Fall Like Rain

Day 342:  School orientation for my boy tomorrow.  I am so blessed by the great teachers he has had. May God bless you all this year, as you instruct your new students!  

Please, God, bless!

"Let my teaching fall like rain and my words descend like dew, like showers on new grass, like abundant rain on tender plants." Deuteronomy 32:2  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.

Puzzled

Day 341:  I was working on a really cool Disney puzzle, 1000 pieces, and we were really struggling to get the frame together.  We had the end pieces out, and I had all the pieces put together in sections, but the main sections weren't meeting up,....it was a few pieces longer on the top than the bottom.  I spent the next 15 minutes carefully examining the pieces I had put together and eventually noticed that something looked ever so slightly off.  A piece that seemed to fit, really didn't.  After more looking, I found the other pieces, and it was the same thing.  While they seemed to fit, upon closer examination, they really didn't...they were a teensy weensy bit off.

Have you ever had that experience, when things seem to be just right, and then you find out that things are not so peachy keen?  How about when you hear a sound bite and you find out later it is "mostly" true, that there are some elements of the story that don't quite fit?

Truth is a rare commodity these days. These days truth is so co-mingled with deception that everything you see, hear or read must be examined closely.  How scary is that?  We can't even trust our senses any more, as technology quickly advances.  Pictures can be photoshopped, voices changed, soundtracks edited, etc.

The only Truth that is unchanging and unwavering is the Word of God.  No matter what people say or do to discredit it, it remains unscathed.  Sure, people will disagree...they read a book, or saw something on tv.  But, good solid scholarship, without an agenda shows differently.  I know the rock upon which I stand.  Do you know yours?

Please, God, bless!

"When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come."  John 16:13 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.

Daily Miracles

Day 340:  Doodling while watching football makes for a quick sketch.  Inspired today by the miracles we witness every day, and almost take for granted.  Watching as Keenan Robinson of the Redskins pounded Kamar Aiken of the Ravens head first into the ground.  It's a miracle the man's neck isn't broken.

Think about it.  How many times have you had a near miss in traffic?  Or a health scare that turned out to be nothing?  Maybe you have witnessed some truly wonderful, amazing things that defy all logic or reason. It is so easy to to focus on the many things that happen that don't turn out the way we would like, and less likely that we remember all of the times when things could have been much, much worse and we were spared a trial.

In the world today people are always asking for a sign, for something they can pinpoint to say God is real.  They fail to realize that God's hand saves constantly.  The signs they seek are there, and yet the world continues to scoff and want more...and usually more means something in their will, not God's. They want a magician, or a genie, not a God.

Robinson and Aiken should both be thanking God for a miracle today.  It could have been much worse, something they both would have suffered over. I thank God for his precious miracles every day.

Please, God, bless!

"The Pharisees came and began to argue with him, seeking from him a sign from heaven to test him. And he sighed deeply in his spirit and said, “Why does this generation seek a sign? Truly, I say to you, no sign will be given to this generation.” Mark 8:11-12 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.

Fantasy Football

Day 339:  Had the draft for my Fantasy Football team.  Didn't get some of the key folks I really wanted, but who does?  We shall see how things go.  I tend to not be too serious about these things.  I admit, I indulged with some players just because I like them, not necessarily because they are considered top billing.  I also refuse to pick players I abhor.  I suppose that sets me at a disadvantage, but it's football....anything can happen!

Sports are fun.  I even enjoy competition to a certain extent.  But, I refuse to get over-serious about it. When all is said and done, the real prize isn't about trophies and titles.  It's about the eternal prize--being with my Lord. It's all about perspective.

Please, God, bless!

"All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize. So I run with purpose in every step. I am not just shadowboxing. I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified.” 1 Corinthians 9:25-27 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.

Cool Evening, Hot Tea

Day 338:  Did you know that I totally love my tea?  I'm sure I've done a couple of tea doodles before. It was an unusually cool evening and my hot tea was so inviting, beckoning the Fall. There is nothing better than tea with a view. I remember being in Maui and having my tea on the balcony looking out towards the neighboring island. Holding my tea mug warmed my hands after waking up to a crisp morning when we went camping. On the cruise, I had my tea as I looked out into the open ocean. I usually have tea in the morning, tea as I read my Bible, and tea as I relax in the evening.

Tea has marked some of the most scenic memories in my life, as well as some of the best times and the most trying times I've experienced.  In fact, tea has been a constant in my life for as long as I can remember. All of my immediate family growing up drank tea, as well as my extended family including grandmothers, aunts, uncles, cousins.....We are tea people!

These days the talk is all about the health benefits of tea. I have to believe its true. There is something so comforting and soothing about a hot cup of tea! I'm sure that is how God intended it.  

Please, God, bless!

"And on the banks, on both sides of the river, there will grow all kinds of trees for food. Their leaves will not wither, nor their fruit fail, but they will bear fresh fruit every month, because the water for them flows from the sanctuary. Their fruit will be for food, and their leaves for healing.”  Ezekiel 47:12

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.

Dandelion Wishes

Day 337:  I remember "wishies".  That's what we used to call dandelions ready to scatter to the wind. Make a wish, blow, and watch the seeds scatter.  I suppose the wish rides along those seeds and somehow it is answered...so we hope.  I wonder if wishing the dandelion's in my yard away would work?

There are lots of such "wish" making avenues.  Throw a penny in a fountain.  Blow out the candle for a birthday.  I'm not knocking it.  I find it fun and nostalgic.  But certainly blowing my heartfelt desires into the wind--and spreading weeds in the process--is hardly an effective means to receive any sort of response.

When I pray, I know God hears me.  I know he always answers me.  Jesus said,

"Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours."  Mark 11:24 ESV

Many people like to confuse this point, assuming the Lord is a genie that grants any indulgent wish we may have.  Not true. What we pray for should always align to his will, be pure in motive and glorifying to Him.  So, what about things that seem to be in His will, like healing?  That's a tough one.  I do know that many, many ministries have been borne out of sickness, trials, and adversity. While the trials may be crushing, remember that it is sometimes necessary to release the fragrance.

So, when you ask, believe that you have recieved your answer, but also be willing to accept that it may not be in the way you expect or hope.    

Please, God, bless!



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.

Remember the Fox

Day 336:  My gal pal came home from her vacation with more foxes.  She has this fox statue on her porch, and whenever we stop by with the dog, she growls at it because it looks so real.  In the sun room she has a cute wooden fox, and in the living room, a cool looking ceramic modern fox.

Foxes are interesting creatures.  For one, they really are beautiful.  There are ~50 different fox species, the smallest weighing just 3 lbs.  They don't chew their food, but use their shearing teeth to cut it into manageable chunks.  They are cunning predators, theiving food, and have a notable high pounce.  They live in small holes in the ground, or sometimes cubbies above ground.

Throughout the Bible foxes are not cast in a positive light.  Foxes are used to describe theiving creatures, sly, deceptive men, and a means of judgement when Samson set fire between their tails and let them loose in the city. Jesus' reference to foxes made mention of their earthly homes and noted that as our Saviour, He had none.  Still, the Lord knew the foxes, He knew where they lived. Even though they were bound to the world, they were still in his sight.

Are you praying for someone who is bound to the world?  There are so many people, like foxes, in all shapes, sizes, races, genders, with amazing qualities.  Yet, they are bound to the world, and known by their iniquity.  But there is always hope.  God knows what they have done, knows what they will do. He knows where they live, where their heart is.  There is always hope because the One who knows them, knows how to save them. Foxes indeed are beautiful, and can serve as a reminder of God's ability to save. So, keep praying.


Please, God, bless!

"And Jesus said to him, “Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head.” Matthew 8:20 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.

MUFFIN MONDAY!

Day 335:  I can't believe it, but I am on my LAST 30 DAYS of my doodle challenge!  I can't believe it!  I have no idea what I'm going to do next!

Today was a self-declared holiday at work--what I call MUFFIN MONDAY!  I figure if I can't fix anything, at least I can induce some sugar-induced happy!  Sometimes, its the little things....

Please, God, bless!

"Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices; my flesh also dwells secure." Psalm 16:9 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.

Meandering Mind

Day 334: From "My Utmost for His Highest" by Oswald Chambers:

Jesus did not say, “Dream about your Father who is in the secret place,” but He said, “…pray to your Father who is in the secret place….” Prayer is an effort of the will. After we have entered our secret place and shut the door, the most difficult thing to do is to pray. We cannot seem to get our minds into good working order, and the first thing we have to fight is wandering thoughts. The great battle in private prayer is overcoming this problem of our idle and wandering thinking. We have to learn to discipline our minds and concentrate on willful, deliberate prayer.

Please, God, bless!

"When you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly."  Matthew 6:6

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.

Mini Muffin, Anyone?

Day 333:  Very busy morning as we enjoyed a back-to-school brunch with some of the boy's class.
It's always nice to see the parents, and meet all of the new families. The kids all seemed to enjoy themselves--lots of sweets (amazing how fast the mini chocolate chip muffins go!) and the hubby and I enjoyed talking to the parents.

What srikes me the most from our conversation is just how "family" they already feel.  We are part of the Body of Christ, so of course that unites us. We all have a common goal for our kids, to be Godly young men and women.

Off to another event, here is a muffin for you!

Please, God, bless!

"Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it."  Proverbs 22:6 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.

Puzzles

Day 332: Mom was doing a puzzle of vintage ads, so my doodle is a quick sketch of a gal reminiscent of that era.

Puzzles are fun, and there is a great deal of satisfaction when you finish one.  Maybe it is something about finally seeing the big picture.

God gives us the big picture, a piece at a time.  He will direct us a step of the way, and we may not know how the pieces will fit. But He is faithful.  Know that the next piece will fit perfectly, but maybe not adjacent to the one just completed.  It won't be until a later time when they all fit together and reveal the final product.

Please, God, bless!

"Whoever heeds instruction is on the path to life..."  Proverbs 10:17a 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.

Surrounded

Day 331:  Praying for so many prayer needs today.  A coworkers mom, another coworker preparing for major surgery, Anne Graham Lotz as she grieves for her husband, A friends recovery from surgery, another friends heart condition, health and protection for family members.  And so many more. It can be overwhelming, the needs, the hurt, the loss...

May God surround those in need with his comfort, peace, and love.

Please, God, bless!

"As the mountains surround Jerusalem, So the LORD surrounds His people From this time forth and forever." Psalms 125:2 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.

Happy Fish

Day 330:  What makes this fish happy?  He is just going with the flow, not fighting against it. Sometimes it just isn't worth the extra hassle.

May you have a flow-tastic day!

Please, God, bless!

"Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall."  Ps 55:22

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.

Catnap

Day 329:  I'm so happy for my boss, who is vacationing this week and celebrating a family event. However, I will be VERY happy when he gets back.  It's always insanely busy when he is gone.  Our small staff thankfully makes sure that everything is covered, but of course, there always seems to be something ridiculous that comes up and needs to be addressed when he is gone. Today I made the case for a particular effort so many times, I'm starting to feel like a lawyer!

As a result of the day's mayhem, I am pretty pooped! Here is a super quick doodle of a catnap....speaking of a nap.....

Please, God, bless!

"I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint."  Jeremiah 31:25  

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.

Selfie Generation

Day 328:  It is a very different world today than it was when I was a kid.  How quickly things have changed!  The Selfie Generation. Kids no longer feel destined for anything, but think they are entitled to everything. So many kids are raised in broken or non-conventional homes which now is the norm. Kids post their unfiltered thoughts and pictures on social media, and realize too late that words cannot be taken back--especially when posted online. Sex ed is being taught to kids before their tweens, and perversity and violance is prevalant on tv, games, and in society. Tolerance is intolerant, and integrity is lacking. Its no wonder so many kids are struggling these days. So, as the schools tilt back into full swing over the next few weeks, say a prayer for the kids.

Please, God, bless!

"But if you cause one of these little ones who trusts in me to fall into sin, it would be better for you to have a large millstone tied around your neck and be drowned in the depths of the sea."  Matt 18:6

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.

PRESEASON!!!

Day 327:  Has anyone else been a tad excited over the start of football again?  Yeah, I'm a big dork when I comes to football--I love it.  It was nice that my team won their first preseason game.  Ok, ok, so its preseason...but still...they won.  Lets hope THIS season we can get through it without some cheating scandal by the Pats...

I hope you all had a great first preseason weekend!

Please, God, bless!

"An athlete is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules." 2 Timothy 2:5 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.

Alligators

Day 325:  Spent the afternoon hangin' with alligators at the Alligator Farm.   Lots of photo ops and opportunities for funny pictures.  We saw every species of alligator plus some birds, monkeys, lemurs, and turtles.  We watched an alligator feeding. They fed this thing large dead rats and a dead chicken.  They seem to lumber, but when food is involed, this massive 17 ft alligator leapt up extraordinarily fast to get its dinner.  Lets just say I hope  I am never on the same side of the glass as one of these critter.

Please, God, bless!

"Shall the prey be taken from the mighty, or the lawful captive delivered?"  Is 49:24

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.

Rick-Rolled

Day 324:  My kid has been giggling between him and his pals about being "Rick-Rolled"...it seems they end each other videos and links that look seemingly normal for the content they are supposed to have--when suddenly Rick Astley pops on the screen swaying and belting out, "Never gonna give you up, never gonna let you do-ow-own...."  They think its hysterical, and frankly I did too. I remember the carrot-topped singer's 1987 vid debut.  It was kind of funny, aside from the awkward swaying, but the body and voice seemed, well, mismatched. Little guy, big voice.

Throughout history there are many interesting mismatches.  Moses was a prince's son, and left it behind to lead the Hebrews to freedom.   Gideon was a coward and let his people to victory.  Paul was the Jew of Jews and became the primary force behind spreading the gospel to the Gentile world.  God uses the weak for great purpose..the most fascinating mismatch. Just something to think about next time you get "Rick-Rolled"!

Please, God, bless!

"But God chose what is nonsense in the world to make the wise feel ashamed. God chose what is weak in the world to make the strong feel ashamed." 1 Cor 1:27 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.

Promises

Day 324: Things don't always work out the way I plan them.  I had planned to take the day off.  Then yesterday, being rather behind, I figured I would come in for the morning.  The morning turned into lunch, and it was 2pm when I finally left.  In the end it worked out well, I got some things done I had committed to complete this week, and I still had plenty of daylight to enjoy with the hubby. The promise of a nice evening spurred me along despite my shortcomings and long-stayings!

I was reading in 2 Peter again, and I was struck by the fact that through Jesus' glory and excellence he has given us these amazing promises.  Merriam Webster defines a promise as "1a:  a declaration that one will do or refrain from doing something specified.  b:  a legally binding declaration that gives the person to whom it is made a right to expect or to claim the performance or forbearance of a specified act".  So, its very reassuring to know that I will be receive what the Lord has so graciously declared will be mine. Sometimes these promises are exactly what I need to re-energize me to keep pressing on.  In Willmington's Book of Bible Lists, it documents some of the many awesome promises I know God has already and will continue to keep! I expect to receive every one of them!

• Answers to Prayer
• Assurance
• Cleansing
• Comfort
• Companionship
• Deliverance
• Fruitfulness
• Growth
• Guidance
• Hope
• Joy
• Knowledge
• Liberty
• Peace
• Rest
• Strength
• Wisdom
• Victory 

Please, God, bless!

"His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through the full knowledge of the one who called us by his own glory and excellence. Through these he has given us his precious and wonderful promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, seeing that you have escaped the corruption that is in the world caused by evil desires." 2 Pet 1:3-4 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.

Project Manager's Lesson for the Day

Day 323:  I am a project manager, and as such I am a firm believer in good planning before running of to execute.  Every large project should have a charter that includes the direction, problem to be solved, objectives, assumptions, and scope at a minimum.  This lays a good foundation for the project, provides clear direction and the ability to gauge success, as well as preventing scope creep.

Tonight I was listening to 1 Corinthians while I was doing something, and I was struck by the verse that talked about our foundation, Jesus Christ.  Just like with a project charter, Jesus provides clarity, direction, tells me what success looks like in God's eyes, and keeps it simple.  Man likes to add a bunch of rules, which is scope creep.  But if the foundation is secure, you realize it is out of scope and should not be incorporated into our faith-life.

Please, God, bless!

"For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ."  1 Cor 3:11 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.

Coworkers

Day 321:  Did you ever have one of those days at work that is just so disheartening?  It's easy to give in to being overwhelmed, and to be discouraged.  Thankfully, I work with some really awesome people.  If it wasn't for the people, the nonsense would be intolerable. I am very, very blessed by my current team, my coworkers, and looking back over the years, I have had the best office mates!

I have made some great friends throughout my career, and hopefully only a few detractors. I have worked with folks that have made me laugh, made me mad, frustrated me, puzzled me, annoyed me, praised me, crticized me, and amazed me; all of whom have challenged me in one way or another to be better in one way or another--at least I hope that's the case!

So, thank you, and a shout out to all of the great folks I have worked with and currently work with! At the end of the day, it really is about the people

Please, God, bless!

"Behold how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity!"  Ps 133:1b

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.

Donald

Day 320:  I read an article today that talked about the general surprise across both political parties at who is leading the polls.  Donald Trump.  Now, I am not so sure he is fit to be a president, but I can certainly see why he is leading the polls.

He isn't a politician.

He doesn' continually apologize every time someone takes offense.

He doesn't apologize on people's behalf.

He doesn't sound like a polished, canned talking head.

He doesn't fake accents to suit the town he is in.

He doesn't promise the sun, moon, and stars.

When he speaks, you can tell it is not a planned speech.

He says what most people are thinking, and most politicians are afraid to say.

I think many people are sick of people telling the masses what they want to hear just to get elected, and then suddenly have an epiphany, or a change of heart shortly after their terms begin.  I think these candidates all need a dose of brazen honesty, because the people need to hear the honest truth.

It is the same with our faith.  The times are short.  Many people don't want to hear the Truth--they like the lies.  But, there are some who are tired of it.  We need to be bluntly honest.  Those who are tired of the lies of this world will hear the Truth.

Only God knows what this next election will bring.  But in the meantime I'll enjoy some ridiculously blunt honesty over smooth talking.  Its a game changer.

Please, God, bless!

"Don't tell us what is right. Tell us nice things. Tell us lies."  Is 30:10b 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.

Larry

Day 320:  Visiting in Florida, we saw a little guy that kept peeking in the window.  My son has dubbed him Larry.  I'm not sure if he was checking us out, or wanted to be let into the air conditioning.  In any case, he stuck around on the storm door, gazing thoughtfully into our abode.  I wonder what he thinks, looking at these giant people walking around the house?

There are so many days I look at what is going on in the world, and I feel like an outsider looking in. I wonder what is going on in with these giant sized problems that seem to plague the world, and those who exist oblivious to them.  Like Larry, I gaze, wondering what the deal is.

This pic is a quick sketch of a photo sent to me of another Florida "Larry".  I would have loved to spend more time doing the little guy justice, but I'm sure we all know how that goes!

Please, God, bless!

"He said to them, “You are from below; I am from above. You are of this world; I am not of this world."  John 8:23 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.

Waves

Day 319: A perfect day at the beach!  The weather was perfect, the water was lovely.

Please, God, bless!

Psalms 89:9

You rule the swelling of the sea; When its waves rise, You still them.

- See more at: http://bible.knowing-jesus.com/topics/Waves#sthash.ES4Pha07.dpuf

Winking Owl

Day 318:  After a busy day in transit I was too pooped to think of an idea, so my boy

made some random design, and I made it into a winking owl type of thing.  Collaborative effort!

Please, God, bless!

Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil.  Ecc 4:9 

Debate or Sport?

Day 317:  Republican debates. A ton of candidates, the country in complete dissarray, and this is almost like a sporting event. Sadly, this isn't a sporting event. It's the state of our country.

We have so many issues in this country....its almost overwhelming. The days truly are dark.

We need a Saviour. And a
Saviour we will find. We will either find our salvation in the one who gave his life to save us out of His abiding love; or salvation will be with one who masquesrades as a peacemaker, feigns love, promises equality---just to be revealed as a divider, hater, and one who enslaves.

The days are dark, the choice is yours. Obviously, I will vote my world view, but the bigger choice is where I put my hope. I do not put my hope and salvation in my government. My hope is in God, and God alone. All authorities are in existence by God's hand, for His purposes. I may not like my government leadership, but I trust God more than men.

Choose your candidate, but more importantly, pray!

Please, God, bless!

For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Rom 13:1-5

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.

Skin Tight Jeans

Day 316:  Today I saw and reposted a video that brought me back to my teens, and era when skin tight jeans were the thing....Jordache, Allesio, Sergio, Sassoon, Calvins, etc.  They put skinny jeans to shame.  They were not nearly as stretchy as today's skinny's, and cut so that you literally had to squeeze yourself into these things like a sausage casing!  Just as in this video, I remember jumping around the room struggling to pull my jeans on.  Does anyone remember struggling to pull the zipper up? Remember using a fork and hoping you didn't slip and stab yourself?  And when you finally got them on, they were hardly comfortable.  Sitting at a desk for hours was almost torturous! And when you took them off at night, you could see the outline of the stitching on your legs...it was like you never took them off.  And, just when your skins resumed its normal state and stitch imprints faded, it was time to start the jump-off-the-roof-into-my-jeans routine again.

Why did we do it?  Why did we wear them? The same reason fluorescent pant,s parachute pants, members only jackets, acid wash, shredded jeans, etc were worn.  It was "in".  Its no different than any other era of fashion absurdity.  Maybe that's why today I prefer a giant sweatshirt and comfy pants. The older I get, the less I seem to care about looking "in", as long I wear what I like vice what the masses like.  I strive to at least be presentable...and on weekends even THAT is questionable.

I know its easy to spend an awful lot of time and energy on things that really don't matter.  All the money I spent on those jeans to look ridiculous AND be uncomfortable!

Now, if Exersoles came back........

Seriously, don't love the things of the world.

Please, God, bless!

"Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions—is not from the Father but is from the world. And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever."  1 John 2:15-17 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.

Knives

Day 315:  Chatted today with my gal pal about new knives.  Gosh, they are so expensive!  I'm always one for a bargain, but if you get good knives they last far longer than the cheapy ones from your local department store.  And, they actually makes cooking more enjoyable because its easier--no fighting with your food!

Sometimes you really do get what you pay for.  Like the parable of the man who sold all he had to buy the field in which he hid a treasure, he knew the investment was worth the cost.  What is my investment in Christ?  What does being a follower of Jesus cost me?  Everything, really.  And, though becoming more prevalant, I'm not really talking about persecution.  I'm talking about my complete self. A continued deference to His will vice my own.  Pride so easily disguises itself as my rights, my will, my desires. It is so prevalant in this "selfie" generation.  More often than I like to admit, I fall into the mode of pride, and in what I think I deserve.  But, that is an ugly thing, and I feel its filth to the point where I end up on my knees repenting. The truth is, I don't deserved anything but death for my sin against a Holy God.  That may sound dramatic, but maybe that's because it is.

I like to describe it to children kind of like this.  God is a Holy God, and therefore cannot tolerate sin. Think of an operating room.  The room must be completely sterile.  The doctors must scrub and scrub, and be germ free.  The instruments must be germ free.  Why?  Because  one microscopic specimen can kill a patient. Sin is like that microscopic specimen.  One small bacteria, unseen by the human eye, taints the sterile environment.  One sin-no matter how small-would taint God's Holiness, And for His Glory and His Justice, He simply cannot allow that.

Yes, I think giving up my will, dying to myself is a huge price to pay...but is it worth it?  Absolutely.  God promises to fulfill the desires of my heart.  No, not everything I want...but everything an untainted heart longs for.  And really, isnt that what life is about?

Please, God, bless!

"“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field."  Matt 13:44

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.

Flinging POO!

Day 314:  POO---The Card Game.

So, I have to say, when I read the description for this card game, I laughed so hard I cried.  I had to buy it.  We played it tonight for the first time, and yeah, I laughed again-this game was a lot of fun! Basically, you are all monkeys who had a bad day. And when monkeys have a bad day, what do they do? Fling POO! So, the whole game you are putting POO cards on people, and every now and again you can play a "grab a towel" card to clean off a point of two of POO. Or, play a sprinkler card and clean of 4 points of poo off of everyone. There are some crazy cards, so when people try to fling POO on you, you can deflect the POO to your opponents. It sounds gross, but really, there is nothing graphic, just a lot of the word POO.....which is funny!

Now, forgive me the ridiculous stretch...I do hope you laughed a little.  It strikes me in this game that you are continually being socked with POO, and no matter how much you try to clean it off yourself, you are immediately full of POO again. This just reminds me of sin. We can try to towel ourselves off, or hope others come to our aid with a washrag, but  a minute later we are filthy with sin again! Thank God we have a Saviour who came to make us clean, even when we sin over and over and over and over.....NO amount of POO can keep us from Heaven, thanks to Jesus.

So, grab POO--The Card Game, and when you can't get clean for more than 30 seconds, remember our best efforts will not get us clean. It takes a Saviour-Jesus Christ-to cleanse us effectively from our sins.  

Please, God, bless!


"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."1 John 1:9 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.

Fantasy Land

Day 313:  My son (and the hubby for that matter) love these games where you get to make up a character and go on an adventure. My husband likes to be a Mage, and my son, his last game he was what I would deem a Leprizombifairy, since I couldn't figure out what it was....but it looked like a leprachaun, with a skull face and wings.  These characters go on these quests.  I suppose its the adventure and the puzzle solving they are both drawn to.

Paul was an adventurous guy.  And he definitely knew his quest.  I often wonder how cool it would be to have a video game for Paul, who was a zealot turned fanatic, bold and brash in his teaching, confident and assured of the end game, and loving and kind at the same time.  I think someone needs to invent that!

Please, God, bless!

"I am a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but brought up in this city, educated under Gamaliel, strictly according to the law of our fathers, being zealous for God just as you all are today." Acts 22:3

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.

Peeps!

Day 312:  Lovely day at the National Harbor.  I met a fellow Eagles fan in the Christmas store. YEAH! Played in the cool game store, and checked out the waterfront. I think the highlight was the ridiculous the Peep store...who knew they had their own store? Peeps of every flavor, size, some even chocolate covered. Not to mention peep shirts, slippers, pajama pants, magnets, lunchboxes, plushies, etc. And lets' not forget the yellow Volkswagen Beetle with a giant Peep perched on top. Too funny!

What is it about peeps? Besides being cute, they are awfully sweet. I suppose it gives them character. A little sweet every now and again is a good thing!

Please, God, bless!

"My son, eat honey, for it is good, and the drippings of the honeycomb are sweet to your taste."  Proverbs 24:13 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.