Enjoying My Time Today ~

For the last couple days I've been taking and enjoying a much needed break from running here and there being busy.  Since we've moved I've been using my husbands laptop so I don't visit many of the blogs I've loved and bookmarked.  Yesterday checked out Little Red Barn that was listed on one I follow.  How fun - she started what's Mosaic Monday that you can be a part of too please check this out.  This certainly in a wonderful way to be creative and use the talents the Lord has given you.  On her site there are so many bloggers listed who are a part of Mosaic Monday one photographer has a little contest going on until Monday morning and there's nothing hard about this one, please go to Chronicles Of A Country Girl and enter yourself for a chance to win a beautiful photo in the frame of your choice.  Also check her work out; as well as, those listed on Little Red Barn, I hope it will inspire you to try new things and enjoy being creative.

I'm thinking of all the possibilities ~

MERRY CHRISTMAS~

I've always loved this and thought I'd share it with you.  I'd like to add though, I pray your Christmas is blessed with love from above.  I pray that you look to the Savior of this world -that's what Christmas is really all about.  Merry Christmas to you and yours.  Vicky

Yes It's December!

Yes it is December and I truly thought I'd have a chance to write some on my blog - I miss doing so.  This has been some year and moving here, will I was looking at things settling down some.  It was wonderful having both Jake and Aaron here and I enjoyed seeing them help their Gramp mend the gate.

The goodbyes though are always sad especially since the boys haven't seen their Gramp in ten years or so.
I'm so happy they did - the only one missing was Mat.  All three boys came to our rescue though in what was a most needed time.  We are so proud of them.

My husband has had such a bad time of it with his illness.  On a happy note though doctors thought he had TB but he didn't - Thank you Jesus!  Getting back on track is definitely a difficult one and is going slow.  Getting hooked up to the VA has been interesting and somewhat disappointing at times to say the least.  This week Jim had a set back and is back in the hospital.  I know he will recover and we are relying on our faith - it has been hard though and a real test.

On a happy note and in the busiest of times; my Dad's dog Molly had ten beautiful, perfect pups!

We (my husband and I) had the opportunity to witness and help in the miracle of birth.  Molly was wonderful and for a first time mom and for being so young - was like a pro!  How can people even question the presences of a creator?  It takes more faith to believe that something comes from nothing!

And, speaking of the miracle of birth,  Christmas is a time when we look at the Miracle birth of babe born such a long time ago.  A Savior for all who believe. This Christmas I pray you take time and what could prove to be the most important time you take this Christmas.  Take time to get to know the person who we celebrate this holiday for.

All right then, the Lord himself will give you the sign. Look! The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son and will call him Immanuel (which means 'God is with us'). Isaiah 7:14 NLT

We all can't be together this Christmas but, I have comfort in knowing we are together in spirit and much love for each other.  Merry Christmas to all and blessing for the coming New Year.

I took a short break last week and shot some pictures around and about of interest - below are just a few. 

Update~

Just an update here to let you know what's been happening.  I don't have a computer up and running yet so I'm at the library tell all the ins and outs or taken care of.  We made it to Arizona but it was a job to say the least.  My husband took ill and landed in the hospital for a week before we left; he had a fungus Coccidioidomycosis (Valley Fever) and H1N1 landed him in the ICU for a spell.  Do to his illness he has an compromised immune system.  I believe that the climate here is proving to be the best for him.
Our one son was a big help and our other two boys showed up for the rescue and we were so glad they did.  We certainly couldn't have done it with out them or the help of some very dear friends.  Thank you all both physically and financially.  I thank the Lord so much for his faithfulness and to the faithfulness of dear friends.  Jim is doing better but is weak and the doctors tell us it will take awhile to regain his strengthen.  I'm counting on the Lord for his totally healing.  I'll write later hopefully soon.  Love to all Vicky

Finally!

It's been a long haul - no pun intended - I thought I'd never see this day.  We will be saying goodbye to Ohio this week; in just a few days!  I'm excited and bit sad (when I think about it) - Nope I'm excited!  I will miss some things that I was able to do - but there will be new adventures out there. 

Yesterday, I went next door to my dear friend and neighbor, that I will truly miss.  Monica said they finally got the pancake recipe figured out and they turned out wonderful.  I said I'm no longer needed "my job was done" ha - I happy to say they said that wasn't so.  I'm glad we have phones and internet to keep in touch.  I'm holding back my tears :(

Anyway, I know there will be other things I think of but for now I have to keep moving.  I'll try to post here and there along the way - more likely when I get to our destination. 

Delight yourself in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart.  Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him, and he will act.  Psalm 37: 3-5  Amen


 

Are You On A Sinking Ship?

It's been quite some time since I last looked out my front window.  The leaves are changing into beautiful colors.  Red berries are looking more pronounced -  the mornings have been cooler, crisper;  and the once kept yard looks tired.  Birds that I've stopped feeding a year or more ago still light onto the branches playing "visiting" me little while.  This is what I've enjoyed in the past ~  Have I just lost interest?  Or .  .  Maybe I've just lost me ~  Maybe I've finally reach the tired of moving mode ~
I'm convinced that my family and the friends I have don't believe it will ever happen; there are days when I even doubt it myself.  But it's a must.  .  .

Many people watched the 1997 movie Titanic with the romantic tale of Jack and Rose.  Somehow in this movie directed by James Cameron you were able to identify with all the different characters that were portrayed and more so than older versions.  Of course it could be just my take or a simply well done movie.
Last month - a few weeks back - was an extremely difficult time for me (all of us) and what flashed into my thoughts at that time was the sinking Titanic.  The most vivid part was when Jack drop into the depths of the cold dark Atlantic.  However, and almost instantaneously a small voice said; "Be strong and courageous."





Have you ever been on what seemed like a sinking ship? Where everything around you was so overwhelming you were starting to fear what will happen to you?  You wanted out of what has become and entrapment but couldn't leave?  You were starting to feel defeated while focusing on the situation at hand.  This was the problem I was starting to allow the problem to take hold by focusing on them.  I knew in my heart this much was true the Lord has never failed me He has never failed us.
  
"Be strong and courageous (of good courage).  Do not be afraid (fear not) or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you:  He will never leave you (He will not fail thee) or forsake you."  Deuteronomy 31:6 NIV (KJV) 

There are so many things in the Old Testament I enjoy reading about - so much insight - life's lessons to help you through tough times.  One story came to mind as I thought of the sinking Titanic was in and starting in Numbers 13, when Moses sent out twelve spies to check out the land that the Lord was giving them.  For forty days they spied in that land learning all the could and gathered fruit of the land to show Moses and the congregation.   As the spies returned; they preceded in telling them - "We went in to the land where you sent us; and it certainly does flow with milk and honey, and this is its fruit.  Nevertheless, the people who live in the land are strong, and the cities are fortified and very large;" ten spies had their focus on how many as well as, the strength and size of those they were to over take in fact they appeared as grasshoppers in comparison.  They allowed fear to take them and they delivered a bad report.  They forgot all the miracles the Lord their God had done thus far.  Only two of the spies gave a good report - they to recognized the situation at hand but that didn't deter them in their report.  They knew God, they remembered who He was, what He'd done and the promises He had for thous that placed their trust in Him.

This still holds true for us today.  How is your report? There is nothing impossible with God; absolutely nothing!  Yet there are time we take are eyes of the Lord and become as grasshoppers to our problems.  We can be so deep into the cold dark waters that we loose sight of the truth.  David wrote in Psalms many many times of his redeemer and David held on to God's truth.  His Word.  His promises. 

Those who go down to the sea in ships,

Who do business on great waters;

they have seen the works of the Lord,

And His wonders in the deep.

For He spoke and raised up a stormy wind,

Which lifted up the waves of the sea.

They rose up to the heavens, they went down to the depths;

The soul melted away in their misery.

They reeled and staggered like a drunken man,

And were at their wits end.

Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble,

And He brought them out of their distress.

He caused the storm to be still,

So that the waves of the sea were hushed.

Then they were glad because they were quite;

So He guided them to their desired haven.

Let them give thanks to the Lord for His lovingkindness, 

And for His wonders to the sons of men!

Let them extol Him also in the congregation of the people,

and praise Him at the seat of the elders.

Psalm 107: 23-32

This is a new month - a new week and I'm holding on to a good report.  I know that He will do just what He says He will do.  "Be strong and courageous!"  Oh, and the spies and those who listens to the bad report; there outcome wasn't so good.  Those that listened to the good report - Well they entered the land flowing with milk and honey.

"The land which we passed through to spy out is an exceedingly good land.  If the Lord is pleased with us, then He will bring us into this land, and give it to us--a land which flows with milk and honey.  Only do not rebel against the Lord; and do not fear the people of the land, for they shall be our prey.  Their protection has been removed from them and the Lord is with us; do not fear them." Numbers 14:7-9   

Do not FEAR; do NOT focus on the problems - Focus on the Lord, dive into His Word - it is living.  Mediated on it day and night as in Joshua 1: 8 "Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9  

FYI on the Titanic band members they did in fact play as the ship was sinking and what they played was Nearer My God To Thee.    For more information click here Titanic.

A Bit Of Autumn Coming ~

Yesterday, but not today, I heard a small soft voice telling me -  when you go on your walk take your camera.  So yesterday morning Sophie and I went out on our walk, the air was cool and crisp - perfect for walking.  Sophie really does not care for the heat where as Miki loves the heat; moving out west should prove to be interesting indeed.  But for Sophie she was very happy on the walk - I usually let her off her lead to romp and run in the field and ditches that are across street.  Also across the street from the house are woods not yet fully developed, there are a just few houses; it's great for walks and exploring.
But did I listen to that small voice? No.  I wished I had.  For on that walk I saw the coolest thing, as Sophie was investigating new smells in ditch, I was looking at a couple Blue Birds up in the branches of a couple dead trees that were side by side.  They were going from one to the other as if they were playing.  I followed the trees down and when I got to where I was looking straight ahead - there it was sitting on a nub on one of the dead trees and owl.  It was setting ever so quietly watching Sophie.  The owl seemed to be very curious as to what she was doing.  I was so excited and amazed at watching this owl.  Then very unhappy that I didn't bring my camera!   I can't be totally certain but after looking up owls of Ohio I'm leaning toward it being The Barred Owl.  It's markings blended in with the trees and after reading about the owl it had the characteristics of the Barred.  Absolutely awesome.
After awhile he/she lit off the tree to another and then further into the woods - without one sound.

I went back the next few days with camera in hand hoping to get a glimpse of that beautiful bird and capture a shot for my collection of bird photos.  Nope! I'm sorry to say I haven't seen the owl again but I do hear hoos at night; so someday (hopefully soon) I'll be able to catch a shot but for now I hope you enjoy the shots I did take of autumn coming.

Have you ever heard a small soft voice from inside telling you something?  I think all of us have experience something like this.  You might go with a gut feeling, some say it's intuition, or your inner self.  I believe mostly all of the time - for me its the Holy Spirit.  You might not agree and that okay.  But, I believe that God wants to richly bless us and in His word He said He would speak to His sheep.  Even if it's in the simple things in our lives like taking a walk and enjoying His creations in Autumn.  That is a relationship.

For information on owls in Ohio you can go to: http://www.dnr.state.oh.us/Portals/9/pdf/pub423.pdf
And this site how to spot a  Barred Owl

Just To Let You Know "I'm Still Here"

Just wanted to let you know I'm still here, I'm still thinking and have nothing~

Maybe tomorrow; but for TODAY, I'm busy.

My thoughts are busy - to busy to PUT into 

WORDS ~

Though I'm not just setting here or there.

I've really been TO busy everywhere.

This isn't GOOD.

No, not good USE of my time;

Or FOR the Lords.

THE Lord desires our best!

And, all we have to give.

Even if it's just words.

The LORD loves you.

VLB 09/20/09

How funny I was really only going to write the first line to say hey I'm here I have been working on some things to share.  But for now check out my husbands first post on his blog: 

http://1john4-7and8.blogspot.com/2009/09/for-i-am-not-ashamed-of-gospel-of-jesus.html

Last Weekend ~

Last weekend I visited family in PA.  I stayed at my Mom's and we had fun just hanging out; it was much needed rest for me.   Monday we went to my Aunt and Uncles for a little get together- the food was awesome.   I had the opportunity to visit my youngest sister and her family.  They have a beautiful place for our two nephew's Billy and Brutus (Dogue de Bordeaux pup) to run and play. 

 I also was able to visit my childhood friend that in recent years reconnected with through classmates.  I'm so blessed to have her in my life.  We got together on her lunch break - the visit was to short, but wonderful.  I also got to see another girl from school who remembered me.  In fact she went into detail as to where I lived and even the old white stucco pillars that had pieces of all different colored glass in them.  I loved those things and apparently everyone else, how funny.  They were the fascination of every kid around there dating back into the late 20's and early 30's.  My Uncle told me they were there before he was born and he was born 1931.  I wished I had a picture!  I think I've loved sparkly glass ever since.  I feel badly that I'm so bad with names, faces I'm very good at - even details.  I have to admit that I'm getting better with the names though - I hope -- I think! LOL  
I did have a wonderful time - I ate and snacked way to much and loved watching movies with my Mom - which we don't ever get to do.  On leaving the area I was going through Springdale heading out to the turnpike.  As I got to Cheswick (all in like a 5 mile radius or less) I thought to myself, I never got a picture of the house my grandpap built in the early 40's.  I didn't know the address but I knew it was in the area.  Also, I've wanted to see it for years and never took the time to do so. 

I quickly called Dad and I told him the road I was on and it was as he was sitting in the truck with me giving directions.  He lived in AZ for almost 40 years and hadn't been back this way even for a visit!  But, something changed - the name of the street where the house sat had been changed also the farm behind some of the houses is now a subdivision.  But it was there and what was easy it is the only high pitch roof around.  I was so happy to see that the house and ground were taken care of.  My grandparents would be happy also.  Not so much where the old pillars were located, that area used to have my great-grandparents farm with a few relatives living close by - there home is long gone as the pillars and in place are houses that are poorly kept.

If I could have I would have stopped in and thanked the people for taking such good care of the house with the high pitched roof.  Maybe next time! 


Isn't it something that we can remember even the smallest detail of things that are important to us?
Scripture tells us that God knew us even before we were born into this world,
     your eyes saw my unformed body.
       All the days ordained for me
       were written in your book
       before one of them came to be. Psalm 139:16

Also in - Jeremiah 1:5

I can not even comprehend how much the Lord loves us and how important we are to Him.  Even the very hairs on our head are numbered!

Why, even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not; you are of more value than many sparrows.  Luke 12:7


I pray you have a blessed day and week to come and I pray the Lord will give you insight to what is truly important in your life.

Cool Morning - Cinnamon Coffee & Andres Segovia :)

Yesterday we took a bit of a break from the packing saga by going to the doctors and having my husbands arm looked at again, hopefully it will be completely healed soon from his surgery. While leaving the doctors I was rolling down the window in the truck and it flew - not to return (dropping to the bottom of the door) so that was interesting! I also pick up coffee at a store and last night went to grind the beans and stood there staring - I packed the grinder. . . but no worries I got my old one out and ground some of the cinnamon that was left and cleaned it out. I think I might have mentioned that I will never by powered cinnamon again and only grind it myself - it is wonderful. Anyway, I got my coffee ready for this morning poured a cup and it has a wonderful hint of cinnamon that tastes awesome. I no doubt will do this again:)

The mornings have been cool,
fall is on its way,
we are still here and -
will continue packing today.
One day I'll be done. LOL
VLB 9-4-09

I thought you might enjoy this short video I found on youtube. I enjoy listening to guitar and often find favorite guitarist on there and this morning found one with beautiful photography to share. Enjoy and have a wonderful today.

The person who posted the video wrote this about it. For my mother on her birthday! My own photos, from a few places on the west coast of Sweden, and from my garden. From autumn to summer. Bach's third cello suite played by Andres Segovia on guitar.

A Quiet Morning With A Bit Of Nostalgia~

This morning is a quiet morning - a bit rainy so I thought I'd sit here a short while with coffee in hand and think of something to share. On mornings like this you move some, slower and I like listening to a station here that plays music from the 20's - 50's. You can listen to it via internet if you'd like; go to this link: http://www.wkhr.org/ Many of the song reminds me of all different times of my life and I also like watching Northern Exposure and the music that was used on the series is very much this. It places you somewhere else in a different time and place. I was so happy to find out recently I can listen on line so where ever we go the music is there. Very nostalgic. I've been working - packing and I don't think I need to tell you how arduous that can be! So before I truly hit my sewing room and pack it up I do squeeze in little projects. I've been doing quite a bit of recycling in the fabric and old clothing dept. Most recently I've put together a bag from a pair of shorts that I hope to share soon with you. The hang up has been in the grommet area. I had only gold and I wanted to use silver. It seems when you're looking for something in particular that's when you can't seem to find it.
The bag was actually finished except for the grommets to use for the rope handle I'd I have. Two days I finally found the grommets but when I got I could use them because my tools you use to pound them together are the wrong size. . . This was very discouraging indeed. So while I was sleeping or trying to I started thinking why can't I come up with something in all the tools and stuff my husband has in his work shop. I plan on fitting the search in sometime today. A couple of days ago I found a magazine I really like and it's definitely worth sharing. It's called Mary Jane's Farm. In there are wonderful ideas, cool projects and many nice stories to read many of them sent in from other readers. You can also check it out on the internet at: http://www.maryjanesfarm.org/ When you go to the site make sure you click on (meet Mary Jane) and it will take you to videos and you can hear her story right from her. She also has so many organic helpful hints on just about everything that you can put to use whether your a farm girl living out our in the city.
I so feels like Fall here and many people I've talked to has wondered just what happened to summer. Many children have returned back to school. County Fairs are on the roll, crops are being harvested the list could go on and on. Fall is my favorite time though I was truly hoping to be having my cup of coffee this morning elsewhere. What a journey we've been on. I told my husband that I wanted to be picking apples on Mt. Graham at Angles Orchard in Safford, AZ this month. The have every type imaginable and its a wonderful place to be. Rows and rows of apples. So if your reading this and are the praying type pray I can still pick in September and I'll share pictures with you, maybe a recipe or two.
Yes, it's been a nostalgic type of a morning here and interestingly enough the word nostalgia was (according to Wikipedia) describes a longing for the past
The term was coined in 1688 by Johannes Hofer (1669-1752) in his Basel dissertation. Hofer introduced nostalgia or mal du pays "homesickness" for the condition also known as mal du Suisse "Swiss illness" or Schweizerheimweh "Swiss homesickness", because of its frequent occurrence in Swiss mercenaries who in the plains of lowlands of France or Italy were pining for their native mountain landscapes.
I think we all get a little homesick sometimes, easier - maybe what we believe to be happier times. Thinking and longing -
My sister had said of pictures that were taken of me like the one on the left "wish you were smiling.
Look on the bright side, you never did like Ohio" and I added, "True - but just because I'm not smiling doesn't mean I'm not joyful inside:0) I have grown weary of all this fun. . ." And she replied, "You are right !"
I'm reminded of a verse in Proverbs 15:13 A glad heart makes a cheerful face, but by sorrow of heart the spirit is crushed. In all fairness it does not look like a happy picture of me and I've been told I have a nice smile and laughter but I'll be honest here, I've allowed myself to become weary of my situation here and there. My focus and your focus can't be on the problems. It's amazing just how many scripture verse there are in the Bible that the Lord truly wants us to be joyful and He wants to take all our burdens and troubles.
So think happy today let the Lord take your troubles and give you peaceful and a joyful heart. All you do is ask Him. And, remember that all time favorite Walt Disney's Pollanne? Look up all the "glad texts!"

From Shirt - Skirt!

Okay - we all have that favorite shirt that we just can't seem to throw away, if the truth be told a have a few. Well the shirt below was my husbands and he wasn't really wearing it; it was so soft and comfy I took it. I wore it will working on the mail route I had as well as, for painting, yard work - or just to wear so needless to say after we moved here I did seem to wear it as much. It's over 12 years old and was getting on the thin side. It's just been here doing nothing and I didn't want to toss it but kept getting close to tossing it; until I saw this idea in the ReadyMade Magazine Sept 09 issue. I don't know why I hadn't thought of it myself!

So I thought I share with you what I did. It is such a cute and has so many possibilities. As it is it fine but, I'm going to play around with maybe applique or make something to go under it. So it would be more like a work -skirt apron thing. will see. Anyway for the creative sowers out there, don't toss - start creating. Do you realize just how much material there is in a shirt? Have some fun, you haven't wore it in such a long time, you can't even give it away! Cut it up! LOL

This is the shirt.

The directions had you cutting just below the arms. I needed to go just above - the shirt was to short.


I added fabric to openings of the arms so it would be even turning under for the waist band. I also had to remove pockets -if left they would be to high to waist.

Not to bad!
Then with may serger I finished the edge to turn under. Since I did that I didn't have to double; I turned down once.





Next was sewing it around and adding to button holes to run my draw string, ribbon, etc through to hold shirt up. I may change this and use loose elastic also.



The string used is from pair of Capri's I was tired of messing with.

How's it look?
Just think of the possibilities!

Lighter Color Is For Today!♦

For this post to make sense I changed the back ground to a light color but went back to darker - it makes the pictures pop out.  Maybe I'll change the colors again some day ~ 3-12-13 VB


It's been a hectic last couple of days and with the ever existing Facebook battles I just thought I'd lighten things up a bit, and make some color changes on my blog. What do you think? I haven't ventured out in the "web"world to get a printed back ground that so many have - I do love them all. But for me and at the moment - I'll stick to simple. I still like the dark background for most of the pictures I post - though a Lighter Color is For Today! I'm sure it will be sticking around awhile. It does brighten things up, don't you think? :) And, Becky thanks for your comment I guess you got to see the colors first, glad you like it!

I needed some brightening up too! I guess I've been feeling a little weary. When you go through things that tend to be endless sometimes you just get tired of it. I still keep my faith and that truly gets me through, as well as prayers. I know many of you have been keeping me in yours and I can't tell you how much I appreciate them and your friendships.

My husband is reading this book called The Supernatural Power of a Transformed Mind by Bill Johnson and I would like to read it as soon as he is finished. Jim often reads aloud what is of interest and one thing that caught my interest was something Bill Johnson said, "The Bible says faith comes by hearing --not from having heard." Of course it was in response to what he had been sharing but, I liked this phrase and that got me thinking.

It got me thinking of times when you don't refuel. For a believer this can be a dangerous ground to tread on. Being in the word is more than reading and gaining "head knowledge." It's about having a walk with the Lord; an intimate relationship with Him. He wants to be in every part of your life but He, as is the Holy Spirit; a gentleman and will not force His presence on you. You have always had free will. He waits for you to ask. He is always there and waits for you to take the time. When you don't refuel you run on fumes. As one who drives you know for a fact its unrealistic and it does not get you where you need to be.

Jesus wants all of you. When you are with Him it's like being with a loved one or friend. You just can't wait to spend time with them. You know everything about them and they reveal all things to you, since you have that intimate relationship. Now if you don't know the Lord, He would like you to. Mostly everyone has some knowledge or has heard of Him but He wants something more. He also said there is only one way to Heaven. Many may come and say there are other ways but there's only one.

And as Moses lifted up the bronze snake on a pole in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, so that everyone who believes in him will have eternal life.

Or everyone who believes will have eternal life in him.

“For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him. John 3:14-17 NLT

He stands at the door of your heart, knocking. We were created for a relationship with a Father that truly loves us. For a person that has excepted the Lord into their life you have the assurance of eternal life by faith. If you have not asked Him into your life you will never be disappointed of the decision you make by doing so. If fact, it will be the best one you ever make.
In John 10 it tells the story of The Good Shepherd; if we are His sheep we should know He's voice. It also tells of a stranger who's voice the sheep did not recognize so the sheep would not follow him. Do you recognize The Shepherds voice? Shepherds would tend their flocks knowing everyone of them and everything about them as do the sheep in knowing the Shepherd.
My Dad has chickens and he's had them mostly all of his life, and he spends so much time with them that he knows everyone, even what hen and rooster they came from. Two chickens could be standing together looking identical (like twins) and he would know the difference. They follow him around "they know him," they will not follow anyone else. That is how we should be with Jesus.
Now you might be thinking I do the best I can but I don't always have the time I'd like. And, that might be true, but there's always time - this is coming from someone who knows first hand. Even when I think I'm not strong enough He is my strength and in my weakest moments; I can cry out and He is always there - always available.
Did you know that when He was speaking with His disciples about things to come, He was talking to them about His leaving and where He was going they could not follow. In John 14, Jesus said that He would not leave them as orphans. Further on He said in verse 26 That the Father would send you a Helper, the Holy Spirit, in His name and that He - the Holy Spirit, would teach you all things, and bring to remembrance all that Jesus had said. Did you know that was not just for then? - But now! Jesus tells us that greater things than these (miracles - sign and wonders all that Jesus did) we would do and greater; John 5. Imagine that! He is the same yesterday, today and forever; all we need to do is ask.
Ask Him - into your life, ask Him for the Holy Spirit - Have that intimate relationship with Him who loves you. People comment many times; I don't know how you do it! It's all the Lord. But it's not enough just to ask Him - you also need to be apart of this relationship, just like with your loved one or friend. Remember the phrase that caught my interest and got me thinking?
"The Bible says faith comes by hearing --not from having heard."

You have to do something yourself. How do we/you hear? My husband does something wonderful in the evenings; I am most of the time (that's lately) exhausted when I finally get to bed, Jim reads the Bible out loud, I do fall asleep on him may times but what a blessing it is for me. That's just one way. Today the world is full of so many uncertainties but there's one thing that you can be certain of. That's Jesus~

It was love from the start -
I felt it from within my heart.
A love so deep -
I knew I was one of His sheep.
A gentle love that guides me.
Leading me faithfully -
Even when I'm asleep.

It was love from the start-
Even when I'm in the dark.
A light that guides my path-
speaking to me from within my heart.
It was Love from the start.
VLB January 1988

All In A Day - OR 2!

Yesterday I finished up a Beach Bag I was making for a friend and I think it turn out awesome; maybe the best one yet. I've been hoping to get some quick projects done as I plan to pack up my sewing room. I think I'm going to miss this room. I finally got it worked out but never really got a chance to use it fully. Well, I guess that's the way it goes sometimes?

The bag does not take that long to do and I had the material already, only thing that I need was the webbing for the handles I used cotton. Finding 1-1/2 inch width was a job and I plan to (if I have the funds) buy it when I see it. Or on the web through my web portal -where virtually everything is at your finger tips. Okay I'm being facetious - but you really can find anything in there.
The pattern for the bag was found on the web at: http://www.mckennalinn.com/Tote.pdf It took me some time to locate it I printed the instructions out in 2001. I used a cotton Duck Canvas that will hold up. This fabric is used for a lot of outdoor type projects. I've been thinking for years of making a hammock and there's so many pretty colors and prints out there for use.

Another project I've been working of for a number of years now (silly me) is a bag or tote of my own made with my Gramma's remnants of once beautiful draperies. I do have full size pieces of this beautiful vintage material but I using pieces from it that had been already sewn together something she and her sister Margaret were making. You never throw things out you find new and creative ways to use it!
I've been working on an idea in my head for awhile now I've putting to use not only the remnants from Gram but my "favorite" jeans. Also I have some glass seed/beads I've been adding here and there to dress it up a bit. soon (I'm hoping) I have it done. If not here at my next stop.

The Moon

I really don't have the lens to take perfect shots of the moon, but these didn't turn out so bad. It's a beautiful night here and it feel so nice out; through the photos do not do the moon justice. I'm reminded of evenings when I was younger visiting with our Aunt Margaret and Uncle Vance. We'd set out at their place and the sound of the night critters like crickets I so love to hear. The moon is so wonderful to see in all its fullness.
The moon just isn't something of beauty - and it not is the sky by chance. God created everything for a reason even the moon. Below is just one site of interesting things. http://home.hiwaay.net/~krcool/Astro/moon/moontides/

The moon is up there shining bright;
For all the world to see.
Looking down on you and me;
For all eternity.
A wonder.
VLB 08-04-09

And God made the two great lights, the greater light to govern the day, and the lesser light to govern the night; He made the stars also. Genesis 1:16

Thank you Eileen for reminding me and sending along the verse. I love the Lord and I've always been in awe of His creation, but the more time I spend with Him I'm always amazed at His love.

Blue Berries and Prayer ~

Yesterday morning I went for blueberries - I figured it was the last time here I'd be doing so - so why not! The berries were so wonderful last year I was hopeful to get enough to dry for the road or for making delicious scones. When I got to the farm the lady attending said it's slim pickings. Well I grabbed a couple of buckets just the same and off I went.

Walking through the rows it didn't take long to realize just how slim it was. The last years "sea of blue" was a few dots amongst green bushes. Others were there picking but not showing much for their efforts. They had children with them and it seemed more like they were on a days outing scavenger hunting with the sounds of nursery rhythms for entertainment.

But as I walked the rows I was reminded of a story in Luke chapter five; Jesus was standing by a lake and being pressed by the multitude around Him who were listening to the word of God. Seeing two boats empty as the men were washing there nets - Jesus stepped into one boat belonging to Simon and He asked him to go out a ways. Jesus sat down and began teaching from the boat. As He finished and saying to Simon put out into the deep water and let down your nets for a catch. I can imagine Simon with his response since he and the other men worked all night and caught nothing. But Simon at the Lord's request went out and let down the nets. There was so much fish their nets begun to break.

So here I am walking through the rows thinking about all the fish, and I was thinking that nothing is impossible for God.

Matthew 19:26 "With men this is impossible but for God all things are possible."

There's a number of things you can learn from this one story but that's what I was thinking. The Lord has been so wonderful in how He's been answering our prayers. During the past several months, and not only, there has been many requests going to Him. We have been learning to be more specific in our requests. It is true that sometimes we don't know just what to pray for and we'll have others intercede on our behalf. Also for those baptized in the Holy Spirit; He will by praying in the spirit.

In the month of June alone He has answered specific prayers and all for His glory. Three prayers were for my Mom. She had ask specifically about her job and He answered that request as well as two others (we asked that her financial needs would be met, and physical healing for her eye). Also my sister had been diagnosed with Thyroid cancer and we specifically prayed that when the biopsy was done they wouldn't find what they said she had and that all the results would come back not only negative but that this answer to prayer would be for His glory. He heard and answered! PTL! There's so many other request that He has answered and fulfilled and in the past month. What a blessing.

Now getting back to the blueberries! Again I didn't have a lot of time to spend on picking, yet alone hunting for good berries. I knew the Lord would answer my request - after all "think about all those fish!" So I asked Him; Lord all I need is a bucket full. He answered, not only with a full bucket but with the plump juicy ones. He guided me in the right direction and to a few bushes, when I pick from one I'd start picking from another and turning back to the one I'd already picked from - had more on! He could have given me more but that was my request - that was what I needed. His answers are always the best and He does supply all our needs; and not always in the way we expect. What is your prayer request?

Mark 11:24 "Therefore I say to you, all things for which you pray and ask, believe that you have received them, and they shall be granted you."

James 1:6 But let him ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea driven and tossed by the wind.

Sewing & Packing / Packing & Sewing. . . .

I don't know about you out there, those with that creative side - but what is it about that part of your brain that seems to kick in when you're sooooo busy with other things - like packing. And, even if you don't think you're creative; there are things that you dream of and do that is of interest to you. Whether it be gardening or rearranging it's something that requires time and thought. Maybe its that you're wanting to do something else other than what you should be doing. Such has been my life recently.
I went into my room that I have fixed up for sewing (or hiding) to go through all the fabrics and notions that needed to be packed, sold or tossed. (I really don't toss and it's apparent I'm an avid collector of stuff). Of no surprise to many, LOL.
I have two beautiful machines to sew on. The first was purchased in New Mexico over nine years ago and I do sew on it and used to a lot; but it's more like in waves. For instance, you can get really into it the swing of things then sometimes your not motivated at all - then back again. I guess it's like being up and down with mood swings. I tell friends that I need to be motivated. Now most recently, well four years ago - goodness has it been that long? Jim bought me my first serger for Christmas. It's an Elna and for sewers - its something you dream of and wish for if you don't have one. Well I got one and never used a serger in my life. So it sat there and I looked at it for awhile - then called around for lessons. I took two. It was all basic things and most important to me was threading it. Threading a serger can be - well very intimidating. Well I got the lessons and still didn't use it - something always come up and after time went by, if the truth be told I didn't have confidence needed to use it. So I tried using it on a simple project - and failed. There it sat! :(
So with the move and all I had been considering selling it. I didn't really want to but I kept trying to rationalize the whole thing. I don't use it, I'm not sure where I'll put it and so on. Hey it's that back and forth thing! Jim finally told me NO you're not selling it. I guess I needed to hear that. Well being that this is turning into a long story I'll share the rest. . . It was about three weeks ago I wanted to sew a little dress for my friend's grand daughter. I had a pattern and obviously the machines but the dress had some serging as an option on the pattern. I thought about it long and hard. I'm sure somewhere I had to be oozing out I need help from you Lord. I believed he heard me since when I went to the mail box in there was a book on all the things you could do with a serger - which I hadn't order (besides I have many - so back it goes). I grabbed the manual and read up on a few of the things that I had the most trouble with. (Besides threading it / corners - curves & more). I cut the pattern out, turned on the Elna and it all came together. I wished I had a picture of it to share.
I haven't mastered everything but I've been in a serging craze. Practicing with the same stitch hoping to try something new soon. I have so many ideas and I'm planning to sketching them out to remember them. . . I do have to pack you know. Below are a couple things I've made. For the pillow I used both machines and I'm so pleased with how it turned out. The bag is reversible.

Things I've learned in all of this:

Trust the Lord for the help needed, I thought this shouldn't be hard - I sew. I was relying on my self - I wasn't confident to get it and I didn't. Then I was choosing the easier way out of it. I was disappointed in myself. I should have trusted the Lord all along He knew I was able to do it. Somethings we don't get in this life - we have help. Sometimes we don't have help because we don't ask. Sometimes we need to be specific about our request and not let fear inter the picture.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all you ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6

Delight yourself in the lord; and He will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord, Trust also in Him, and He will do it. Psalm 37:4-5

He is ALWAYS faithful ~

Busy Day . . .

Years ago there was a song out called Busy Day, by Chuck Gerard. The song is ringing in my head this morning; it was such a catchy tune. My life feels like its been turned upside down with all the business of our time here. I can hardly wait to move though, I been finding myself overwhelmed at times and more often. A dear friend gave me a wonderful complement in her email to me; "You are so incredibly calm in all of this. You are a real inspiration!" She gave way to much credit.  I pray a lot and have my moments of tears. I am trusting the Lord for the bigger picture in all of this.
Lately, mostly - I've had to go around with blinders on as to not see all the things I've had to leave undone. With my husband not being well - I feel I'm only one person. So I've been relying heavily on my inner strength from God. A few days ago I was listening to an old clip of Kenneth E. Hagin and he was talking about standing strong.

Be strong in the Lord. and the strength of His might, Ephesians 6:10

That's the key; I'm not very strong on my own, I don't believe most people are. When it's just us we struggle and we can make the job harder than it needs to be. Even more stressful - we need someone to help us someone to rely own. Be strong she was told - I'm trying relying to much on self- (we/I don't have the strength but that's not what the verse was referring to) Hagin reiterated "in His strength!" That's what I've had to do. During that -

Am
Busy day, busy day, busy, busy, busy day
G
Busy, busy, busy, busy day

I have had to refuel my empty tank by getting into the Word refreshing my mind and spirit; placing ALL my concerns in His care. When I'm not reading - I listen to Him in word or song or singing scripture to myself.  And lastly but not least, pray -

But you, dear friends, build yourselves up in your most holy faith and pray in the Holy Spirit. Jude 1:20 And likewise -
So what shall I do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will also pray with my mind; I will sing with my spirit, but I will also sing with my mind. 1Corinthians 14:15

As I look at a few of the flowers growing in a bed of weeds; a once beautiful garden bed. I'm reminded that I'll enjoy my time with the Lord and the flowers I do see - being grateful for the time I do have. The Lord has ALWAYS been faithful to me and has given me many gardens to enjoy.

Take time refresh and refuel in the Lord.  Look at the bigger picture He has for us who love Him ~

I Need Your Opinion Today!

We - I know have been moving and for what seems like an eternity but still need to unload some things. My husband built this and we haven't settled on a price yet. What do you think it's worth?

It is solid cherry console w/ some cherry laminate, it's finished all the way and beautifully handcrafted.

No PRIZE involved just a hardy THANK YOU! Vik