I was a First Grade Plagiarist!

Young Writer
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Can a child of six or seven be a sinner? You betcha, not all, but some are.

I know I was !!

Our local newspaper had a weekly children’s section with a segment called Aunt Elsie’s page. Children were invited to send in their drawings of a certain size, their poems and stories. A prize was offered for the best work and honorable mention was given if you did not receive a prize.

Although I can draw I must admit that I am not a talented artist, and my artwork did not get published, but my name was entered on the honor roll.

Mother suggested that I try to write a story or a poem and that sounded like something I could do. However I was lazy and I had another plan.

Our First Grade reader at school had a lovely short poem in the front of our book, and I made a decision to copy the poem and send it to “Aunt Elsie.”

Off went the poem in the mail and a few days later I received a letter telling me that the poem would be printed and no prize but to keep trying again and perhaps a prize next time.

The day came when the poem was published and Mother was so proud, but there was a black cloud hanging over my head. I felt so guilty, because the work was not really mine since I had stolen it, and I knew that I had sinned.

The next morning my friend stopped by to walk to school with me, and mother proud as she was - - she just had to show my friend the poem. “Did you see Hazel’s Poem on the Aunt Elsie page?” mother asked my friend.

My friend took one look and without hesitation she made the stinging statement, “Isn’t that the poem that is in our reader book at school?”

I could not look at my mother, but I knew that when I came home for lunch at noon that I would receive a big talking to or worse. I didn’t need to wait until noon, because uncalled for the tears began to flow and I told mother that I was sorry, and that I would never steal a poem again.

Being of a tender heart, my mother said, “Well I am glad you are sorry and also happy that you did not get a prize for it, or we would have needed to return it.”

I began to write short stories about my cat and our chickens, and many were published and I did receive some nice prizes. I can remember a vinyl covered pencil box full of colored pencils, some paints, and a photo album, but the glory was to be published.

Mother’s favorite Scripture verse for me was always; “Be sure your sin will find you out!”

And you know that is so true - - for it always did!

This post has been linked to Joan’s Grace Café

Linking up with Tracy at Winsome Wednesday

Also linked to Michelle’s Thought Provoking Thursday

Field Day



Marching Band Forming Letters at LSU
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Although it might have been an annual event, I can only remember participating once in the Field day at our Junior High School.  At that time our school was grades 7 through 9, and I was a 9th grader. After all these years it is now a Middle school, such is progress.

Dressed in our blue gym clothes, we practiced for weeks learning to march properly. Prior to actually starting to march we were given lectures on how to turn the corner with 3 girls marching shoulder to shoulder.

The girl at the corner point was to march in place, the next girl was to take very short steps, and the final girl taking the largest steps in order to round that point. The row was not supposed to bend as we executed that curve. Each girl was to work in tandem to keep their row straight at all times. It did take practice, but we soon got the hang of it.

The difficult part was at the end of our march. The playground was large enough for us to carefully spell out the name of our School; Frick Jr. High. Chalk dust had marked prompt lines for each letter, and we did splendidly.

The Oakland Tribune was there to take our picture, and a write up followed the next day in the paper.

Practicing had been tough but we had done well, and also in our performance. Yes we were proud of that fact and of our school.

A job well done is worth being pleased with. There is a difference between a prideful spirit and just bursting with pride and happiness for a completed project.

In our Christian walk, there are times when we can feel honest pride as a Mother Hen does over her chicks.

Have you even observed a hen cluck and her chicks as they all get in line to march to her tune?

Some people today march to the World and for us we have a Drummer who beats out the steps that please the Lord. We have been practicing for awhile and soon it will be time for the final performance.

Hup two, three four!  Stay in line please!

This post is linked to: Peter Pollocks One Word Carnival  

Linked with Good Morning Girls Wednesday

and Linking with Jennifer at God-Bumps and God-Incidences Wednesdays

Blood Donor Repost

“Sorry, but we can’t use your blood, it is just not acceptable,” were the words I heard on the other end of the telephone line.

The news was on and I had just heard an appeal for blood. Seriously injured, a young motor cycle rider had lost a great deal of blood. The news continued with a telephone number to call to become a volunteer. Hastily I phoned the number and was ready to offer my blood for this young man.

The lady at the call center told me that first she needed to ask me some questions. She inquired if I had ever had a life threatening ailment and I answered,” Yes”.

I told her that when I was 12 years old I suffered a very bad case of jaundice. Her concern was that it might have been a form of hepatitis which would eliminate me from being a donor. She thanked me for calling but told me that they just could not use my blood because it was not suitable.

I felt rebuffed and rejected when I realized that NO one wanted my blood!

A short letter to the boy was quickly composed. I conveyed my earnest desire to help, and that I was so sorry that I could not, because the fact was - - my blood was not good enough.

Then I told him how the blood of Jesus was also not wanted by so many.  Briefly, I explained how Jesus was rejected but that we can choose to accept Him. The blood of Jesus will wash away our sins, and we can become a believer in Christ.

There are religious organizations today that do not want the Blood of Jesus mentioned in their sermons, their songs, or in their literature. They are repulsed by the suggestion that a blood sacrifice was necessary to pay for our salvation. It is sad, but true, that His blood is still being rejected today by some.

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Each time we receive communion, let us always remember that His body was broken for us, and that His blood was shed for our salvation.

The total sum of human blood on earth would not be enough to reconcile us to God. Only His precious blood will do - - - ours isn’t good enough!

Jesus spoke in the book of; Matthew 26:28 For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.

Isaiah 53:3 He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not.

Suggested Books you might be interested in:

The Power of the Blood (paperback) by H.A. Whyte
The Hidden Power of the Blood of Jesus (Paperback) by Mahesh Chavda
The Power of The Blood of Christ by Andrew Murray

This post has been linked with Joan Davis Sharing His Beauty
And with Jen’s Soli Deo Gloria

Absolutely NOT (Repost)

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One of my former Pastors thought I was too assertive, and at one time he told me I was rebellious.

I believe this was because, each time he finished his Sunday sermon, and he shook hands with members as we left, I would give him something else to think about on his subject. He would retreat to his study books and come out usually glowing, and sometimes growling.

One mother’s day, he preached about women in the Bible, and according to what he implied, he forcefully put women “In their PLACE.” As I left that day and shook his hand, I told him that I could hardly wait for Father’s day to see what he would come up to set all the men down. It was about that time he said I was rebellious.

One morning after our women’s missionary meeting, I sat in his office with him and his wife, and he asked me if I ever had doubts that I might not make it into heaven.

I sat up straight, looked him in the eye, and with an emphatic voice, I told him, “Absolutely NONE!” NO Doubts What-so-ever!!

Puzzled a bit, but I wondered; why would he ask me such a question unless he had doubts about his own salvation?

I honestly believe he read more books, and study books instead of the Bible, and he wondered if he sinned every day like some say we all do.

If you read your Bible, and study along as you are reading it, you will discover that if you are walking in the Light of His Word, with the precious Holy Spirit guiding you - - then you do not have to worry that you need to balance short accounts at the end of the day.

Keep your mind on the Lord, and your feet planted and it is not necessary to sin each day as some say we all do.

There is a song that says, I have decided to follow Jesus, NO turning back. I found it on Youtube
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jAIplRcxM4E

Once you have made that quality decision, your job is to stay on track, and not make provision to fall away. If you do fall and you realize it, then quickly get up repent and go on.

Don’t wait for night to do your catching up!

God’s part is to keep you safe in His hand, and to provide you with daily instructions from the Holy Spirit.

Listen to that still small voice and obey. Then you will be able to say with me;

"I have NO doubts that I will make it in. I have No fears, and No doubts - - Absolutely NONE."

This post is linked to: Hear It on Sunday, Use It on Monday
Also linked with Laura’s Play dates with God

A Good Book Can Help (Repost)

Besides the Good Book, (The Bible,) I have enjoyed magazines and books with parenting helps. When my children were just babies, I subscribed to Parent’s Magazine. I gleaned many tips and ideas that were of tremendous help to me in those early years.

As time passed, I found a special book - - probably at a Thrift Store or at a Garage sale; but I discovered it to be a wonderful book on raising children.

Here was an outstanding book that incorporated answers to all sorts of behavior problems. Included were fact-filled chapters covering various ages through the teenage years, along with suggestions on how to cope with different and difficult problems.

During that time, we had five teenagers in our household! Yes, I said five! Disturbing emotional problems plagued one of our daughters!. Some would say she needed therapy. I was prompted to give special attention to her each evening. It was ten minutes with no preaching, but rather just talking and listening. What wonderful therapy there is for others if a person can just be a good listener.

Before entering her room, I reviewed a current chapter in the book, and prayed asking the Lord how this would apply to her. Certain lines from the book seemed to stand out, and were to become the answer for that evening.

Just a sentence or two, and the Lord’s direction on what else to say next, the answer was provided for her need each evening.

Today, with children, and even with friends, using a few moments of quality time, can work wonders! Share an encouraging thought that will bring them confidence and will show your support!

At times, it might be a line from something you have picked up from a book; a magazine or possibly the internet; that will carry enough weight to bless your child or your friend.

Of course do not forget to utilize the Bible!

Ask the Lord, “What do I say next?” He may direct you to a Scripture verse that can complement, and then completely cement the thoughts for you to share.

Proverbs 15:23 A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth: and a word spoken in due season, how good it is!

This post is linked to Deidra’s Sunday Jump Tandem

Don’t Look down my back!

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It was the summer between Kindergarten and first grade. Our cousins had just moved to our city and were staying with us until they found housing.

Not far away and without crossing any streets was the grammar school that we attended, and there were summer activities there to keep children occupied. My cousins and I decided to sign up for the pastime for something to do.

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The teacher lined up all the children and as each child came forward we stuck out our tongue and they looked at our fingernails, then at our hair and finally they took a peek down the back and front of our dress.

Even at this young age, it was very embarrassing to me as a child for this bold examination of my body.

We went home and told our parents.

The next day mother went with us and asked our teacher about the personal inspection given to the children - - -

The teacher explained that it was a health exam and rather than expose the other children to possible disease such as chicken pox or measles or even lice they were taking this as a safety precaution.

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Her explanation satisfied mother, and after Mom make clear the reason to us, we decided to participate if we wanted to have our play time which included milk and a cookie.

Sometimes in life there comes a time when we must decide if we want something bad enough!

Are we willing to go through the process of passing the test in order to get what is desired?

Many jobs offered in the work place require the taking of a test and receiving a qualifying score. There are books available that help us identify which questions might be asked in a test and how best to answer.

No test of itself is desirous, and some are down right embarrassing. Especially when it is a test ordered by our doctor to discover what might be ailing us.

Thinking back to a time when I walked to the front of our church to make a commitment to Jesus, and at that time, I really did not care who was looking at me.

From that day forward I moved and walked in Jesus, and am not ashamed of His true Gospel.

When eyes stare and tongues wag, and it feels like others are taking me apart, it simply does not matter.

Why?” you might ask, “Does it not bother you?  My answer, "Not really!"

All the exams in life will make everything worth it all!

The reason is because at the end of our play time, God will be serving Milk and cookies !!

This post has been linked to Laura’s, Brag on God Fridays

Linked with Charlotte’s Spiritual Sundays. 

And also linked to Joan’s Grace Café.

Beer Cake

If you looked in my refrigerator you would find a can of Budweiser Beer tucked way in the back.

Don’t get me wrong, and think that we are drunks here at our home. We do use wine for marinating some meats, but we never drink beer or alcoholic beverages.

I was enjoying Sheila’s post at God Spotting with Sheila  about how people can get the wrong impression about others if they jump to conclusions too quickly. Her post reminded me of my can of beer and I share that story with you now!

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This can of beer was obtained on one of my “Mystery shopping” excursions, with the thought in mind that I would use it in a recipe for Beer Bread, so I accepted the project. 

My mini-market assignment required me to check the cleanliness of the store, note any finger prints on the glass doors, report on how clean was the bathroom, see if the food, coffee and drink area was clean and fresh, purchase a can of Budweiser Beer, and notice if the cashier asked me for my ID to verify if I was old enough to purchase the beer. 

I was not to reveal that I was a Mystery Shopper!!

The cashier cheerfully asked me, “And how old are you today?” My reply was simple, “Old enough to know better,” then we both laughed. I told her I was going to bake some beer bread, and she asked me to let her know how it turns out.  I must confess I have not gotten around to baking the beer bread as we are not eating much bread lately.  So there it sits in my fridge - - - way in the back.

The cashier forgot to give me a receipt and I needed to ask for one. “Here you go,” she said and “Have a nice day.” Unless I turn in a receipt to prove that I did the shop, I will not get paid. Most shops pay a modest fee plus the reimbursement if you are required to make a purchase.

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For the past five years I have been a “Secret or Mystery Shopper.” It is fun at times, and often there is a free lunch - - well almost free. I do need to work for the lunch by writing up a report on the quality of food, and how I was treated by the establishment.

I have Secret shopped at many restaurants including Applebee’s, Denny’s, McDonalds, Burger King to mention a few, and usually there is a small bonus along with the free lunch.

I have also Mystery shopped at Jewelry stores, Banks, Telephone stores, Gas stations, Apartments, Pet supplies, Grocery and Department stores, to list a few so that you get the idea, and our last shop was to receive a free oil change.

NOW that you understand where my can of beer came from - - does anyone know how I can use up my can of beer without ACTUALLY drinking it?

Never mind, I found a simple Beer Cake recipe made with a yellow cake mix, plus 1 small package of instant vanilla pudding mix, 4 eggs, 1/4 cup oil and 1 cup beer. Optional add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts and 1 tsp cinnamon.  Mix well and Bake 55 minutes in a greased and floured bunt pan at 350 degrees. Let cool 10 minutes and invert and enjoy.

This post is linked with Ann Kroeker’s Food on Friday- - do visit there and find stories about food and some great recipes!

Sick days

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All the childhood diseases seemed to come my way, if it were chickenpox, measles or a very bad cold they found me!

I can remember staying home from school because I was sick.

Mama would put me in her big bed so she could easily tend to me, and at night I would return upstairs to my own smaller bed. 

Mother also allowed Blackie my cat to visit for a short time and purr along side of me.

In those days there was no TV, so for entertainment, mother would bring our small radio and set it on my bed where I could follow the old radio soap opera programs.

For lunch Mother would give me hot soup and juice in between meal times.

Our kind neighbor sent over some children’s magazines, and Mother brought me a coloring book with puzzles to while away the time.

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I remember one day she brought me a daffodil from our garden and placed it in a small vase.   As I rested I stared at that beautiful flower examining the trumpet, and the manner in which it was created.



When I was feeling better but still not well, I could sit up and cut out paper dolls. I remember one book she brought me was paper dolls of the Dionne quintuplets.

These cute girls were a few years younger than me and were very popular. Their lives were a tragedy because the Canadian Government took them away from their parents under the guise that the girls needed protection. It is reported that the Canadian Government earned over one half billion dollars from exhibiting them and from the endorsements from soap, special spoons, and dolls to paper dolls. That is a story all in itself.

Back then, to me these girls were just paper dolls and I had fun cutting out the paper clothes to dress them. Playing with these dolls gave me hours of pleasure while I was getting well. Mother also gave me a cardboard doll flocked with a flannel front. With the doll came felt clothing to cut out that would stick like magic to the doll.

When I was almost well, mother allowed me to dress warmly, and gently swing in our outdoor swing. That too was comforting and it was lovely to be out doors again.

These days it is very rare that I am sick, and I am thankful for good health at my age. Yes, my knees creek at times, but like I say – for my age not too bad.

God gives us entertainment too. Call it entertainment or a glorious walk with God. Just being outdoors for a stroll, our three dogs join in and follow while they sniff and bark. We can see squirrels run up a tree as we approach. Viewing our plants and bushes as they begin to bud out brings me joy. Listening to the birds sing praise to the Lord causes me to rejoice along with God’s creation.

God has promised that one of these days, He will put away all sickness, pain, suffering and even death, and we will be entertained and even join in with God’s Angelic Choir.

Linking with Jennifer at God Bumps & Incidences Wednesdays
Also with Good Morning Girls Wednesday

The Man Cheated Me

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Cutting a neighbors lawn each week, and taking turns, my brother and I were paid 50 cents one week and 75 cents the next week. Eventually my brother got tired and quit leaving the lawn job to me.

One hot Saturday, I had worked very hard and completed the lawn. As I rang the door bell the man opened the door and asked me, “How much is it this week? I was embarrassed to tell him it was 75 cents, and he made the decision to only give me 50 cents. I never went back because he had cheated me.

Have you ever been cheated or tricked and deceived? Different folks and different strokes, but I have been a victim in many an instance.

I have been lied to by the experts and every time I foolishly believed them. Several of these escapades have cost me a lot more than 50 cents. Eventually after my embarrassment healed, I became much wiser.   

I actually made myself a vow that I would never again get involved in certain matters. No more multi-level programs, get rich schemes, chain letters or anything that even faintly smelled of such.


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You would think that we would learn more quickly, but that is the way it is with us human people. We want to believe in others and trust them, but when that just doesn’t happen we are hurt deeply in our psyche.

Then there is the part about trusting God. Some have found that they are angry at God, because of something that happened perhaps even of their own doing. They blame God instead of examining their own actions.

Our mouth gets too big for itself at times, and we say and do things that we know that are not true or right.

After a broken relationship, one young man told his friend, I don’t believe in God anymore - - yet today he is married to a fine Christian girl and he attends church, prays and reads his Bible.

Perhaps we should not believe everything we hear and only half of what we see. I now try to give people the benefit of the doubt. Meaning; I allow what they say to go over my head and accept them for who I believe that they truly are.

One thing I do know is that if I place my Faith and Hope Fully in the Lord, He will never tell me lies or cheat me!

His dividends and Bonds in Trust will be exceptionally good too when it is time to cash them in!

Post is linked with Laura’s “Play dates with God.”
With Joan Davis Sharing His Beauty
And Jen’s site SoloGloria 

Come and See

Once a year, our church participates in the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.

The Week of Prayer enters into various congregations and parishes all over the world. Pulpits are exchanged, and special ecumenical worship services are arranged. This Sunday our church participated in the annual pulpit exchange.


Through out the year, our local group of churches also share at special monthly meetings, and events, such as the Easter Sunrise Service.


For the pulpit exchange our guest speaker was Father David from St Paul’s Episcopal Church, the announced title for his message was, “Come and see.”
I present here gleanings from his sermon.


He read from John, where Nathaniel said, “Can any good come out of Nazareth?”


The answer was “Come and See.” Jesus told him that he would see even greater things than this.


The minister asked, “Can any good come out of our city, our church, and our congregation?

Who draws the line of which way is correct? What pulls us together when we disagree such as on how to baptize? Do we dunk, sprinkle, pour or dip? Jesus must be at the center, and all other options fall into place.


The world that Jesus lived in was in some ways similar to our day. There were many kinds of religions and philosophies then as there is now. There was and is lots of poverty and it seems to be getting worse.

We see broken relationships, a culture of emergencies, a nation of consumers, then and now. People strive to take care of them-selves, and are not desirous to give to others...


Nothing seems to be working. How do we live in peace? What makes a good person or a good church? The message is simple; “Come and See.”


Look around, the world desperately needs to encounter Christ Jesus. We don’t need another social program, another service organization another rehabilitation center. It is Jesus who is needed.


Can anything good come out of the Church? When Jesus is the center of our Unity and we all point others to the Lamb of God, it is then that we will find our unity.


Jesus is what it is all about!


This post is linked to Deidra’s Sunday Jump Tandem
and to Michelle’s Hear it on Sunday