Thursday, March 10, 2016

Thankful Thursday: The Adventure Begins

The garden area is gradually being transformed into an area of plenty and beauty. Hubby planted Tomatoes, Red Potatoes, and Bell Peppers. Next will be the Straight-necked Yellow Squash, Zucchini, and Green Bush Beans. Around one end of the humble 20 x 20 plot is also planted Giant Sunflower seeds.

In the bare spot next to my office, that I've dubbed Butterfly Haven, there will be Giant Sunflowers, California Poppy, and Cosmos. Already in residence is the Shrimp plant and Butterfly Bush. Oh, yeah, and lots of wind chimes. I take great delight in hearing them tinkle in the breeze. *giggle*


I ran out of steam about 10 am but hope tomorrow to plant the remainder of the seeds: Shasta Daisy, English Daisy, Johnny Jump-up, and Bachelor Button.


There should also a "mystery plant" in Butterfly Haven that Hubby and I found growing along Wall's Siding Road here in our county. Last year we collected seeds from it. These seeds have joined in with the domestic's above. At maturity the mystery plant is taller than me with long white flowers. I've tried and tried to identify it to no avail. Anyway, in about 8 weeks, if all goes well, there should be a profusion of color. All these flowers are dandy attractants for the Butterflies, Hummingbirds and other of God's creatures that I so enjoy.

There's a lot to be thankful for today and every day, one of which is it seems I can garden almost as well as I could before the Thoracic Outlet Syndrome symptoms and surgery. There's no pain, lightheartedness, vision loss or nausea. Thank you LORD Jesus for your mercy. Being out of pain is like being released from years of imprisonment. I don't know why but it reminds me of how all of us who trust and believe in salvation by the innocent shed blood of our LORD are being transformed inside into a thing of beauty for Him. These small reminders of His majesty are all around us if we'll only look.


There is 'joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart' today! I pray your day is joyful too. Share what you're thankful for.

Sunday, February 28, 2016

The Skinny

Some things that happened during my convalescence:

It's been profitable to rest the arthritic wrists, as they seem to be improving a bit, but I've been giving the body a good workout every morning. The "new" NordicTrack was a real bargain. It was a purchase from a local auction for a fraction of it's original cost. Hubby and I have been using it diligently. Already I've dropped an inch, increased my stamina, my legs have quit aching and my sleeping has improved. This may prove to be my best purchase to-date.

For ill or nill I voted early last week. The pundits say that my candidate won't win, but at least I got to voice my opinion.

An Aunt of a dear friend passed into glory last week. She was elderly and her medication, that was suppose to improve her life, actually took it. I missed the funeral due to a minor illness, but the wake was enjoyable. Yeah, enjoyable. People where laughing, respectfully, of course, sharing happy memories and photos. You know dear reader, when a believer passes it's a time to be joyful. They are with the LORD, we are the sad ones because we're left behind. I don't know how unbelievers get through a day. I would live in constant fear of dying if it wasn't for the promise of life ever lasting with my blessed LORD Jesus Christ.

Hubby and I are enjoying attending the First Baptist Church. These Baptists sure like to eat. (Not complaining) *grin* The motorcycle group that's part of the church, F.A.I.T.H. Riders, seems to feature an event of some sort just about every weekend. It's been wonderful to hang out with other like minded Christians and not feel like a freak because I ride. They are always eager to share the message of Jesus Christ, which is what we're suppose to do. I've learned to love and trust these dear saints very much. I am so very blessed. They have really made both of us feel at home.

The weather has been perfectly lovely. I think our Spring garden is going to be fruitful this year. We're trying a new technique which I will try to share later.

And with that ...

I will go rest my wrists again. I hope your days have been blessed. I know I am because God loves us so very much and you are my friends. Thank you for popping by.

Ride Safe,

Monday, February 8, 2016

Taking A Blog Break



Hubby fixed the zero turning radius mower. We're back in business! *lol* The weather has become so nice that I might take a few days off from posting or commenting. I just wanna go outside, play in the dirt and go riding. And I'm feeling much improved in the hip department. Thank you for your prayers.

I pray everyone has a lovely week.

Saturday, February 6, 2016

Got Questions: What Is The Age Of Grace?

The self-same message below is what helped bring me to Christ that I may be saved. In this the "present evil age" [Galatians 1:4], also referred to as "the age of Grace", there are no works: Sabbath keeping, water baptism, speaking in tongues, tithing, etc. After the complete sacrifice for us of our blessed LORD Jesus on the cross, the stoning of Stephen, and the conversion of the Apostle Paul [Book of Acts], these have evolved into empty traditions of man. Very seldom is this truth taught, especially in the church. We are "saved by grace through faith" [Ephesians 2:8] not by works. I pray that these words may lead others to give their hearts to our LORD Jesus Christ in truth by faith and be saved for all eternity.

For more on this subject, please go to the Berean Bible Society website. They offer a marvelous source of reading material to help us along the way, that we may strive to please the LORD in all thoughts, words and deeds.

I hope your Sunday is blessed. I know I'm extra blessed to have such loving Godly friends as yourselves.

"Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do." [1 Thessalonians 5:11] 





~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Question: "What is the Age of Grace?"

Answer: The Age of Grace, also called the Dispensation of Grace or the Church Age, is the sixth divinely apportioned dispensation of world history, according to dispensationalism. Dispensationalism is a system theologians use to divide and categorize historical events in the Bible. Most agree that there are seven dispensations, though some believe there are nine or three. The Age of Grace is the dispensation that is occurring right now in history. It began with the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2) and is made possible by Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross, His resurrection, and His ascension: “The grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people” (Titus 2:11).

Salvation has always been by the grace of God, received by faith (Genesis 15:6). In the Dispensation of Law, God required His people to follow the Law of Moses and offer sacrifices for their sin—sacrifices that pointed forward to the gracious provision of the Lamb of God (John 1:29). “The law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ” (John 1:17). Now, during the Age of Grace, “we are not under the law but under grace” (Romans 6:15). The Law has been fulfilled (Matthew 5:17), and God’s grace in Christ is plain for all to see. All that is required for salvation is to trust in Jesus Christ (Acts 16:31). He has done all that is necessary for salvation (Ephesians 2:8–9).

The term “Age of Grace” could be misleading to some—it is not meant to imply that the people in the Old Testament, before Jesus’ death and resurrection, were denied God’s grace. They still had to trust in the Lord—a trust they showed in offering the sacrifices. The Old Testament worshiper, by sacrificing an animal, was saying, “I trust God will save me despite the fact that I am sinful.” Christians take the same approach today, spiritually, but the practice is different. Instead of offering repeated sacrifices for sins, we trust in the one-time sacrifice (on the cross) of Christ (Hebrews 10:1–10).

The grace of God has been available throughout all the dispensations (Psalm 116:5). In this present day, this Age of Grace, our Lord has commanded the gospel to be taken to every corner of the globe, because He “wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth” (1 Timothy 2:4; cf. 2 Peter 3:9). His grace is offered to all.

© Copyright 2002-2016 Got Questions Ministries

Friday, February 5, 2016

Funny Friday: Carol Burnett Show


This is the type of TV I grew up with. I miss clean, slap stick, family friendly variety shows. The Carol Burnett Show was definitely the pick of the litter.

Hope y'all have a fun filled day!

Thursday, February 4, 2016

Downton Abbey Season 6

*** Nothing specific is revealed but there are mild spoiler alerts below. ***

The new, and final, DVD for Downton Abbey I had pre-ordered arrived two days ago.

Apologies for the blurry photo.

We stopped nearly everything, and made time to watch all the episodes of Season 6. Thankfully, it's been raining cats and dogs, so, going outside was not recommended anyway. Let me just say, I am absolutely thrilled at this season's events.

Jack (left) and Sam 'watched' with us but where mostly unconcerned.

These final episodes are truly delightful. I kept a box of kleenex on hand which really came in handy. Almost everyone ends up married. Even Thomas Barrow ends up happy, of sorts. Rose and her new hubby (I forget his name) show up on New Year's Eve. My fav are the Bates' and their heartwarming addition. Such a cute couple. It's just loads of fun with lots of twists and turns.

Now I can't wait for you all to see it so we can talk about the nitty gritty events as they unfold! You're guaranteed to be gobsmacked too.

Tuesday, February 2, 2016

An Update


I feel like the above photo captures my recent diet efforts. It seems as though as soon as I get serious about losing weight, a flat tire puts me on the side lines leaving me with carrying all those extra "tires" a little longer. *sigh* I don't know why I keep gaining weight. I'm don't eat "anything".

(excuse me ... dropped my candy bar ...)

Oh, the hip pain has improved but if I walk more than I should BLAM the burning pain returns.

So ... here I sit on the comfy sofa with an ice pack under the posterior (TMI?!), moping around, hoping that Victor, or anyone, will saunter by and regale me with a few jokes. Laughing out loud burns calories ... riiiigggght?!

The weather has been unseasonably warm and humid but very pleasant. If my body cooperates, I'd like to get started on the Spring garden. Time ta plant 'dem 'taters, as we are want to say here in the South.

By the way, Blogger is messing with my head again. I send a post out into cyber space and it may take up to a full day to show up in some feeds. Stupid Google programmers. Give me someone to fire! *lol*

Have a blessed day.

Sunday, January 31, 2016

A Joke And A Prayer Request


Tomorrow, the Iowa Caucasus begins casting votes, or they start, anyway. Thus, the political joke: Trump VS Trump. I know I don't have to ask for prayers concerning this serious event. There's so much riding on these elections. Many of our God given rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness may be lost forever if the wrong people keep getting elected. May the LORD Jesus guide and protect us.

And a prayer request. I've injured my right hip again and the pain is pretty intense. I can barely walk, and riding is definitely a no-no. Prayers for relief will be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much.

I hope everyone has a very happy, safe, blessed week.

Got Questions: How can I not go to hell?


www.GotQuestions.org

Question of the Week
Question: "How can I not go to hell?"

Answer: Not going to hell is easier than you think. Some people believe they have to obey the Ten Commandments for their entire lives to not go to hell. Some people believe they must observe certain rites and rituals in order to not go to hell. Some people believe there is no way we can know for sure whether or not we will go to hell. None of these views are correct. The Bible is very clear on how a person can avoid going to hell after death.

The Bible describes hell as a terrifying and horrible place. Hell is described as “eternal fire” (Matthew 25:41), “unquenchable fire” (Matthew 3:12), “shame and everlasting contempt” (Daniel 12:2), a place where “the fire is not quenched” (Mark 9:44-49), and “everlasting destruction” (2 Thessalonians 1:9). Revelation 20:10 describes hell as a “lake of burning sulfur” where the wicked are “tormented day and night forever and ever.” Obviously, hell is a place we should avoid.

Why does hell even exist, and why does God send some people there? The Bible tells us that God “prepared” hell for the devil and the fallen angels after they rebelled against Him (Matthew 25:41). Those who refuse God’s offer of forgiveness will suffer the same eternal destiny of the devil and the fallen angels. Why is hell necessary? All sin is ultimately against God (Psalm 51:4), and since God is an infinite and eternal being, only an infinite and eternal penalty is sufficient. Hell is the place where God’s holy and righteous demands of justice are carried out. Hell is where God condemns sin and all those who reject Him. The Bible makes it clear that we have all sinned (Ecclesiastes 7:20; Romans 3:10-23), so, as a result, we all deserve to go to hell.

So, how can we not go to hell? Since only an infinite and eternal penalty is sufficient, an infinite and eternal price must be paid. God became a human being in the Person of Jesus Christ (John 1:1, 14). In Jesus Christ, God lived among us, taught us, and healed us—but those things were not His ultimate mission. God became a human being so that He could die for us. Jesus, God in human form, died on the cross. As God, His death was infinite and eternal in value, paying the full price for sin (1 John 2:2). God invites us to receive Jesus Christ as Savior, accepting His death as the full and just payment for our sins. God promises that anyone who believes in Jesus (John 3:16), trusting Him alone as the Savior (John 14:6), will be saved, i.e., not go to hell.

God does not want anyone to go to hell (2 Peter 3:9). That is why God made the ultimate, perfect, and sufficient sacrifice on our behalf. If you want to not go to hell, receive Jesus as your Savior. It is as simple as that. Tell God that you recognize that you are a sinner and that you deserve to go to hell. Declare to God that you are trusting in Jesus Christ as your Savior. Thank God for providing for your salvation and deliverance from hell. Simple faith, trusting in Jesus Christ as the Savior, is how you can avoid going to hell!

© Copyright 2002-2016 Got Questions Ministries

Friday, January 29, 2016

Something Inspirational

The rain and clouds have passed through. Now it's beautiful. How about something inspirational today? I received this video in an e-mail from my husband. Enjoy.


Have a blessed day my friends.

Thursday, January 28, 2016

Throw Back Thursday: Our Love Was Once In Tents

Hubby and Sparky

In 1979, we were newly wed, full of the moxie of youth, bright eyed with great hopes for the future. Gainful employment was easy back then. Jobs where plentiful. The future was bright. We weren't rich but we weren't broke either. Whatever life was to throw at us, it didn't matter, we where ready. And, ultimately, loves conquers all.

Our first trip together was on a shoe string budget, so, we planned for a location close to home in western North Carolina. This trip we spent a lot of time camping and hiking the Blue Ridge Parkway near Asheville and all parts in between.

Hubby brought a vivid blue two man pup tent into the marriage. This was the start of a long love affair for me with camping. Soon after this trip, we 'moved up' to a 6 man Hillary canvas cabin tent sold by Sears. It gave us many years of faithful service and happy memories. Many years later, tired of sleeping on the ground, we bought a towable Recreational Vehicle. Now that we live in the woods, an RV was no longer exciting. I really miss being outdoors on our trips, though, but Hubby grew weary of all the work. Can't say that I blame him.

Above is the dear man during his salad days sitting by a stream on the Blue Ridge. I fell in love with that charming smile the first time we met. I am happy to report that he is still that wonderful guy and more.

Thank you LORD Jesus for all our wonderful years together.

 "For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh." Ephesians 5:31

Sunday, January 24, 2016

Got Questions: Did Balaam`s donkey really talk to him?

This week Got Questions sent a Q & A about Balaam's donkey. It's a good lesson. On another blog recently, someone, quite rightly, reminded their readers how it's always dangerous to make decisions when angry. This got me to thinking (always a hazardous proposition with me). It seems every time I turn on the news, there are talking Jackasses, most spouting nonsense. And there's a lot of anger about the direction our country is headed in or, I should say, is in. I have to remind myself that it's important to not make decisions while cross but use common sense and look to The Cross so as to please God.

May we all strive to please Him in every thought and deed.

I hope your day is blessed.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

www.GotQuestions.org

Question of the Week

Question: "Did Balaam`s donkey really talk to him?"

Answer: The story of Balaam and his talking donkey is found in Numbers 22. Balaam was a pagan prophet who practiced divination and other magic arts, led Israel into apostasy, and was identified as a false prophet by Peter and Jude (2 Peter 2:15-16; Jude 1:11). Fearing the encroaching Israelites, King Balak of Moab sent for Balaam and enlisted his aid in repelling the Israelites by cursing them. The Lord spoke to Balaam and told him to refuse to go to Balak, although the Lord relented under the condition that Balaam would speak only His words. So Balaam saddled his donkey and went with the princes of Moab back to Balak.

But knowing Balaam’s heart, the Lord’s anger burned against Balaam for what He knew was Balaam’s rebelliousness, and He sent an angel with a drawn sword to bar his way. Although Balaam couldn’t see the angel, his donkey could, and she tried to discontinue the journey by going off the path, crushing Balaam’s foot against the wall and lying down on the path. Angered by her behavior, Balaam used his staff to beat the donkey three times. Then in Numbers 22:28, we learn that “the LORD opened the donkey's mouth, and she said to Balaam, ‘What have I done to you to make you beat me these three times?’” Then Balaam and the donkey proceeded to have a conversation about the situation, with Balaam angrily berating the donkey, after which the Lord opened Balaam’s eyes to see the angel and understand why his journey was stopped.

There is no doubt that Balaam’s donkey spoke to him. The question that arises is whether the donkey was suddenly given the power of speech, which would also mean she was given the power to reason because she answered Balaam’s questions, asked some of her own, and carried on a rational conversation. While it is certainly possible that God granted human powers to the donkey, it’s more likely that He opened her mouth and spoke through her. The angel that barred his way is identified as the angel of the Lord, likely a manifestation of the presence of God Himself (Genesis 16:9-16; Exodus 3:1-6). After the donkey “spoke” to Balaam, and Balaam’s eyes were opened, the angel proceeded to ask the identical questions that came from the mouth of the donkey, further evidence that God, not the donkey, was actually speaking both times. This is reiterated by Peter, who identifies the donkey as “a beast without speech” and who “spoke with a man’s voice” (2 Peter 2:16). Whatever the method, the donkey was able to speak by a miraculous working of God’s power.

Why was Balaam not shocked into silence by the donkey speaking to him? Surely, it must have come as a surprise to him, and under normal circumstances, the obvious reaction would be for him to at least ask how she came to be speaking. The Bible doesn’t tell us why he didn’t find it odd to be addressed by a donkey, but we do know something about his state of mind. First, he was in rebellion against the Lord, going to Balak for his own purposes and not those of the Lord. Second, the donkey’s refusal to continue down the path enraged him so that he beat her out of anger because she had mocked him and made a fool of him. Anger has a way of curtailing rational thought, and perhaps he was so intent on exerting his dominance over the animal that he lost the ability to think clearly. It wasn’t until the angel opened Balaam’s eyes to see reality that he relented in his anger against the donkey, listened to the angel, and repented. Verse 38 tells us that Balaam went to Balak and told the king, “I must speak only what God puts in my mouth," which just goes to show that God can use anyone, even a donkey and a rebellious prophet, to do His will and speak His truth.

© Copyright 2002-2016 Got Questions Ministries

Saturday, January 23, 2016

Weather Update: SNOW!


It's snowing in Southeast Georgia! No photos as they're only flurries but it's definitely the white stuff.

Thank goodness we don't have to go out or do anything outside today.

I'm messing about on the computer, hunting for more family genealogy information, and in between, working on the inevitable taxes that come due in April.


I hope everyone is staying warm and enjoying a nice cup of hot chocolate.

Friday, January 22, 2016

Funny Friday ~ Snow Day







Sorry, I just couldn't resist. For all my Northern neighbors, stay warm, have a couple of hot toddies, post some snow pics on blogger and the time should just fly by.

Wednesday, January 20, 2016

Scooter Poopin' In Southeast Georgia

Yesterday, we took off zigzagging around Southeastern Georgia. If one could ignore the bone chilling wind, the day was picturesque. The sun was incredibly bright making the sky like unto an enormous blue diamond. It was charming. Like a prelude to Heaven. How could we resist!? Our first stop was the metropolis of Valdosta. We lunched at Smok'n Pig on Valdosta Road.

I just had to snap a pic of the pink pig BBQ grill. Hubby burst my bubble, though, when he said that the first time he cooked on it, the paint would chip. Oh well ...

Sated with good 'ol southern BBQ, we traveled further west to the little community of Dixie (how original, right?!) in neighboring Brooks County.
Winter Road, Dixie, Georgia

The above picture is downtown Dixie, a sleepy little burg, never destined for greatness. I never knew this county had such easy to ride, meandering, shady, scenic roads! Now I want to move there and ride every day.
Emanuel AME Church
County Road 78, Dixie

I snapped a photo of this black church only because it has the most unusual architecture for the area. It must have been built on a shoestring and perhaps with more than one chef in the kitchen.
What is the round room for? I wonder. The front had one style, the windows don't fit the design of the front, and the back is ... well, unusual. At any rate, it was interesting.

One nice thing about old age is it doesn't take much to amuse me anymore. *lol*

Thanks for stopping by. I hope your day is blessed.