Well, we are heading quickly into that time of the year when we need to choose our supplemental insurance to Medicare in order to get the coverage we need as we age. Such a confusing chore! I suppose it's not as bad as endeavoring to figure out Obama-care, because it's not thousands of pages to march through, but there are so many items to compare! One covers your teeth, and another doesn't. One offers some medications free, but refuses to help pay for others - 'cuz you're too old!! What? If your doctor has ordered the med, who is an insurance company to declare that you can't have it due to age? Isn't your doctor more adept at knowing that than a secretary at an insurance company?
So as I write, Ron is calling several different companies in an attempt to figure it out and make a decision. Needing to "pinch pennies" and make a decision by a certain date, hearing recordings instead of talking to a live body, and doing all of the comparisons is a daunting task. When there's two of you - and thank God there still are two Rockeys - the monthly premium doubles of course, so we do what we can to pare down the budget and make staying well a priority at the same time. And of course, things change each year as even insurance companies struggle with budgets!
We are grateful that there's one constant - and only one! There's the never-changing love of God for everyone, and a safe haven to run to in times of distress. We are very aware that He is always in charge of us, even though the insurance companies and the government think that they are! And He will guide as we work through the comparisons of the 3 insurances available to us "old folk" here in New Mexico!
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Monday, October 15, 2012
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Coincidence? NOT!
Interesting how often we tend to recognize what we assume is a coincidence, and title it so. In reality so many of those events are really God-ordained and not happenstances at all!
Due to selling a piece of equipment on line, we met on Sunday morning at a church with the pastor and congregation, who were interested in this equipment. We sat through their service where a guest speaker/evangelist spoke - a beautiful sermon on the book of Revelation. At the end of her presentation, she had a call for members who wanted/needed special prayer. Many came forward.
When she had finished the prayers, she came to us and asked if she could pray for us. We agreed. With her hands on our shoulders, she prayed as if she knew us and knew the history of our work, of struggles and challenges we have had with opposition and that she knew that God was not finished with us yet. "Bless this sweet couple," she prayed, "with strength to continue until their work is done."
We were flabbergasted! Then the Pastor called us forward and asked us to explain just how we were going to bless his congregation. As we told our story and our mission, tears flowed and many were anxious to begin the process of recovery from the results of wounds received at the hand of God's enemy. "We'll be renting you two a room at the nearby hotel for 52 week-ends in a row," the Pastor said, "so that we can glean from you all we need to be the best ambassadors we can be for the cause of Christ." Of course, we all chuckled.
Coincidence? NOT! God will even use an advertisement to sell a piece of equipment in order to get His words of healing to his children - or He'll make the rocks cry out!!!
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Due to selling a piece of equipment on line, we met on Sunday morning at a church with the pastor and congregation, who were interested in this equipment. We sat through their service where a guest speaker/evangelist spoke - a beautiful sermon on the book of Revelation. At the end of her presentation, she had a call for members who wanted/needed special prayer. Many came forward.
When she had finished the prayers, she came to us and asked if she could pray for us. We agreed. With her hands on our shoulders, she prayed as if she knew us and knew the history of our work, of struggles and challenges we have had with opposition and that she knew that God was not finished with us yet. "Bless this sweet couple," she prayed, "with strength to continue until their work is done."
We were flabbergasted! Then the Pastor called us forward and asked us to explain just how we were going to bless his congregation. As we told our story and our mission, tears flowed and many were anxious to begin the process of recovery from the results of wounds received at the hand of God's enemy. "We'll be renting you two a room at the nearby hotel for 52 week-ends in a row," the Pastor said, "so that we can glean from you all we need to be the best ambassadors we can be for the cause of Christ." Of course, we all chuckled.
Coincidence? NOT! God will even use an advertisement to sell a piece of equipment in order to get His words of healing to his children - or He'll make the rocks cry out!!!
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Tuesday, September 4, 2012
Suggestions for Marital Success
So may long for more joy and happiness in their marriage, yet have tried nothing or only tried the roses and chocolates "game." That's a nice temporary fix for the recipient, but often the question asked by the receiver of such pleasant gifts, is: "OK, what do you want?" This implies that the chocolates and roses are simply bribes to get more of what the giver wants.
Let's look at some pointers from our book "Heart Connection," and please do note that these are from the last chapter of the book. The real "meat" for understanding is found in the previous nine chapters. We will do one a day until we cover the pointers, and will refer you to the book in its entirety.
1. Start this very minute. Wherever you are, whatever your partner is or what he/she is doing, STOP! Now go to God, and ask Him to assist you to open your heart to your mate. Only speak the truth to your mate as God gives it to you. You do not give or receive the kind of love you truly desire by generating it within yourself. That unconditional love comes from God and He longs to give it to you to be passed on to your mate as you experience it from God. It is true that God wants you to love yourself, because it is with that same love He gives you for yourself, that you will love your mate, your parents, your children and others. Any time that love has the face of selfishness on it (I'm giving in order to get) it is not God's perfect love. Even the words "I love you" are often used as a priming of the pump, so to speak, so that you will hear it from another to you. This is selfish, human love, which gives in order to get.
Consider this prayer: "Lord, I come to you as an imperfect human being with a desire to be loved and accepted. First of all Lord, please show me what it is that blocks me from loving myself and others as I ought to. Give me strength to let go of those things that imprison me into a ball of selfish needs, unable to receive from you and to give out your love to others. I long to be filled with your unconditional love, Lord, and to give your love out to my mate. Give me the courage to receive and to impart your love to my husband/wife, I pray, and thank you for already doing so. Amen."
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Let's look at some pointers from our book "Heart Connection," and please do note that these are from the last chapter of the book. The real "meat" for understanding is found in the previous nine chapters. We will do one a day until we cover the pointers, and will refer you to the book in its entirety.
1. Start this very minute. Wherever you are, whatever your partner is or what he/she is doing, STOP! Now go to God, and ask Him to assist you to open your heart to your mate. Only speak the truth to your mate as God gives it to you. You do not give or receive the kind of love you truly desire by generating it within yourself. That unconditional love comes from God and He longs to give it to you to be passed on to your mate as you experience it from God. It is true that God wants you to love yourself, because it is with that same love He gives you for yourself, that you will love your mate, your parents, your children and others. Any time that love has the face of selfishness on it (I'm giving in order to get) it is not God's perfect love. Even the words "I love you" are often used as a priming of the pump, so to speak, so that you will hear it from another to you. This is selfish, human love, which gives in order to get.
Consider this prayer: "Lord, I come to you as an imperfect human being with a desire to be loved and accepted. First of all Lord, please show me what it is that blocks me from loving myself and others as I ought to. Give me strength to let go of those things that imprison me into a ball of selfish needs, unable to receive from you and to give out your love to others. I long to be filled with your unconditional love, Lord, and to give your love out to my mate. Give me the courage to receive and to impart your love to my husband/wife, I pray, and thank you for already doing so. Amen."
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Tuesday, August 21, 2012
Hi Friends;
Back home last evening from a long week-end in Phoenix. We attended a banquet/info session for the MJ Fox Research group which is at Boswell/Bannner Research Institute in Sun City, AZ. They are a wonderful group of folk who monitor Parkinson's Progression of their clients.
Spent time with Ken and Donna - precious friends, and got to see Kath and Alex too. It was good to have a change/rest. Now we are back to home, Missy and work to be accomplished.
Gratitude to Donna and Kenny for a warm and loving place to spend the week-end!
We have a group for Women going through The Journey on September 6th. Looking forward to continued learning and growing with a precious group of ladies! We are busy working on video updating, and preparation. Newsletter to go out soon - like tomorrow.
Little changes in routine and location are like mini-vacations - good for the soul. It's always great to get home again after a trip, and back into familiar routine. We discover however as we age, that it's too easy to be in routine, and not want to leave it - and that bogs us down. So we have decided to take "little vacations" whenever we can - even if they are a few hours long and only go as far as the next town. They change our view and outlook.
Now I must unpack from our last little "vacation."
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Thursday, August 16, 2012
"MY" Stuff
Posted 8/12/12
Amazing how possessive we are about our stuff. For us, we have been and are still going through stuff in an endeavor to simplify. Ron's tools (his and my father's) are being sorted. I'm plowing through china and glassware and boxes of pictures. Some stay, some go. There are some things I question, like the banana curls from age 6 that my mother just HAD to keep, and they are still in the cedar chest. What would our girls want with them? There are some priceless things handed down from 5 generations, and those will be passed on to our children, grandchildren and great-grands. We hide them from view, protected under lock and key.
We watched the need to have and protect demonstrated today. We gave Missy, our mini-schnauzer, a "Greenie." Those chewies are priceless treasures to her, and she wanted to hide, to protect it. For ten minutes she went from place to place in the Family Room, looking for a safe spot, and finally decided on a crease in a burgundy, leather chair. Then she climbed on the hassock near the chair, and laid down to guard it. Later in the day, she recovered and enjoyed her prize.
In reality there are two things we need to save, hide and protect for future use. First are the promises of God which should be memorized and hidden in our memory bank for future use -they will bring reassurance of constant love especially in times of need. The other is the plethora of precious memories of life experiences with our family and friends. These should be hidden in our hearts, because they will bring us joy and comfort for a lifetime.
Simply memorize and hold on tightly to God's promises which are "leaves from the Tree of Life for the healing of the nations," and hold tight and speak often of memories that will connect you to loved ones, creating a feeling of belonging. These are worth the effort to save and protect.
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Amazing how possessive we are about our stuff. For us, we have been and are still going through stuff in an endeavor to simplify. Ron's tools (his and my father's) are being sorted. I'm plowing through china and glassware and boxes of pictures. Some stay, some go. There are some things I question, like the banana curls from age 6 that my mother just HAD to keep, and they are still in the cedar chest. What would our girls want with them? There are some priceless things handed down from 5 generations, and those will be passed on to our children, grandchildren and great-grands. We hide them from view, protected under lock and key.
We watched the need to have and protect demonstrated today. We gave Missy, our mini-schnauzer, a "Greenie." Those chewies are priceless treasures to her, and she wanted to hide, to protect it. For ten minutes she went from place to place in the Family Room, looking for a safe spot, and finally decided on a crease in a burgundy, leather chair. Then she climbed on the hassock near the chair, and laid down to guard it. Later in the day, she recovered and enjoyed her prize.
In reality there are two things we need to save, hide and protect for future use. First are the promises of God which should be memorized and hidden in our memory bank for future use -they will bring reassurance of constant love especially in times of need. The other is the plethora of precious memories of life experiences with our family and friends. These should be hidden in our hearts, because they will bring us joy and comfort for a lifetime.
Simply memorize and hold on tightly to God's promises which are "leaves from the Tree of Life for the healing of the nations," and hold tight and speak often of memories that will connect you to loved ones, creating a feeling of belonging. These are worth the effort to save and protect.
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Change
Posted 8/8/12
Sometimes you just long for a change, don't you? A vacation, a Sunday afternoon ride, a meal out at a restaurant or something just out of your daily routine. Us women like to have a new blouse or dress once in a while and they guys think about a new tool or "techy" item.
Sometimes routine is comforting, safe, familiar, so it requires less planning, thinking and effort. .And no matter how you slice it, change is inevitable. Our phone bill for example, with no change in service, jumped from 50-something a month to ninety-something a month. Who allowed that? Changes at the grocery store seem phenomenal! Products that used to line the shelves are missing, and every time you shop, prices are higher by a few cents or dollars!
Health changes - just ask us! The more years we put on, the less agile and physically fit we become. The duller the vision and the senses. So then the routine has to change in order to make those muscles and the brain cooperate. And the older one gets, the harder it is to accommodate change.
Relationships change. What once was great, loving and fulfilling can easily become boring and humdrum.
One constant remains - the availability of relief from any of the above changes. That constant is the ever-present, ever-loving, always committed heavenly Father! While everything may fail you, the assurance of His love is always present.
"I will never fail you. I will never forsake you. That is why we can say with confidence, 'The Lord is my helper, so I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?" Hebrews 13: 5&6 NLT
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Sometimes you just long for a change, don't you? A vacation, a Sunday afternoon ride, a meal out at a restaurant or something just out of your daily routine. Us women like to have a new blouse or dress once in a while and they guys think about a new tool or "techy" item.
Sometimes routine is comforting, safe, familiar, so it requires less planning, thinking and effort. .And no matter how you slice it, change is inevitable. Our phone bill for example, with no change in service, jumped from 50-something a month to ninety-something a month. Who allowed that? Changes at the grocery store seem phenomenal! Products that used to line the shelves are missing, and every time you shop, prices are higher by a few cents or dollars!
Health changes - just ask us! The more years we put on, the less agile and physically fit we become. The duller the vision and the senses. So then the routine has to change in order to make those muscles and the brain cooperate. And the older one gets, the harder it is to accommodate change.
Relationships change. What once was great, loving and fulfilling can easily become boring and humdrum.
One constant remains - the availability of relief from any of the above changes. That constant is the ever-present, ever-loving, always committed heavenly Father! While everything may fail you, the assurance of His love is always present.
"I will never fail you. I will never forsake you. That is why we can say with confidence, 'The Lord is my helper, so I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?" Hebrews 13: 5&6 NLT
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Attitude of Gratitude
Posted 8/2/12
Everyone experiences hills and valleys along the Journey of life. Reminds me of a poem my Grandma had decorating her wall: "God has not promised skies always blue, flower strewn pathways all our lives through."
AND, the Good Book, especially the Psalms, counsels us to be grateful for the trials AND the treasures we experience. Experiencing the trials are part of the joy felt when they are relieved. The pain now is part of the joy then.
Where is this coming from? It's coming from the relief I feel now that my miserable cough is done with! Somehow I KNEW it was an allergic thing, but it would progress over and over again to bronchitis, requiring antibiotics to cure. This last bout has been treated with an injection for allergies, which produced relief in 2 hours. Now I can sleep nights, and don't hack continually. It is true! The joy NOW is a part of the PAIN then!
Yes, it's a play on words, but all I know is that I am extremely grateful to a Dr. who listens to her patients and is willing to try their suggestions. Thank you Dr. Martinez, and thank you God!
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Everyone experiences hills and valleys along the Journey of life. Reminds me of a poem my Grandma had decorating her wall: "God has not promised skies always blue, flower strewn pathways all our lives through."
AND, the Good Book, especially the Psalms, counsels us to be grateful for the trials AND the treasures we experience. Experiencing the trials are part of the joy felt when they are relieved. The pain now is part of the joy then.
Where is this coming from? It's coming from the relief I feel now that my miserable cough is done with! Somehow I KNEW it was an allergic thing, but it would progress over and over again to bronchitis, requiring antibiotics to cure. This last bout has been treated with an injection for allergies, which produced relief in 2 hours. Now I can sleep nights, and don't hack continually. It is true! The joy NOW is a part of the PAIN then!
Yes, it's a play on words, but all I know is that I am extremely grateful to a Dr. who listens to her patients and is willing to try their suggestions. Thank you Dr. Martinez, and thank you God!
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Surviving
Posted 7/10/12
It's been a summer of survival so far for us! First came the horrendous Ruidoso fires. We were evacuated but no fire came into our sub-division. Such a blessing!
Then we had the New England trip to speak at both Southern and Northern New England Camp Meetings. For a while, the trip was feared, but Parkinson's seems to create fears. Day two there, Ron said he was thrilled that he'd taken the chance to go. We had a wonderful time meeting old friends and making new ones! The speaking was not too taxing, and actually a blessing to us. Being "home" was a joy. One friend came (granddaughter brought him) who is 90 - just to see Ron again. What a thrill! Several friends came and stayed from Connecticut just so they could be with us - again, what a joy and blessing. And we even survived the return trip "home" to New Mexico! YEA!
And now, since the Ruidoso fires, there's a threat of flooding. This is monsoon season and it has come in like a LION! Haven't seen so many clouds and so much rain for years here. The town is preparing for the worst, but we are counting on the best. The grass has greened up and looks beautiful, albeit quite tall! Can't cut as yet, 'cuz it's WET!
So we still survive. Amazing how powerful the human brain is. Even though the brain is so powerful, we count on the physical heart, designed for love, and open the door widely for God to dwell therein. Now there's the secret to peace!!
Wonder what we're talking about? Go to www.kardiakare.com and find out!
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It's been a summer of survival so far for us! First came the horrendous Ruidoso fires. We were evacuated but no fire came into our sub-division. Such a blessing!
Then we had the New England trip to speak at both Southern and Northern New England Camp Meetings. For a while, the trip was feared, but Parkinson's seems to create fears. Day two there, Ron said he was thrilled that he'd taken the chance to go. We had a wonderful time meeting old friends and making new ones! The speaking was not too taxing, and actually a blessing to us. Being "home" was a joy. One friend came (granddaughter brought him) who is 90 - just to see Ron again. What a thrill! Several friends came and stayed from Connecticut just so they could be with us - again, what a joy and blessing. And we even survived the return trip "home" to New Mexico! YEA!
And now, since the Ruidoso fires, there's a threat of flooding. This is monsoon season and it has come in like a LION! Haven't seen so many clouds and so much rain for years here. The town is preparing for the worst, but we are counting on the best. The grass has greened up and looks beautiful, albeit quite tall! Can't cut as yet, 'cuz it's WET!
So we still survive. Amazing how powerful the human brain is. Even though the brain is so powerful, we count on the physical heart, designed for love, and open the door widely for God to dwell therein. Now there's the secret to peace!!
Wonder what we're talking about? Go to www.kardiakare.com and find out!
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Time Flies
Posted 5/27/12
It’s been a while since I’ve written a blog – much going on in our lives, I guess. Our granddaughter celebrated her High School Graduation with cheering family and friends in attendance. Our daughter and her husband flew the friendly skies from Florida to join in the celebration. We spent the next week doing a Kardia Kare Sunday night through Friday, and today we are resting a bit before Granddaughter number two celebrates becoming a teenager. Many “doings” in a short period of time, and we’ve so enjoyed having family closely around us. This is our last day with our Florida daughter and her husband, as they fly home tomorrow.
Days filled with activities seems to race by quickly before we know what’s happening, and the older we get, even months and years fly by! We look in the mirror one day to see a face we can still recognize, but one that displays age spots and wrinkles. As the old saying goes, our hair has turned to silver. But inside, in our minds that are as old as we are, we still think young. We still want to do what we did when we were in our twenties, and when we try to, our muscles scream and bones seem to cry out in protest. We want to just sit and do nothing, yet know that if we do, we’ll have a harder time getting up. And anyway, if all we did was to “veg,” what enjoyment or fulfillment would there be.
So now, for the next few days, we will rest a bit, publish the newsletter, and prepare for a trip to Phoenix to do a question and answer period and visit the Parkinson’s Research Center and see our special friends for an hour or two, and then fly home, so spend a bit of reminiscing time with some friends who are “passing through” the area. Then it’s final prep time for New England Camp meetings, and after, the lazy days of summer in our beautiful mountains.
We make the most of each day, knowing the memories we make become more precious and time continues to race by. Hope you’re doing the same!
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It’s been a while since I’ve written a blog – much going on in our lives, I guess. Our granddaughter celebrated her High School Graduation with cheering family and friends in attendance. Our daughter and her husband flew the friendly skies from Florida to join in the celebration. We spent the next week doing a Kardia Kare Sunday night through Friday, and today we are resting a bit before Granddaughter number two celebrates becoming a teenager. Many “doings” in a short period of time, and we’ve so enjoyed having family closely around us. This is our last day with our Florida daughter and her husband, as they fly home tomorrow.
Days filled with activities seems to race by quickly before we know what’s happening, and the older we get, even months and years fly by! We look in the mirror one day to see a face we can still recognize, but one that displays age spots and wrinkles. As the old saying goes, our hair has turned to silver. But inside, in our minds that are as old as we are, we still think young. We still want to do what we did when we were in our twenties, and when we try to, our muscles scream and bones seem to cry out in protest. We want to just sit and do nothing, yet know that if we do, we’ll have a harder time getting up. And anyway, if all we did was to “veg,” what enjoyment or fulfillment would there be.
So now, for the next few days, we will rest a bit, publish the newsletter, and prepare for a trip to Phoenix to do a question and answer period and visit the Parkinson’s Research Center and see our special friends for an hour or two, and then fly home, so spend a bit of reminiscing time with some friends who are “passing through” the area. Then it’s final prep time for New England Camp meetings, and after, the lazy days of summer in our beautiful mountains.
We make the most of each day, knowing the memories we make become more precious and time continues to race by. Hope you’re doing the same!
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More....
Posted 1/26/12
More . . .
Why is it, as humans, we seem to learn things the hard way? Or maybe it's just me.
I have learned a difficult lesson in the last couple of weeks, and my health took a dive because of it. Fortunately, I'm on my way back now.
What I learned was this - don't keep doing the same thing over and over again hoping for different or better results. I used to believe the addage that "if at first you don't succeed, try, try again," and now I am not so sure about that old saying (the way I had previously lived my life). More and more I am coming to learn that there are some things in life not worth frustrating, fretting or even fighting over. When you get the message that you're just banging your head against the wall, quit banging or eventually you'll have brain damage and die!
So "Be still and Know" is very sound advice. I chose that better part this week, partly out of more frustration and partly out of what I considered defeat and others not wanting to hear what I had to say. My blood pressure will come to within normal limits because of it and while I may not see the results that were originally planned, at least I can shrug my shoulders and not feel responsible. I can remain in the arms of God, resting and being content.
So can you . . .
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More . . .
Why is it, as humans, we seem to learn things the hard way? Or maybe it's just me.
I have learned a difficult lesson in the last couple of weeks, and my health took a dive because of it. Fortunately, I'm on my way back now.
What I learned was this - don't keep doing the same thing over and over again hoping for different or better results. I used to believe the addage that "if at first you don't succeed, try, try again," and now I am not so sure about that old saying (the way I had previously lived my life). More and more I am coming to learn that there are some things in life not worth frustrating, fretting or even fighting over. When you get the message that you're just banging your head against the wall, quit banging or eventually you'll have brain damage and die!
So "Be still and Know" is very sound advice. I chose that better part this week, partly out of more frustration and partly out of what I considered defeat and others not wanting to hear what I had to say. My blood pressure will come to within normal limits because of it and while I may not see the results that were originally planned, at least I can shrug my shoulders and not feel responsible. I can remain in the arms of God, resting and being content.
So can you . . .
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Be Still & Know
Posted 1/17/12
Frustrations . . .
Just can't get to sleep . . . ?
Having computer hassels . . .?
Can't seem to loose weight . . . ? and on an on goes the list of things that frustrate me the most.
How very easy it is to get caught up in the merry-go-round of negative self talk that usually accompanies the things that frustrate us. "How dumb can you be? Oh common, smarten up!, etc. etc."
Does all that nonsensical lingo help any? Not at all! The more the chatter persists, the greater the angst - right?
So take a couple of deep breaths, sit back in your chair, say a prayer for guidance, clear your mind of the negativity and start thanking God for the answer and/or the "how to", and soon you'll find yourself doing the very thing that your inability before had caused the frustration.
"Be still and know that I am God." The counsel DOES work. I know, because I spent that last hour trying to get into our own blog (changes, always computer changes) and finally The being still and knowing got me here!
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Frustrations . . .
Just can't get to sleep . . . ?
Having computer hassels . . .?
Can't seem to loose weight . . . ? and on an on goes the list of things that frustrate me the most.
How very easy it is to get caught up in the merry-go-round of negative self talk that usually accompanies the things that frustrate us. "How dumb can you be? Oh common, smarten up!, etc. etc."
Does all that nonsensical lingo help any? Not at all! The more the chatter persists, the greater the angst - right?
So take a couple of deep breaths, sit back in your chair, say a prayer for guidance, clear your mind of the negativity and start thanking God for the answer and/or the "how to", and soon you'll find yourself doing the very thing that your inability before had caused the frustration.
"Be still and know that I am God." The counsel DOES work. I know, because I spent that last hour trying to get into our own blog (changes, always computer changes) and finally The being still and knowing got me here!
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Missing Blogs
Somehow we managed to get two blogs going so you folks have missed some. We are now attempting to add in the ones you've missed. Unfortunately they won't show on the dates they were posted, however, we will attach the date it was first posted in the blog body itself.
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Saturday, April 21, 2012
Overwhelmed?
Ever feel overwhelmed? Got too much to do and no time to do it? Want to accomplish so much and make your surroundings look perfect? That's me, but I'm learning.
You know, people who love you don't really care if your house, your yard and your person looks perfect. In reality, they would rather have you be there for them than to make everything look perfect.
Wish I had come to that much earlier in my life. I probably would have more energy now than I do. My children wouldn't have had to deal with such a perfectionist for a mother, one who had to keep up appearances and have the children look and be perfect.
So yes, it's spring, and I'd love to do a bunch of Spring Cleaning, but with this degenerating back, I am going to have to pick and choose. Actually, simplifying would be a great task to accomplish, and I have already begun. Two chairs leaving tomorrow, and a bunch of clutter being collected for a church yard sale - YEA! Tools will be sifted through soon and son-in-laws get first dibs, then Eric and then the church's yard sale.
Simplifying makes life so much easier, and one's disposition so much sweeter. And it's so much easier to relax when you aren't looking at so many things. So.o.o. have fun this spring, and then chill!
Monday, April 16, 2012
Reflecting
Hi Friends!
My life began with one arm tied behind my back, so to speak. It was World War II and my father was in the Army, and missing from home. My first few years were without him, with Mother parenting alone. Just before Dad was sent to Europe, Mom conceived my brother who was born and died before my Dad came back home and the war was over. Sad and difficult years
Life took a rather dramatic turn then, and the rest of my "at home years" were difficult. After college graduation, I met the man of my dreams, but our marriage turned into a nightmare for the first 12 years. Finally we determined to "pull out all the stops" to make marriage work, and did so.
As I look back, I am grateful for all of the experiences we've either endured or enjoyed. They have made us who we are and given us courage and faith for the future. Currently we are in the famous Golden Years, and finding body parts we didn't know we had - aches and pains have alerted us. And guess what? We are happier than we've ever been. We laugh at the aches and pains and the restricted abilities that have become a part of our lives.
Rather than sit and suffer, we choose to move along, keep working at our ministry and even dreaming of other projects to enhance ministry. No rocking chairs here!
Thank you God for nearly 47 years together and in love, and a purpose for our lives!
How has your history shaped you?
Saturday, April 7, 2012
Easter Contemplation
Today it is quiet. No bunnies hopping around depositing chocolate Easter eggs. Few families gathered around a table laden with luscious goodies and fancy confections. Today is the day for rest, because yesterday was a day filled with trauma, and anyway, God in His infinite wisdom had set it up that way.
No one really believed He would die and then live again. No one ever had without His touch and he would be unavailable, gone. Hasn't it always been that death is final? Friday's old wooden cross, a crown of thorns, scourging, humiliation and a spear in his side. Weeping, repenting, sadness and gloom. And upon the old rugged cross, he forgave us all, and died.
Carried to the tomb, anointed with chosen oils and wrapped in the cloths of those who would decay, the stone was rolled across the tomb, and slowly the mourners left for home.
Now, today was the day to hold each other, to mourn their loss, to go nowhere and do nothing, except perhaps to the temple, because after all, it was the Sabbath day.
Amazing isn't it? Come Sunday morning, Mary goes to the tomb to weep, and maybe to hope, and the risen Savior appears to her, not in a dream but in solid flesh and bone. She sees the holes in his hands. the burial cloths are strewn about, and she hears His comforting voice call her by name; Mary, the forgiven Prostitute. And he bids her to go tell Peter - the hasty, fearful one who betrayed him. Jesus, who holds no grudge and loves without question, seeks to remove shame as His first act of redemption.
Good Friday is a day for worship of the crucified Christ. It certainly was good for me, because this trauma saves my soul. Sunday is a day for Hosannas and praise, because Christ no longer sleeps in death, but is awake to my every pain, to my need.
Centuries later too, today is a day for rest and perhaps for a bit of preparation of heart - for tomorrow we sing and dance for joy. He is risen! My only Hope has paid the price for me, and I am free!
Monday, April 2, 2012
Spring Green
I'm dragging! As if the accident wasn't enough, I've not been able to get rid of a nasty cough. I think it started when we were caught in a dust storm in AZ, but had it quite a while, antibiotics and all. God sent us a really wise doctor who heard my cough, said he felt I have pneumonia, and ordered a very powerful antibiotic. And then the green showed up!
Well, I thought that spring was for pretty green sprouts on trees, lawns and flowers, not for coughing up green, but thanks to the doc, the green is gone now and even though I'm dragging, my lungs are feeling clearer! I'm juicing green veggies and carrots and apples, drinking warm lemon-water, and counting the days 'til I have the energy to plant some of those beautiful Geraniums I saw, some Petunias and Asparagus Fern too. And I'll probably paint my black pots green too - it'll remind me of the blessing God sent when He knew I needed to get rid of some gunky green.
But wait a minute! It's April 2nd, and it's snowing! Oh well, a few more days to rest before painting and planting. On to a nap . . .
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Sun Spots or What?
This past week it has been a "zoo" at our place! Recovering still from the accident, working on a newsletter, having the needed medical treatments since the accident, trying to have meals somewhat on time, doing lotsa' work for Fixable Life, and trying to find five minutes for R and R. And the amusing thing is, that whomever we talk to on the phone OR in person, is in the same boat!!! Everyone is rushing around and seems out of breath and out of energy. WOW! Craziness!
Do you suppose that this is Biblical prophecy coming to pass - "people running to and fro" - or is it some sorta' sun spots causing mayhem and confusion everywhere or is it both? Maybe it's the enemy's agenda to play divide and conquer between us and others as well as us and God - too busy for anything outside of our "stuff."
We sit back, put on relaxing music, and pray that the whole world or even just our community is not under the same "attack" of the crazies. Blessings to you if you are!!
Monday, March 19, 2012
Cherishing Family and Friends
Not sure how ya'll feel about this, but I want to put it out there for your contemplation and hopefully your response . . .
To me, the most important things in the world are relationships!
Of course our relationship with God is of primary importance. How much time do we spend with Him, how often do we thank Him for the gifts He gives-continually, how much are we convinced of the freedom we have in Him to blossom and become what He originally designed us to be?
Family is important also. Last evening we had our daughter and her family for supper and the evening. No TV, just wonderful chatter, laughter, planning and fun. These are relationships to nurture, especially in this time of upset in the world, banding together has many benefits.
To me, friendships are of great importance also. We have "old" and "newer" friends, and we enjoy every one of them. Since we have moved to the mountains, we have a number of "newer" friends and we enjoy them too. But the "old" friends, the ones with whom you have history and many memories, are the very special ones. Sure you have your disagreements, but so what! You solve the issue and move on. Thing is, you chose them and they chose you in the first place, and you did so because you had so much in common. You laughed and cried together, you worked and played and maybe even vacationed, and these memories are priceless treasures.
What do you think? Do you have precious friends and/or family members that you keep in touch with, that you cherish? Do you let minor disagreements wipe out what you once had? Does that serve you well? Let's talk about it!
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To me, the most important things in the world are relationships!
Of course our relationship with God is of primary importance. How much time do we spend with Him, how often do we thank Him for the gifts He gives-continually, how much are we convinced of the freedom we have in Him to blossom and become what He originally designed us to be?
Family is important also. Last evening we had our daughter and her family for supper and the evening. No TV, just wonderful chatter, laughter, planning and fun. These are relationships to nurture, especially in this time of upset in the world, banding together has many benefits.
To me, friendships are of great importance also. We have "old" and "newer" friends, and we enjoy every one of them. Since we have moved to the mountains, we have a number of "newer" friends and we enjoy them too. But the "old" friends, the ones with whom you have history and many memories, are the very special ones. Sure you have your disagreements, but so what! You solve the issue and move on. Thing is, you chose them and they chose you in the first place, and you did so because you had so much in common. You laughed and cried together, you worked and played and maybe even vacationed, and these memories are priceless treasures.
What do you think? Do you have precious friends and/or family members that you keep in touch with, that you cherish? Do you let minor disagreements wipe out what you once had? Does that serve you well? Let's talk about it!
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Monday, March 5, 2012
In a Hurry?
We had just been in a horrible accident with our car totaled. We were in a rental car, on our way to a hotel for the night. Shaky and traumatized from the near-death experience, we were stopped at a traffic light and in the left lane, waiting to make a left hand turn into the hotel's parking lot.
Suddenly, a vehicle from the cross street raced through the intersection. A man on a motorcycle came from the right and the two collided right in front of us. Car parts, shoes, motorcycle parts and who know what else went flying by along with the motorcyclist, who landed on the pavement. He laid there in a lifeless pose, while several folks in other lanes alongside us, ran to his assistance. We sat, dazed, in our rental car.
We watched as the man on the ground was helped by other motorists and quickly heard sirens screech as an ambulance approached. Stunned and feeling paralyzed, we prayed as we watched.
And then came a knock on our window, so Ron rolled down his window as the woman on the other side demanded. "Can't you see you're blocking traffic? Move this #@&* car!" she barked.
"Well, Ma'am, there's a body in the road right here. A terrible accident."
"What's that got to do with you?" she retorted. "Everyone behind you is angry. We're in a hurry, so get your car outta' here."
Have we totally lost caring in this society? Was the rush, the craziness because we were in a big city? Are people really this cruel and insensitive? Does the severe injury of a man sprawled in the road in front of you not matter?
Does this remind you of the Good Samaritan story in the Bible? Are we really in such a hurry that we cannot show compassion and caring? We were simply trying to block traffic, preventing another accident. Do you suppose a movie this raging woman was going to attend was starting, or was she trying to get to a store or a restaurant before it closed? Are we as humans really this thoughtless?
What do you think?
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Suddenly, a vehicle from the cross street raced through the intersection. A man on a motorcycle came from the right and the two collided right in front of us. Car parts, shoes, motorcycle parts and who know what else went flying by along with the motorcyclist, who landed on the pavement. He laid there in a lifeless pose, while several folks in other lanes alongside us, ran to his assistance. We sat, dazed, in our rental car.
We watched as the man on the ground was helped by other motorists and quickly heard sirens screech as an ambulance approached. Stunned and feeling paralyzed, we prayed as we watched.
And then came a knock on our window, so Ron rolled down his window as the woman on the other side demanded. "Can't you see you're blocking traffic? Move this #@&* car!" she barked.
"Well, Ma'am, there's a body in the road right here. A terrible accident."
"What's that got to do with you?" she retorted. "Everyone behind you is angry. We're in a hurry, so get your car outta' here."
Have we totally lost caring in this society? Was the rush, the craziness because we were in a big city? Are people really this cruel and insensitive? Does the severe injury of a man sprawled in the road in front of you not matter?
Does this remind you of the Good Samaritan story in the Bible? Are we really in such a hurry that we cannot show compassion and caring? We were simply trying to block traffic, preventing another accident. Do you suppose a movie this raging woman was going to attend was starting, or was she trying to get to a store or a restaurant before it closed? Are we as humans really this thoughtless?
What do you think?
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Sunday, February 19, 2012
Know Yourself
This coming weekend, on Sunday, Feb. 26th, we a doing a mini-seminar in Phoenix, AZ at the Glendale SDA Church Fellowship Hall (a separate building). It is scheduled for 1-6 PM.
Our title is "Know Yourself" and is a combination of information regarding the Brain, Mind, Heart, and Personal History's impact on both physical and emotional well-being. It has been great preparing for this seminar. Participants will receive a working handout, and will view extensive power-point graphics and information.
Registration is required and a nominal fee is charged. To register and to obtain further information, call the hosts, Don and Priscilla at 623-298-4684.
Looking forward to meeting you there!
Ron and Nancy
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Our title is "Know Yourself" and is a combination of information regarding the Brain, Mind, Heart, and Personal History's impact on both physical and emotional well-being. It has been great preparing for this seminar. Participants will receive a working handout, and will view extensive power-point graphics and information.
Registration is required and a nominal fee is charged. To register and to obtain further information, call the hosts, Don and Priscilla at 623-298-4684.
Looking forward to meeting you there!
Ron and Nancy
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Wednesday, February 15, 2012
We Are So Blessed!
We Are So Blessed!
We are safely back home from our trip with Karan and Eric to Wichita, Kansas to do the "WHY?" seminar.
On our trip there, we noticed a funny swaying or rocking in our car, so once having arrived, Ron and Eric quickly set out to find the cause. In the process, it was discovered that with the exception of one, all of the clips that hold the exhaust system in place, were broken. That was an $80. fix rather than a 3 or 4 hundred dollar fix if the whole system had collapsed.
Living on Social Security, every penny saved is ever so important! There aren't extra ones to spare, so we are beyond grateful. Our God is so good, all the time, and in so many ways watches out for His children.
Have you been financially blessed during this time of poor economics in our world and particularly in the U.S.? Will you share what the Lord has done for you lately on a financial level? It will encourage others who struggle from paycheck to paycheck. Just make a comment at the end of this post. We would LOVE to hear from you!
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We are safely back home from our trip with Karan and Eric to Wichita, Kansas to do the "WHY?" seminar.
On our trip there, we noticed a funny swaying or rocking in our car, so once having arrived, Ron and Eric quickly set out to find the cause. In the process, it was discovered that with the exception of one, all of the clips that hold the exhaust system in place, were broken. That was an $80. fix rather than a 3 or 4 hundred dollar fix if the whole system had collapsed.
Living on Social Security, every penny saved is ever so important! There aren't extra ones to spare, so we are beyond grateful. Our God is so good, all the time, and in so many ways watches out for His children.
Have you been financially blessed during this time of poor economics in our world and particularly in the U.S.? Will you share what the Lord has done for you lately on a financial level? It will encourage others who struggle from paycheck to paycheck. Just make a comment at the end of this post. We would LOVE to hear from you!
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Sunday, February 5, 2012
Overcoming
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". . . holiness is a personal struggle, not a political ideology; nevertheless, as holiness grows in individuals it can be reflected into the world to enlighten the darkness that surrounds it. Still, as holiness grows, it grows side by side with all the weeds of evil."
The above statement, by Raymond L. Richmond, PH.D., a Christian psychiatrist, is both hopeful and NOT. It's so amazing, and can be discouraging, that those weeds of evil are ever present. Where do they come from? Don't you wonder that when you're in your garden and they seem to appear overnight? Actually their seeds had been incubating, unnoticed for a very long time, beneath the surface.
The same is true for us as humans. The seeds of pain, dysfunction and evil have the opportunity to incubate from our time in the womb throughout our lives. Arising from wounds we receive, they just keep popping up when we least expect them to. And those weeds all to easily choke out the better part of us. Conscious or unconscious, they make us vulnerable to being defensive all of our lives to protect our pride and ego.
As we come to recognize our wounds, as we choose the process of recovery from them, we develop the ability to control the weeds. They still keep showing up, just ask me, but they are easier to destroy, to get beyond, and return to the holiness path. We are blessed to have all the power of heaven at our disposal.
The path to holiness however, is still a noble road to take, albeit not always the easiest. Are you on the path?
". . . holiness is a personal struggle, not a political ideology; nevertheless, as holiness grows in individuals it can be reflected into the world to enlighten the darkness that surrounds it. Still, as holiness grows, it grows side by side with all the weeds of evil."
The above statement, by Raymond L. Richmond, PH.D., a Christian psychiatrist, is both hopeful and NOT. It's so amazing, and can be discouraging, that those weeds of evil are ever present. Where do they come from? Don't you wonder that when you're in your garden and they seem to appear overnight? Actually their seeds had been incubating, unnoticed for a very long time, beneath the surface.
The same is true for us as humans. The seeds of pain, dysfunction and evil have the opportunity to incubate from our time in the womb throughout our lives. Arising from wounds we receive, they just keep popping up when we least expect them to. And those weeds all to easily choke out the better part of us. Conscious or unconscious, they make us vulnerable to being defensive all of our lives to protect our pride and ego.
As we come to recognize our wounds, as we choose the process of recovery from them, we develop the ability to control the weeds. They still keep showing up, just ask me, but they are easier to destroy, to get beyond, and return to the holiness path. We are blessed to have all the power of heaven at our disposal.
The path to holiness however, is still a noble road to take, albeit not always the easiest. Are you on the path?
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Who Needs Doom?
It's January 9th and we are already over a week into the new year - 2012.
So many are predicting doomsday for this year. What with wars and rumers of war, even though we have pulled troops from here and there, still the fighting escalates. Many predict that the USA, will be bankrupt before ya' know it, and that every country of the world will collapse financially, that is, the ones that haven't already. Many experts are are saying that even the climate, the weather patterns are changing and that more catastophic events will occur this year. Earthquakes, tornados, hurricanes, floods and fires; even just the words bring a little lump in the throat or a sickening feeling to the stomach.
And we choose to still cling to the words and promise of God as found in Psalm 46, a passage that my father made his youth class memorize. Several times in my life, I have been grateful (but then I was not) that he did insist on memorization, as the words floated back in times of distress . . .
The Lord is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will
not fear though the earth be removed, though the waters roar and be troubled . . . God
will help us, and that, right early!
When we are filled with God's love, our fear will be cast out, because His perfect love empties fear.
So the quick short breath, the lump in the throat or the sickening feeling in the stomach lasts only a split second before the perfect peace that God gives takes control and we lay back in the comforting arms of our Savior.
So our counsel today as this year of 2012 begins: Open your heart's door as He stands there knocking. When you let Him in, and he sups (lives) with you, peace will come easier and joy and love will be your companions!
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So many are predicting doomsday for this year. What with wars and rumers of war, even though we have pulled troops from here and there, still the fighting escalates. Many predict that the USA, will be bankrupt before ya' know it, and that every country of the world will collapse financially, that is, the ones that haven't already. Many experts are are saying that even the climate, the weather patterns are changing and that more catastophic events will occur this year. Earthquakes, tornados, hurricanes, floods and fires; even just the words bring a little lump in the throat or a sickening feeling to the stomach.
And we choose to still cling to the words and promise of God as found in Psalm 46, a passage that my father made his youth class memorize. Several times in my life, I have been grateful (but then I was not) that he did insist on memorization, as the words floated back in times of distress . . .
The Lord is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will
not fear though the earth be removed, though the waters roar and be troubled . . . God
will help us, and that, right early!
When we are filled with God's love, our fear will be cast out, because His perfect love empties fear.
So the quick short breath, the lump in the throat or the sickening feeling in the stomach lasts only a split second before the perfect peace that God gives takes control and we lay back in the comforting arms of our Savior.
So our counsel today as this year of 2012 begins: Open your heart's door as He stands there knocking. When you let Him in, and he sups (lives) with you, peace will come easier and joy and love will be your companions!
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