winter months of our lives. We need to slow down, shed the excess, trim & cut back, become dormant and allow His word and His spirit to store energy in our root system.

Spring is on its way and the time will come when we will spring forward. Will we be trim and prepared to leap ahead?

Ecclesiastes 3:1 There is a time for everything and a season for every activity under heaven

Reordering Your Day...

2009-01-10T07:04:00.002-05:00

Some insight on the different times of day you find yourself praying. Let's pray with purpose..

First Watch is The Evening Watch! The Evening watch begins at 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm. This is a time that we need to "still" ourselves from the world and to meditate. One of the scriptures for this watch is Genesis 24:63, "Isaac went out to meditate in the field in the evening. He lifted his eyes and looked, and there, the camels were coming." In Isaac's place of meditation he saw his future. We need to meditate until we see our future. Meditation quiets our emotions, realigns our mind, and frees our will to do the will of God. What we could not hear clearly, we begin to hear. Meditation is like a cow chewing her cud. Cows have four stomachs that each mouthful of food must be processed through, until what is being chewed fully enters the blood stream. This is a season when we must see from the vantage point of the wilderness. When Isaac lifted his eyes, there was Eliezer bringing Rebekah back to be his bride. This actually created the extension of the covenant of Abraham in the earth. During this watch we want to get focused on God's covenant plan that will bring us through the season of wilderness and out on the other side with a mindset for success.

The Second Watch is The Midnight Watch! This watch begins at 9:00 pm and ends at Midnight. This is the time for thanksgiving as well as visitation. During this watch God is dealing with the enemies that are trying to keep us from entering into His perfect plan for our lives. Expect some warfare during this watch. Set the Blood of our Lord between you and every demonic force that could hinder you from gaining the revelation you need to advance.
During this watch see the enemies in the wilderness that would try to extend and enlarge our wilderness time, delay their destruction, and obstruct our promises. The second watch is also a time of scattering and we want to gather up all the fragments of what has been scattered. One of the scriptures for this watch is Exodus 11:4, "Then Moses said, 'Thus says the LORD 'About midnight I will go out into the midst of Egypt...'" As we pray during this watch we want to carry the expectation that the Lord will intervene and deliver us as a triumphant reserve, into our destiny.

Third Watch is The Breaking of the Day (Cockcrowing) Watch! From Midnight until 3:00 AM, the focus of the previous watch continues with the additional understanding that there is much spiritual activity occurring during this time period, including our own dream realm. The focus in this Third Watch should be an increase in the communications from the Lord into our dream life. We want to particularly focus our prayer on those that may be growing weary in the wilderness. Peter's denial of the Lord came during this watch and we want to focus on combating doubt and unbelief, and calling for increased discernment and revelation to recognize and get into the path of the Lord.

The Fourth Watch is The Morning Watch - A New Day Dawning! Beginning at 3:00 AM and ending at 6:00 AM, this watch is linked with the approaching morning light and the breaking of the day. When daylight comes, your position is exposed to the eyes of the enemy. During this watch, you become covered with the glory of the Lord. Read Exodus 14:24. We want to focus on staying covered in the cloud of His glorious presence by day, while the Lord troubles the forces of resistance aligned against us. In 2 Kings 11 ,we find a pattern of focus for this watch linked into a new government forming and a royal positioning. One third of the resources were spent watching at the King's house! One third of the forces were spent watching at the Gate of Sur which means 'Defectors or those who would turn back'! Finally, one third of the resources were spent watching at the gate as a rear guard! In this way the Lord's plan for His people was safeguarded because the next move of the King was surrounded. We want to focus our prayers during this time on watching for the King's timing for transition, guarding our hearts against defection or discouragement that would cause us to turn back, and rear guarding all those that are praying in the previous watches in the night.

Excerpts taken from the book Reordering Your Day by Chuck Pierce.

2009-01-01T12:41:00.000-05:00

Pansies...

2008-12-12T06:59:00.006-05:00

It's the time of year when my husband plants pansies all over the yard and at every window. I've never liked pansies because I thought they were little and wimpy looking and it was my reminder that winter was here. It doesn't matter anyway because it's cold enough outside that I don't stop long enough to look at the yard. When I pull into the driveway, I head straight into the garage closing the door behind me.

Recently I read another point of view about pansies which got me meditating on them. Around here in the Mid Atlantic region they are the one flower that will last during the winter season. We can have several days of frost or several inches of snow, but as it warms back up, they will come peeking through as if to say, 'Don't worry, here I am and I'm OK!". They are sturdy and resislient even through harsh winter winds and cold dark days. It's as if they refuse to give up!

God put those sustaining qualities in the pansy for our reminder. When we go through tough, dark, cold seasons of our life, He is there as our sustainer. They are our reminder from Him that we will make it through transitions to our next season. Eventually, we will say, "Don't worry, here I am and I'm OK!"

Let go of the old and let yourself be repositioned with the new! I am choosing to smile as I look at pansies in a new light this season. I will pause in the driveway because they are my reminder from Him!

Psalm 27:13
I would have lost heart, except I believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. He strengthened my heart as I waited on Him.

What's in your hand...or ears???

2008-11-30T15:52:00.004-05:00

Last week I received a gift from Ecuador. It was a pair of beautiful colorful wooden earrings. As I dressed for a luncheon, I realized they were a perfect match for the jacket that I would wear. I put the earrings in and moved my hair back so that they would gracefully swing. As I looked at them in the mirror, I felt led to pray for this tiny nation of Ecuador. As a point of contact I touched the earrings and said "Father, give them ears to hear what You are saying". That has been my cry for them each time I wear the earrings.

Let the Spirit of God reveal to you fresh new ways to pray for the nations. Will you please take a moment to pray for the nation listed today?

Here is one way to be reminded to pray for the nations. On my last shopping trip I bought...

Kiwi fruit from New Zealand, tomatoes from Canada, avocados from Mexico and bananas from Costa Rica and Honduras. As I wash, peel, and eat these foods, I ask the Lord of the Harvest to send laborers. I thank Him that He is pouring out of His Spirit upon ALL flesh and that their sons and daughters will prophesy and have dreams and visions. He loves the whole world and desires that none would perish!

What's in your hand? He's listening...

Psalm 144:1 Blessed is the Lord my strength, who teaches my hands to war and my fingers to fight.

No one deserves to hear twice, until everyone gets a chance to hear once.
Oswald J. Smith

Psalm 2:8 Ask of Me and I will give you the nations for Your inheritance and the end of the earth for your possession.

It's time to watch...

2008-11-10T21:23:00.001-05:00

Last Saturday at a local flea market a woman, a stranger, gave me a watch as a gift. As I took the watch I sensed the Lord was saying, "It's time to watch". Later as I glanced at her business card, I noticed that she sells corporate jets. As soon as I saw the word jet, I heard the word SOAR.

The next day at Walmart while I was patiently waiting in the photo department, a man stopped right in front of me and asked, "Do you know the date?" I answered and he smiled and walked off. The next morning at work, my manager came up to my desk...there were plenty of other desks that she could've stopped at....and asked, "Do you know what time it is exactly?".

I love it when God drops these moments in my lap, but I don't always know the meaning of them. All of this happened the first weekend of November which is the eleventh month and that number means a transition, a paradigm shift. It was the same weekend that Daylight Savings Time ended.

I believe the Lord is saying that it is time to be watchful, to be on the lookout, to keep in view as if to keep from harm. If we've been sleeping in some areas, then it's time to wake up and be alert! It is time for us to turn our back on the status quo and go deeper and higher with Him. When that happens, we will SOAR...to fly at a height as if we have wings and see from a new perspective!

It is TIME to WATCH ME cause you to SOAR into your future!

Isaiah 40:31 Those that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength and shall mount up with wings as eagles. They will run & not be weary; they shall walk & not faint.

The election is over...

2008-11-09T15:02:00.006-05:00

and we congratulate our new President elect, Senator Barack Obama on this historic win in a close race for the White House. Many Christians did not vote for him because of his stance on abortion; however, many did cast their vote for him. As a nation and particularly, the body of Christ, where do we go from here?

First, we must have unity. The enemy wants to keep us divided on political issues. We must stand together in prayer for our new president elect, his cabinet, and his decisions that will be made for our nation.

King Saul was Israel's first king. He was put into office because THE PEOPLE of Israel demanded of the Lord a 'man' to rule over them. The Lord brought Saul to the people and Samuel anointed him as King. That's what the people wanted and that's what they got.

Saul did not have a heart after the things of the Lord and kept on making bad decisions. He had many opportunities to get it right. He could've been a great King...the choice was his and the ball was in his court.

I Samuel 13:13 The prophet Samuel came to the King with a word from the Lord. This was after King Saul had made all of these wrong decisions Samuel said to King Saul, "You have not kept the commandment of the Lord your God which he commanded you; for the Lord would have established your kingdom over Israel forever."

If Saul had made the right choices, his kingdom would have been without end...

With that said, President elect Barack Obama now has the opportunity to be a great president. The question is...will he hear the voice of the Lord and obey?

What can we do? The Word of God instructs us to pray for those who are in positions of authority over us. This means that we are to pray for our President, Congress, Govenors, Mayors, City Councils, and Judges throughout the land.

Proverbs 21:1 The King's heart is in the hand of the Lord, and like a river, He turns it any which way He chooses.

Do not grow weary in doing well...like praying for our nation. We will set the course!

What are these moments?

2008-10-26T15:02:00.011-04:00

As humans we live in this place called time while we are waiting to enter our real home in a place called eternity. Time is a sliver, a small slice, of many moments brought together. Any one of these moments can be enlightening, energizing and captivating for us or they can be viewed & valued as nothing. Any one of these moments has the power within it to propel you into your destiny which is beyond what you have known and cause you to begin to walk in the power and presence of our King.

I choose to look at these moments and find life lessons of faith in them. Hence, this is the purpose of my blog.

This fall we have moved into the Hebraic year 5769 and ended the year 5768. Remember, "8's" are always linked with a new beginning, and "9's" are linked with bringing to birth what has been conceived.

This is an excerpt from a word given at Glory of Zion..see side bar for their website...

"Ask Me for the road signs to be made plain to you for the season ahead. Ask Me for the captives that were held from walking with Me in the past season. Ask Me to unlock all that was captured and held from your past season that needs to come into your path this season.

Ask Me to let you see your highway and the rest stops on your highway ahead. Ask Me to let you see the signs that point you off of the highway to a place to gather supply from storehouses that I have for you.

There are new, creative ideas that I am going to give you and new places that I have already prepared to unlock. Ask Me for the marketplaces that I am going to cause to blossom. Ask Me now. Don't talk so much about what has been lost but ask Me for the marketplaces that will be unlocked."

I pray that you are seeing your moments in time in a new light these days. You are about to give birth, to bring forth into this place called time, your creativity in dreams, talents and an increased passion for him.

For you are the true royalty of the earth - His children - in this place called time.

I Peter 2:9 You are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, His own special people that you may proclaim the praises and the excellence of our God. I

Happy Birthday to me....

2008-10-09T19:12:00.003-04:00

Today is my birthday! I love the fact that my birthday is in October. It's such a beautiful time of the year when green gives way to red & gold and browns never looked prettier!

My son gave me a blender that has the wave action so I can make slurpees. Bring out the apple juice! My husband gave me a laptop..used from Ebay..but it's a start and I'll take it! Besides, I've seen some of the modern girlie covers that you can now buy for them, so I'll pick one up. They also gave me some spoons because we're running low, cards, flowers and my favorite carrot cake! The girls at work gave me a plant, Twizzlers, Reeces and chocolate candy corn. The plant has its home on my desk and I've put the candy out to share with all. My friend called me with a birthday prayer that I would be filled with more joy and a new song....excellent gifts!

Last week I had a gum graft done because my bottom front tooth had recessed and needed new tissue. I'm recovering well. The dental assistant told me this tooth was used for tearing, so I would need to eat on the side and wait a couple of weeks for the tissue to mend. The word tear seemed to be emphasized when she said it, so I knew that the Lord wanted to teach me something. I prayed, "Lord, show me where I am tearing things incorrectly in my life". Three days later as I was speaking with a friend (thanks Lisa) about what I had prayed, she told me that sarcasm tears people down. That was an aha moment for me. I recognized where I needed to repent which means I will turn and go a new direction.

God's birthday gift to me was to set me free from sarcasm! He is soooo kind and loving and VERY GENEROUS!

Its been a fabulous birthday!

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans that I have for you, says God, to give you a hope, a future and an expected end of good.

Autumn....

2008-09-28T13:55:00.007-04:00

Autumn has arrived and so has her warm colors and cooler days. I wonder if that is that God's way of bringing balance? Yesterday I spent the day at our City Center and enjoyed their beautiful arrangement of fall flowers along the main walkway. I ate my lunch on a park bench at the fountain and drank in the beauty of nature. As I sat looking at ALL of the things around me, I began to wonder what kinds of words would best describe this peaceful scene.

Perhaps I was so taken with the beauty because it had been awhile since I had enjoyed the middle of the day outdoors. Humid summers are best enjoyed from our air conditioned homes & cars. Even the fuschia Myrtle trees that bloom in the middle of the July heat, are usually best viewed from behind a window. I must get outside more!

As the leaves change their colors to gold & red and they fall away from their trees, so I too look for changes in the color of my life and what needs to fall away. So that when winter comes & its time to hibernate, I've got that which matters most in place.

Psalm 24:1 The earth is the Lord's and all of its fullness.

The cricket that went to church...

2008-09-14T16:29:00.013-04:00

Last week was one of those weeks on the calendar that stayed empty forever and then when I wasn't looking, it filled up to overflowing! On Wednesday night we visited our friends church in VA Beach because they had guest ministers in. It was an hour away, I had to dress up, eat dinner quickly and then sit in traffic. I just didn't want to go and I pouted the whole way there! Even my husband's consolation of a yummy coffee couldn't get me to change my mind. I was determined to stay grumpy!

We arrived in plenty of time to get a good seat, visit with friends and get settled in! The praise and worship was energetic, alive & full of joy! As my heart was beginning to melt, I heard the sound of an unexpected guest. It was a cricket and he was doing what he was does best...chirping! He seemed to have his own little amen corner. He was relentless and never stopped chirping the whole service. As I sat there, I smiled as I heard him chirp. He was reminding me that I, too, should be doing what I do best and that is to praise the Lord! I settled in to enjoy the message.

God, thank you for the little cricket that reminds me how beautiful it is to Praise the Lord!

Psalm 97 Let the earth rejoice and the people be glad. Our God reigns!

Intersections..

2008-09-03T07:56:00.016-04:00

There are 7 traffic lights between my house and work. The usual driving time is 12 minutes and my only goal is to get there! A few days ago as I was driving to work and one of the lights turned yellow, I purposely slowed down instead of hurrying through to get to the next light. I pushed the CD in to hear my favorite song and discovered that I was enjoying this moment. It was such a small slice of time but so much strength came from it!

It was then I realized that we have different kinds of interesections in our lives. Many times we choose to go through them quickly instead of allowing ourselves the time to stop and enjoy. The red lights are not to stop us from going forward but to help clarify our direction so that we go forward in strength and with a purpose.

Let's allow ourselves to be rearranged in these intersecting moments so that we will be released into the new.

Isaiah 43:19 Behold I will do a new thing and it shall spring forth now; will you recognize it?

Update from Cuba..

2008-09-01T09:59:00.006-04:00

Here are a few pictures from the 2 weeks in Cuba sharing about the goodness of God. The group on the beach is the team and they spent time in Havanna and the outlying areas ministering at several churches, on the beach and in the highways and byways. The picture with the buildings in the background is a church that meets on a rooftop.

There was much freedom to share with the people and their hearts were open to hear about the love and goodness of God. Time to plan another visit...

Mark 16:15 Jesus said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every nation..."

A Cuban cup of coffee..

2008-08-12T23:43:00.006-04:00

This is a dream that I had one week prior to a team of 7 going on a mission trip to Cuba...

I entered a lively restaurant through the back door. The dimly lit room was filled with people laughing and eating and enjoying themselves. I walked up to a soda fountain and filled my cup with a drink. I realized that I was standing in front of a variety of coffee from around the world. Above my selection was the word 'Cuba'. The lady helping me smiled as if to agree with my choice.

As I turned to leave, I headed toward the front of the restaurant. I needed to go up 3 stairs. There were children in white shirts playing on them and I said, "Behind you, I have hot coffee!" They moved over and I went up the stairs into a large bright room. It was empty except for a large rug on the floor. As I stepped on the rug, a wall came down from the ceiling. Coffee in one hand and a purse in the other, I moved quickly to get in front of the wall. I was trying to not spill my coffee, but it was full and as I moved forward, some spilled on the rug.

The hostess at the front door scowled because she had to come clean it up; however, as she was cleaning the rug, she began to smile as she looked up at me. I turned to look back at this wall that had scooted me out of the way and it had become an elevator.

Here are brief interpretations..
back door: neighborly, familiar (The Spanish pastor at Bethel is leading this group and he is from Cuba)
the children & behind you: to speak to the next generation that God has a future for them!
the spill: In the spilling over of the Spirit of God in them (the group), the people will be changed. Do not hold back! Let the rivers of living water flow from you!
elevator: They are preparing a way for others and that access will be quicker.

My dream...their story...for His glory!

Take a nap and dream for Him!

Dreams...

2008-08-12T23:03:00.006-04:00

In the last couple of years, I've had a few significant dreams from the Lord. They've always been for me personally and I would briefly jot down the details. My husband and a team are preparing to go on a mission trip to Cuba. The week before they left I had a dream about a cup of Cuban coffee. When I woke up, I knew it meant something, so I wrote it out. I was amazed at the impact the words had when I wrote them. When I shared this dream with the team, they were encouraged and even more excited because God revealed that He had a plan!!

Little did we know that 2 days prior to the trip, there would be a test of 'missing tickets'. Yet I had peace and confidence that the dream was meaningful and that the trip was still a go! In my peace I was able to support my husband who was definitely being tested!

Let's begin to write out our dreams and ask Him for wisdom and understanding. We will be amazed at the details He has for us!

The Lord said, Write the vision and make it plain on tablets, that he may run who reads it... Habakkuk 2:2

Rounding corners...

2008-08-10T18:33:00.001-04:00

The number '8' is always linked with new beginnings and 2008 is a time to begin a fresh new season in our lives. As we pass the halfway mark of the year, it's time to consider rounding those corners of opportunities set before us and not let them pass us by. I've been writing for over a year now and the time has come for me round this corner into the BIG world of blogging.

Come join me on this journey.