Baking Begins!

Day 69:  This is my super-fast doodle for the day, as I am really short on time.  Danny started making cookies today for our annual cookie party.  He is quite a stickler for freshness, so we have several cooled batches already in the freezer.

We love our cookie party.  Its our opportunity to bless our family, friends, and neighbors who are able to make it.

Please, God, bless!

"Go, eat your bread [OR COOKIES] with joy, and drink your wine with a merry heart, for God has already approved what you do."  Ecc 9:27 ESV; insert mine. 


Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Decorating for the Holidays

Day 68:  Today started prep week for our annual Cookie Party.  The main push for my day was to get the decorating  mostly complete.  One tree up, one more to go!

Please, God, bless!

"Prepare your work outside; get everything ready for yourself in the field, and after that build your house."  Prov 24:27 ESV

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Pink Pup

Day 67:  Our poor dog has really short fur and her tummy is near bare, so it doesn't take much of a dip in temperature to send her shivering. When she came in from outside, she was shivering, so I put her camouflage hoodie on her. But, it probably won't keep her warm as the temperatures drop. As my son is piling blankets on her, he says "Mommy, you should make the dog a sweater!"

Hmmm...I know how to spin some yarn, so I ripped out the yarn bin and decided to make the dog a sweater. The only had a full skein of bubblegum pink (bought it to make a gift that never happened), so, pink it was. I found a cute bobble stitch, and project dog sweater begins!

Its coming out cute thus far, but my poor hubby..."It's PINK!!!" Yeah, he's not too happy with the color. My doodle today is a quick sketch so my hubby can see the pink in its full glory, get a good idea of how cute she will look! (teehee!)

I wonder what it was like in Eden, when man named each animal, and there were no predators. Did Adam have a dog? You never know. Pets can be a blessing, but we also have a responsibility to make sure they are cared for...and warm!  (even if they look like bubblegum with ears!)

Please, God, bless!

"The godly care for their animals, but the wicked are always cruel."  Prov 12:10

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Thankful

Day 66:  As we prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving, I just wanted to take a minute to say what I'm thankful for.

I'm thankful that God loves me.  

I'm thankful Jesus made a Way for me, saved me from eternal death.  

I'm thankful He has seen fit to bless me with an incredible, God-fearing husband of 20 years

 who knows me best and still loves me.  

I'm thankful for my son, who brightens every day, makes things new and fun,

 and challenges me to be a better parent.  

Son and Dari, asleep on the couch

I'm thankful for our dog, Dari, who brings us all joy

 and gives us all unconditional love.

I'm thankful for my mom who helps us tremendously in our home, 

is a great cook, and a sweet lady.

I'm thankful for my dad who always supports and encourages me

 and taught me the joy of football.  

I'm thankful for my stepmom, my role model in the professional world, 

and shares my love of shoes and shopping. 

I'm thankful for my inlaws, who adore my son and 

spend infinite hours listening to him yammer about video games.

I'm thankful for my closest friends, who share my love for Christ, 

good scholarship, lots of wine, giggles and laughs.  

I'm thankful for all of the blessings the Lord has seen fit to bestow upon me

my home, 

my job, 

my health...

and so much more

I'm thankful God has a purpose for each and every person,

 and for those who love Him, 

the opportunity to be His hands, feet, and further his Glory.  

I'm thankful for Thanksgiving-

a time to make us take a breath, 

* * *

and to be grateful...

not to mention the turkey, cranberries, potatoes, desserts.......

Please, God, bless!

"Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change." James 1:17 ESV


Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Ordinary to Extraordinary

Day 65:  Generally I don't like reality shows, but I do like cooking shows. There isn't much to it--they cook, and sometimes its a competition. Lately I've been watching Master Chef Junior. There is something so cool about it, especially if you've seen the regular adult competition. When the kids are interviewed, they rarely are disparaging towards the other contestants. In fact, when one of them has a hard time and is near tears, its amazing to watch all of these kids reach out to comfort him.

Today I was especially impressed with a little girl on the show. She had a serious disadvantage. Aside from being the youngest, she could only create her dish using two ingredients. Other kids had anywhere from 4-10. She had 2. How on earth do you wow judges with just two ingredients?

Well, this little girl did it-she had the second best dish of the evening. It was an amazing accomplishment.

It's a pretty powerful lesson if you think about it. No matter what our age, our handicap, our situation, God can use any of us to do amazing things. Think about it. Abraham was old. Jacob was a weasel. Rahab was a prostitute. David was young. And of course, the list goes on.

The little girl just trusted her instincts, and didn't fear.

     As Christians, we need to trust in God, and not fear.
          Then we may be privileged to see the ordinary become extraordinary.
               So, have your hand up, and be ready to be called on,
                 regardless of your age or any other preconceived barrier you think you may have!

Please, God, bless!

"When the Philistine looked and saw David, he had contempt for him, because he was only a young man. David had a dark, healthy complexion and was handsome......David defeated the Philistine with a sling and a stone; he struck down the Philistine and killed him, and there was no sword in David’s hand." 1 Sam 17:42, 50  ISV

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Lights, Camera...What Happened?

Day 64:  I remember as a kid my Dad got one of the first video cameras made for the mass market. It was HUGE, and you had to carry a large, peripheral VCR type device that hung on a shoulder strap to carry the tape. My Dad used to set it up and tape the regular pool parties. At the end of the day everyone would sit and watch the ridiculous canoe races, the belly flops, and underwater handstands.

Now cameras are readily available and they are everywhere!  They are found on computers, phones, in eyeglasses, and pens for example. And of course the go pro, a device that records your every move as you live an active life.  EVERY aspect of life is now fodder for the viewing pleasure of the masses.

This constant monitoring is becoming more and more commonplace in the arena of public safety, security, and prevention.  Cameras are in stores, parking lots, streets, and parks.  We are on screen more than the highest paid celebrities.

Recently there has been a renewed call for body cameras for all law enforcement. It seems that more and more the road to truth gets littered with personal agendas, falsehoods, and speculation. Given the technology availability, cameras are probably a good idea. Having recordings of critical situations should hopefully prevent the incessant grandstanding on ambiguities for specific agendas. But people should be careful what they ask for, as it will reveal some ugly Truths.

Constant footage may prove some law enforcement officials

to be racist, hateful, liars and killers.  

This same footage may also reveal to parents

that their children are thieving, drug abusing thugs, 

inciting violence, and death.

As society tries to balance privacy, security, and entertainment, I know that there are no secrets with God.  In every case, every instance, every point in time, God knows what is really going on, what really happened, whether its a tragic event on the news, a situation at work, or problems at home.  All of man's bad habits, addictions, gossip, slander; Man's bad tempers, lies, destruction, evil acts, and pride; God knows it all, and God alone delivers perfect Justice in His perfect time, His perfect way. This fact alone is a great comfort to me and frees me from anger and frustration when things seem egregious or unfair.

Pray for peace, trust in His Justice.  

Please, God, bless!

"Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord." Rom 12:19 ESV

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Rioting and Looting Hurt the Cause

Day 63: As the country sits and waits for a verdict on a racially charged court case, the real question is what will happen in the aftermath? Does anyone else find it disturbing that regardless of the outcome rioting and looting is expected?  When is that ever an appropriate response, whether glad or mad?  It's one thing to protest and voice your anger.  Its another to destroy the community, the local businesses, and the remaining sense of safety.  How does that help?

Race, gender, religion, etc.-whatever the profiling bias-is NEVER a justifiable reason to steal and destroy the property of your neighbors   There are many, many ways to voice disgust, to make a scene, to show one's anger, and to make a reasonable argument for justice without seeming like a raving bunch of lunatics. If you are angry with law enforcement, giving them plenty of reasons to arrest you, the media plenty of reasons to show the lack of reason and restraint, and notorious celebrities plenty of reasons to get more air time and grandstand certainly harms any cause you are fighting for.

Praying for the safety of the innocent.

Please, God, bless!

"Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, 27 and give no opportunity to the devil. 28 Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with anyone in need. 29 Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear." Eph 4:26-29


Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Beauty in the Snowflakes

Day 62:  What a crazy weather week!  The other day it was FREEZING, and here just two days later it was pretty nice out.  We took advantage of the weather to get the Christmas decorations done outside, since every year we seem to wait until its too cold for a polar bear.  We have a big evergreen out front and it really needs large ornaments, so we have these GIANT, 12 inch plastic snowflakes that we put on it every year.

I love snowflakes.  The beauty of a snowflake is something we don't really get to appreciate, as its facets are nominally too small for the naked eye to appreciate.  Each one is different, each one is lovely.  There are different general types of snowflakes,but no two snowflakes are the same.  Imagine that!  The trillions times trillions of snowflakes it must take to make up a good blizzard, and not one of them are duplicates!

It is just like my God to give such an amazing show of perfection, variety, and beauty even in the details we may not even see or appreciate.  And if he pays such attention to each snowflake, imagine the attention he pays to us, his beloved children.  I serve an incredible God!

Please, God, bless!

 "And he made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth..."  Acts 17:26a ESV

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Prig Pig

Day 61: "Beware of allowing yourself to think that the shallow concerns of life are not ordained of God; they are as much of God as the profound. It is not your devotion to God that makes you refuse to be shallow, but your wish to impress other people with the fact that you are not shallow, which is a sure sign that you are a spiritual prig. [Chambers]"  

As I read these words in My Utmost for His Highest today, all I could think of was a ridiculous vision of a cleaned up, "spiritual prig" pig.  He is out of the mud, cleaned up. He is in his suit, leather-bound Bible in hand. He is ready to tackle the big things, the tough things that come at him in life. It's a kind of an interesting depiction.  Every day we run around like we are on autopilot through our mud. We get up, go to work, come home, make dinner, clean up, take care of the family, go to bed, repeat. It can feel like we're stuck in the mud shallows. When something shakes things and jerked from our routine drudgery, we crawl out of the shallows, put on our spiritual garb and get on our knees before the Lord, seeking Him for help and guidance on how to deal with the bigger, deeper things.

Please don't misunderstand, I don't mean to disparage our poor pig friend.  In fact, I'm sure we have a lot in common.  How hard it can be to look past the drudgery of our repetition and truly look for  the awe and wonder of God in everything.  Its easy to say, but as I know all too well, hard to do.  Maybe if I remember my cleaned up pig and how ridiculous he looks in his suit, maybe I will be more apprised of the Glory in the mud.

Please, God, bless!

"Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God." 1 Co 10:31 ISV

Chambers, O. (1986). My utmost for his highest: Selections for the year. Grand Rapids, MI: Oswald Chambers Publications; Marshall Pickering.

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Whiskey Cocktails

Day 60:  A VERY quick doodle today of the whiskey cocktail we had tonight at a "whiskey-tasting" dinner at Catoctin Creek Distillery.  We went to celebrate my gal-pal's birthday, and a whiskey-tasting was new to us.  The food was good, the cocktails great, and the company better than all of the above.  My husband even left with a bottle of whiskey for himself.

God gave us a wonderful thing by giving us friends!  It's a lovely thing to share such occasions not only with family, but with those you choose to be a part of your life.

Please, God, bless!

"Rejoice with those who are rejoicing..."  Rom 12:15 ISV

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Inspired by Lewis

Day 59:  On my travel back home, I watched a documentary on one of my favorite authors, C.S. Lewis.  I love the Chronicles of Narnia, Mere Christianity, The Screwtape Letters, The Problem of Pain, and many others.  One of the most important books I have ever read was A Grief Observed.  If you know anyone who is grieving the loss of someone dear to them, I highly recommend this book as as an honest account of the pain, emotion, volatility, and testing of one's faith caused by such mourning.

The thing I loved about Lewis' account, is that he was a staunch athiest.  His mother died when he was 9 yrs old.  He felt God didn't exist, and if He did, He was cruel.  He felt Christianity was illogical, a myth.  As a lifelong scholar, he read---alot.  Upon reading GK Chesterton and George MacDonald, he began to be prepared for an all-nighter with friends JR Tolkien and Hugo Dyson.  They debated the night away, discussing myths--and how all myths point to a common Truth.  As the stories distance from the source of history, it morphs to fit cultures, desires, and whims.  But overall, the underlying truth is there.  After discussing until past 3am, he became a believer in Jesus, and thus a defender of Christianity.  He would assert from this point on that it was not an intellectual leap to believe in Christ, and in fact it is logical, reasonable, and rationale to be a follower of Christ.  He was 33 at the time of his conversion.

Arguably, he is one of the most logical and pragmatic Christian writers of all times, and a brilliant man. God was able to convert and purpose a great skeptic!  Imagine what He can do with the willing!

Please, God, bless!

"If anyone thinks he can place confidence in the flesh, I have more reason to think so. Having been circumcised on the eighth day, I am of the nation of Israel, from the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews. As far as the Law is concerned, I was a Pharisee. As for my zeal, I was a persecutor of the church. As far as righteousness in the Law is concerned, I was blameless. But whatever things were assets to me, these I now consider a loss for the sake of the Messiah.What is more, I continue to consider all these things to be a loss for the sake of what is far more valuable, knowing the Messiah Jesus, my Lord. It is because of him that I have experienced the loss of all those things. Indeed, I consider them rubbish in order to gain the Messiah and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the Law, but one that comes through the faithfulness of the Messiah, the righteousness that comes from God and that depends on faith."  Phil 3:4b-9 ISV

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

It's COLD!

Day 58:  I'm having flashbacks of a Disney vacation a few years back when it was 27 degrees in in the FL morning.  It was 78 when I got here on Sun, and it was in the 30's this am.  So much for global warming!

I wonder how the people in Noah's day must have felt.  After all, it is  doubtful they had seen a real rainstorm much less a flood is any real impact.  They didn't believe it, weren't ready for it, and didn't have the spiritual heart to hear God's warning.  I don't think this cold front indicates the end of human kind , but they definitely are not prepared for this kind of weather in warmer climate areas.  Even though my teeth chattered  and I shivered under my light linen business jacket, it did make me take a moment to remember WHO controls the weather, the winds, the heat and the cold.

Please, God, bless!

"While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease.". Gen 8:22, NASB

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Great Shoes!

Day 57:  It is always about the details.   If you see someone dressed nice, but their nails are chewed to nubs....or, if you meet the company boss for the first time and he has on a nice suit but spinach in his teeth...those are things that formulate your first impression.   So, today, knowing I would meet a bunch of people, I was uber careful to make sure I had the details taken care of.  Outfit pressed-check.  Makeup done-check.   Hair coiffed-check.  Matching jewelry-check.  And of course some sweet shoes that would be remembered, but weren't overboard-check.

It sounds like a lot of trouble to go through but the reality is first impressions are formed in an instant.  There is a fine line between being conscious of the impression you want to send, and caring too much about what people think of you.  I do believe  God want us to ensure we present the right impression.  Aaron had to maintain his holy posture instead of mourning for his son.  Jesus said when you fast to wash so as not to draw attention to oneself.  Today my goal was to be put together, show I care about the details, yet not be so text book that I would appear unapproachable.

People complimented me on my shoes.  Then they took the time to say hello.  Mission accomplished!

Please, God, bless!

"The king's daughter is all glorious within: her clothing is of wrought gold." Ps 45:13

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Palm Tree

Day 56:  It was 78 degrees, and the palm trees were swaying in the breeze, even if it was a tad drizzly.

Tomorrow is the first full day of the conference.   I'm looking forward to it, to meeting some new people, and learning something new.

Please, God, bless!

"For we're newcomers at this, with a lot to learn, and not too long to learn it." Job 8:9

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

A Comfy Bed

Day 55:  Since I'm travelling, I am posting from my phone, so I apologize if the gallery gets updated when I get back.

I arrived at my hotel, ordered room service, and am reading and getting some rest.  The bed looks very inviting, and I have an important day tomorrow.

Please, God, bless!

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Matt 11:28-30

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Black-Red Belt

Day 54:  Today's doodle is a cartoon of my son.  He is now a Black-Red belt.  Next one is 2nd Degree Black! I'm proud of his effort-it is a great accomplishment!

Please, God, bless!

"All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty." Prov 14:23, NIV


Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Big Cheesy Grin

Day 53:  I went to the dentist today.  After the scraping, the poking, the pulling, and gagging over xray film, I feel like my teeth should get some air time. Honestly after all that, I almost want to walk around with the biggest, cheesiest grin, as if to say, "Look at my teeth!  Look at my teeth!  Do you know what I just went through to have them shine like this?!?!"

Cheesy grins are kind of funny.  It's a forced expression that can convey many things, such as:

• I hate this, but I'm pretending to love it
• I didn't do it!
• I real-l-l-l-y have to pee, but I'm trying to be polite and finish this conversation.
• I'm...so....happy.......really.
• Trust me!  And...buy my car.
• My face froze like this during the night.
• Look at my teeth!  Look at my teeth!
• etc.

I'm sure you can think of some more.....

In talking with a gal pal today about the state of the world, crazy families, politics, and the sheer evil that is viewable on our screens of all sizes, I thought of my cheesy grin.  Sometimes, the temptation lurks to chisel an enormous smile on my face and pretend the world is a lovely place-that smile God loves you mentality.  Yes, God does love me, and that is cause to beam. But there are times when I don't want to smile....what if I want to scream, cry, or collapse in despair? Faking a cheesy grin like I have the peace and chill of a zen mountain man is not what Jesus has modeled for me.  After all, Jesus wept; Jesus grieved; Jesus cried out to the Father in despair.  

Now, I had nothing to be that upset about today, lest anyone worry.  Really my doodle was about my face screaming TEETH since it takes so much hassle to make them shiny. In any case, I tend to unnecessarily ponder things. And should the need arise for me to be that upset--thank the Lord that I don't need to fake it!  I can upside-down to a frown, and be real with God--be bold about my feelings, my insecurities, and wounds that fail to heal! And I know He will see me through.  

And so, that is my pondering of the day, as I continue with my super-max, cheesy-peasy grin!

Please, God, bless!

"Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand"  Isaiah 41:10 NLT

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Curly and Competent

Day 52:  I've always been very blessed to work with some really amazing people. Moving to a new group, I'll miss my gal pals. So, today my quick doodle is of one of my buds who has a lot on her plate. She's too darn competent, so everything gets dumped in her lap. Even so, she takes it in stride. She's a gorgeous, strong, confident gal with totally killer hair-not kidding, its the coolest!

Please, God, bless!

"First thing in the morning, she dresses for work, rolls up her sleeves, eager to get started". Prov 31:17 MSG

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Gingerbread Tea!!!

Day 51: A friend gave me a wonderful gift today! Gingerbread tea! It made my whole office smell like Christmas. I know its a bit early, but ahhhh, there is something just so lovely about the smell of gingerbread! I was super busy today, yet with my gingerbread tea, I almost felt festive vice frenzied.

It's so awesome how the sense of smell God gave us can evoke so many different feelings!

Please, God, bless!

"And when the Lord smelled the pleasing aroma..." Gen 8:21a

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Hero

Day 50:  Have you thanked a Veteran today? Veteran's are the reason we are a free nation. A volunteer military force sworn to protect our nation, sacrificing their time, well-being, families, and sometimes their lives.

Thank a veteran, and pray for them, now more than ever. The times are challenging, the military restricted, and our enemies know no boundaries. Pray for protection, courage, and comfort.

Please, God, bless!

"I’ve commanded you, haven’t I? Be strong and courageous. Don’t be fearful or discouraged, because the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”  Josh 1:9 ISV 

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

A New Path

Day 49:  I was talking to a friend at work today, and she is frustrated with her job and ready to move on and do something completely different. I can relate--I've had those kind of days.

There are many things in life where I am just not sure what to do when in a tough circumstance. When I don't know what to do, I may seek out options, but even then I find it best to wait until God gives me an indication of what path I am to take. After all, He knows my tough circumstances and He can change them at any time. If he doesn't, I know that there is a reason in the grander scheme of things.  In the meantime, I will get my hiking boots ready to trod a new direction...

"Who is the man who fears the LORD? God will teach him the path he should choose." Ps 25:12

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

The Turkey and the Tree

Day 48:  I am amazed at how quickly the stores can transition from one holiday to the next. Even
though I started seeing Christmas decorations in September this year, it seems this week the holiday fever is in full swing. Normally I prefer to enjoy one holiday before I begin festivities for another, but today at a trip to Trader Joe's it was the best of both worlds. Tons of Thanksgiving yummies-stuffing, potatoes, pumpkin pie--but also tons of peppermint bark, cookies, pretzels, gingerbread. It was kind of weird, in a way, but the smell of the cinnamon brooms seemed to make it all feel-or smell-like it made sense. I guess it sounds silly, but I can't seem to describe it any better. I left feeling ready for turkey AND the tree.

I know God didn't designate Thanksgiving and Christmas as appointed times.  But I am truly grateful that these two holidays help me focus on His wonderful gifts-His Son, my family and friends.

Please, God, bless!

"And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful."  Col 3:15 ESV


Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Moustache Mug

Day 47: We hung out with some friends today, and went to paint our own pottery. It was a lot of fun, and I love the fact that whatever you are painting is a blank canvas-you can paint anything! They had lots of ceramic items already painted as an example. One of them was a mug with a moustache. I don't know why it strikes me as funny, but it does. I guess I'm behind the moustache curve.

So, here is my quick doodle of the moustache that I might paint on a moustache mug. I'm not sure how much skill it takes to paint a caricature moustache, but its creative and its's fun.

I'm glad God shared the creative bent with us.

Please, God, bless!

"He has filled them with skill to do every sort of work done by an engraver or by a designer or by an embroiderer in blue and purple and scarlet yarns and fine twined linen, or by a weaver—by any sort of workman or skilled designer." Ex 35:35

 Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Twinkle, Twinkle...

Day 46:  We are in the season where things are going to start to get very busy. I just sent out invitations for our annual Cookie Party, registered for a conference, and next thing I know it will be Thanksgiving then Christmas.  Even with the frenzied pace, there is something magical about this time of year!

Every year I look forward to Christmas lights.  We pile in the car and drive around looking at the decorated homes. I often think that the heaven's are like the lights, but lit up all year long, like God's own display!

Please, God, bless!

"He determines the number of the stars; he gives to all of them their names."  Ps 147:4

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Stay Busy

Day 45:  I've been moved around again at work. Its bitter sweet in a way. I really like the people in my group. But I also really like the people in the group I'm going to--we're all old pals. In the end, as long as I stay busy it all works out. I don't like sitting all day.

The truth is, I like to be busy. I suppose I'm wired that way.  Then again, maybe we are all wired to be productive.

Please, God, bless!

"The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to work it and keep it." Gen 2:15 ESV

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Pachyderm, Take Pause!

Day 44:  I am posting along with my doodle, an open letter to the Republicans.

Dear Republicans, 

Congratulations! You have had a landslide win. Lest you get too comfy, now is NOT the time to celebrate and rest on your laurels, but to get down to business.  

I'll put this bluntly: you were not elected because you were the ideal candidates we all hope for. With the monopoly aiding the two party system, its more like choosing a filling over a root canal-they both cause pain, one maybe more so than the other. Knowing this, I hope, will give your egos pause. Now is not the time to gloat or grandstand, but to show that you mean what you championed all through the election season--that you will make decisions, stop the bickering, take on the tough fights and move this country along.

We certainly have our share of looming issues that need to be addressed. We have a huge deficit. We have troops overseas who are neutered in their ability to actually fight the war they are assigned to and defeat the enemies who wish to kill us. We have healthcare mayhem. We have scandals across government agencies. We have a war on our constitution and our freedom. We have religious persecution against Christians. We have reckless abuse of power at all levels of government. And the list goes on...

As our elected officials, we constituents say NO MORE. For the last several years we have listened to each party blaming the other for nothing getting done. We are tired of the blame game. There are no more excuses. Pick the hard battles--if we collapse financially or neglect our military, it won't matter if we save the critters, let people marry their brothers, or let folks smoke dope until they have swiss cheese for a brain-there won't be an America left to debate it.   

A few other words of advice:

Don't give Politifact fodder-check your facts, have some integrity. 

Take the high road and skip the sleaze and bashing. 

Be straight forward in your critique of policy and aggressive in your defense of our rights. 

Don't give us the spin-make a decision and defend it; flip-flops are for the beach. 

Don't SAY you're for the troops--LEGISLATE for the troops. 

Quit giving each other pay raises for a job poorly done. 

Show lobbyists the door-or better yet, just don't open it.  

Do something good and ditch the photo op. 

Do the job you were hired for; prep for your next political aspiration on your own time and dime.  

What's good for your us is good for you--don't legislate for us and exempt yourselves to a better option.

Admit we can't keep printing money and fix the budget.

Most important, remember you work for US, NOT the other way around.  

You asked to serve.  Don't blow it, else the pachyderm will be sent packing.  

Please, God, bless!

"When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people groan." Proverbs 29:2 ISV

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Never Stop Praying!

Day 43:  Here is today's 10 minute doodle, as I am really tired today.

Today was election day. I voted. I got my sticker. Yes, I consider it my patriotic duty and right as a citizen to vote, and I am very, very grateful we have the privilege to do so.

Even so, as I have been perusing my options with voting, it is almost like picking a filling over a root canal. Both are painful, one is more so. Neither is a preferred option. As I lack confidence in the sincerity, suitability, ability, and honesty of our elected officials (regardless of who wins), I do not lack confidence in my God who hears my prayers.

Yes, I voted. But I also prayed.

I prayed for all of the elected officials 

to make God-fearing decisions.

I prayed for my community 

to rise up and help those in need.

I prayed for my neighborhood 

for safety and peace.

I prayed for the soldiers who put themselves in harms way 

to defend our right to be a free people.

I prayed for my family,

for protection of mind, body, and spirit.

I prayed for my husband, 

for wisdom as the head of our home.

I prayed for my son, 

for his divine calling, purpose, 

and discernment.

I prayed for Bryan's protection 

during his deployment to Afghanistan.

I prayed for peace and comfort 

for his wife and children,

I prayed for Grace, 

for healing and a correct diagnosis.

I prayed for Charlie, Christy, and Thomas 

to trust and not be anxious.

I prayed for Jake, 

recovering from surgery.

I prayed for Jack, 

who at 5 has been diagnosed with cancer.

I prayed for his parents for strong faith.

I prayed thanks to the One 

who is in complete control 

over all things in heaven and on earth.

I prayed.......

Please, God, bless!

"Never stop praying."  1 Thes 5:17 NLT

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Dying to One's Will to Die

Day 42:  As I was reading Anne Graham Lotz's daily e-devotion, I thought of the young woman who chose to end her life this weekend due to her diagnosis of and expected future suffering resulting from incurable brain cancer.

I suppose we can all for a moment understand-no one chooses to undergo such suffering. Its seems almost wise to make such a decision, to prevent oneself from such devastation and pain. But is that selfish?  Is it really a noble choice?

Inspired by Matthew 16:24 Anne writes:

"The power in your life and mine that results in blessing is in 

direct proportion to the extent that you are willing to die to . . .

your own will,

your own goals,

your own dreams,

your own rights."

If one is to truly surrender, wouldn't that also include dying to one's own will to die, precluding allotted suffering?  

I think of my Lord Jesus. He was also prescribed pain and suffering to an extent unparalleled or repeated as he took on not just the physical pain, but the blackness, the burden, the desperation of all the sins of the world. He could have chosen, I suppose, to end it early. But that wasn't the Father's will. His pain and suffering were allotted to Him. He died at his appointed time. As a result, God's glory abounds with His resurrection.

I mean no disrespect to this young woman or her family.  I can't fathom what I would be thinking in a similar circumstance.  But I do know this-Our time is assigned by the Creator. Life is precious, and I have to believe regardless of suffering-no matter how heinous, tragic, hurtful, or appalling, it is known by God and has some purpose.  This should resonate in a society consumed by the heroes journey. A hero is born by through his suffering, not by avoiding it.  I think trying to preempt our time denies the flower its full bloom.

"If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me."

Matthew 16:24 NIV

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Gone With The Wind

Day 41:  What a cooooollllld day today! The wind has been crazy, blowing like mad.  The leaves were blowing in whirlwinds down the street.

I love the fall. The colors are gorgeous, the weather is crisp, begging for a warm cup of tea.  There is something very profound about the fall. As the leaves begin to wither and blow away, its reminiscent of sins being forgiven and forgotten, carried away by the wind. The wind can also be very destructive, cold, and powerful--lest we forget that the Lord of all things is in complete control, and takes sin extremely seriously.

Please, God, bless!

"He caused the east wind to blow in the heavens And by His power He directed the south wind."  Ps 78:26 ISV

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

The Birds are Gone

Day 40:  One of my favorite places at home is on our front porch. We added it a few years ago, and after some cushioned chairs and side tables, its a great place to site and enjoy a beverage of choice. It was cold, threatening to rain all day, so a hot cup of tea was more fitting.

Looking from one end of the street to the other, the trees are mature and enormous, painted with fall colors.  In one of our trees we have a birdhouse. Each year the birds make their nest and I sit on the porch with my beverage listening to the baby cheepers as the momma flied back and forth with food for her young. Today the birdhouse was empty, the wind whistling through the carefully woven twigs inside.

I love days like this.  I find the gloom and chill somewhat comforting.  With the weather restless, the birds are gone and the people stay inside. Though it is just me on the porch, I know I am not alone.  I feel kind of like Elijah, with the largeness of nature fretting about he hears the small still voice of the Lord.  With so much to pray about, its comforting to sense His nearness.

If you would please pray for Bryan.  His wife and two small children are seeing him off tomorrow for a deployment to Afghanistan.

Please, God, bless!

"And he said, “Go out and stand on the mount before the LORD.” And behold, the LORD passed by, and a great and strong wind tore the mountains and broke in pieces the rocks before the LORD, but the LORD was not in the wind. And after the wind an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake. And after the earthquake a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire the sound of a low whisper."  1 Kings 19:11-12 ESV

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.