Merry Christmas!

I've been thinking of my own Christmas past today.

December 14, 2011 my husband sent me on a four day trip to visit our daughter, son-in-law and new grand daughter. It is hard to live ten hours apart and this was especially thoughtful of him because I know he would have loved to have been able to go with me. He is unselfish!

December 24, 1978 my husbands mom and dad surprised me with a sewing machine. We were only dating then and yet they cared for me so much and wanted me to have my very own sewing machine. I had never received such an expensive gift before. I shared my experience about sewing in an earlier blog.

December 24, 1972 my mom took my brother and I to a shopping mall to find last minute gifts that would be on sale, something she could buy for us with her tip money from her waitress job.

December 25, 1970 my mom cried because she could not give my brother and I any gifts we wanted for Christmas.

December 25, 1967 my parents presented me with the most expensive gift they could afford - a Mary Poppins doll.

Oh, there are other wonderful memories of Christmas past but these hold special memories! The ones that make me thankful for family who love me and would do anything to make me happy. For this - I am most blessed!

Christmas Mugs

If you are an educator, as my husband was for many years, you have received from precious students and parents a Christmas mug filled with candy kisses, peppermint candy, baggies wrapped with homemade cocoa mix and marshmallows or Russian tea "Tang".

We have quite a collection of Christmas mugs! We always seem to bring them out of the attic each Christmas too. Our household of four only has two coffee drinkers - my husband and his mom. Since mom likes to "rotate" the mugs and dishes around I let her choose which ones to place in the cupboard for the season. My husband prefers his plain mug. Mom packs the "everyday" mugs away for a few weeks and stocks the cabinet with more Christmas mugs than any one person can drink from --- eighteen days till Christmas!

I suppose it gives a warm Christmas feeling to open cupboard and see it full of decorated mugs - even if they all won't make it in the rotation from shelf to lips!

Early Training of Children

I have an old hard back book (third edition) titled "Early Training of Children" dated 1895 by Mrs. Frank Malleson. Now that I am a grandparent I find this book intriguing. The issues of child rearing today seem to have existed back in the late 1800's.

Mrs. Malleson's thought on the crying infant:

"We are often told that crying is good for the child; but we have to remember that crying is its protest against pain, in a greater or less degree, and this warning cannot be neglected with impunity. The baby should have its wants anticipated, to prevent its crying to express them, and attention should be given to it quietly, promptly, lovingly; it should never be needlessly thwarted in its desires, never made passionate by inattention or resistance; it should be kept serene and happy, and this care should extend to every moment of an infant's day." p. 18

Wow! More to come as I uncover the nuggets of wisdom from this book!

 

Real Life Armchair Quarterback

My husband is a die hard fan of the University of Georgia football team. This season he has not been able to watch many of the games because he works on Saturday's. It's not the same watching a rerun on video. My role this season has been armchair quarterback. I sit in a recliner and watch the game and send him text messages "play by play" so he can check the score and progress on his breaks. I love the Dawgs too and I have enjoyed my new role! Go DAWGS!!!

Evidence of a Real Flood

The story of a real flood is recorded in the Bible - Genesis chapters 6 - 8.

There was an article on the web announcing a sunken island was discovered in the Indian Ocean dating back 130 million years.
http://www.foxnews.com/scitech/2011/11/14/huge-prehistoric-sunken-islands-found-in-indian-ocean/

I disagree with the timeline but this is one more proof that a flood did occur just as it was recorded in HIS story!

2011 GOP Presidential Debates

I must be getting older (more mature ;->) because I enjoy watching presidential debates. My husband has always been an avid viewer and I have gotten the fever.

One can learn a great deal from the campaigner. I have noticed that the field is looking weary and battle worn from all the debates. The media shows no mercy in their questioning. I have especially enjoyed the debates where the viewers have been able to ask the questions via the various technology channels. They are not as biased at the media.The spot light is on their every move and every word is carefully critiqued. It is a privilege to vote in America and yet in my county in North Carolina the voter turn out was 16.20% for the local election. Quite sad!

If you are not a registered voter why not? If you are registered

  

First Time Grandma

I am a first time grandma! Moriah was born on October 21st.

I have officially entered the next phase of life that is considered the most rewarding of all! I am looking forward to the journey.

My son-in-law's mother presented me with a wonderful little book titled "A Grandma Is a Gift from God", by Emilie Barnes - Harvest House Publishers. This book offered some thoughts from seasoned grandmothers on what being a Grandma meant to them. The stories shared offered many ideas I could begin to incorporate during times I am able to spend with little Moriah.

While reading this book I thought back on my own childhood that was void of strong grandparent relationships.  My mother's parents died in their fifties (before I was born). I do recall early childhood visits to my father's parent's home but after age 10 and my parent's divorce the contact with my father's parent's was lost. My paternal grandfather lived to age 98. I don't have any traditions to carry on from my side of the family but I do have quite a few examples I have observed from my husband's parent's. Moriah is blessed to have one great grandfather, two great grandmothers, one grandfather and two grandmothers still living to enjoy many experiences with for years to come. I will enjoy creating some special memories for us to share when we are together but most importantly I will pray earnestly for God's protection on her life and that she will be saved (come to know Christ) at an early age and long to serve Him with her whole heart.

Ford Automobile Reproductions

In Concord, NC (just outside of Charlotte), there is a large Ford Reproduction plant that is family owned an operated. My husband and I toured the plant with some friends from our church. If you love restoring old automobiles this place has it all to put yours back together in its original condition. I'm add some photos including one that tells a little about the history. Please take a look at the website: http://www.dennis-carpenter.com/#

Liz

My husband Tim

Delorian

A Walk in the Park

I joined some fellow associates for a volunteer event on Saturday to clean up a park trail. We visited South Mountains State Park in Connelly Springs, NC. Visit the site: http://www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/somo/main.php

The weather was nice and a little cool but a perfect day for picking up litter and a walk in the park. I had never been to this park before but I will go back.

There are trails for everyone - even horses! What I liked most was reaching the site of a beautiful waterfall. I love to walk the trails in state parks anywhere and plan visits where there are waterfalls. Below are a few pictures captured from my cell phone.

This photo doesn't do justice
to the size of the waterfall.

The water is clean enough to drink where there is a flow.

Man made steps down a steep trail.

Hemmed In

For those who feel there is no way out of unpleasant circumstances 
Read: Exodus 13:17–22.

At last the children of Israel were leaving Egypt and by now it would seem that the way to the Promised Land would be clear of trouble. But this was not the case. Ten plagues are recorded in Exodus chapters seven through eleven.

The road through the Philistine country to the Promised Land would have been shorter but God knew they were not emotionally strong enough to face war with the country.  He led them through the dry, barren desert so they would be renewed in their minds and strengthened to begin life in the new land.

God could have led them miraculously to the Promised Land in a matter of seconds but He wanted to reveal His divine presence through this journey.

Are you completely hemmed in by a circumstance in your life? Does it appear there is no way out, around or through your problems?  Your way out is up. Follow the pillar, God’s divine presence, by day and by night.

God! How Much More?

We all ask this question in our "private" world and many more may find themselves asking this question more often these days. The following is a note I journaled years ago.

In the summer of 1996 I spent two weeks with my mother during her recovery from radiation treatment for cancer. The recovery period can prove taxing for the patient as well as the caregiver. It seemed that nothing I did was comforting and the pain could not be lessened but I knew in my heart this was where I needed to be.

During week two of my stay my brother delivered shocking news; our youngest brother had been murdered. I couldn’t believe it. I asked God, “How much more? Wasn’t cancer enough for my mom and our family to endure?”

Not only was it a real test of faith but it was emotionally draining. Our youngest brother was our half brother and his dad, grandmother and relatives didn’t claim our family. We weren’t included in the funeral arrangements or the obituary. My mom wasn’t even recognized as his mother during the funeral; the most devastating thing one could bear. With God’s help we made it through. I don’t have any answers for why God allows tragedies in our lives but I can say with confidence from this and other experiences His grace is sufficient! 2 Corinthians 4:7-18.

What calamity are you experiencing today? No matter what calamity befalls, no matter what emergency arises, His presence is with the believer; helping, encouraging, strengthening, comforting, and giving wisdom. Assured of His grace, we are assured of His power and His rest.

How Are We Doing?

This is an ever important question for businesses in any industry these days. How Are We Doing? Call us at 1-800-XXX-XXX.

Sometimes I'd like to be asked that question personally and know that the person who asked it really cares. The annoyances in life makes one ask another question - Does anyone care how I am doing?

Let's not abandon those in need - especially our friends and family by letting them really know how much we care in our own special way.

Remembering September 11, 2001

It was Tuesday, September 11, 2001 - a beautiful Carolina blue sky day with crisp temperatures in Charlotte, North Carolina. It started out like a normal school / work week. My oldest daughter Carrie was a senior in high school, Paul was freshman in high school and Joseph was in the fourth grade. My husband Tim was the Junior High principal at the school our children attended. I worked for a major financial institution. I was in my cubicle at work when people starting passing the word to look at the news online about a plane hitting a building in New York City. Someone went to the control room on our floor and brought the news up on the large screens. Many crowded in that room watching in dead silence at what we were seeing. It was then we saw the second plane hit the other building (later learned to be the second twin tower). People decided to leave the office. I called my husband from work to ask him if he had heard the news. I knew I could not stay at work - who could do any work that day? The mass exodus from the office and the parking deck was a story in itself. With the local radio news on in my car I heard more details. It felt so strange going home. People on the road were even driving more cautiously. When I reached home I was glued to the television the whole day. It was the first time I wished I owned an American Flag! Many months later we purchased one (it was hard to find them after this event).

God Bless America and the loved ones of all those who lost their loved ones!

Grocery Shopping Online

I do not like shopping anywhere for anything. I even hate to go to the grocery store as much as I hate planning a weekly menu. I know some of you are rolling your eyes right now. I have been shopping online for groceries for over a year at Harris Teeter in Charlotte, NC.  If you haven't tried it you should. Yes, there is a small service fee but it is worth it. I actually spend much less shopping online for groceries than when I go to the store. I haven't been a faithful online shopper over the past year but I'm starting to see the benefits. Let me tell you how I use it to my family's budget advantage.

1. Set a weekly grocery budget
2. Plan weekly meals using a menu planner
3. Use coupons only on items you have already planned to use in your menu. (Or plan a menu around the coupons - takes a lot of planning). You won't get your first coupons subtracted from your first order but they will scan and store them to take off your next order.
4. Just because an item is labeled "buy one / get one free" (at Harris Teeter), doesn't mean you have to get two items. If you buy only one item they subtract half the cost off the one item purchased! I don't know any other store that offers this value.
5. Schedule online shopping the same day/time of the week.
6. Stick to the menu!
7. Stick to the budget!

Since I have been married I have used a menu planner for the week. It helps to plan the meals. Otherwise we over spend or over eat; (go out to eat). It wasn't easy to do this in the first year of marriage. My husband was the only wage earner on a Christian school teacher income (9 months). He managed our budget and allocated $50 per week. It was not hard to stick to that allowance because we didn't have debit cards back then; I carried cash. If the cashier tallied up over $50 I had her remove some items. Yes it was embarrassing but we had to be drastic.

Fast forward to 2011...Grocery shopping online is still new for some and it took several times for me to get adjusted and I know it took them time to get the kinks worked out. But give it a chance and you might find it a time and budget saver.

Once you create a shopper profile online and place your first order a list of all your past purchases is retained so all you have to do is click through the master list. Careful here or you will go off the menu seeing the cookies and ice cream on sale and you'll have clicked a couple more items to be added to your virtual cart. You can see which items are on sale marked in red font and how much an item cost per ounce. You'll even see the specials marked for VIC (very important) customers. You can also change the number of items or delete it altogether. The cart has a tally window so you can see how much you are spending as you shop.

I enjoy having a personal shopper, driving up to the express lane and pressing a button to announce my arrival. My shopper brings the groceries to my car and loads them. I pay for my purchase right from my car! The entire process takes me about one hour (online to pickup). I even get to pick which day and time I want to pick them up. I am less stressed about the entire shopping experience.

No longer do I have to get to the super center before it gets too busy and push a buggy through a crowd of shoppers or zigzag from one end of the store and a mile back to the food section or stand in a long line to pay for my groceries or load the car!


What would you do with more time and money?

Happy 25th Birthday Paul

Today is my oldest son's 25th birthday and it is more special than the others because we celebrate three years cancer free! Some patient's report a new head of hair after treatment but he was already losing his early on top and never grew any after treatment. He keeps his head shaved.

Happy 25th Birthday Paul!

In 2008, soon after our daughter's wedding, Paul was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma. The doctor informed us if there was any kind of cancer to get this would be the type to have because it was more treatable. Life became a blur the last few months of 2008 but we thank God for bringing us through the storm and we are all the better for the experience!

Paul had complained of a sore throat on Mother's Day and I told him to go to the doctor. Soon after, his barber noticed a lump on his neck and told him to have it checked out. He had blood work done but nothing showed up abnormal. He was given an antibiotic anyway. He finished the course of treatment but the lump did not diminish in size, it looked a little larger and it did not hurt. The family doctor then referred him to an Ear, Nose and Throat specialist who did an initial assessment and blood work but nothing showed up. He also gave a course of antibiotic and we waited two weeks. The next visit the ENT performed a biopsy and that was inconclusive. The next step was near Paul's 22nd birthday where he had surgery to remove the lump for further inspection. The doctor said it was the size of a lemon and very difficult to remove, it had wrapped around some of the neck muscle. He removed a few lympnodes to be sent off for further biopsy. We then received a call that he had stage 4 Non Hodgkin's Lymphoma. The cancer was located in the spleen and the neck. The doctor said it is treatable and Paul's chances of recovery were good because of his age - he could tolerate a more aggressive form of Chemo. He was scheduled for his first treatment in October 2008. He had a six course treatment of chemo over 12 weeks (one day of "poison infusion" every two weeks). Cancer has been in remission for three years now and we continue to pray for remission; each year life expectancy is improved.

Below is a note that Paul had posted on his Facebook on Sept 28, 2008 that I want to share here for you to read. He touched our heart and we praise God for another year of life to celebrate His mercy and goodness!

September 28, 2008


So, a lot of people have asked me what my thoughts are on this whole ordeal. So I figured I would post it all in one place for everyone to read. I'll make it as short as possible.

When Dr. Weigel called me and informed me that I had lymphoma and that it was malignant, my lip started to quiver. Then I thought of Philippians 4:4, "Rejoice in the Lord ALWAYS, and again I say rejoice." Now, that verse doesn't say rejoice when God is good to you, it says ALWAYS. So I sat back and said to myself, This is unfortunate, but if God is with you there is good in every situation, you just have to look for it. I thought of many good things that have happened in all of this. Now, I won't bore you with all of them, but I will mention a few.

1. I've had no pain, or any type of side effects. Most people that have cancer seem to have some kind of pain, or feel sick. I felt perfectly fine through all of it.

2. God gave me great friends and family to encourage me through everything I have gone through so far. Especially my barber who spotted it.

3. I'm going to heaven no matter what the outcome. (It doesn't get any better than that!)

4. The type of cancer I have is very treatable. I could have been a lot worse.

5. I've had great doctors and nurses.

6. I have a good job that will work with me through all of this.

7. God has kept me optimistic through it all.

.... and the list goes on and on.

Things might not be easy over the next year or so, but God takes care of those He loves (Matthew 6:25-26). It's like my late Grandfather's favorite song says, "Because He lives, I can face tomorrow. Because He lives all fear is gone. Because I know, He holds the future..." I know that God is Good ALL THE TIME, and all the time God is Good. God is giving me this blessing so I can use it to show others how great and mighty, gracious and merciful, kind and loving He is.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 "In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you."

Once again, thank you all for all of your prayers and kindness.

Paul Chavel

Reserved Parking

I sit in the car at shopping centers and read a book while my mother-in-law does her shopping. While I'm waiting I observer all sorts of people who park in "no parking" areas or "special parking" spaces. I live close to a university and the students were back in town and shopping at the closest grocery store. I observed three young males unload out of a large pickup and laughing out loud because they had just parked in a space that was clearly marked "parking reserved for parents with young children". 

Just minutes later a young woman parked in the first slot closest to the store clearly marked "special parking". She located her "special parking" tag from the seat and hung it on the mirror. She got out and fixed her hair using the car window as a mirror and walked right in to the store without a care in the world.

It just irks me that people feel they deserve to park in these "special places"!

Teachability

I enjoy reading the Bible and find many lessons for life. Read Exodus 3:10-17.

Can you just imagine for a moment what the Egyptians in Moses’ day must have been saying when they heard rumors that Moses was going to tell Pharaoh, let my people go?  Moses was well known in the community but of all the people God could have used to deliver the Egyptians, He chose Moses. I believe that Moses had a teachable spirit. One side of his personality he was probably easy to get along with, pleasant and peace loving while the other side he lacked confidence in self, was pessimistic and fearful.

When an employer seeks a worker to fill a certain position, he may request the help of the personnel department to find someone qualified, and trained in a particular field. In our text we read that God does the opposite; He chooses the weak and foolish ones. An employer looks at the outer qualifications, but God looks at qualities within.

Moses and others broke the mold of natural born leaders. Are you willing to allow God to use you as a leader? What has He called you to do? Are you willing to have a teachable spirit and risk failure in order to do His will?

There is much to be done for the cause of Christ. Answer God’s call for you to serve Him today and be open to learn something new.

Mid Life Observations

According to www.about.com - A midlife crisis is experienced between the ages of 40 and 60.

I attended a Braves game in Atlanta, GA with my son Paul and you know where I'm headed with this title. It's actually been on my mind for some time.

I don't understand why husbands don't take a lead role in their marriage and strongly encourage their wives NOT to wear that "outfit" - (top or bottom) in public. I observed a middle aged couple (apparently opted for children later in life) with their two grade school sons about twelve rows in front of me. This mother was scantly dressed and all eyes followed her every movement.

Why do women, particularly mothers, want to advertise? What husband doesn't want to protect her or his children from being a victim?

I notice this crisis more among women than men. I have seen men in their crisis too but women seem more daring.

Women of character and modesty - let's flaunt that inner, natural beauty that requires no additional advertising!

Speechless

Some things in life render one speechless. We all go through "ups and downs" in life and sometimes we feel as if this roller coaster experience will never end. We want to get off or retreat to some corner and scream to the top of our lungs but no matter how hard we try our exhaustion from that experience has rendered us speechless. Either you are going into a rough place or coming out of one. No one is exempt. And it is really bad when you are trying to encourage a good friend but you just don't know what to say; you're speechless. Even when trying to pray for God to help the words won't come out. That's where I am right now.

I think God likes for us to be in just this position. It's here in that quiet place that He is FINALLY able to draw us near to Him so He alone can show His faithfulness in our circumstances.

So I must remind myself - HE IS FAITHFUL...who will not allow me to suffer more than I can take. 1 Corinthians 10:13

Air Conditioning

I was thinking about the time in my youth when we did not have air conditioning. It was back in the day when my mom, brother and I lived in a trailer. Now they call trailers "mobile homes". Trailers back in the seventies did not have good construction and lacked adequate insulation. 

Summers were most unbearable and a fan offered no cooling, only warm air. I couldn't wait to go to school, work or church because it was a relief! It was hard to sleep too. About 2 AM the temperature would be a little more comfortable or I'd finally drift off to sleep; too tired to fight off the heat. Naturally the windows remained open all day but the noise in the neighborhood made it difficult to sleep well. The trailers were aligned on a lot rather close together and that made it easy to hear things like couples arguing; children crying, dogs barking, and cars squealing tires. I was most fearful of the shadows on my walls of people walking in street. Their image looked very large and my fear was heightened if the image did not move; because a group of people hanging around a street light and talk very loudly. They too had trouble sleeping without air conditioning.

I don't know how people live without air conditioning these days but there are many people that don't have it. I guess we just get used to it. 

Get Organized

I am an organizer by nature but some things get in the way of staying organized. There are many stores that offer storage items to help one get it all together. One such store is promoting it's Grand Opening in Charlotte, NC on August 13th, www.containerstore.com

I love to look at any type of storage unit, stacking unit, and compartment items. They are fun and showy. But I still don't get a strong urge to get organized with it. For one, the units require more space: counter, wall or floor space. I browsed the new catalog received by mail. There was something for everything. When my children were toddler's we bought the big plastic bins for storing and stacking all the toys: Lego's, plastic tableware, toy soldiers and kid's meal figures. Do you think they used those bins? Rarely!  Let's be real - what child, teen or adult really uses a shoe rack? Especially the kind that hangs on the back of the door? If you have little ones you do well if you end up in the house with a pair of shoes much less make it to the bedroom to place them in the neat shoe pockets.

So for those who are driven to "get organized" - you're to be commended!

What’s In a Name?

Proverbs 22:1

Choosing baby names is one of the most difficult tasks new parents face. Some are not able to agree on the name until moments before departing the hospital. There are numerous books available offering the name until moments before departing the hospital. There are numerous books available offering the origin and meaning along with the most popular names helping couples narrow their choices.

Naming a baby at birth in Biblical times was a weighty matter. A son was always preferred before a daughter. It was believed a son may turn out to be the long awaited Messiah. He would give a father distinction. A son would provide for his mother upon the death of his father. The name given to the child declared hope or reproach. Thus a daughters name often meant weakness or bitterness. A son’s name meant strength or God’s love.

When yet a second daughter was born to Joachim, his wife had prepared herself for his disappointment. Again, they believed God had not heard their prayers for a son. Fast forward, Joachim was the father of Mary, mother of Jesus. Mary’s name meant bitterness and suffering. Long before Mary’s birth God had planned her future. She married into the royal line of David, and bore Jesus, the long awaited Messiah.

Upon acceptance of the Messiah a new name is received that carries distinction – your new name reflects God’s never ending love and declares hope to those who speak it.

Authentic to the Core

One of my most favorite authors is Charles Swindoll. In his book Growing Strong in the Seasons of Life, he wrote: "The very best platform upon which we may build a case for Christianity at work rests on six massive pillars: integrity, faithfulness, punctuality, quality workmanship, a pleasant attitude, and enthusiasm."

I'm afraid that the platform is crumbling beneath many today. Think about it, how many people can check more than one of these six character traits off the list in their performance plan as being "exceeds expectations"?

In my youth I observed many people in my life who exhibited these traits. I esteemed them then and still reflect on the lessons I learned from their lives.

If you have someone you know who has these qualities - tell them thank you! We each need to recognize authentic Christian living!

Latch Key Kids

Defined by Wikipedia: "A latchkey kid or latchkey child is a child who returns from school to an empty home because his or her parent or parents are away at work, or a child who is often left at home with little or no parental supervision."


In the late 1960's my brother and I were latchkey kids and didn't even know it. It was a period in time when many mothers still did not work. They stayed home with the kids and did the laundry, cooked the meals and did the shopping, etc. Our mom worked two jobs as a waitress; she was a single parent. I really don't remember having a key to the house either. When school was out for the summer we would leave the house after breakfast and go to our friends house to play or play outside all day till it got dark. It was too spooky to go home at night when mom wasn't there so we would invite ourselves to stay at a friends house so we could at least eat supper and then we would time our departure with the time mom would probably be home. Those were really fun days. Today children don't do the fun things we did back then. To be honest I don't believe I would have let my own children do the daring things we did back then. People sat on the front porch and kept an eye on the children; it was safe. It's a miracle we didn't turn out to be criminals or something weird!

Extended Family Relationships

I had a virtual conversation with a friend who shared his story about his favorite aunt who recently died. His memories aroused strong emotions about the times he had as a little boy while visiting in her home.

I told him how blessed he was to have those special memories! Memories of my aunts and uncles were when I was between five - twelve years old. As I grew older and our families moved apart; we lost touch. I can't recall ever attending family reunions.

I'll soon be a first time grandmother and it will be a great time to capture and create special memories. Not just for me but for our entire family!

Sew Sew

When I was in the ninth or tenth grade most schools taught home economics. I took one year of sewing. I did not own a sewing machine but I really thought it would be cool to make my own clothes. Big dreams for a young high school girl. We started out making small projects like an apron or long handled bag. For one of our projects we could pick out any thing we wanted to make from a pattern. Adventurous me decided to make a full length dress. Our church youth group was going to have a Valentine banquet in a few months and I had this big dream of making a dress. I bought a complicated pattern with a laced bodice and yards of fabric for a full length, empire waist skirt and long lace covered sleeves with fancy buttons. I just had to make that dress. Remember...I did not own a sewing machine and I certainly could not afford one. Every day we could work on our piece during class. The day was getting closer to the banquet and my dress was complicated and I needed more time to work on it. I thought of a neighbor that had a sewing machine. I asked her if I could work on my dress each afternoon after school. Looking back I can't imagine her doing that. She had a young family and I would be in a living room whirring away on the Singer sewing machine while her family were eating supper. Afternoons turned into late evenings and weekends with me working on that dress. I finished the dress just hours before the banquet. It was a little less than perfect. It was way too formal for this Valentine event but I was so proud of my accomplishment. That was my favorite project.

USPS Retail Centers CLOSED

I missed the announcement that the postal service centers were closed for a long holiday to celebrate the 4th of July. The letter carrier was not off and mail was delivered but no one could ship packages or buy stamps this weekend. The retail centers in Charlotte closed at 2PM on Friday and will reopen on Tuesday morning. I was certainly annoyed. You won't see me waiting in the long line on Tuesday!

A Lost Art

In a report published by Forbes - June 2005 "greeting cards could be found in about 100,000 retail outlets in the U.S. and approximately 7 billion greeting cards are sold each year." Back then they estimated the average household buys 30 individual cards a year.

With the advances in technology many people make their own cards or just send an electronic card on special occasions. There are some dear friends and family members who still send cards. It really is a lost art because to me it takes time to go to the store and pick out that perfect card and then hand write a personal message. Receiving a card in the mail is uplifting. It is more special when it arrives on a "no occasion day".

Over the years I have saved many cards. Sometimes I pull them out of a drawer and re-read them and some I have not opened since I first read them. Those are the cards I received after my mom died. The words penned in those cards provided such healing to my spirit but somehow re-reading them invokes a memory I don't want to resurrect.

I've purchased several packages of blank cards at a dollar store that I plan to write a word to a friend in need of encouragement. Would you do the same?

Tracing My Family Roots

If you read my very first blog you will remember I mentioned taking a trip to Cherokee, NC - an Indian reservation.


During the early years of my marriage I began creating a family tree. I started hitting dead ends on my mother's side of the family. You know there were reports of fires in various states over time, or that unique spelling of the last name changed by one letter or the census taker did not write it down correctly. 


I also heard a story that "Indian blood" runs in my paternal side of the family but I could not find a thing. A couple of days ago my brother shared that he joined http://www.ancestry.com. This is a fee for service group where he has created his family tree. I was able to provide him some information and he found on their site U.S. Census Records from the early 1900's that lists some of our parent's lineage and other intriguing stuff.


Would you believe it! I found the Indian relative. She married into my father's side of the family when she was 14 years old! She married a 22 year old. She lived in the home with her father-in-law - according to the census record. Her birth place was in Tennessee but was relocated to Oklahoma and later married and moved to Georgia. From the census record I assume she did not know her birth parents because she listed their birth place as unknown.


This was a WOW moment for me. 

Shut In

If you attend church somewhere you may know some senior saints. Some may no longer be able to get out to church any longer so we call them "shut in". Once in a while I will give one a phone call to say hello. They are so happy to be remembered. They often share stories of the past and how wonderful the "good ole" days were and then turn to the drone of current events that leave them waiting for that trumpet sound. Today was a good reminder for me that I need to stay in touch with our shut ins more often. They know we live busy lives but theirs were so much harder than ours. One day I'll be a shut in and will be sitting by the phone longing for it to ring and hear my name called out from a friendly voice. If this note gave you a gentle reminder - don't wait till another day - call that someone that just flashed in your mind. It will make their day and yours also!

Service for a Fee

Any organization that provides a service for a fee is in that service to make a profit.

Service categories include:

• Beauty / Barber
• Taxi / Limousine
• Plumber / Electrician
• Doctors / Dentist

This is a short list. You may not have thought about the last item being a service to make a profit but since our President changed healthcare, doctors now have a check list of services they must meet quota on each month or they could lose their license. I learned this from a physician's assistant this year. They must offer a certain number of prescriptions per month was one of the items. Imagine going to a doctor that doesn't treat common ailments but now must meet a prescription quota. He must offer something so how about an antihistamine prescription? You may not need it but he must write a prescription.

Housekeeping

One of my most dreaded housekeeping chores is cleaning the refrigerator. Recently I noticed a dried spill on one of the shelves. While wiping it up I noticed that the task at hand would require more effort than I intended to spend on this chore. I had to remove other shelves along with the vegetable and fruit drawers. What first looked like a quick wipe down turned out to be a major clean up.

In the Bible, 2 Corinthians 3:16-18, the believer is reminded that we are God’s temple. He resides in us. Similar to the refrigerator that gets dirty from spills and splashes inside and out; things can defile our Spiritual temple that we allow to be "placed on our shelves". Sooner or later that perceived “small spill” becomes a major clean up effort that requires God’s intervention. Sometimes the Holy Spirit prompts us that we need to remove "all the shelves" and get a deep cleaning. He shows us just what a mess we have made of our lives by not allowing God to keep us clean by the washing of the Word.

Ask God to show you which "shelf" in your life requires a wipe down before it turns into a major clean up. 

Remembering Dad

All dads work hard to provide for their families. They rarely take time out for themselves but rather think of the members in their family, about creating memories that will last a lifetime.

The following is a treasured memory my husband shared that I felt was really worth sharing today!

My father worked a number of years at Borden’s Dairy. He worked long hours and hard days. My little sister was having a birthday party and my Dad asked if he could have the day off to spend at his daughter’s party. He was told “no.” So he made the decision to choose the birthday party instead of continuing to work at Borden’s. I believe he had to choose between the world’s best (a secure job) or God’s best (investing in his family). I’m glad he chose God’s best.

We often hear we need to choose between the good and the best, but I believe the choice is often between the world’s best and God’s best. If you have not read the story of William Borden, I suggest you read it. You can find it at this website, http://www.thetravelingteam.org/node/400. William was born in 1887 and was an heir to the family fortune. William was educated at Yale University. After high school graduation his parents gave him a trip around the world. This is where he felt God’s call to the mission field to win the Muslim people to the Lord. He spent time in Egypt learning the Arabic language in preparation for his ministry to Muslims. It was there that he caught spinal meningitis. William died one month later and was buried in Cairo. He was twenty-five years old. Found written in his Bible was written these three phrases: “No reserves. No retreats. No regrets.” 

- by Tim Chavel

Flamboyant Are We?

During a ride through a section of the Blue Ridge Parkway near Cherokee, NC my husband and I spotted beautiful wildflowers on the side of the road. One of many was the Rhododendron calendulaceum (Flame azalea).

We stopped to make pictures of them and soon some other sharp shooters joined us. One of the visitors was a wild flower enthusiast and he shared some info about this flower. He said it grows best in the shade. Later I did a little research on this flower and learned that it prefers full sun but may need more shade. It has surface roots and must be planted in shallow dirt or with light mulch. It also requires a moist, acidic soil.

I immediately thought of personality types that tend to fall under this description. One type that likes the limelight and another that works behind the scenes; often unnoticed. The Flame azalea tends to bend toward the sunlight but its shallow roots cannot withstand the heat. Its moisture is soon evaporated. If it rests along the shady mountainside it is nourished by the decomposing soil at the base and in just the right season it begins to unfold its beauty and glorious colors. A gentle reminder to me!

Crawl Out from Under That Rock!

Sometimes life's circumstances can be overwhelming and tend to make one depressed. You may have quipped "I just want to crawl under a rock!" Now that sounds like a plan. When frustrated and grief stricken, crawl under a rock and crush your pain under its weight. 


I have good news! God's plan in time of trouble is outlined in Psalm 27:5 (KJV) 

 For in the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion:

in the secret of His tabernacle shall He hide me

 He shall set me upon a rock.

God provides Himself as that rock for the believer. God is that firm foundation for a wobbly believer to stand upon. No matter how heavy your heart may feel under the circumstances; a renewed vision comes from the ROCK. Lay the weight of your circumstances on God and watch Him produce a new thing from the midst of chaos.

Sani-Check Please!

While waiting for the doctor in the “intake” room I read the familiar signage placed on the wall above the sink. The one you all have seen in public places.

Five Steps for Hand Washing:

1. Wet your hands
2. Apply soap
3. Scrub both the front and back of hands thoroughly and wash the fingers and underneath the nails for 20 seconds.
4. Rinse well
5. Grab a paper towel; use to turn off the faucet and dry your hands.

 Today it occurred to me, who are these instructions for? I would hope that the doctor had this training in school and doesn't need to be reminded. Ironically, next to the hand washing sign is a clear box filled with three sizes of latex gloves with no instructions.

Well, if this note is specifically a reminder for the medical staff, the nurse failed the test. I was escorted to the room and given instructions to wait for the doctor. Finally, the doctor arrived. He reached out to shake my hand and said “hello.” He never washed his hands.

I suppose the next time I go to a doctor’s office I should look out for myself and put on the latex gloves!

In His Presence

Moses became well acquainted with the children of Israel during their forty-year journey to the Promised Land. They had fallen into sin on numerous occasions and strayed from God’s commandments. Moses and the people sensed God’s displeasure and they began to repent. After reading this account from Exodus 33 I began to recall what I felt like as a child being sent to my room and out of the presence of my parents for some act of disobedience. Separation from the presence of a loved one for a short time proved to be beneficial in the end.

The times I most sense the Lord’s presence is during trials when my own stubbornness is exposed. When I find myself in these immovable moments I am forced to pour out my heart to the Lord and beg for His mercy. I remind Him of His promises and ask Him to carry me through in spite of my sinful ways. It is reassuring to feel the warmth of His grace cover my weary soul; His presence passes over me and I am renewed.

Flag Day in America

I am submitting a devotion that my husband wrote for our church. We thank God for those who served in the past and and who serve today to protect our freedom in America. God Bless America!

Psalm 51:7

Flag Day in America is celebrated to commemorate the day in 1777 when America adopted the Stars and Stripes flag to be her official flag.

We celebrate Flag Day on June 14th each year. Individuals and businesses hang flags outside. You will see flag poles all over the nation flying the Stars and Stripes. Some patriotic organizations will also honor the flag by having a parade or other Flag Day celebrations.

Liz loves the American Flag. We have one that is flown at our house almost every day.

Have you ever wondered what the colors represent? I did a little research and found the following information. The colors of the American Flag did not have any significance however, the red, white, and blue colors included in the Great Seal of the United States, which first appeared 1782, did purportedly represent ideals and beliefs of our Founding Fathers.

Their significance was explained by Charles Thompson, Secretary of the Continental Congress, and included in the book "Our Flag," published in 1989: White represents purity and innocence; red represents hardiness and valor; and blue represents vigilance, perseverance, and justice.

We live in a great nation and the character qualities mentioned above are wonderful. But even more so is to be washed in the Blood (red) of Christ so one may be washed as (white) as snow, then spend eternity in heaven (blue).  I am proud to be an American, but much more so to be a Christian. 


by: Tim Chavel

Thirty Years and Counting

Today my husband and I celebrated thirty wonderful years of “happily married life!” To celebrate, we took a trip to the North Carolina Mountains. We stayed in Cherokee, NC and then enjoyed a half day trip in Bryson, NC on the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad – Nantahala Gorge Excursion. We rode first class coach on the MacNeill. The trip was well worth it. One “must stop” is the Choo Choo Coffee shop where we bought homemade jellies. We sampled several and bought three: Kudzu Blossom Jelly (made with real Kudzu), Old Fashioned Traffic Jam (Blueberries, Raspberries and Strawberries) and Creamed Honey. Place orders from their website.

There were many attractions in Cherokee; we were not able to visit them all. More information can be found on Trip Advisor. While in Cherokee we visited the following attractions: Oconaluftee Islands Park, Cherokee Baptist Church, and the famous casino. Let me provide an overview of each. 

The park attraction featured a clear wading river with open places for picnicking, relaxation and pure family fun.

Our visit on Sunday to Cherokee Baptist Church was warm and inviting. The members were predominantly Cherokee natives along with visiting bikers and other members and guests. The congregation sang verse one of Amazing Grace in English and the last verse in Cherokee. That was awesome! Danny Sweet, a visiting preacher, delivered an awesome message from Psalm twenty-three.

The most unusual visit was to the casino. I refuse to recognize the formal name of this attraction. An old press release published that an “Eastern Band of Cherokee Tribal Council” approved this casino in January 2007 by an overwhelming vote. It opened Labor Day weekend 2010. Since its grand opening they have added Paula Deen’s Kitchen and will soon open a food court and other shops. We were in and out in less than thirty minutes. Oh the sites we saw! There was a father on a second floor landing zone away from the machines “babysitting” his two young children who were in a double stroller. I assume he was watching his wife gambling down below. There were many, many, senior adults; presumed retirees. I saw a young woman begging (assumed husband) to let her play one more time. Most likely the Tribal Council believed that their approval of this casino would bolster their economy on the reservation but from my observation of the surrounding property this did not happen. There were many vacant hotels, and for rent signs in store front windows. The casino is in business for profit and no monies are spent to revitalize the reservation or boost tourism in Cherokee. No – we did not play any machine!