Benefit of the Doubt

What a revelation this young lady was disclosing as she spoke.  I was sitting in an adult Bible Study Class, and the teacher had just asked the question, “How can we love our enemies?”     

image courtesy of PhotoBucket

One of the ladies was explaining how she reacts to people who are rude or angry or very upset.

She said she just makes up an excuse for them in her mind and gives them the “Benefit of the doubt.”

She reasoned, perhaps they have had a very bad day, they received some bad news, are getting over the flue, or they may possibly have a rock in their shoe!!

She went on to say that she chooses to believe something good about the person, rather than something bad, when she has the possibility of doing either.

If we treated our enemies and friends this way, believing the best of them, we might be able to stop all wars or at least get along better with each other. 

Image courtesy Photo Bucket

 
One thing we must realize is - - that in believing the best of people, we must not justify wickedness. Honestly, some people are simply mean, manipulative, hateful and evil.  We can pray for them to repent and to open their heart to the Lord.

Understand that they probably will not listen to you preaching at them, but you can pray that God will send someone else to them. They may listen to a friend, a neighbor a TV program, or read a magazine that will strike a cord in their spirit.

The best thing is to try first to give them the benefit of the doubt, and if that doesn’t work, then the next best thing is to distance your self from them.

In a job situation this may not be possible, but you can at least be civil and polite.

image courtesy photobucket

Other times it is wise to learn to be quiet !!  

Proverbs 15:1 - 2 A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
The tongue of the wise makes knowledge acceptable, but the mouth of fools spouts folly.


Proverbs 19:11 A man's discretion makes him slow to anger, And it is his glory to overlook a transgression.

Sharing this post at "There and back again"  Inspired by Polly's post on adjusting our view with our camera.  My post on Benefit of the Doubt is adjusting our thinking and attitudes.  See it again at:  http://charitysingleton.blogspot.com/search/label/There%20and%20Back%20Again 



House Pets

There are some house pets that you would prefer not to have and we recently had one of those move in on us. How he ever got into the house was a mystery, but there he was!!

It was a tiny lizard, just a small one like the one who lives under my hydrangea bush.

image courtesy PhotoBucket

One of our Labrador dogs has very long hair and we find globs every so often on the rug or in the kitchen. So I reached for what seemed to be a clump of dog hair, and when it quickly moved and skimmed across the room, I screamed quite loudly from the surprise.

Coming to the rescue, my husband helped me move some items in the corner but it scurried even faster into our office and under my desk.

I know the little creature must have been terribly frightened with all the hollering and shouting, “There he is.”

No way would my husband attack and move the stacks of books and paper under my desk, so he did the next best thing. - -  Hubby placed a small saucer of water under my desk and we rested.

The next morning we could see he must have taken a bath and enjoyed the water.  By noon we saw him again, and this time we cornered him under a small stand.

Grabbing a kitchen towel, we cautiously moved the stand while my husband lunged forward and with a sweeping motion caught him in the towel.

Gently my hubby took him out side and re-introduced him to the hydrangea bush.  We were all happy and I know that little guy was too.

In life there are things that happen that catch us by surprise!  Some times we yell and scream and other times we worry and fret and are fearful.

When stuff happens and life is frightful, it is always time to trust in God.

He has not promised us a life of ease with no trouble, but he does promise to be with us in what ever are the circumstances. In time, you may be able to sweep out, that which is bothering you, and enjoy peace again.

You may need to take action and put your elbow to work getting rid of the problem, but God will give you wisdom and strength to get it done.

This post has been entered in “Changing the World One Word at a Time.” Please visit and check out the other great posts at:  http://peterpollock.com/2011/06/pets-blog-carnival/  Today’s word is “Pets.”

This post was also shared at: http://www.elizabethesther.com/ Saturday Evening Posting the favorite post for the month of June

Speak Like Jeremiah – What ever God tells you!

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This Sunday morning our Pastor read the passage from Jeremiah chapter one, and he mentioned that Jeremiah was the son of the priest, and was a young teen when God called him at the age of no more than 15 or 16 years old.


God told him, "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I have appointed you a prophet to the nations."

Jeremiah – began to make excuses and say that he could not speak and that he was too young to be a prophet.  God comforted him by telling him not to be fearful or to think that he was too young to speak for God.  He was ordained to do business for GOD and God would be with him.

The Lord would not take NO for an answer, and told him, “Do not be afraid to speak what I tell you as I will put the words in your mouth, just be bold to speak.”

Our Pastor mentioned that Jeremiah was often called the weeping prophet because he was grieved that he had to speak so severely to the people.

Jeremiah was obedient and spoke harshly at times, warning and urging the people to turn to God and forsake their evil ways. He often wept at his own words. He was sorrowful that he was required of God to speak his message of gloom and doom and most of the time they would not heed his message.

God was with him as he cried and warned God’s people. He was ridiculed and made fun of in the process. He was even beaten and at one point thrown into a pit. Yet his words burned like fire as he spoke and those words went into the hearts of those he ministered to.

He was fearless as a lion as God told him not to pay attention to those who scorned him, and to know that God was with him and would be his ever present help even in time of trouble.

Our Pastor urged the congregation, to understand that we as children of God are never too young OR too OLD to speak out what God has given us to say. Be bold as a lion.

I am reminded of those who Blog in the Name of Jesus and speak for God in each of their posts. Know that you are called to speak and write what God tells you to say! Speak and sometimes weep as you tell your stories for others to hear. May your words burn like fire and go down into the hearts of the viewers and hearers and bring them closer to their God.

This post was entered on Hear it on Sunday, Use it on Monday. View other awesome entries by clicking on the button below.

This post was also shared at PlayDates at the Well Spring:  Visit here to view other awesome posts
http://www.lauraboggess.com/2011/06/playdates-friends.html

and at: Soli Deo Gloria Sisterhood - Finding Heaven

HELL NO !

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The dirty thick steam sloshed over my toes, splashed  to my knees,

Filth with blood and flesh, maggots, stench beyond belief,

Is this for real or am I in some sort of a horror-able dream?

Put out the fire for it blinds my eyes and intensifies my pain!

Where am I, who put me here?

Did I make a wrong turn back there?

I expected long life and never did I plan for this!

My hopes and dreams are all amiss.

Where is the day, or is there only this night?

How can I change this and make it all right?

Beyond the veil of tears is there a glint of hope and bliss?

My years are less than twenty and no one ever told me this!

At least that is not how it seemed to me!

More time, I must have more time, where can it be?

My eyes seem glued closed and I cannot view!

Open my eyes and tell me this is not true!

Why oh why did I not believe Words that were said,

Yes, I was too young to become one of the dead,

“Get right with God, for you never know the day or the hour.”

I laughed to myself, for I knew I was in power.

While there was time, I should have heeded the call,

“Receive Jesus,” they said, “serve Him for He is all in all.”

If this is a dream, I pray that I will awake,

For it will be that I will amend -- for my own and others sake!

Now I understand, now I believe,

May I change my mind and now may I leave?

If I could go back I would be a preacher of fame,

While it is yet day, accept the Lord Jesus Christ and believe on His Name!

Yes, I would preach loud and clear,

Destruction is ahead for those who refuse to hear!

This is one place I wish for no one else to go!

By all means, I shout it - - HELL NO !



Hydrangeas in Bloom

Thrusting my entire arm deep into my large hydrangea bush, I broke the stem of the huge flower that I wanted to bring into my home.

There was no thought in mind to wear gloves as I reached for my lovely flowers.

They were so beautiful to view as I walked around our mobile, but they would also be a pleasure to enjoy in a vase in my kitchen.

   
The more you picked them the more they grew and blossomed, so I was doing the right thing - - -

Almost - - I should have worn a long sleeved shirt and gloves!!

Alergies have not been my thing since I was a teenager, so the rash that developed on my wrist and back of my hand was a mystery. And a day later on the back of my neck it was all extremely suspicious!

“It looks like Poison Oak to me,” ventured my husband.

Yes, I remembered him telling me there were some Poison Oak plants starting to come up here and there in our yard, and he was going to spray in a day or two.

However I had been very careful not to disturb anything that looked like poison to me.

“Put some Cortisone on it and it will help,” advised my husband.

I knew better from experience that all the expensive prescription ointments and creams purchased prior had never helped in the past. To please him I did try some Hydrocortisone and also tried some Neosporin. The redness continued as did the irritating itch.

Home remedies of soda and vinegar helped some, but it looks like it may simply need to run its ugly course.

One thing that caused me to be sad is; that my Hydrangea bush looks so distressed because I am afraid to approach it and pick its blooms.

My husband offers more condolence and suggests, “You probably got it off the dogs, as I notice they are scratching a lot lately.”

What ever the cause, I got too close to something that got on me!  What is the remedy?  Is there one??

That is the way it is with sin in this world. It is wise to not get too close lest it get on and in you! “Only this one time,” is not a good answer.

It is wise to choose carefully your companions and where you hang out.  Once infected, only one remedy will wash it all away.   And that my dear friend is the precious blood of Jesus.

Date Nut Cake

image courtesy of PhotoBucket

Did you know that dates are loaded with fiber both soluble and insoluble? Dates are able to fill you up and will help keep your body regular, while they satisfy your sweet tooth and are healthy for you.

They are an excellent source of potassium and provide numerous other important vitamins and minerals. Quite a powerhouse packed in a tiny, portable package

Adding dates to home-baked breads, cakes, muffins, and cookies adds richness and nutrition to otherwise ordinary recipes. And the natural moisture of dates adds to the quality of the final product.

My Date Nut Cake is a collector’s item, and can be enjoyed for breakfast or a snack. For a desert, add some lemon sauce or your favorite topping.

DATE NUT CAKE

1 cup sugar
1/2 tsp salt
3  T cocoa
1 tsp cinnamon
1 cup real mayonnaise (whole egg)
1 cup chopped walnuts
1 cup chopped dates
1 tsp soda
1 cup boiling water
2 cups sifted flour

Mix the first 4 ingredients in a bowl. Add the mayonnaise and blend.
In a separate bowl, add the soda to the boiling water and pour over the nuts and dates and allow stand a few minutes to cool and plump the dates.  Add to the mayonnaise mixture and stir.  Gradually add the flour and mix well.

Bake in a 12 x 8 rectangular baking pan, at 350 degrees for 40 to 50 minutes.

This post has been entered in Ann Kroeker’s, Food on Fridays at http://annkroeker.com/
Do visit her site and gather up some delicious and nutritious recipes.



Also shared at 21st Century Housewife:  http://recipesfromthe21stcenturyhousewife.blogspot.com/

 Visit her week end Blog Hop and view other entries

Guest Post by MoonLight55

Ms Moonlight offers deluxe home made kitchen crafts !  Here she says;

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http://www.etsy.com/shop/moonlight55?ref=ss_profile

At checkout, please type in JULY10 to receive a 10% discount.

These items make great gifts as well.  Do you need a hostess, birthday, holiday or wedding gift?

There are many choices in casserole carriers besides the just added double insulated pot holders and trivets. All are made from high quality Home Décor fabric and are washable.

If you don't see something you love, please check back since I often add new items.” 

Once you are in Moonlight's site, save it to your favorites so you can easily return.

Happy shopping and do come back soon! 

This post was entered on 21st Century Housewife - Blog Hop
For other awesome entries please visit her site at:
http://recipesfromthe21stcenturyhousewife.blogspot.com/

Fathers are Needed by their Family

Every work place has their own set of abbreviations that mean something to those working there.

At our job at the Family Support Department, there were words and abbreviations known only to us.

AP meant Absent Parent (could be either one). NCP was Non Custodial Parent, again either one.

Our main function at our job was to collect the monthly child support payments and forward them to the CP, (Custodial Parent.)

I remember one day, when my co-worker was extremely upset with her husband. I knew she was angry by the way she tore into her work. A bee was certainly under her bonnet!!

Later that morning, up the stairs happily skipped one of the girls from the front desk carrying a large bouquet of roses. She sang a sort of sing song remark as she yodeled, “These just came for YOU,” then she handed the lovely flowers to my friend. The girl continued, “He must have done something real-ly bad!”

The other workers who could not help overhearing laughed, but my friends face softened.

When all was quiet and my friend was ready to listen; I began to speak softly just to her. Not referring to the flowers, or to my friend’s anger, but telling her a short parable.

I began, “You know, darlin’, I have noticed that most of these NCP cases we deal with all have an interesting story. Many times, the woman becomes so angry with her jerk, stupid, no good, useless husband, that she dumps him for what ever good reason she believes. The amazing part of these cases is that there is usually another women out there waiting to grab that worthless, son of a gun, man as soon as he is free. I wonder if the wife might just be better off to forgive that no good, keep him and simply go on with their life?”

That day, she was listening but she said nothing. I knew in my heart that she had got the message “Big time.”

We never talked about her situation, and there was no need to do so.

The story went on; their home was not broken, he applied for and got a better job. He continues to be a good father to their children, and they have a some what - - happy home!

Wives (and hubby too) always be forgiving, and Husbands (and wife too), make no opportunity for offense.

This post was shared at: PlayDates with God at:  Go there to view other Posts you will enjoy viewing!
 http://www.lauraboggess.com/2011/06/playdates-with-god-lettuce.html

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Chocolate Brownies with Dried Cranberries

Last week while visiting April at her site:   http://www.21stcenturyhousewife.com/  I discovered her wonderful recipe for Chocolate Brownies.  Her original recipe was found after her visit at a California winery tour:  see it at:  She gave me permission to share my version with you today.
http://www.21stcenturyhousewife.com/index/Blog/Entries/2011/6/9_Brownies_For_Grown_Ups_at_The_Robert_Mondavi_Winery.html

When I cook and bake, I often alter and vary the recipes especially if I am out of what the recipe calls for.  I was out of chocolate, but I had chocolate chips. No rum, but I had some left over brandy from a Brandy Cake, and not the correct wine, but I had some wine I use to marinade chicken. You will see her recipe below, with my changes just because.

These brownies are Sooo good. My husband votes YES it is a keeper.

Chocolate Brownies with Dried Cranberries or Dried Cherries


6 ounces semisweet chocolate (or ¾ cup chocolate chips melted)
6 ounces butter
1/4 cup rum (I used 1/4 cup brandy)

4 eggs
3/4 cup sugar
3/4 cup finely chopped walnuts
1/4 cup flour (I used 1/3 cup flour)

1/2 cup dried cherries (I used 1/2 cup dried cranberries (Optional also add 1/2 cup raisins)
1 teaspoon sugar
1/4 cup Cabernet Sauvignon (I used white wine)

Put the dried cherries, the raisins, 1 teaspoon of sugar and the wine into a saucepan. Cook on low until the cherries absorb the wine and plump up. Cool and set aside. Drain before you add to the batter.

Melt butter and chocolate in a bowl over simmering water on the stove top. Remove the bowl from the heat and stir in the rum. Let the chocolate mixture cool slightly.

Blend the eggs and sugar together and then slowly add to the warm chocolate mixture. Stir in the flour and nuts until well combined. Pour into oiled baking pan, and bake at 325 degrees on centre rack in the oven for 30 to 40 minutes. Use a tooth pick to check for doneness. Let cool before cutting into squares.

This post has been entered in Ann Kroeker’s, Food on Fridays at http://annkroeker.com/
Do visit her site and gather up some delicious and nutritious recipes.

And He Swallowed His Gum

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The background music was softly playing as my bridegroom, the Minister, and the best man stepped out to the front of the church; waiting for the rest of the wedding party to arrive.

It was evident that the best man was somewhat nervous because he was busily chomping away on a stick of gum.

My mother caught his eye and made a chewing motion with her mouth, and understanding her “sign language message," he promptly swallowed his gum.

“Here comes the bride,” the music began to play and the wedding proceeded with out any further problems at least for the ceremony.

Many weddings have a story to tell of something that went wrong on their special day.

Some are horror stories and some are simply downright humorous!

My sister had decided to play a trick on me, and when we arrived at our motel, I discovered that she had tightly sewed up my new nightgown at all the openings.

I could not contain myself and began to laugh loudly at her joke. I told her later that she was pretty funny and of course I was not angry at her harmless prank.

Not so funny was the other stunt done to our borrowed car. We never knew for sure who it was, but someone had loosened the lug bolts on one of the wheels, which caused the wheel to almost come off. We spent the better part of the next afternoon at the auto wrecking yard purchasing a used wheel to replace the damaged one.

Practical jokes are certainly not funny to the receiver of their brunt! Many times they are dangerous and can seriously harm a person or a relationship.

We tried to teach our children, to never pay back each other for wrongs either true or thought to be, and not to hide or destroy the possessions of others.

Are you writing your hilarious or not so amusing stories? Your yarn may just be the encouragement that someone needs or they could even be stopped in their tracks if they are planning a prank on someone.
Go ahead and write your adventure, someone waits to listen to what you have to say!

On Loan for a Certain Time

On Loan for a predetermined time: image courtesy photobucket

The family gathered around the hospital bed of my Dad. His yellow complexion told us that his kidneys were in bad shape. He had been sick for a long while and we knew it.

He gazed at us with eyes that did not compute any awareness that this was his family hovered around him.

The Doctor informed us that they were going to move Dad to another hospital 35 miles away, where they could treat him better.

Already they had placed an IV into his wrist and were also giving him medicine through the tubes.

A few days later at the other hospital they took Dad into surgery and installed a stint into his body to receive the dialysis treatments that were being prescribed.

Back into his assigned room, he was given an oxygen nasal cannula that was placed on his face to give him better breathing ability. The room was cool, but the sweat rolled off his forehead.

By this time, he was able to recognize his family, but to tell the truth, Dad did not look very happy. A tube was down his throat, and he was not able to tell us that he loved us, but it was there written in his eyes. His eyes also told us that he was afraid and extremely miserable to be there in this hospital. We knew he wanted to go home.

Every day my mother traveled that 70 mile round trip to be with him. Dad seemed to be in pain and he was extremely uncomfortable. Most days he did not recognize mother.

The Doctors were doing their best to keep him alive, but they could not predict a cure. Like a clock ticking, the days marked off until after a set time, his insurance ran out !!

Taking mother out into the hall, the Doctor suggested that there was one more surgery they could do, or she could take him home and somehow transport him back every few days for more dialysis. 

Mother told the Doctor, "No more surgery, he has suffered enough."

The Doctor then asked mother to wait here out in the hall while he stepped back into Dad’s room. Returning he told Mom, “He is gone, you may go in and say good bye.”

God had loaned Dad to our mother for these many years, yet in her heart she knew that it was time to let him return to his maker.

A few days later we all gathered as family and friends to say our fare well, but see you later!

In life each one of us have parents, siblings, family and even pets, who have been LOANED to us for a predetermined time. Although we are not happy about having to say good bye, there comes a time when we must allow them to leave us.

Understanding the lending process is to also be made aware that the person or even our pet must at some point in time be returned to the rightful owner. We weep tears, and usually they are selfish tears because we do not desire to make that release.

The truth is God will wipe away those tears and he will give us his comfort and his peace if we ask.

Temporary Home

 image courtesy PhotoBucket

TEMPORARY HOME

Prepared just for you a place to rest,
Warm and furnished with all you need,

A helper to watch over and share the best,

Someone to love you, to instruct and to lead.

Your dwelling place shall enlarge through time,

Reaching out to others as together you find your way,

The path is long and hard but do not despair,

Night is coming soon, so work while it is day.

Your house is waxing old and in need of repair,

The foundation strong is holding and time will tell
A teacher invites you to accept the Savior,

He comes to stay with you in your home as well

Temporary living quarters has served for today,

A day with God is as a thousand years,

Tomorrow is in God’s hands for who can say,

And when you are gone, He will wipe away the tears.

Rejoice, for your dwelling place prepared by Him,

Was only temporary while on earth you dwelt there,

The Home that is waiting for you will be forever,

His arms will keep you always in His loving care.

image courtesy PhotoBucket

This post has been entered in “Changing the World One Word at a Time” The One Word was “HOME.” Please visit and check out the other great posts at: http://peterpollock.com/2011/06/home-blog-carnival/

I was 17 and then

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I am a romantic and always thrill at an amazing true love story as several of my Blogger friends have recently posted. So many parallels when I view other lives that God has orchestrated their finding a mate.  I am so very happy for those who have found each other perhaps later in life, and also for those who discovered love a second or even a third time.   I share here my story of when Robert and I found each other.

I was 17 and was volunteering to work in the craft department of the Vacation Bible School our church was hosting. We were assigned the kitchen which contained a nice large window viewing the neighbor’s yard.

Through that window I first saw my darling Robert and thought to myself - - such a handsome fellow. One of the boys in our craft class, said, “That is my brother.”

Following the Vacation Bible School, the church held a revival with a fiery evangelist who preached hell fire and brimstone until all the sinners came to the alter to receive Jesus.

Many of the families of the children who came to the VBS were there at the revival. Robert’s family attended also. At the call for repentance, his mother dug her elbow deep into his ribs and up he went to the front to receive the Lord.

The family became regular attendees to the church and often on Sunday my brother invited Robert to have Sunday dinner with us at our home. Ha !!

As winter rolled around a couple from our church invited me, their sister my age, and Robert for a snow trip to Yosemite. We met at the couple’s house, and Bob found a place on the living room floor to sleep.

Most of us didn’t get much rest, and the guys talked several hours. Robert was on his stomach, with his arms cradling his chin and his arm muscles from his hard work at his job, showing beneath his white tee shirt.

Zing, ping went my 17 year old heart strings.

We girls went into another room to giggle and chat. Our hostess friend confided that she had already asked Robert, "which of the girls do you like best, the brunette or the blond?"

He had told her that he liked the blond best. That was me, and I was pleased!

Soon after that we began to date and when I turned 18 we married. I believe it is until death do us part and it has been all of that so far, for all these many years.

For other posts that you may be interested in viewing on true romance see these:

http://www.aholyexperience.com/2011/06/how-to-write-the-best-love-letters/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+HolyExperience+%28Holy+Experience%29

http://drgtjustwondering.blogspot.com/2011/06/eyes-have-it-remembering-our-story.html

Go here for a Blog Jam of other authors but don’t miss Bonnie’s story here also. http://www.faithbarista.com/2011/06/never-been-kissed-when-you-wonder-if-youll-find-true-love/

And shared at the Well Spring: http://www.lauraboggess.com/2011/06/playdates-summer.html

Choose a Pretty Pigeon

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Pigeons were having a field day in my dad’s city garden, and had become a nuisance so he began to take drastic measures. He constructed what he called a pigeon trap and placed it in his garden.

While I worked at my temporary job, my Mom and Dad were caring for my three small children. One day my dad showed my kids all the pigeons he had been catching in his trap.

He told my youngins, “Each of you may choose a pretty pigeon.” With careful thought they began to decide which pigeon was the prettiest. “I like this one, this one and that one.” They spoke with glee, thinking that they were to have a new pet.

Now this is the terrible part of my story and to this day, after many years my children still remember what came next!

My Dad had not prepared my kids for the subsequent event. - - -

Those pigeons were going to be the main course for their lunch,

After all pigeon meat is tasty, just like quail or chicken!!

Dad was not sadistic, he was just being a farm boy, and to him - - the food chain was a fact of life.

He was also just a bit dense working with small children though.

He had devised a creative and brilliant method to rid his garden of pigeon pests and gain some nice meals for his dinner.

Although you and I probably would not resort to catching our dinner, we must realize that the Bible tells us that all food is good when received with thankfulness.

Missionaries in foreign lands have been offered much worse than a pigeon feast, and in order to save face, they have found it necessary to partake of monkey, dog, snake, rats, bugs and the like. Now these would be a gross meal to you and me but they are delicacies to many in other lands!!

So perhaps my Dad was not far off in his determination to take advantage of a nice pigeon banquet.

One thing I hope is - - that you never get yourself into a situation where you must: “Eat Crow!”

This post was inspired by Kat Dishman Richard’s article and you might enjoy her post on birds and doves at: http://katdish.net/2011/06/common-resentment/

Apples, Flaxseed and Yogurt.

With summer coming on, you might enjoy something healthy and light for breakfast.

An older friend gave me this recipe and informed me that it is good for the liver, intestines, gallbladder and stomach. I will share her recipe at the end of this post.

She went on to say that flaxseed is also good for the body in general.

For stomach ache: Flaxseed tea. 2 tsp flaxseed, cover with 8 oz boiling water and let seep for 30 minutes. Drink the tea.

Also good for stomach discomfort, are the following foods: Carrot, coconut milk, eggplant, okra, parsnip, sweet potato. Before meals - - - a persimmon.

Enjoy this simple and easy recipe that is good for your health actually good any time of day!

Breakfast Treat with Apples, Flaxseed and Yogurt

2 Tablespoons flaxseed (I use my blender to grind the seeds)
4 Tablespoons whey (I use plain yogurt)
1 or 2 peeled and finely grated apples.

Mix and enjoy. NO cooking but be sure to finish it all.

Any left over, give it to your dog as it is also healthy for animals.  Add 1 tablespoon of Apple Cider Vinegar and 1 tablespoon of olive oil if you give some to your dog. Their coat will shine!!

This post has been entered in Ann Kroeker’s, Food on Fridays at: http://annkroeker.com/
Do visit her site and gather up some delicious and nutritious recipes.

I Ruined the Photo

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Celebrating the 50th wedding anniversary for my Grandparents on my dad’s side of the family, their 12 children had planned a family reunion at Mooney’s Grove with a picnic and games for the children.

A photographer had been hired to take photos of Granddad and Grandma and other pictures with different shots of various groups of the family.

The most important photo was my Grandmother and Grandfather sitting together in two chairs with nothing behind them except the pale blue sky and a few wooded trees.

However I was a rebellious little 10 year old who thought she knew it all. With a bottle of Coke in one hand, I ventured behind my wonderful grandparents. The photographer saw me and yelled for me to get out of the way so he could take the photo.

I did so, but then I wandered around and over quite a distance away and got into the rear of the back ground. While raising my coke bottle to my lips, I waited then quietly left.

I thought I was invisible to all, but the truth was - - not quite.

A few weeks later the photos were ready and as they were closely examined, one of my uncles called my dad on the telephone.

My uncle was very upset, and he spoke in an angry but controlled voice, “There is a girl in the background of the main photo of Mom and Dad, and it looks like one of yours. She certainly has ruined this photo.”

My parents called my sister and me into the front room and told us to sit on the couch.

My dad’s deep voice bellowed, “Which one of you ruined Grandma and Grandpa’s 50th wedding anniversary photo?”

One look at me with my red face and “guilty as charged look,” Dad knew that it was me.

Dad and mother were so embarrassed by my actions and that was my major punishment.

My Dad made sure that I understood that everyone in the entire extended family of Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles, and many cousins all knew what I had done.

Knowing that was also a burden very difficult for me to carry.

I can’t remember if I received a spanking - - but I probably did, as that was customary!

One lesson that I learned was that even when you think no one is watching, you will still be found out and you will be discovered in the long run.

The Bible reminds us that “Be sure your sin will find you out.”  My sin always did!

The best suggestion is not to get into those situations that will bring you and your family embarrassment and shame.

Were you ever embarrassed to tears? Hopefully not and if so, hopefully not again!

Dogs and Duck Toys

Photo by Hazel

Our dogs are for the most part, outside dogs, however, we do allow them to come into the house and they are assigned to a rug, (sort of.)  At least they try to touch the rug!!

Our two black Labs, love to retrieve and that is a problem for our older Lab Buck.

Luke the younger dog will not allow older Lab Buck to enjoy the toys we give them in the house. Luke is selfish and wants them all.  Buck is laid back and gives in to the baby.

Walmart has two different sizes of duck toys. One is larger for about $6. and a smaller version is $2.99. For us the smaller one works just fine.

Luke will lie on the kitchen rug, toss the duck and roll around enjoying the squawk squeak sound that it makes when he bites it.

We must only allow him to have it for a short period of time or else he begins to chew off the nose and remove the stuffing. (Experience and 3 ducks later have told us this.)

Luke also knows he is not allowed to take his duck outside, for it will come back caked with dirt and leaves. We use an "Aaa Aaa Aaa" sound and he drops it before he leaves our kitchen to return out side.

Our Blue Tick Hound is not interested in Dog Toys and the only thing he did chew up once when he was a puppy was my husband’s shoe.  Granddaughter Ashley won an award for this photo!!

Award Photo "Guilty" (Baby Smokey) by Granddaughter Ashley

We enjoy our dogs, and they are a lot of company. They also are our protectors and because they look fierce, we believe they scare off problems that may be around the corner.

My husband Robert at "Musings by Robert," recently wrote a blog about dogs and pets going to heaven??? 

Do they?

Who can actually prove it without going to heaven to see? But we do know that the Bible tells us that in the Millennium the lion and the lamb will lie down together. That tells us that some animals will be there.

My sister in Law always called her animals “Christian pets.” Just like babies who die and go to heaven because they don’t understand to make a decision; she felt her animals fit that category and would be there to meet her when she arrives at heavens gate.

I kind of believe that way too!!

Translate Please

From the time my oldest child was very small; he could speak well and was easily understood.

I remember when he was about 18 months old we were driving in the car, and I asked my husband if he wanted to stop for ice cream. Our son in a sing song voice, said, “I want some ice cream.” That came out of the blue and I was mildly shocked.

He continued to learn new words and he loved a picture book of animals that was his favorite as he called the name of each.

When our son was two, our first daughter arrived. With this child, she found that if she pointed and grunted it was a quick and easy way to make her wishes known.

My fault, probably so! I had taken so much time with the first child and now it was faster to just allow my son to translate when I could not understand her baby language.

Yes, our son knew baby-speak very well, and would tell me exactly what our little one was jabbering.

When daughter was two years old, here came baby number three and for some unknown reason, this new little one, picked up the English language quite well.

TV may have helped for by this time we had purchased a television.

It seemed only a few days, and almost instantly it was time to enroll daughter number two in kindergarten.

I explained to the teacher that our daughter might need to attend speech class because she could not talk very well.

The teacher laughed, and invited me inside the class room to view the collages of random collections she had on the wall. There were pictures of A, B, C words, and so on for many letters of the alphabet.

“By the end of the term, your daughter will be speaking like a pro,” stated the teacher.

And so it was - - and now it is difficult to get her to stop the chatter, especially when all the cousins, nieces and sisters get together.

It is amazing how God can decipher all the prayers that are continually being sent into the heavens. Yet he does and He is concerned about every request in no matter how small and what ever is the language.

He even knows our thoughts and our heart. God does not need a translator for he understands and loves us no matter how well we form our words.

What a God we serve!!

The High Calling and Why I Joined

When I first viewed the site The High Calling, I questioned to myself, “Is this a group of the “High and Mighty?” I hesitated to get involved.

While I do not consider myself, “Holier than Thou,” I keep reminding myself that I am, “As good as.”

Then why did I feel so threatened about this elite group of writers?  I wondered about each member and who they were as a person.

Was I cautious to join because many had college degrees, and I did not? Was it because many had written a book and I had not?

I suppose yes and no. Then I began to get better acquainted with some of the members by reading their Blog posts and making comments. They began to comment back in return on my posts. I discovered these were real people!

I realized that these High Calling members were bloggers just like me and you, each one telling their stories in their own way.

We are all so different and diverse in our approach to writing our chronicles on life, on God and on our work that is set out for us.

After more study and research, I decided, yes I want to join with this Group, who are each one seeking a Revelation from Our “High Calling God!”

Their welcome letter informed me that http://www.thehighcalling.org/  is a network consisting of nearly 1000 online writers and bloggers who are interested in conversations about faith and work.

The welcome letter also enlightened me that the vision of THC (The High Calling) is to use new media tools to create opportunities for people to encounter God for the transformation of daily life, work, and the world.

I am a believer in always continuing to learn and in using tools that will help equip others to serve my Lord Jesus Christ.

I could envision that membership in this group of “Blogging Believers” would benefit me, and you, and other members as well.

Perhaps you too may want to consider joining in with this “High and Mighty Crowd.”

The Pen (internet) is mightier than the sword!!

May we swing the Sword of God’s Word as we place our words that become HIS words - - out into the ether waves.

OAT MEAL MACROONS

Photo by PhotoBucket

My Mothers favorite cookie recipe was an Oatmeal Macaroon Cookie, and she always added chocolate chips to please her family.

When we were in grammar school, we came home for lunch, and usually half a sandwich and a bowl of soup and a glass of milk. The cookies were always a treat for desert.

When we graduated to middle and high school, Mom always packed us a bag lunch, so cookies went well with our sandwich and a banana or other fruit.

Her plan was to get Oatmeal into us however she could and these cookies worked very well.

During the winter months, mother often made us hot cereal for breakfast, usually Quakers Oatmeal, but some days it was Cream of wheat or Wheatena.

On Sundays we had bacon and eggs and biscuits or toast, before church. Once in a while Mom would make us pancakes or waffles to give us a variety in our breakfast fare.

Mother was a stay at home mom, but she worked hard for her family. Cleaning, washing, ironing, gardening, cooking and baking. Her biggest task was praying for her family and prayer was first on her early morning, “To do list.”

Mom’s cookie recipe became a favorite of our family too, and I must say it remains one of my husband’s favorite cookies.

I hope it will become one of your family favorites also:

OAT MEAL MACAROONS (Ruth Stanton)

1 cup shortening (or butter or margarine) (Shortening is best if you have it.)
1 tsp salt
2 tsp cinnamon
2 tsp vanilla
2 Tablespoons molasses
1 ½ cup sugar
2 eggs

Combine above 7 ingredients and beat thoroughly.
Sift together and add

2 cups flour
1 ½ tsp soda Lastly add and mix well.

2 cups quick rolled oats, and 1 ½ cups chocolate chips
1 cup chopped walnuts (optional add ½ cup raisins you have plumped in hot water.)

Drop on Pam sprayed cookie sheet and bake 12 to 15 minutes at 350 degrees. Enjoy!

This post has been entered in Ann Kroeker’s, Food on Fridays at http://annkroeker.com/
Do visit her site and gather up some delicious and nutritious recipes.

Proposal

Photo courtesy of Photo Bucket

The year was 1949 and we had not discussed marriage, so when he said, “If I buy you a ring, will you wear it?” I responded with another question, “What kind of a ring?”

As it turned out he had $60 in his pocket, which as he handed it to me he said, “Keep this in a safe place and later when I have more, we will visit Brother Larson (the jeweler who attended our church) and we will pick out a wedding set.

I took the $60 from him, and replied. “Okay.”

That was how he proposed, and how I accepted.

The wedding ring is a symbol of eternal love, commitment, vows and promises; “Forsaking all others, to you only will I cleave until death do us part.”  We have kept those promises.

Through the years, we have found it necessary to replace my ring with a larger size and the ring I now wear is only a gold band; but the meaning is there and I wear it with joy and with pride.

The time I visited Korea, I took off all my diamonds, as traveling with jewelry can tempt thieves.  My husband told me he did not want me to travel “unbanded.” So we purchased a single gold ring to alert others that I was taken.  I belonged to him!

We as Christians do not wear anything visible that alerts the world that we belong to Jesus. However our faces do reflect His glory as we shine for Him.

Yes, we are urged to put on Spiritual garments; the garment of praise, the armor of God and to wear the robe of His righteousness.

Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Colossians 3:12

This post has been shared with Bonnie Gray at

   Bonnie’s Faith Jam

With Nantawa Bennett at Happy Friday

And Shared at Friendship Friday with Ramona

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