"I'll be praying for you" is the greatest gift anyone can give IF they are sincere. I have mentioned previously that I never say those words unless I mean them because I feel that they carry a huge responsibility. After all, Revelations 5:8 tells us that the prayers of the saints are kept in golden bowls as a sweet fragrance to God.
That said, I am asking for some prayer warriors- folks serious about praying.

New opportunities have come my way and, with each one comes the possibility for opposition. Lucifer will use any barrier he can to keep me from fulfilling God's plan.

Over the years I have learned several things about the evil angel, who was cast from heaven & God's presence. He is real. He is angry at God & constantly challenging Him- even though he knows he cannot win. He isn't very smart, but he is sneaky. He uses our weaknesses to create stumbling blocks, potholes, & rough roads so we will detour from the path to God. The more God asks of us, the more Lucifer will try to distract us- the aim is to keep our focus off of God. Most important is that he hates the name of Jesus & the sweet fragrance of prayer is offensive to him.

Selah-

As I strive to please God through my writing, I need the protection of prayers. I will be publishing & editing a new on-line magazine, writing a monthly column for Positively Feminine (www.Positively Feminine.org.) and a bi-monthly column for The Encourager. I have also been given the opportunity to be the Assistant Editor for The Encourager; my main responsibility will be their prayer ministry. In addition to these new tasks, I continue to lead a Bible Study for writers & a support group for those who are chronically ill or have chronic pain.

Join in ministry with me through daily, supportive prayer. Leave a comment & let me know a bit about yourself so I can pray for you.

Shalom, Connie

Updates

My cardiac tests were within normal. I am jumping for joy! Waiting wasn't easy, but I am relieved & ready to increase my activity & exercise.

Have just learned some new things about blogging so you will be seeing some changes in the near future.

Meanwhile, I am writing & preparing... Expecting! A new e-zine 4Him2U is coming this fall, near the holidays. This is an exciting new, adventure for me & the Sonrise Writers. More details soon.

Shalom, Connie

Fatigue Can Overwhelm

I love the cartoon Maxine; she says things... well, in a way I wouldn't. There is one where she's resting in a hammock & just letting the world carry on without her. I have had to try that lately because I tire very easily & get short of breath with exertion, I am pacing myself better & prioritizing my needed activities. I make sure I have rest times in between all that I do.
The cause is unknown at present. I am having a cardiac Stress Test tomorrow to rule out the heart as the cause.

Meanwhile, I haven't posted so I can use my computer time to prepare for my next God-Event. More on that later as it falls into place with His timing. 2 Corinthians12:9 never meant more to me than now. And Habakkuk 2:2 is my goal.

Today I want to recommend 2 novels by Brenda Rickman Vantrease: The Illuminator and The Mercy Seeker. Although they can be read as stand alone books, The Illuminator is first & sets the scene & characters for The Mercy Seeker. Although not sold as Christian books they truly are and I guarantee that you will never view the Bible the same after reading them Yes, they are fiction, They are based on historical fact, are well researched, & expertly writing. You can find them at bookstores & through Amazon. My little local library has them so check out yours because they are hardcovers.

Shalom, Connie

Enjoy!

Christian MySpace Graphics

HopeKeepers

Rest Ministries* was founded by Lisa Copen & is affiliated with Joni and Friends to encourage those with chronic illnesses & chronic pain to live a full, quality life regardless of barriers. All members have at least one chronic illness &/or chronic pain, including myself. (I am a diabetic with hypertension, arthritis, degenerative joint disease & chronic depression.)

Today, I am facilitating the first HopeKeepers support group at the retirement center where I live. First we will get to know one another and exchange phone numbers. On bad days- days of not feeling well, of no energy, of increased pain- we can call each other to chat or to ask for prayer. Because of our bond via our chronic illnesses- often invisible to others- we will have an understanding that requires few words.

Outdoors the temperature is expected to rise near 100 degrees; inside, we'll be cool & comfortable as we share a poem, "Shelf Life," by Mariane Holbrook & discuss one of my devotionals, "Soaring Above Adversity."

It is with great joy that I begin this new opportunity of hope!

Shalom,
Connie

* "Rest Ministries, Inc. exists to serve people who live with chronic illness or pain by providing spiritual, emotional, relational and practical support." HopeKeepers Magazine and Rest Ministries Website are the foundation of their outreach.

Fireworks: A Celebration

The fireworks just ended & I had my choice of VIP seating. I live one mile from the Butte where they are traditionally displayed. I could sit on my patio or walk next door to the church's parking lot. I chose the latter; & had an unobstructed view of our country's birthday celebration.

Popcorn, lemonade, & other goodies were passed around during the oohs & aahs. A nice way to end the day with friends & fellow believers.

Sadly, conditions here in Central Oregon are very dry & resulted in several fires on the butte. Extra fire trucks came & the fire was controlled, but it is always sad to see trees burn. Thankfully the fire was going uphill. (Many businesses, apartments, & homes are at the bottom of the butte.)

The most important part of my day was earlier during a conversation with my 5 year old grandson. We talked about being free to be Christians, free to go to church, free to speak about God. He, of course, couldn't comprehend not talking about Jesus. And, you know, I really don't fully understand it either as I have never been in a country where it wasn't safe. The closest I have come is when writing to friends in Nigeria. They advised me what I could write & what to avoid so that my letter did not put them into any danger.

Yes, I was blessed to sit outside in the churchyard watching the amazing colors burst overhead with patriotic music playing through speakers behind us. I can think of no better place to say "Thank you, Lord, for the U.S.A.! Help me to understand the freedoms I have and to fully use them to worship, praise, and share Your Word."

Tomorrow & next few days will be 96-100 degrees with possible thunder & lightning- a very dangerous time for wildfires. Pray that homes & lives will not be lost. (Several acres burned today- one a few miles from me.)

Mask Removal Time

I told you that I would take off my mask and be honest with you, my readers.

Today, I remove the mask of deception.

I wanted to enter a competition for an Oregon Literary Art Fellowship even though the timing was short- only two days. (It was in our local newspaper on Tuesday and the deadline was Friday at 5 p.m.)

I filled out the form answering all the questions for the Non-Fiction Literary Award and for the Women Writers Award. Then I set about editing the first 20 or so pages of my book.

It was time consuming because the original was on my computer that crashed; thus I had to retype it as I edited it. On page five I lost it all!

The rules stated emphatically that no late entries would be accepted. If I could complete it by 4:30 p.m., I could mail it via overnight delivery; but I am not a fast enough typist to retype and edit the lost five pages plus 15 more to meet that dateline.

I was angry and thought I would write a letter to the Literary Art stating that Central Oregon writers were not allowed enough time to enter... but I didn’t.

Why not? Because I had taken all mention of God out of my story so I would have a better chance of winning the fellowship.

As a Christian writer, I write to glorify God, who called me to write. Ethel Herr wrote, “We tend to think we are first ministers with a pen. However, before we can minister, we must learn to worship and regard all our writing as an act of worship, done for God’s pleasure.”

I am thankful that I lost those pages. I am sad for the loss of a possible $2500 as it could have paid for additional writing lessons through The Christian Writers’ Guild and for their annual conference plus supplies, like ink cartridges, paper, and research.

Being “called to write,” I have a responsibility to glorify and please the One who called me. I cannot and will not wear that mask of deception again. By next year, I’ll be a better writer and I’ll enter The Literary Arts competition with a clear conscience.. As Ethel Herr puts it I must share openly and honestly what represents my genuine self or how can I show others how to face tension and solve problems.

What mask are you wearing today? Is it time to remove it?

Selah-

Shalom, Connie

Needling

My thumb is pain free & I am able to knit, embroider & do counted cross-stitch once again.

I am embroidering a floral picture for my niece's wedding in Sept. & the following gave me a giggle that I thought I'd share with YOU!




Sew Forth & Sew On

My needle vanished in thin air--
Most likely on this couch.
It's sure to reappear some where
If I keep looking.... OUCH!

-Mary Hamlett Goodman

Shalom, Connie

What Am I?

It's hard to imagine the life I've lived. It's been hard and rugged- not fit for any thing.
From the moment it began, my agony started- little boys throw me, cars forever run me over, people walk all over me, sweet little girls collect me, the snow buries me.
Everyday is just plain misery.
But, I know a secret! I am not very big- that's true- and, if I am thought about at all, I am considered useless.
Yes, I know a secret. I am needed even if am a __________________.

Fill in the blank via Comments & I'll share your answers.

Shalom, Connie

When Needlework Isn't Work

My grandson calls it "threading" when you make a picture using colored threads, yarns, beads, and other embellishments.

To me it is love in action as I stitch a picture of a basket filled with summer flowers for my niece's wedding.
To me it is an act of love when I knit a sweater for my grandchild.
To me it is privilege to finish the counted cross-stitch bookmark for a friend.
To me it is a passion fulfilled when I knit a prayer shawl for someone who is suffering.

Each stitch is completed with love and a prayer intertwined- they are my way of saying "I care!"

What do you do well that you can share?

Selah-

Shalom, Connie

Cans of Adventure

As a child, my favorite place to go was to the Boreman's* house. The 6 children had a list of chores and responsibilities that had to be completed before playtime. Although lacking money, the Boerman's were rich in togetherness, creativity, encouragement and love. Talents were encouraged & there was an old upright piano for sing-alongs.

Mealtime at the Boerman's was always adventure as the pantry was filled with unlabeled cans, which a nearby grocery store saved for them at a very low cost. Each meal one child was designated to pick out whatever number of cans were needed for that particular meal. The older girls and/or their mother- me, too, when I was visiting- made a meal out of whatever was in the chosen cans. We would shake them to guess their contents, but often we were wrong. Sometimes we ended up with unique soups filled with various vegetables. Other times we put together a casserole or a meal in-a-dish. Many laughs, sighs, and "ooh,no!'s" were heard as each can was opened. What we thought was soup may have been cranberry sauce or a can of fruit would turn out to be carrots. Somethings went together well; others... well, let's just say there were unique flavors at some meals.

I have to say that I never had a bad meal there for Mom Boerman was good with spices and herbs, and very innovative. We never left their table hungry for there usually was plenty of flour, sugar, eggs, and oil to make bread, muffins or other tummy fillers. We often played hide-and-seek or chased fireflies after the dinner dishes were done. And on weekends we'd play Michigan Rummy around the huge oak dining room table as we nibbled on popcorn or caramel corn, and drank kool-aide while our parents played cards in the kitchen or talked about homesteading in Alaska.

Those were special times. I saw the saying, "If there's a will, there's a way" in action. People have called me creative, and innovative, but I am not. I rarely come up with a new idea, but I am great at adapting ideas to whatever is available. Missing a couple ingredients for a recipe? Using what I have, I'll come up with a variation of that recipe. Working on a new craft project, I'll substitute the materials on hand or ones that I can afford, and I'll end up with a alternative craft project.

I don't think I realized how much of an influence Mom Boerman was in my life. Now it is too late to tell her.
Tomorrow I am going to send some notes to some of the other special people in my life.

Who do you have to thank? Don't wait... let them know they made a difference in your life!

Selah-

Shalom, Connie

* name changed for privacy

Oh, no!

I don't believe I did it! Worse, I don't know what I did.

But I injured my right hand- yep! the one I surgery on.

Today the x-ray was fine. Whew, I didn't mess up the surgical repair. My hand hurts a bit, but that's probably a good thing as it reminds me to be careful.

So I will rest it for another day or two then begin my next needlework project. That's all for today...

Shalom, Connie

On Empty

Filler-up!



Is this where I can fill up with new energy?
I'm tuckered out & need to be refreshed, rebuilt, or something...

I'm traveling through my days running on empty, but gas and an oil change won't restore my soul or yours. So let's read what David has to say in Psalm 6:

Be merciful to me, Lord, for I am faint; O Lord, heal me, for my bones are in agony.
I am worn out from groaning...
The Lord has heard my cry for mercy; the Lord accepts my prayer.

Like David I am faint, dizzy, and hurting. I cry out to You, O Lord, for restoration. Through faith I give thanks for refilling me with Your Living Water. As my soul is refreshed, You- the Great Physician- will heal my body as well. Your Word states that our groanings are heard by the Holy Spirit and brought to You to express what I cannot. Heal me body, mind & spirit so I can serve You as you have planned.

For my readers, I also ask Your mercy so we can reach out to others with the life-changing story of Your Son, in who's name I ask. Amen

R A F T'ing

I can't look...

Maybe a peek?

Wow, I am finding my way out from under the piles of papers. I'm RAFT'ing- no white water here- just pages and pages of white & pink paper, & other stuff.
I have created 5 piles:
Read & Save
Act on now
File
Toss
ing as for shredding

Next I am going to do the same with my e-mails by creating RAF folders; T is already there as Delete.

I think my life needs a bit of RAFTing, too. How about yours?

I need to:
Recognize what God wants me to be doing
Accept His plan & His timing
Faithfully follow His plan- without questioning it
Turn away from all the distractions & barriers

Selah-

Shalom, Connie

Three Strikes & You're Out!

I am not athletic- phys ed was always a challenge for me, but I did like volleyball, basketball & softball.
Yet I was always the last one chosen for the team- I wasn't a winner.

I enjoy the Peanuts cartoons that take place on the ball diamond... I can relate. I was better at taking care of injuries than playing ball. Or like Lucy, let me organize the team & give advice.

Over 20 years ago during a women's retreat, I wrote down what author/speaker, Joyce Landorf, said about playing ball:

"God, in the grandstands of life is throwing off His coat,
waving excitedly, as He points down at us on the field,
and proudly saying, 'That's My kid!'

"Not the image of a god with arms crossed, mumbling,
"I've paid a lot for those lessons; that kid better come through."
And keeping track of all mistakes- a scorekeeper.

"God paid dearly- the maximum price- when we win,
He shares proudly in the joy; and when we lose
He shares the sorrow. Yet always with pride."

I no longer fear the ump yelling, You're out!" I am sure glad that winning isn't a requirement just doing our best. For in God's eyes we are all winners! I am glad I am on His team.

Selah-

Shalom, Connie

Expectations

C.S. Lewis once said: When God moved in I thought He'd make everything cozy, instead He tore my house apart saying, "You thought I'd give you a cozy cottage; I'm making you into a palace!"
To enjoy the palace, we must withstand the mess first. For each of us "the mess" will be different, but together we suffer and will be blessed.

Are you in a mess today? I am! I am surrounded by piles of paper to sort and file, but I have hope that together we will persevere. Not because we are promised blessings, but because we desire to be what God planned for us to be.

While I had the cast on my right hand, I had to painstakingly write with with my left hand- it reminded me of learning cursive when I was little. I was intent upon forming each letter just perfectly and very neatly. It paid off! My handwriting is easy to read and folks- even strangers- comment on how beautifully I write. I purposed to write well. After all, I had lots to say!

Just as I perfected my handwriting skills, God wants to perfect me... and you. Even if it requires the messes of life, I am thankful that He loves us enough to be patient while we persevere and clean up each room in our house- the heart.


Selah-

Shalom, Connie

Rhubarb Fenced or Forbidden Fruit

There truly are some do not's in life that we really should pay attention to; like do not slide down the basement door, do not drink perfume, and do not pick the rhubarb on the other side of the fence.

At nine years old I was learning a bit about independence, which included testing the don'ts:

The outside basement door was at a 40 degree angle and had to be lifted up in order to enter the basement. I sure had no desire to go down there, but the instruction not to slide down the door prompted the question, "Why not?" Asking would have been considered "talking back," so I decided to experiment and figure it out myself. When no one was around, I tried it out. First, it wasn't slick enough to slide down... you had to, kind of, scoot down. Not really much fun- especially when you end up with a large splinter in your posterior you can't tell anyone about. (I still have the scar to remind me.)

Don't drink perfume- especially the expensive, smelly stuff from Europe- because your mother's nose will sniff you out! (I have no idea why I drank it, but it's alcohol content did not affect me so it probably wasn't much.)

The rhubarb belonged to our backyard neighbor, who hated children; it was turning a beautiful rosy red- so tempting! I had never heard of, nor tasted, rhubarb so I enlisted my brother to try it with me. After all, we would need a lookout. I'm not sure which one of us slipped under the fence to break off a stalk, but I remember that it wasn't easy to pick. Oh, and we didn't know that rhubarb needs to be cooked.. I learned to spit that day! Now, I love baking a strawberry rhubarb custard pie each spring while I chuckle about the old adage that stolen fruit always tastes better. NOT!

I did learn that "do nots" are best listened to when you are a child; and they don't go away when you grow up either. Like in the game of Monopoly, you may have to pass GO and go directly to jail for breaking the rules. As a grown-up, I appreciate that my parents taught me right from wrong. As a parent and grandparent, I have rules also, but I try to explain the reasons for each one in the hope that splinters and bad tasting fruit are not the result.

I want my life to be a "sweet savour" to my Heavenly Father: "Live a life filled with love for others, following the example of Christ, who loved you and gave himself as a sacrifice to take away your sins. And God was pleased, because that sacrifice was like sweet perfume to him." (Ephesians 5:2 NLT)

Selah-

Shalom, Connie

P.S. Stop on by for a slice of rhubarb pie!

Rocks In A Box

I was 9 years old with pigtails and a rock collection.

The world of words had opened new doors of adventure for me; and I had discovered the wonder of rocks. I had my own small hammer to break rocks open, numbered tags that correlated with my small notebook identifying each rock and stone using my library books.

It was a good pastime me, a shy girl with few friends. But, like my friends, I lost my rocks when we moved.

Now, over 50 years later, I wonder who found my rocks hidden under the back stairs of our house on Boerman Avenue. Did they realize how sad I was when my mother made me leave them behind during our next move? Did they realize the hours of work that went into finding new rocks and identifying them? Did they understand that those rocks became valuable lessons for my life? Or are they still hidden under those steps?

Lessons learned:
#1: Memories preserve all the important things in our lives- my rocks were never really lost.
#2: Each rock was and is unique- God's creations are similar, but always are a special blending of DNA.
#3: The beauty of my rocks was on the inside; & the discovery of that beauty was breathtaking
#4: Dirty rocks could always be washed cleaned- in fact, the dirt had to be removed in order to identify it.

Thus, the people in my life have been forever preserved within my memories. Each unique person is filled with great beauty, which is amazing when discovered once the troubles of life are washed away.

Dear Reader, that truly describes me and YOU! We are uniquely beautiful, a special part of God's plan. Always remember that we see the underside of our life's tapestry with its knots and tangles, and blotches of colors like blemishes hard on the eye BUT God sees the right-side, the perfect side that He designed just for each of us.

I left my rocks in a cardboard box underneath the steps, but God never leaves us. Our identification tags say Number One Child of the King!

Selah-

Shalom, Connie

The Unknown

Do you, like me, find it hard to cope with the unknown or the feeling of not being in control?

That is my feeling as I write this due to some health concerns I am experiencing. The good news is that I am not dealing with depression & I am hopeful that a medication change will eliminate my symptoms.

Between my hand surgery and this I have had lots of time to read. Have actually read a new book every 1-2 days. That adds up to quite a few! I will share a few with you that I enjoyed:

Mysteries:: No Place Like Home by Mary Higgins Clark- a woman-in-danger in true Mary Higgins Clark style
Twisted by Jonathon Kellerman- a woman homicide detective investigates a nightclub murder
False Testimony by Rose Connors- a woman lawyer must uncover the truth
This Dame For Hire by Sandra Scopettone- a sassy woman PI during WWII- a fun read!
Some Danger Involved by Will Thomas- an eccentric PI in Victorian London hires a new assistant
Fiction: The Glory Cloak by Patricia O'Brien- Louisa Alcott & Clara Barton's Civil War experiences as nurses
The Secret Live of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd- about "divine female power"- just remember it is fiction
Pearls of Lutra by Brian Jacques- 9th book in the Redwall series- all about animals, food, good & evil
The Celibate Priest & His Secretary by John Maybury- a local author's first novel was a good read
Daughter of Lot by Bonnie Winters- a fictional account of Ruth from Scripture & her inner struggles
Non-Fiction: Small Sacrifices by Ann Rule- the story of murderer Diane Downs, a compelling but sad book
Loving God by Charles Colson- an excellent book about holiness- living to honor & love God

Reading is a great distraction so I think I'll pick out my next book for this my "unknown" period.

Shalom, Connie

Stimulating Those Little Gray Cells

Since my last post, I have had 2 days of advanced training for Parish Nurses. Sessions included Theological Reflection and Spiritual Ministry.

Before my time, folks used to say, "You gotta be prayed up!" And that sure applies to Parish Nurses. We cannot minister to others unless we care for ourselves: mind, body & soul.

I am a fast learner (LOL). I feed my spirit and soul by attending a Christian Women's Conference for 1 1/2 days.
What a blessing it was!

Over the next few days I'll be sharing bits and pieces with you from both the training & the conference.

Shalom, Connie

"Little Ones to Him Belong"

Recently I watched an elephant family on PBS &, if I learned nothing else, I learned that you don't mess with a baby elephant. Not only will the mother come to its aid, so will all of the adult females. When a baby is in danger the female adults surround it like the covered wagons pulling into a tight circle when under attack.

A friend just put a poem on her website called "Listen to the Weeping Child" I encourage you to read it AND to act upon it. Go to http//:www. mariane holbrook. com (leave out the spaces) and click on home then poetry.

I want to mention that there are all kinds of abuse- physical, sexual, emotional- that can forever damage a child.

Here is a true example:
Being short has been a handicap in many ways, but one day, while shopping, it was an asset. I was hidden by a rack of coats & overheard a conversation that made me bristle with anger. The mother was trying on coats; once she found the one she liked, I heard her say, "You know what to do, but wait 'til I get a couple of aisles away."
A small voice replied okay.
As I came out from behind the rack, a pre-school aged child began crying and running down the aisle- in the opposite direction of her mother. Clerks quickly came and attempted to calm this distraught, lost child. It didn't take much imagination to realize that the coat would be taken out to their car and the mother would return for her lost child. It also was apparent that this wasn't the first time this ploy had been used.

Guess you could say, I became as angry as a mother elephant. I ran to the child & told her bluntly to turn off the crying. Told the shocked clerks to call a manager or security a.s.a.p. as a coat was being stolen. At first they hesitated, but thankfully someone picked up the phone. The child, having been caught, stopped crying to say an unkindly word to me, but I still was going to protect her.

To steal is bad enough. To teach a child to help you is reminiscent of Dicken's Fagin and his pickpocket boys.

Folks, there are times we need to circle the wagons, to become like mother elephants. Please, don't look the other way; don't think that someone else will do something.

That day I stopped an abusive mother; no one interceded for me when I was a child.

Selah-

No "shalom" today, Connie

This Is a Test

As a student, I dreaded surprise tests. As an adult, I get irritated when a my favorite music gets interrupted to test the emergency broadcast system. A couple of weeks ago, I was awaken by the fire alarm- wow is that loud! I pulled on my jeans, grabbed my purse & my sneakers, & out into the cold morning I went. There was no fire & by the time I put my shoes on, we could go back inside.

Those surprise tests showed me if I was really learning each day in class & as I studied at home. The radio or TV tests became important on 9/11. The fire alarm, caused by a oversensitive smoke detector, could save lives in my senior apartment building, if there really was a fire.

As a young nurse, I had a fire on my unit in the hospital. Later, lightning hit my house. As traumatic as they were, they were minimal compared to other trials and tests in my life: loosing a baby, becoming a widow at 27, nearly dying in surgery, being hit head-on by a drunk driver, being evicted with no where to go except my car, being fired for being "too compassionate," being unable to function because of constant pain and depression...

I'm sure you, too, can make a list of your life's unfair times.

But ponder this thought as I did today: "Without a test there can be no testimony." Simply put, without rain, we cannot appreciate the sunshine; without heartache, we cannot savor the times of peace; without sadness, we wouldn't recognize the joyful moments. It is the contrasts of life that color our world.

As Christians, we cannot identify the needs of others until we have been tested and comforted. Only then may we comfort others.

Yes, this is a test! What hardship are you going through today? Or is a time of peace and happiness? If you are trying to be the best that you can be in Christ, troubles are here or are coming for we are being molded, shaped, polished, refined, and perfected for eternity.

Selah-

Shalom, Connie

Nonessentials of Life- Part 3

As the demons cheered, the evil one continued:

“Even in their recreation, let them be excessive. Have them return from their recreation exhausted. Keep them too busy to go out in nature and reflect on God’s creation. Send them to amusement parks, sporting events, plays, concerts and movies instead.

“Keep them busy, busy, busy. And when they meet for spiritual fellowship, involve them in gossip and small talk so that they leave with troubled consciences. Crowd their lives with so many good causes they have no time to seek power from Jesus.

“Soon they will be working in their own strength, sacrificing their health and family for the ‘good’ of the cause.”

“It will work It will work It will work, ” the demons shouted!

It was quite a plan and the demons went eagerly to their assignments causing Christians everywhere to get more busy and more rushed... Going here and there... Having little time for their God or their families... Having no time to tell others about the power of Jesus to change lives.

***

The real question is: has the devil been successful at his scheme?

Does busy really mean:

B eing
U nder
S atan’s
Y oke?

* * *

If you’re not too busy, or even if you are too busy, Selah- think on these things.

RUBUSY? (aRe yoU Being Under Satan's Yoke?)

My thanks to the unknown writer for this message... for making me rethink my priorities. It is my hope and prayer that you, too, will look at your life's patterns- do you need to make some changes? I did!

When I meet Jesus face to face, I want no regrets. I want Him to tell me, "Well done." And I want to turn around and see YOU there, too.

Shalom, Connie

Nonessentials of Life- Part 2

Satan's convention message continued:

“Keep skinny, beautiful models on the magazines and TV so their husbands will believe that outward beauty is what’s important, and they’ll become dissatisfied with their wives.

“Keep their wives too tired to love their husbands at night. Give them headaches, too If they don’t give their husbands the love they need, they will begin to look elsewhere. That will fragment families quickly

“Give them Santa Claus to distract them from teaching their children the real meaning of Christmas . Give them the Easter Bunny so they won’t talk about the resurrection and power over sin and death.

Selah-

Shalom, Connie

Nonessentials of Life? Part 1

As I was sorting papers in piles: to keep, to think about, to shred, I found this. (Someone e-mailed it to me 5 years ago; author unknown.) I am going to share the "minutes" of convention a section at a time so we can mull it over and check our status.

World Wide Convention: Opening Message

Satan addressed the world meeting of demons with the tenacity of a used car salesman saying, “We can’t keep Christians from going to church. We can’t keep them from reading their Bibles and knowing the truth. We can’t even keep them from forming an intimate relationship with their savior.

“Once they gain that connection with Jesus, our power over them is broken. So let them go to their churches; let them have their covered dish dinners, but steal their time, so they don’t have time to develop a relationship with Jesus Christ.

“This is what I want you to do. Distract them from gaining hold of their savior and maintaining that vital connection throughout their day.”

“How?” his demons shouted.

“Keep them busy in the nonessentials of life and invent innumerable schemes to occupy their minds,” he answered.

“Tempt them from spending time with their children. As their families fragment, soon their homes will offer no escape from the pressure of work.

“Overstimulate their minds so that they cannot hear that still, small voice. Entice them to play the radio or CD/cassette player whenever they drive; and to keep the TV, VCR and PCs going constantly in their home and see to it that every store and restaurant in the world plays non-Biblical music constantly. This will jam their minds and break that union with Christ.

“Fill the coffees tables with magazines and newspapers. Pound their minds with the news 24 hours a day. Invade their driving moments with billboards. Flood their mailboxes with junk mail, mail order catalogs, sweepstakes, and every kind of newsletter and promotional offering free products, services, and false hopes.

Selah-

Part 2 tomorrow.

Shalom, Connie

Selah: Think on this...

As with many things in life, we take our bodies for granted... until a part doesn’t work right.

The hand truly is marvelously made; it is made up of 27 small bones, which are moved by 37 skeletal muscles (plus the tendons that attach them to the bones.) It is the ability for the thumb and fingers to touch that gives us the awesome dexterity that only human beings have.

Just to touch your thumb to the tip of your first finger requires the coordination of 10 bones. When something is between the thumb and first finger, the muscles and tendons in our arm and hand work together, which is orchestrated by our brain, so we can pick up and hold on to that item.

How many things do you just pick up in an hour? In a day? A lot more than you are even aware of... until you cannot pick anything up. Try not using your thumb for one active hour! It's a challenge!

Selah-

Since my hand surgery, these verses express best what I am feeling:

I thank you, High God—you're breathtaking. Body and soul, I am marvelously made. I worship in adoration—what a creation! You know me inside and out, you know every bone in my body; You know exactly how I was made, bit by bit, how I was sculpted from nothing into something. (Psalm 139:14-15 The Message)

I am thankful also for my physician's skill, the team that assisted him, the financial arrangements that allowed me to have the surgery now (instead of the 2+ years I thought I would have to wait), the therapist and the many people who have helped with food, transportation, emotional support, and prayer.

Writing and typing, needlework, and everyday tasks beckon me- to be able to do them without pain will be delightful! The present soreness, which keeps me from overdoing, is also a reason for rejoicing. For now, I will wait patiently, as I exercise my hand, knowing that each day I am closer to full function with no pain.

Yes, we are "fearfully and wonderfully made!"

Shalom, Connie

A-Okay!

Prayers Answered: The redness around my right thumb was caused by irritation from the splint being too tight, & no infection resulted.

Today the therapist adjusted the splint & put my hand through the exercises needed to strengthen & re-gain function of my thumb. I am ahead of the usual schedule according to the therapist so I only need to see him once per week. Also an answer to prayer because the costs of therapy visits add up quickly.

I am typing with 2 hands (minus my thumb)!

I am eager to resume my daily writing- look for my next post about our marvelous hands!

Shalom, Connie

Quick Update

My thumb is swollen, red and more painful today. Hopefully, the splint just needs to be re-molded and no infection has set in.

Pray with me for continued healing. When this is over I am going to get a manicure!

Shalom, Connie

OUT!

The purple cast is off and the pin is out of my thumb. ( :

A molded splint has been made to go around my thumb and down the inside of my hand and lower arm. It can be taken off several times a day. Now, we wait to see if I will have a functioning, pain free thumb. I vote: Yes!

For those of you with busy thumbs, I challenge you to try not using them for a few hours. You'll find that they are essential to most things that your hands do. What an awesome body we have!

I thank you, High God—you're breathtaking! Body and soul, I am marvelously made! I worship in adoration—what a creation! You know me inside and out, you know every bone in my body; You know exactly how I was made, bit by bit, how I was sculpted from nothing into something. (Psalm 139:14-15 The Message)

I am trusting God, through the surgeon and the physical therapist, to fully heal my right thumb. I am grateful that I no longer have bone rubbing against bone and that the degenerating bone is gone. I look forward to holding my granddaughter again, cooking, washing dishes, doing needlework, hand writing, playing the piano, and more.

My friends, take time today to notice what you're hands are doing for you and others...

Selah-

Shalom, Connie

Chess Or Books?

I go to Barnes and Nobles to people watch, to write, to read or just for a change of scenery while I indulge in a Chai Tea Latte. I enjoy sitting by the fire on a cold or dreary day even when the dreariness has nothing to do with the weather.
I've been there several times while my right hand, in it's purple cast, has been healing. I have observed bored husbands waiting for their wives to finish shopping, girl friends meeting and giggling, students studying with their laptops ready for that next paper to be written, readers actually engrossed in the book they've curled up with in the overstuffed chairs, pastors talking with couples in a non-threatening atmosphere, realtors going through the long process of "sign here... and here," and men playing chess.
I've decided that I want to learn to play chess because nothing else seems to matter except the game. The world, with all its concerns and cares, is left behind at the entrance.
Although I love to escape life through a good book, there are times when life's distractions override even the best novel. So I want to enter the kingdom of pawns, knights, bishops, rooks, queens and kings so I can set aside my pain, my cast, all the things that are hard to do with one hand including writing.
Anyone willing to teach a one-handed player who needs her gray cells stimulated?

I'm off to B & N; maybe there'll be a chess game in process. Connie

A Special Moment

This evening, while in a fast food restaurant, a little boy about 3 years old pointed to my bright red tee-shirt. With a smile he said, "Bear!"
The bear on my shirt is about 17 " tall; he's wearing blue jeans, a red, plaid flannel shirt under a jean jacket, & red tennies- quite a friendly fellow.
"Yes, he's my happy bear," I responded as his smile broadened. (I think he's met a few cuddly, comforting bears during his short life.)
Then he saw my bright purple cast & the smile left. His eyes held questions, but he just looked from my cast to my face. When I nodded, he touched the cast and leaned to down see my fingers, and then my thumb, which was hiding inside. Softly I reassured him that my hand and arm were inside also.
Seriously he checked out my left hand- all fingers accounted for there; touching the cast once more his smile returned.
"Soon my hand will be all better and we'll take it off," I quietly explained. Once again he pointed to the bear. I nodded. We both knew that teddy bears make you all better!

If that little fellow has to have his own cast some day, maybe it won't be so scary because an inquisitive little boy and a grandma with a bear on her shirt- had a special moment.

Selah-

Shalom, Connie

Worth the Wait!

Mary could wait no longer. She went to anoint Jesus body with the burial herbs and ointments- her last act of love.

All those waiting didn't understand the miracle that Sunday morning when the stone was rolled away. But they had waited in sorrow and fear...

Because they lingered they saw Him face to face! Their lives would never be the same.

As we begin to comprehend that "we might live through Him," we are forever changed.

"And then my heart stands still- I can't believe my eyes! I see now why He hangs between the earth and skies;
Above His head I read- could that be my name? My name?! My name! Behold the Lamb, dying on my cross!*"

Selah-

Shalom, Connie

* from Behold the Lamb music & lyrics by Don Krueger, 1983 Singspiration Music

Linger... Hang in There... Wait

One of the hardest things for Americans to do is wait. We have been called the Microwave children of the Crockpot God. We want everything NOW! God patiently waits. He, thankfully, takes things slowly but surely.

In the Garden of Gethsemane Jesus asked His disciples to wait and pray with Him- they slept; Judas collected his pieces of silver.
Jesus waited after being beaten, bruised and abused for His death sentence- the decision had been made long before, but Jesus waited while Pilate, Herod and the Sanhedrin "decided" His fate.
The soldiers and a few of His followers waited for Him to die.
His followers hid and waited in fear of retaliation.

No one understood that in waiting they would be present for the miracle that Sunday would bring.

Selah-

Shalom, Connie

Who do you call?

When struggling with decisions, who do you call? Why him? Why her?

Recently, I received unexpected sad news. I couldn't even express all of my feelings about this situation. First, I e-mailed my adult son. His right-brained thinking and male perspective always give me a different slant on things. Next I spoke with a few friends who I trusted to be honest with me; yet they would allow me to either rant or be silent- whatever I needed. They listened; they cared; they shared my burden.

I am grieving a loss- not of a person, but of an important opportunity in my life. Having dealt with many tragedies in my life- many worse than this one- I know who will see me through as He always has.

This gentle man carried a cross on this day we call Good Friday. As I accept my loss and move on, I can go to Him who knows His plans for me and what the future holds. He carried that cross for me... for you and He knows suffering from His own earthly experiences.

He says, "Child, I understand; and I am holding your hand as we walk through this valley together. We are just between mountains... we will see the Sonrise together."

As I once again take the hand He offers, I ask you, "Who do you call?"

Selah-

Shalom, He has risen! Connie

Sign Here

As my son and I talked, my grandson disappeared for a few minutes. Later, after they left, I found my grandson had been signing his name on multiple pages of a puzzle book I keep in the bathroom. I chuckled at his wobbly letters as I realized, once again, how fast our children grow up and how very much they learn in those first five years of their lives. Writing their own name becomes a high priority- a skill they will use daily.

Think about how many times a day we sign our names: to notes, letters, e-mails, checks, contracts, credit card purchases, log ins, birthday cards, memos, blog-sites, comments and more. We can even purchase stamps with our signature on them or purchase software that will hand write for us. Yes, technology is finding other ways to identify us, but it will always require our name in some form.

Now, with my right hand in a cast, signing my name requires as much concentration as my grandson as he is learning to write his name. My name is made up of wobbly letters also, but after three weeks they are neater and more readable.

I've re-learned a few things as I painstakingly formed each letter of my name:
1. I couldn't write with my left hand until I had to do so. Prior to surgery, I tried to practice and failed; necessity changed that.
2. I have an awesome mind- writing is a brain-thing. My left hand and arm are the same as the right- same bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons, and joints. It's my brain that directs their movement and efficiency. My brain has had to throw the switch to put my left hand on track.
3. I am thankful that I can just click my mouse and my signature is added to my e-mails. We take too many things for granted as they become the "norm" in our lives.
4. I am identified by my name to most people yet there is only one of "me." I am special- uniquely made to fulfill God's purpose for my life.
5. I am known by name by my Creator- He never confuses me with any other Connie. (Isaiah 49:15)
6. I am written, via my name, on the palm of His hand. (Isaiah 49:16)
7. I am in the Lamb's Book of Life by virtue of my name that was written there the day I said, "I believe!" and chose to follow Jesus, my Savior. (Revelation 3:4-5 and 21:27)

All of these truths can apply to you also- no surgery, pain or cast needed.

Selah... (Pause and think on these things.)

Shalom, Connie

Casts Times Three

Would you believe that I had the 3rd cast put on today? It is still purple; &, hopefully, this one will not slip causing more pain. I have been painful & restless, which also means irritable- I need an extra measure of patience.
3 weeks to go with the cast on & a pin in my thumb- no matter where you live, you'll probably hear me whoop with joy on April 19th. Most important tho' is whether this procedure gives me back the use... without pain... of my thumb.
Some verses of encouragement for me & for you, if you're painful, remind us that good can come from our suffering:
Motivates us to ask God for help- Psalm 30:10
Allows others to pray for us- 2Corinthians 1:10-11
Enables God to teach us patience- James 1:2-4
Permits God to restore us- 1 Peter 5:10
& my favorite-
Teaches us how to comfort & encourage others- 2 Corinthians 1:6

Selah-

Shalom, Connie

Home on the Range Single-Handed

Whoa! I slept in & the morning is almost gone; so I slithered into my jeans & threw on a sweatshirt. Good nutrition being essential, I headed for the range gathering the needed supplies on the way. Having missed the morning feed, I added extra grain. On the range I put it all together... whew, took nearly 2 hours to finish! Glad I don't always have to do this single-handed.

My cast will be off in 4 weeks & breakfast will be a whole lot easier to prepare! But I sure enjoyed my waffles, eggs and bacon with whole wheat toast, & orange juice. Before the month's over I may even master cracking an egg with one hand.

Blessings to you today; & I hope you'll be visiting the House of the Lord tomorrow!

Shalom, Connie

Fixed!

Well, fixing is in process... must heal first. My hand is very painful & swollen, which keeps me from using it.
Pain occurs throughout our lives & is a blessing that goes unrecognized.
My little grand-daughter has a lot of bumps lately as she tries new things. Just took her first steps walking & anticipate she'll be running soon... along with more bumps & bruises. Closing a cupboard door with her fingers in the way yielded tears, but she's learning.
Pain in my hand sent me to the hand surgeon, and today's technology allows my joints to be fixed. One small deteriorated bone was completely removed, but once healed my thumb will work again... without pain. Today my pain forces me to rest my hand. It also reminds me of how grateful I am to have 2 hands and makes me thankful for a good mind as I come up with alternate ways to do things.
Do you have pain in your life today? Emotional & spiritual pain can be just as devastating as physical pain.
Although pain isn't a choice that we prefer, it can be a blessing! It protects, teaches, guides, heals and more.
If you are hurting, know that Christ suffered also & understands- ask Him to use your pain to bring joy into your life!

Selah-

Shalom, Connie

Who Are You, My Reader?

I finally received some mail today- the first since I moved a week ago; as usual it's mostly bills & junk mail, but it made me feel that I belonged here now.

However, the flag is not up on this site's mailbox. My mailbox is empty. I have no idea who is stopping by & reading this blog...
I'd like to know! I had planned on this being a prelude to my new Website... what is my next step?

I need to get some feedback either here or at cgeewriter at yahoo dot com.
Connie

No Cake

No Birthday Cake, but it has been a great day! Cards, e-mail wishes, flowers, phone calls, lunch with a friend, & an evening concert made my day special.

If I had birthday candles to blow out, I would wish to age with a childlike faith and a closer walk with Jesus.
Think I'll make that a prayer request...

Shalom- Connie

Repairs Needed

Yep, I need my right thumb joints repaired. So I am having surgery on Tuesday morning , March 13th. I'll wake up with a cast that I get to keep for 4 weeks. Then I'll trade it in for a splint. Once the healing process is over I should be able to use it without pain! And I can go back to doing some of my favorite things: needlework, piano, handwriting notes & letters, & playing with my grandchildren.

I am right handed so the next weeks will be a challenge- any tips for functioning with just one-hand?

Also accepting prayers for no complications during or following surgery, quick & complete healing, & patience while casted.

Have several books waiting to be read & ordered some research material for my next writing project. Can keep busy if I can manage brushing my teeth & other daily tasks. My friend, I need your words of wisdom today!

Shalom- Connie

Moved!

My boxes & I have moved & co-exist in my new apartment.
Slowly, I'm winning the "I'll find the floor first!" race; but then I open another box...

I'd finished organizing all the kitchen cupboards & drawers.With a sigh of relief I managed to fit everything in. That is until the Squelch-Your-Joy Bird hatched a set of mixing bowls in an innocent looking box. Help!!

Downsizing isn't much fun because there are memories attached to most things. However, a good memory- that requires no space- is of the 4 men and 6 women who helped me move. Guys & Gals, I could not have done it without you! Thank you from my heart... bones & muscles, too!

Need new homes for some things like Teddy Bears, children's choir music, needlework kits, & more. Lots to do by next Monday.

Back to unboxing...

Shalom- Connie

Boxes, Boxes, Boxes

Getting closer to moving day- one week & still much to do. If you're in my neighborhood stop in... I'll hand you some bubble wrap & you can have fun, too!
No, not popping the bubbles! Packing...

Coming Soon! Free e-book:

Christ's Light: In and Beyond Us

Shalom, Connie

Moving!

Have had a sudden change of direction; and it is an answer to many prayers. I have been on waiting lists for a senior apartment & received a call for one of them. That meant providing all sorts of financial information, which I had to pull together quickly.

So I am moving in 18 days! I am going from a 2 bedroom into a one bedroom; 700 sq. ft. to 500 sq. ft. so I must sell, store or give away some things pretty quickly as well as keep up on my writing as best I can.

Will put this blog on hold, but don't forget to check back! I will return after 2/24!!! Meanwhile,

Shalom, Connie

Sad & Happy Faces

When I taught little children, I had flipping mirror. One of those on a wire stand, that you could turn from the normal mirror over to a magnifying mirror. I had cut bright yellow paper to cover the mirrors. On one side I glued two large google eyes, a red pompom for a nose and a large smile; the other side was the same except the smile was turned upside. Yep, a frown.

When the children were well behaved the happy face reigned. The children ignored it most of the time, once its newness wore off. But when a behavior began to go out of control, I spoke not a word and turned the mirror to the sad side. Then I sat quietly and waited. Soon, someone would notice and I'd hear, "Oh, no!" They all knew that the fun stuff stopped when Mr. Sad Face was home. Peer pressure still works as children would rather have fun then do nothing. It never took long for Mr. Happy Face to return. No frustration on my part: therefore, no trying to be heard over little ones voices. Most of the time the offender or offenders realized that all the children were watching them and quit whatever they were doing. If not, one of the children would say something about the mirror and making Ms. Connie happy again. Leadership skills show up at a very young age; and I could always tell who were big brothers or sisters. They took charge.

Well, I am having a mirror flipping day. Happy, then sad; then happy, etc. On my emotion-flexibility days I strive for some balance. Its okay to express your God-given emotions, so I decreased my tissue supply. Next, I try to do something, anything out of the norm' for me. Today is was baking a batch of muffins. Now I am going to curl up with a warm muffin, a cup of tea and read a children's story. Let happy reign!

No Pitiful Pearl Party. Just acceptance that my God is in control even though I don't understand it... and He does not have to explain it to me.

Excuse me, while I fix my Chai tea...

Shalom, Connie

Hoar Frost

Dew turned to frost... turning white like old age. That's how the dictionary defines hoar frost. Outside everything is white with this thick frost- no snow, just heavy white & frosty. The trees are so interesting because the texture of the frost is more hairy than feathery. It is not ice, but the limbs hang low with the extra weight The roads are slippery in the morning until traffic- at least on the main roads- melts the heavy frost. Once every one's in for the evening it is slippery once again.

Being retired I don't have to go out most days until the roads are clear. Instead I watch nature's unique beauty & am thankful that it isn't snow. But if you're into skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, even just snowman making just drive a few miles up the mountain & you'll find all the snow you want..

I love the mountains! They remind me of God the Creator. The regal bearing of the mountain range shows His majesty. The consistency demonstrates that God never changes. The contrasts of rock, waterfalls, springtime wildflowers, winter snow, and evergreen are masterpieces by the God of perfection.

He spreads the snow like wool and scatters the frost like ashes...He sends His word and melts them; He stirs up the breezes, and the waters flow. (Psalm 147:16, 18 NIV)

Selah-

Shalom, Connie

Borrowed Thoughts

Happy moments, praise God
Difficult moments, seek God
Quiet moments, worship God
Painful moments, trust God
Every moment, thank God
-unknown

Writing an E-Book, Part 8

Ahhhhhhhh. Feeling better today. Editing 3 pieces after my attitude adjustment yesterday.
I think I have figured out part of the problem I was having & maybeeeeeeeee a possible solution.
Part of the problem had to do with temporary files; the other might involve conversion. The failed edits were of my Auzzie friend's pieces & are formatted a bit different than our American computer pages.

Going to try it again today. If you hear any screaming coming from Central Oregon, PRAY!

I am not discouraged though; everything will work out! I just have to remember our theme verse from Ephesians.

Our e-book will glorify God! Because it is His. We 4 writers are just His hands at work.
I hope you're excited along with me as our book comes together.
Think how you and/or your church can use it.

Shalom, Connie

Writing an E-Book, Part 7

Help!

Remember that I mentioned struggles? Today is one of those "I want to scream!" days. I have lost everything that I edited both yesterday & today. Where does this stuff go??? And how do I fix it? Or at least keep it from happening again.

First, I am going to fix my bad attitude & decrease my frustration/stress level by taking a bubble bath. I'd go for a swim except with my respiratory infection still hanging on, it's probably not a good idea. I'll knit or read awhile after my tubbie & then see if my computer & I like each other better. Better idea than computer smashing don't you think?

Tune in tomorrow for the rest of the story.

Shalom, Connie

Writing an E-Book, Part 6

On the Production Team I have been learning how to edit. Even though I have much more to learn, I am going to have a go at editing the other writer's pieces. Bonnie will edit mine.

I'm even learning HTLM codes. Aren't you impressed? LOL This computer technology isn't as easy to learn when you're a grandma, you know.
Gotta run.... have editing to do!!!

Shalom, Connie

Writing an E-Book, Part 5

Because books are the love of writers, all four of us reflected on books that have a difference in our walk with Christ. They will be listed as well as a brief on-line resource list.

My articles are completed after several re-writes. I am excited & eager to get feedback from my co-writers and our publisher.

As I read the other's hard work, I am amazed at how God has once again orchestrated the outcome of our idea.
We began with a larger group of writers, but several had to drop out, which saddened us greatly. We had come to know each other by then and it felt like losing family.

Our theme idea never wavered. The pieces we wrote changed from our originals, but that is the joy of writing for the Lord versus a publisher, editor or agent. When we give God control of our pen...well, fingers on the keyboard... it is His message that comes through.

Things are coming together!!!

Shalom, Connie

Writing an E-Book, Part 4

Although the e-book tends to lean toward women, it can be used in mixed groups or with teens as well.
It contains study questions as well as interactive exercises to complete. Knowing that many personal and small church budgets are limited in what they can purchase, we wanted to make this available for use in a variety of settings.
The possible settings include:
at home as a personal, private study; family study with teens; or for a "Mr. & Mrs." study
small group study in the home or at church
Sunday School series
one day conference or retreat
assisted living or nursing home study
We will include a "How to..." section.

Hope this is peaking your interest!

Shalom, Connie

Writing an E-Book, Part 3

The focus of our e-book is Christ's Light in our lives and our readers lives.

I used the idea of a crossroads: being able to see Christ's light on our path
Bonnie highlighted lighthouses - how to develop your light to save others from the danger of the rocky shore.
your light to save others from the danger of the rocky shore.
Kathlyn urged her readers to let their lights shine wherever they are – at home, church and the world
Kathie shared daily lights to encourage readers with real life
examples of what their light should look like in action

The final drafts are being posted for editing. It is very exciting reading each others articles and devotionals.

Tomorrow we will look at how to use this e-book.

Shalom, Connie

Writing an E-Book, Part 2

Today I'd like you to met my co-writers.

Bonnie lives in Maryland; and is a pastor's wife, mother of 3, grandmother of 5, & retired floral designer. She has authored a novel titled Daughter of Lot. She will be leading a Drama Team for Blessings Abundant this year as well as being a mentor for new Christian writers.

Kathlyn is our Auzzie friend; she is a retired pastor's wife, pianist, mother of 4 and grandmother of 10. I am always talking to her tomorrow today. Did I confuse you? As a night owl, I'm often chatting with her late at night, which is the next day for her time zone. Kathlyn is on a Leadership Team for Blessings Abundant also.

Kathie resides in Maine; is married and a mother also. This her second e-book and she has a book coming out in the spring.

As for me, I am a mentor and on the Production Leadership Team for Blessings Abundant.

All of us write for Reflections online magazine.

Shalom, Connie

Writing an E-Book, Part 1

Through my Advanced Christian Writing Workshop I have the opportunity to co-author an online book or e-book.
Three other writers and I have chosen Ephesians 5:8 as out theme: "For you were once darkness,but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light." (NIV)

I will be spending this week telling about the blessings and the struggles of this adventure.
I hope you will enjoy coming along on our journey.
Shalom, Connie

My TV Night

I do not watch TV very much, but I try to on Saturday nights. I love the British comedies. The dry, subtle sense of humor tickles my funny bone and makes me laugh- out loud.

Some of the scenarios are sooooo stupid, but they are closer to the truths of life than we wish to acknowledge. And it's a warm fuzzy feeling to me to see them do foolish things... I mean would I do anything that foolish? No way.

So Saturday is my Proverbs night- a great way to end the week: A happy heart makes the face cheerful ... (Proverbs 15:13 NIV)

Selah-

Shalom, Connie

It's Not Fair

"It's not fair," whined my grandson. "I want to stay."

He's right, you know, life is not fair. But you don't complain about it, do you?

Well, I must confess that I whine to the Lord as badly as my four-year-old grandson does to me. Both of us appreciate the many blessings we have; yet we want more and want it quicker.

I call the generation after mine, the micro generation. They want everything instantly. My generation wants more of everything, but we're a bit more patient. Then I read God is like a crock pot- slow and easy bringing out the best in each of us.

When all is said and done, it isn't things that matter. It is being all that we were meant to be.
Hearing, "Well done!"

My grandson doesn't get his way when he whines. Neither do I, but God is very patient as He brings the best in me.

Selah-

Shalom, Connie

It's a Mystery!

Tangled Heart by Linda Evan Shepherd is a new mystery about Madison, a young woman starting a new job without the blessings of her husband. It is also a devotional! What a concept for a mystery lover like me.
The devotion for each of the 90 days is brief; great for a busy lifestyle.
It is available at www.Jubilant Press.com.
Linda, I hope that there are more to come!

A Dilly Mess

I forgot! I am so embarrassed... I'm sure you don't mess up, but I sure ended up in a dilly of a situation. I forgot my Writers' Bible Study... I forgot and I am the leader of the study!

My ladies were forgiving, but I didn't even know I missed it until one of them e-mailed me. :(

People, namely me, are fickle pickles. You never can be sure by just looking whether they are sweet or sour.

I could list the fact that I was ill, I was. That I was distracted as I anticipated an upcoming project. I was. But the truth is I wasn't soaking in the correct brine.

I should have paid attention to the lesson, which included, "I think back over... the many excuses I've made to shortchange my quiet time with the Lord. It's no wonder my writing is not bearing fruit." Guilty; I didn't feel good so I skipped my quiet time, and lost the opportunity to study God's Word with my peers.

If I had been soaking in God's jar of love, instead of "I" juice, I would have been reviewing my lesson. There would have been time to notify my ladies of my laryngitis.

Failing is not in the falling, but in not trying to get up. I'm up! And I gotta change the brine I'm in. "Hold the dill... I need some sweetener !"

Selah-

Shalom, Connie

Falling in Love

I think I am falling love with my computer. At least, I am becoming more comfortable with what it can do. I'll never be a techie (?) ... I'll stick to the simple stuff... but I am finding wonderful sites to help me with my writing, sources for researching, and new friends.

I have joined an online Bible Study, signed up for a FREE online writers' conference, committed to a critique group online, and have found more places to submit my writing. Downloaded free e-books and... It is so exciting!

I'm learning to ask, "Where are you?" This past week I have chatted with folks in the UK, Puerto Rico, Australia, Canada, California, Indiana, North Carolina, Georgia, & more. I have writing peers in Africa, Singapore, & places I cannot remember, right now.

This senior citizen has a new world around her. Don't be laughing now... I may be slow at this, but I am exuberant!

I haven't figured out how to play music and video stuff just starts and stops, but this is fun!

Need to get back to some serious writing though. So for now...

Shalom, Connie

She Moved Today

A 90 year old friend moved today- from an independent apartment to an assisted living facility.
It was a good thing and it is a nice place, but it is also sad.
At first, she was angry and defiant. (Hope I'll be that feisty at 90.) Eventually, she agreed. She knows that she's increasingly more tired and frail. She's experienced repeated times of falling and being unable to get up; and yes, her memory is not as good.
I stayed with her all day. First at her apartment, while her family packed and moved her things.
Then I took her to her new home. It looked like hers. Her recliner was in place; bed made; etc. New neighbors were dropping in to welcome her. I stayed for supper and met her table mate. I kissed her good-bye with a prayer of blessing for her remaining time on this earth.

I am a nurse and should be used to this, but I have mixed feelings. I am 25+ years younger, but I am slowing down. The aches and pains and decreased energy affect my life now. My grandchildren wear me out faster.
It's not a bad time of life; just different. I have the blessing of time... in my younger years, I used it up too fast. I pace myself better. I enjoy things more.

Yet the questions rambled through my mind as I watched my dear friend. Will my health remain? Will I need assisted living arrangements someday? Will I make the transitions of life gracefully? Can my mind stay sharp and clear? What will happen to me?

I don't know the answers any more than you do. I just hope that I have a friend beside me when it's my turn.

Shalom, Connie

Scrabble

I treated myself to a computer version of Scrabble. It is relaxing, yet stimulates my little grey cells. Plus for a writer, it is a good way to learn new words while having fun.
But tonight my computer beat me 3 times in a row. Put another way, I lost 3 times in a row. (You'll note that "it" was not upset when I won 7 games in a row.)

Then I had an animated discusion when the "referee," who threw out 3 of my words that are found in my Scrabble Word-Building Book... 1991 edition. I mean words can't just come and go, can they?

OUCH!!! How often do we say what we mean or mean what we say?

"Reckless words pierce like a sword, the tongue of the wise brings healing." (Prv 12:18 NIV)

"Everyone lies to his neighbor; their flattering lips speak with deception... (but) the words of the Lord are flawless..." (Ps 12:2, 6 NIV)

Reminds me of a children's song called "Input, Output." What we put into our minds, comes out our mouths. And another pre-schooler's song, "Oh, Be Careful" little eyes what seen, ears what's heard, etc.

I'm glad that I am playing a good game, but good is dependent upon my mind. As 2007 gets under way I think I... maybe you, too? need to be careful what is on our heart and mind. I want it to be pleasing, encouraging, affirming, and honest.

Let's watch what we input so that we are better prepared with output that heals, that is trusted, and that is spoken in love.

Selah-

Shalom, Connie

Happy New Year!

I have tried daily to access this site & received errors or not available messages. Tonight I entered the same info & got in- whew!

I started 2007 with a story being published on a page by itself. Usually there are several writers each day per page. Eleven e-mails followed with encouraging comments. Wow, they made me feel good!

Since then I have written several articles & devotions, found new helpful sites for writers, & sent out a newsletter for my writing group. Training has begun for the Reflections Production Team Leaders & I am contributing to an e-book.

Went swimming on January first to officially begin my "gonna exercise more" resolution. So I have had a great start to 2007.

Except for this blog's access problem...

Technology is great when it works, but I am glad that talking with the Lord doesn't depend on a phone or a computer. Just on me. I can "speed dial" and I never get a busy signal.

Lord, This is Connie (as if you didn't know.) Thank you for a fresh start... a new year to celebrate your love. Another chance to serve you. I am available, willing, and anticipating wonderful new adventures and memory-building moments. Please bless my readers with your love, hope, and joy! Thanks. Will talk with you again soon!

Shalom, Connie

Missing for a Day

I went missing for a day- not really 'cause I knew where I was!
Unexpectantly I stayed an extra day with my grandchildren & their Mommy. We baked my grandmother's Christmas cookie recipe, decorated plastic snowflakes with colored glitter, read stories, sang & danced The Reindeer (Hokey) Pokey, played hide-and-seek, and had a tickle match. I left happy and exhausted.
Yesterday I slept 'til almost noon. Aahh...
Today I am catching up with my e-mail messages, including special ones from my writing instructor and publisher.
Tomorrow I return to my daily plan for writing, but before I settle into that routine I want to have one more dish of peppermint ice cream, finish putting the fringe on my daughter-in-law's scarf, and finish my Christmas mystery book.

I am thankful for all the Christmas cards and notes that I have recieved-each day I will read one and pray for the sender. Shalom, Connie

With Child

a gasp, a cry
an exhausted mother’s sigh
a father’s teardrops
a heavenly umbilical cord cut and tied

a sweet aroma of fresh hay
a tiny gurgle as rosebud lips find milk
a whispered prayer
a naming as God commanded

a squeak of rafters as birds and mice gather
a gentle breeze to fan the fire
a clip and clop of a donkey’s feet
a quiet baa-aa and a hushed moo

a ray of starlight
a flutter of angel wings
a silence
a moment realizing God’s sacrifice-
His only son

a yip of a sheepdog on the hillside
an owl’s hoot as he hunts
a rowdy laugh from the inn
a braying camel on the dusty road

a mother and babe sleep
a father watches
an angel guards
a world waits

© 2005 Constance Gilbert

May you and yours have a blessed Christmas Day.
From the heart, Connie

Christmas Eve Anticipation

Mr. And Mrs. Santa had invited me to the Christmas Eve Family Mass. Not realizing how popular this Mass was, I almost couldn’t find a seat when I arrived. The old church was decorated with evergreen boughs, holly, and red bows; candles flickered in the stained glass windows. The organ played softly and an occasional tiny bell would ring somewhere in the pews
followed by a parent’s whispered “Shhhhhhh, not yet.”

As I looked around, there were children everywhere. Little girls in red dresses sat on their Daddy’s lap trying to see around the grown-ups. Little boys in Christmas sweaters wiggled and moved from Mommy to Daddy to Grandma and back. Older children tried to help with their younger siblings, but excitement was in the air. All the children had small jingle bells on a red or green ribbon, which were so hard keep from ringing.

A hush ran through the pews as the altar boys lit the candles; Father Fitz’ entered and knelt before the altar as the choir began to sing. The mass had begun.

In place of the homily, a tiny Mary and little Joseph slowing came down the middle aisle. By the time they reached the front, a manger and bales of hay had appeared. Once again, our attention went to the aisles as equally small shepherds with stuffed sheep and wooden staffs joined the nativity scene. As they arrived and knelt, I saw a baby doll in the manager. Looking back, the kings, minus camels, carefully carried gifts adorned with “jewels” as they tried to look straight ahead and not lose their crowns.

Father Fitz’ asked, “Who’s birthday is it?” Children yelled out “Jesus ” and Father Fitz’ smiled as a few “Santa Clauses” mixed in and were quickly hushed. “I think we should have a birthday cake for our celebration, don’t you?”

Heavy bells rang along with “Ho, ho, ho and Happy Birthday ” There was Mr. Santa ringing his bells and Mrs. Santa carefully carrying the birthday cake toward the altar. All the children’s bells were ringing now.

As Santa reached the front, he quietly spoke to the priest as Mrs. Claus laid the cake on a small table. As she knelt before the altar, the bells ceased to ring so Santa could speak. I do not remember his exalt words but he explained about St. Nicholas and that Christmas was all about Christ. And giving a nod he ascended the steps and knelt to pray before the manger.

‘Twas the night before Christmas and all through the church it was silent. A violin softly began to play “Away in a Manger.” The lights dimmed slowly until only candlelight remained. Father Fitz prayed as the lights slowly came back on. Santa was gone. The mass continued, but I don’t remember any of it. Just like the children, I was awe struck when Santa prayed at the manger.

When the mass was over, children received a cupcake with a candy cane as they hurried out; some to open gifts, others to be tucked in bed. For me, Christmas had already arrived. I sang “O Come, Let Us Adore Him” and “O Holy Night” all the way home.

Selah-

Shalom, Connie

Christmas Goodies

Today I will be baking my grandmother’s Pecan Fingers and I have a recipe for a wonderful English Toffee Dessert, which is good if you have many guests or family to serve. Enjoy

Pecan Fingers

Cream together: 1 cup of butter ( do not substitute with margarine)
3/4 cup of powdered sugar.
Add: 2 cups pecans, coarsely chopped
1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tbsp. ICE water ( I always use filtered or spring water)
1/8 tsp. salt
Roll with palms of your hands into finger-lengths.
Bake @ 325E F. For 20-30 min. until golden brown- watch carefully.
Roll in powdered sugar while warm.
Cool completely. Store in covered container, if they last that long.

English Toffee Dessert

Crumb mixture- Combine: 4 1/2 cups Graham cracker crumbs
1 3/4 cups chopped nuts
1 ½ cups butter, melted
Filling mixture- Combine: 1 cup + 2 tbsp. soft butter
4 ½ cups powdered sugar
1 cup powdered/dry milk
8 egg yolks
8 egg whites, stiffly beaten
1 ½ tsp pure vanilla extract

Place ½ of crumb mixture into 9 x 13 baking pan, then filling followed by remainder of crumb mixture. Refrigerate and chill for several hours or overnight.


Quick & Easy Fruited Chicken/Turkey or Ham

1-2 lb. pre-cooked ham, chicken or turkey, sliced (Good use for leftovers)
Marinate in Spicy Cranberry Salad Dressing overnight or for several hours.
Combine: 1 can no-added sugar cherry-pie-filling
1 20 oz.can each crushed pineapple
1 15 oz.can mandarin oranges, drained
1 15 oz. can peaches, plain or spiced, drained & cut into small chunks
Pour over meat with marinate, garnish with thinly sliced almonds, pecans or walnuts. Serve cold.
Good with stuffing muffins (your favorite stuffing mixture baked in a muffin pan) & green salad.

Christmas In the Summertime

...the wise men went their way. Once again the star appeared to them, guiding them to Bethlehem. It went ahead of them and stopped over the place where the child was. (Matthew 2:9 NLT)

One of my most memorable Christmas celebrations occurred during the summer of 1983 when I attended a Singspiration Music Conference. Music conferences are special because almost everyone there is in music ministry, many as choir directors and worship leaders. Attendees get a preview of all the music for the next year- often by the people who wrote it.

Everyone becomes part of a choir either for an Easter or a Christmas cantata. In 3 days, you learn the music then present it in an evening concert. My group, that year, sang Derric Johnson's A Song, A Star, A Son. As musician's we learned the music quickly, so could concentrate on how to present the cantata. We discussed the words and their meaning with the man who wrote them, from his heart, with the help of God.

As a mother of one child, a son, I was deeply touched by these words: A song... a simple song; a star... a single star... a Son, God's Son- the perfect one, God's only one.

When we arrived in our long skirts and the men in their suits, the auditorium had been transposed into Christmas. Composer, lyric writer Derric Johnson walked on stage in a tuxedo and bowed to the choir before acknowledging the audience. We were excited to be presenting the world's first performance of A Song, A Star, A Son. We were eager to please Derric and to bring God glory.

Before the Finale, we sang, Quite a Little Baby. It reminds us that the little baby in the hay was born to die upon a cross and Derric asked us to dramatize the end of the song. At measure 87 every other person slipped their music on top of the music of the person to their left. In half time we sang with a slow, but building crescendo, He spread His hands out wide___. (rest) Then from double forte to double soft and (rest) died. The was a soft gasp from the audience as every other choir member stood with their arms outstretched. Derric Johnson had tears streaming down his face as he mouthed, Yes That's it. It was as if all 150 singers were on the cross with Jesus.

The accompaniment tape was stopped and we waited... truly angels hovered near for we were on Holy Ground.

All arms went down at his signal and we finished the song; at double forte on high B-flat, we sang, Jesus Christ, the Lord as if it was Resurrection morning

The words and the music stirred a part of my soul that needed to experience the true miracle of my Lord's humble, earthly birth. It was awe-inspiring, magnificent, impressive yet simple. The applause went on and on- music ministers, deeply touched, offering their praises for God's work through Derric Johnson.
If I never sang again, it would have been enough to have sung A Song, A Star, A Son, that evening, but at the same time I wanted to sing it again and again. And I do, every year during Christmas week.

It is my prayer that Derric Johnson's words will stir your soul.

What makes the difference is our heart's response to the song... and the star... and the Son. Christmas means He came to you; salvation means you come to Him. Christmas is the Son of God becoming the Son of Man so that the sons of men become the sons of God.

Come and worship, Come and worship, Worship Christ, the New Born King

Selah-

Shalom, Connie