I HOPE YOU DANCE

Could I interrupt your day and invite you to the ballroom of life? As you enter, make sure you remove your shoes, leave all your worries behind, and close the door tightly. Imagine yourself in a loose, flowing dress, bare feet, and open space to express yourself anyway you would like. Out of nowhere comes the most beautiful music you have ever heard. All of a sudden, you begin to move to the music and you lose any sense of reality. Pretty soon the stress, worries, and burdens of life seem to disappear and you can feel yourself being energized from the things of the world that drain you. It may last for minutes or hours until you feel the release. You feel more capable of opening the door and facing the tasks at hand. I know you're probably thinking: Who has time for that? My question is: Who doesn't? It's an investment the pays high dividends. Basically it takes no talent at all and you'll only have an audience of One. Just like we like to watch our little children, God likes to see His daughters carefree. Your ballroom may look alot like your car on a lunch break, your shower, or a quiet moment in the morning. It just means anywhere you can sneak a few minutes to be still and calm your mind. The word says there is a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance. I think we could all trade in some mourning for dancing. May God put a song in your heart that causes your feet to move.

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

When I turned forty, I could not believe the changes in my body. I'm pretty sure my metabolism stopped completely, I have more doctor appointments then social events, and I have rolls where skin used to be firm. If you have not experienced this yet, just wait it's coming. I'm not trying to be negitive but I think a warning is appropriate in this situation. Through this time, I have learned alot about myself. It has been quite a process but I'm a little thick headed. I had to make a choice to find inner beauty instead of feeding the beast that was taking over my body. You know the one. You can recognize it every time you look in the mirror, try on new clothes, or jump in your mini-van to go to the grocery, which is the highlight of your week. It's that voice deep inside that says, your best days are behind you. Well we are about to tame the beast. Life is full of chapters and we need to know when to turn the page. For one thing, with age brings wisdom and that is a beautiful thing. So shake off all your insecurities and grab today and the future with both hands. I'm not saying that we are not still pretty on the outside but here's true beauty: rock a baby in your arms, visit a shut-in person who's lonely, nurse a child back to health, love, laugh, and live. I think we are truly missing the real meaning of beauty and we need to take off the masks, wash off the make-up, and be radiant because we are created in the image of God. Be free to not have to compete with other ladies and step out of your comfort zone. When you are confident, you can't help but be beautiful. The word says that charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Just ask God, you are His favorite.

LET THE SUNSHINE IN

Let the sunshine in, face it with a grin, OPEN UP YOUR HEART, and let the sunshine in. It's a good thing I can type because I certainly cannot sing. It's been a little rainy in Florida the last couple of days. We need the rain but the absense of sunlight can be down right dreary. My dog doesn't even want to do anything but sleep. Isn't it amazing how our outside influences affect us. Confession time: the weather is not the only thing I've been struggling with. Sometimes for no apparent reason the sunshine in our lives goes away. I am here to tell you that we can put some light in our lives and make darkness flee in fear. It may not change our circumstances but it will change our hearts. How many of us have an issue or issues in our lives that seem to cloud our thinking? Let's see, maybe a financial situation, a sick loved one, a child who is not on a good path, or insecurities about the future. I'm sure there are many more but I only have so much space. Ladies it's time to take a step back, take the load off of your shoulders, and know that help is on the way. If you have done everything that you can to change things around you and it's not changing, make a list and pray for those issues. It is well known that if you write things down, it tends to release you from the burden of carrying them. Once you have released these things, people, or dreams then God can begin to work. The devil wants us to keep it to ourselves so he can drive us crazy with it. Guess what: once you bring light into a situation, it is never completely dark again. The word says that God is light and there is no darkness in Him. He wants to take your burdens and work them out for His good. He loves you and is concerned about what you're concerned about. So, open your heart and let God shine like never before.

MEAN WHAT YOU SAY!

The average woman speaks about 20,000 words a day. Now we can be proud to add to that by texting or e-mailing. We may not be saying anything but we are communicating which is what we do best. Men on the other hand, speak only about 5,000 words a day and that's if there isn't a good sporting event on TV. So, that being the case, we have an awesome opportunity to speak life to those around us. We are so used to saying things because they are a habit or we want to fit in with the crowd. Move over Oprah, we are about to make a mark in this world. We are so easily influenced by what we watch, listen to, and what we let be a part of our lives. Well ladies, WE'VE GOT A NEW ATTITUDE! On purpose, we need to stop and think about what we say and start saying what we mean. For instance, if you are watching what you eat, don't talk about how fat you are. You need to wake up everyday and say I am in good health, physically, emotionally, and mentally. Pretty soon your flesh will get tired of hearing it and get in line with your words. Also for all of us parents, if your kids haven't caused you to have a meltdown, they will. But we are going to chose to speak over them that they are happy, healthy, and successful all the days of their lives. How about Monday morning when you're driving to that job that may not have been your first choice. That's right, we're going to say that we love our job and expect promotion. Look around you everyday and see who you can speak words of encouragement to. If you don't need this word, I do. I need therapy for my tongue. I think there is something to this and we need start today. I speak blessing over each of you precious ladies and grace to starting saying what you mean. The word says that the power of life and death are in the tongue. Speak life into your situations and watch God pour out blessings that you cannot contain.

TICKLE YOUR FUNNY BONE

Bumper sticker: Cheer up! Someday you'll be dead. How many of us are living our lives this way? I grant you, if you concentrate on what is going on in the world today, it may be easy to adopt that mindset. I got a vision of the game of operation and everybodys funny bone was missing. If you are alive you know the game and how it works. Although we know that it is an odd name for a bone, when hit, is anything but funny. It will get your attention and take your mind off of anything else that may be happening at the moment. Are you getting the point? Laughter is the same way. It spreads chemicals through your body that can lift your spirits in an instance. So much for my medical terminology, but even doctors will tell you that at least one (or many more) belly laughs a day is good for your health. If you are convinced that you have nothing to laugh about, here are a few suggestions. Get some old photos out or yearbooks and look at when you thought you looked hot with your hair three feet high and sporting the lastest fashion. Watch some old home videos that at the time didn't seem so funny but years have a way of letting you see things in a different light. Try doing some of the things that used to come easy to you. I tried doing a somersault one time and thought I would have to be in traction for the rest of my life. Try to remember what made you laugh the longest, hardest, and loudest and bring those things back into your life. Instead of letting our minds get clouded with everyday life, try to put happy thoughts in on purpose. We all have a memory that if you just think about it will bring a smile to your face. I have to share mine because I can't think about it without laughing. My grandma, God rest her soul, was using the restroom and the entire toilet fell over sending a gush of water toward the ceiling. We didn't know what had happened and she wouldn't let us in because her pants were still down. She was fine but needless to say she was the hit of the family reunion. Along with precious memories let's make new ones for others to charish throughout the years. If you see someone that needs a smile, give them one of yours. If you can't seem to achieve this on your own, help is on the way. The word says that God will fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouts of joy. Our father wants us to be happy. Just ask him and He'll put a smile on your face that has to be surgically removed.

OLD OR OPINIONATED

If you are over 30, you can relate to this: HELP ME, I'M TURNING INTO MY PARENTS! There seems to be an old tradition that needs a little tweeking. We need to try to stand in the gap, the generational gap, that is. Now I must admit that I am annoyed by some younger people but I'm really trying to remember what it was like to be there age. Anyone below 20 qualifies. I was spiritually spanked the other day and decided to try to adopt a new mindset. I don't pretend to understand all the abbreviations, hair colors, clothing styles, etc. But this is what I plan to do. I am going to get involved with our young people and be the best mentor I can. This is going to take time, prayer, and dedication but our youth are worth it. The first thing we need to do is listen. It is so easy to form an adult decision based on what is important to us. When you've worked all day, ran errands, and come home to cook, I know the last thing on your mind is what Susie said about Jane and it got back to her. Come on, you all know the drama we went through. But now that we are mature adults and have it all together (well maybe not) we can only think we wish we had such serious problems. If all we do is bark at the up and coming generation, we are pushing them to find a place to be accepted. Rules without relationship equal rebellion. What I'm not saying is let them do whatever they want. Our biggest problem today is our society is make them happy oriented instead of spending time with them. For instance instead of yelling at them for texting, share with them when it is appropriate to text and when it is not. Let's face it, our children have alot more outside influences then we did. Technology is wonderful but it will never take the place of a kind word, a big hug, or a comment of encouragement. If they are your children, know what they are doing and who there friends are. Keep the door of communication open. My son said he was going to nominate me for the World's Strictist Parent but we talked and laughed because I explained to him that I love him and I want to know what is going on in his life. I think it would be an honor to be nominated for that award. I'm not a perfect parent or even close but I'm learning as I go. Even if you don't have children at home, there are plenty of programs that you can volunteer to make a difference in someone's life. You don't have to look far because they are your neighbors, coworkers, clerks, and waitresses. Someone is looking up to you and needs your advice and leadership. The word says do we have eyes but fail to see and ears but fail to hear. Let's open our eyes, ears, and hearts and make a deposit that we can never withdraw.

YOU ARE PRICELESS

Do you know how special you are? In our busy lives sometimes words go unspoken by the people we charish the most. Or maybe things have been said to us that are stored in our mind that are not true. We are about to get a confidence booster. If we count on other people to make us happy, we'll be very disappointed. So let's turn the tide on this thing. Write down or take inventory of the lives that you touch. Imagine who has been touched by your smile, your hugs, your kind words, and the things that make you who you are. Sometimes we feel like we do alot of giving and don't get much back. Well, my friend in someone's eyes you are everything. You may never know this side of heaven how you changed someone's life. Our "All About Me" society wants us to think that we're just here to make it through life the best we can. News Flash: you are where you are and an influence to the people around you because you have something they need. It's time for us to take the bull by the horns and intentionally be a blessing to those around us. We experience things in life, good and bad, so that we can help others through what they face. I don't know about you, but I don't want my bad experiences to be in vain if I can help someone else either avoid or walk through the same situation. Also, sharing wonderful moments can be so much fun. For instance, empty nesters can share the hopes and fears of that transition. Being a grandparent can only be shared with those that have held a grandchild. Love your spouse, hug your children, call your siblings, and honor your parents. I think the people that get to be around you are pretty lucky. So stand up straight, throw your shoulders back and grab your destiny with both hands. The only thing you can guarantee to be eternal are those God has entrusted you with. The word says that we are fearfully and wonderfully made. There is only one you. I see the handprint of God on all of us. Go display His glory through you!

STEP IT UP A NOTCH

Last Sunday our pastor used a very interesting formula to show us a basic principle. Information + application = TRANSFORMATION. In my last blog I mentioned that God was calling his ladies to a higher level. This may not be our favorite subject but we knew it was coming. He wants to see us walk in divine health (physically, spiritually, and emotionally). This is what I am NOT saying: DIET! We all hate the (d) word anyway. I have removed it from my vocabulary and I suggest that you do the same thing. What I am saying is, we as woman need a step-up. If we don't feel good physically, then it is harder to achieve the other two. We have all kinds of information on health and fitness. Basically too much and that's why we are constantly searching for the perfect plan. Well, good news my friend. We are all different and God has a unique plan for each of us. Most of us fail because we try to build Rome in a day. How many of us have done the Monday diet. You know where you eat everything you can over the weekend and then plan to become this health nut on Monday. Let me give you some freedom. In order to maintain a healthy change, it has to be a process. It can take months unless Jesus comes back and then we won't care anyway. Here are a few suggestions that I think might help. If you drink 3 sodas (south) pop (I'm a yankee at heart) a day for a week cut down to two. Fill in your own amounts. Water is to the body like oil is to your car. The next week, you can maybe replace a candy bar with an apple. I know this sounds ridiculous but I've prayed and this is what I've heard. It's God's information for us to apply for our transformation. It may take a while but eventually you will begin to see a lifestyle change. If you do it all at once, your body will demand brownies and Krispy Kreme donuts even more. Our flesh is really pretty stupid, it only knows to want what we give it. Too much sugar is like putting dirt in your gas tank. Along with some minor adjustments in our menus, how about a little movement. If you'll notice, I did not use the (e) word. I knew I would lose some people there. Start out small and increase in time. For instance if you have an office job and you get sleepy in the afternoon, go to the restroom, stretch and do a few more squats after you squat on the toilet. I know I'm being a little personal here but we're all ladies and we're all in the same boat. I don't care if you're a size 5, if you're not in good health. This is not about weight, it's about taking back what has been stolen from us. We need balance in everything because the word says the devil prowls around like a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour. Let's give him a swift kick in the teeth. I wish you blessings on your transformation.

SPRING INTO SUMMER

Hello beautiful ladies! I'm so excited to be sharing my heart with you today. I believe for some of us, this will be a summer we will never forget. I feel a sense of joy filling the air and we better get prepared. It's time for us to break out of old routines, old mindsets, and grab change with both hands. We set the tone for so many things, people, and ourselves. If nobody has told you lately you are the apple of God's eye. He is calling us women to stand up and be the precious creation He created us to be. Let's start out small and work up to our transformation. For some reason, I just feel like women are unhappy with themselves and it affects every aspect of our lives. So here are some simple, inexpensive ideas to get us started. I know that most of us are too busy taking care of everyone else that we settle for whatever is left. This is going to take some getting used to but the rewards will be priceless. Please know that material things do not make you who you are but we are supposed to like foo-foo things. For instance how about trying a new shade of lipstick. A new hair style may create a new attitude. Or if you really want to live on the edge, wear a color that you have never worn. I know you're thinking money, but I know you have make-up you have never tried, you have to get your hair cut anyway and Goodwill has an excellent supply of decent clothes. We could even make small changes in our home. I was amazed how putting my spring comforter on my bed really lightened up my room. Check out your local yard sales because one man's trash is another man's treasure. Put things in your home that are pleasing to your eyes and it will lift your spirits. I challenge you to think outside the box and do something you've never done this summer. Make sure it's legal, of course. It's time for us to shine and that means you. God says that He will give us the desires of our hearts. Just ask Him because He's got gifts for you that you have never unwrapped.

IF YOU'RE HAPPY

If you're happy and you know it clap your hands. If you're happy and you know it stomp your feet. If you're happy and you know it shout, Amen! Finish it with me, if you're happy and you know it then your face will surely show it. You are very fortunate that I typed that and you didn't have to go through the torture of my not-so musical voice. From birth on, we enjoy music. It changes form as we get older but it is powerful and can change your attitude in seconds. I serve in the nursery at church and have more success with calming children by simply singing or putting on a CD for their entertainment. It usually stops them in their tracks, they begin to move their little bodies, and then look to me for instruction. You talk about a Kodak moment. Well, aren't we all little girls stuck in these adult bodies. Shall we get back to basics and remember how innocent and sweet life can be. I know I'm probably the only one, but occasionally my mind tends to migrate toward the negitive things in my life. Our minds are a battlefield and we have to know how to defeat the enemy. I was praying and The Lord showed me that you can't sing, clap, stomp, or shout without breaking your thought pattern. He said that even a clap will interrupt a thought because you have to physically move to do it. If you stomp the same is true. Try singing or shouting and still ponder on the same thing that has tried to clutter your mind. I know it sounds silly but it really works. Now we must be selective about what we choose because you certainly don't want to sing Gloom, Despair, and Agony on Me. (Hee Haw classic). I hope that this will plant a seed for the next time you are lost in a sea of bad thoughts. You might want to be careful where you clap, stomp, shout, or sing because they will kick you out of the library but you can do it in your heart. The word says clap your hands all you nations, shout to God with cries of joy. I hope you begin to see rainbows where there used to be rain.

YOU'RE THE ONE

If you are a big ball of emotions like me, then you will probably agree that the Animal Planet needs to have ratings on their shows. Although very educational, the food chain is not one of my favorite subjects to learn about. It goes something like this, you tune into Animal Planet, you see a baby animal (ahhh), then from out of nowhere, a bigger, stronger animal attacks and eats it. Although it is a fact of life, there are still tears for the small and weak that are preyed on. Unfortuately, our society is alot like the animal kingdom in their strategies. We have several different groups of people. We don't refer to our groups as herds but rather as cliques. There are the powerful, rich, leaders, followers and many more. But in all walks of life, there is someone waiting in the shadows for someone who gets separated from the rest. We as humans are just as vulnerable as the unsuspecting animal that was zeroed out. We need to be very careful how we treat one another because if we reject people, some group will pick them up. Unless each individual knows how special they are, they will eventually be isolated and reach for any form of love that comes their way. The Shepherd refers to us as His sheep. But he also warns us of the wolves that surround us. His word says that He will leave the 99 to find the 1. As long as we know and can hear His voice, we can follow. But He's a jealous God and even if we stray, He will come to find us. The Lord showed me that alot of His sheep are wondering and He needs us to be His voice, hands, feet, and eyes. Watch out for the weak, lonely, isolated, young, old, and lost. You'll know them when you see them. Let's reach out and grab them from the pits of despair and tell them that they are the 1. By the way we're all still the 1. (Corny song from the seventies but still applies.)

THIS TOO SHALL PASS

This is for all of us ladies who can remember The Partridge Family, Hee Haw, and pepsi in a glass bottle. If you can relate then I bet you've been through a few things. If we think back, I bet there were a million times that we thought we would never live through the immediate situation in our lives. Just a few examples might be, divorced parents, a pet dying, moving to a new school, having your heart broken for the first time. No one is exempt from these life altering experiences. Can you remember feeling like that was the worst thing that ever happened to you? But somehow you made it through and hopefully learned along the way. As we grow older and wiser, those early years don't seem near as tragic as we remembered. Whatever life is handing you right now don't stop on your way through. I believe most of us think that our circumstances will never change. We think our infants will never grow up, our parents will never grow old, our finances will never be secure, and our health will never improve. I know that sometimes you feel like you are hanging onto the clothes line of life during the worst storm ever. Well, I'm here to tell you to hold on and that storm will pass. Whatever you do, GO THROUGH and never give up. If we look back, our lives are not the same as they were two years ago and will not be the same two years from now. I want to get your binoculars and see past today to a much brighter tomorrow. The word says that there is a time for everything and a season for everything under the heavens. I really think that God is reaching out to His little girls and saying, I'm your biggest fan and everything is going to be just fine.

WHERE ARE YOU GOING?

Do you ever feel like a hamster? Just think about it for a moment. Our life cycle is somewhat comparable. A hamster lives in cage, stays up all night because they have insomnia, and waits for someone to throw them a carrot. After they have moved the mess around in what they call home, they jump on a wheel and run like crazy thinking they are getting somewhere. Then the time comes when the cage door is open and they are lifted to freedom or occasionally they escape. Once they are set free, the fun begins. Someone forgot to tell them about the family cat, the children that will chase them and this monster called the vacuum. After a near fatal day, they are placed back in their cage to start all over again. Does any of this sound familiar? What does your cage look like? It may be a health issue, martial problems, finances, or something else that keeps you from freedom. What food are you eating? Do you feed off what others say about you or do you eat the daily bread of the Word of God? How about running your little legs off and getting nowhere. Instead of facing issues and resolving them, we just move them around or push them under the rug hoping they will go away. More often then not those things keep us awake at night. We always dream of the day we will be happy like when our children are grown, we retire, we get a bigger house, or a better job. But with those wonderful things come some unexpected circumstances. That's when we want to retreat back to our comfort zone and start over. Have you ever heard that doing the same thing and expecting different results is completely ridiculous? Let's break the hamster mentality and place our future in the One who holds the future. The word says I set before you life and death, choose life. Let's start making some much needed changes and see God move.

WHAT NOT TO WEAR

I don't know about you but Stacy and Clinton from TLC's, What Not To Wear would have a blast in my closet. Raise your hand if you have items in your closet that are five years old, how about seven or maybe ten. Can I get a witness? We serve a humorous God because I got the funniest vision the other day. It was if He was trying to say, I don't look at your clothes as much as I look your heart. It was entertaining because He said, just like you pick out clothes, you also decide what else you are going to wear. All of a sudden, I saw a person clothed in things that others could not see. For instance, if we decide to be grouchy or perhaps someone contributes to that feeling, we would pick out horns and a tail that match perfectly with our outfit. On the other extreme, if we decide to be happy, we could not leave the house without a big red nose and a smile painted from ear to ear. Society likes to tell us what not to wear but they forget to tell us what we should never leave home without. In our hectic lives, a changing world, and the moral decline of our country, we need a little guidance. That's when God showed me that in order for us to prepare for what is to come, we should always be dressed for battle. Other people may not see our armor but it is essential for us to be a light to the world.

1.The Belt of Truth which protects us from the lies of the enemy.

2. The Breastplate of Righteousness that covers our heart (the seat of our emotions, self-worth and trust).

3. The Shoes of the Gospel of Peace remind us of the Good News of God and prepares us to share it.

4. The Helmet of Salvation protects us from doubting God.

5. The Sword of the Spirit is the only weapon in our armor which represents the Word of God.

I think I'll add this to my wardrobe. How about you?

LIVING ON THE EDGE

Where do you get your information? We have so many sources to dictate what we should say, what we should look like, what we should drive, and all the newest fads. Our world is actually advertising on steroids. Just go to Burger King and have it your way, wear Nikes and just do it, and E-Harmony can find you the love of your life. Or for a night of enjoyment, tune into CNN, FOX NEWS, or your local news channel and get caught up on all the horrible things that on going on in the world. I don't know about you, but personally I think we need to start generating good and uplifting conversation, quit trying to keep up with the Jones and concentrate on what is really important to us. I think the world has brainwashed us into being something we were never created to be. Unless you live under a rock, I'm sure you are aware of the devastation that is occuring in our country. What used to be stable is not so stable anymore. So who are we looking to for answers? I guarantee you that psychics are raking in the money, horoscopes are becoming daily food, and we hang on to any glimpse of something positive. Now is not the time to complain, worry, or live in fear. Let's stop letting the world run our lives and start depending on the ultimate Good News. The word says that the Word of God is sharper then a two-edged sword. When you need information or advise, you can find all the answers you will ever need from the One that has all the answers.

NO BOUNDARIES

One of Webster's definitions for boundaries is "the limit". I think boundaries are created for safety and security. For some reason, our society is wanting to live a life with no boundaries. We think that we are being kept from things instead of being protected from things that could happen for crossing the lines that are set before us. Boundaries have been established since the beginning of time. The most precious and familiar are the Ten Commandments. Most of us can recite them, but do we live by them? (OUCH) In case you've not heard, they are trying to have them removed from every public place they are displayed. Without them, our world will be out of control. Let's keep them alive and teach them to all those that we love.

1. Do not worship any other gods but the one true God. That does not include Budda, Mohammed, or any other mystical creature.

2. Do not make idols of any kind. Let me list a few: money, clothes, sports, approval of man and you can fill in the rest of the blanks.

3. Do not use the name of the Lord in vain. Jesus Christ is Lord, not a curse word. Need I say more.

4. Observe the Sabbath and keep it Holy. It doesn't really matter what day it is but even God rested on the seventh day. We can't be more busy than He is.

5. Honor you father and mother. I think we have it backwards. We honor our children and then expect them to love us when we're old. (HELLO)

6. Do not murder. We are now under a government that is not pro-life. What part of THOU SHALL NOT do they not understand.

7. Do not commit adultery. Even though our TV's are plastered with that stuff and the world thinks we should do whatever makes us happy, a covenant is a covenant.

8. Do not steal. Let me put it this way: DO NOT TAKE WHAT DOES NOT BELONG TO YOU! You do reap what you sow. That's doesn't have to be a punishment because if you sow blessings, guess what you get back.

9. Treat you neighbor as yourself. I don't have the urge to rob a bank or shoot the next person I see, but do I treat others the way I want to be treated? I'm in training, how about you?

10. Do not covet what your neighbor has. We don't know the price they paid for what they have and we can't see behind the scenes.

I think our safest place is under the wings of the Lord Almighty. He has a book full of boundaries for us to refer to.

A LAUGH A DAY KEEPS THE DOCTOR AWAY

I dare you to go up to someone and tell they have cooties. They will have one of two reactions. They will either run from you or laugh because it will bring back a familiar childhood memory. Or how about the notorious mud pie. If you haven't enjoyed one of those, you have no idea what you're missing. The older I get, the more I daydream about being a kid and long to bring some of those pleasures back. Who said we ever have to completely grow up. If you will notice, most five year olds are not suffering from a nervous breakdown. They get up most days not worrying about a thing. The majority of children have a roof over their head, clothes on their back, food to eat, and parents to love them. God bless our little ones that don't. The biggest part of their agenda is what can I do to have fun today. I believe our Father wants the same for his children from 0 to 100. Along with our responsibilities, we should take time to live a little, laugh a little, and love alot. Their is a big difference between being childlike and immature. We can as adults be responsible and fun at the same time. I am truly trying to find ways to get a good belly laugh everyday. If you can't find a way, how about a nice game of twister with less then flexible friends or challenge them to a good game of hopscotch. It won't take you long to come up with some crazy ideas. I guess what I'm trying to say is let the long arms of God reach down and take your worries. The word says that we are to be childlike to get into the Kingdom of Heaven. Warning: I am not responsible for any pulled muscles or broken bones when you decide to do a cartwheel into work. Thank the Lord for health insurance.

REACH OUT AND TOUCH SOMEONE

From the beginning of time, humans were created for relationships. The key to a good relationship is communication. For those of us that can remember the popular slogan, reach out and touch someone, those were the days. If you wanted to talk to someone, you picked up the phone and hoped to speak to the person on the other end. In spite of dating myself, the world used to revolve without caller id or answering machines. In those days, you only talked to one person at a time and you were never interrupted by call waiting. We took time to actually speak to one another and enjoy investing in our friends and family. You hear people saying that life has gotten alot more stressful. Has it or have we allowed things to add to our already hectic schedules? We now have computers, cell phones, pagers and sometimes I feel like a device is hooked to my ankle so I can be reached at any minute. I enjoy all of these modern conviences but I can live without them. Our children however are being raised in a no touch society. It worries me because they don't have to ever really talk to anyone because they communicate with technology. Not to mention that even in public children and adults alike are talking on the phone, texting, and trying to communicate with a human all at the same time. Myself included (oh me)! We all require quiet time and our relationships are worth investing in. I'm not saying that we shouldn't use these things but we should see how they inpact our lives. Also, let's teach our children that they will live without there cell phones attached to them. Our society needs to be loved and personally touched by us. How about if we start giving people our undivided attention and let them know that we want to invest in a relationship with them. The word says that if one falls without a friend, there is no one to pick them up. Don't let the world rob us of relating to one another the way God created us to.

GARBAGE IN, GARBAGE OUT

This blog contains sensitive subject matter: Viewer discretion is advised. Is it just me or has the world gone completely crazy? Have you noticed that what is tolerated today would have shocked the nation a couple of centuries back? First of all, anything that I mention is not to offend or condemn anybody because we're all in this together. We are all affected by what we see and hear. But somehow we have either grown ammuned to or apathetic about our surroundings. We accept things because they happen in such a suttle way. For instance, let's discuss clothing. Have you noticed how clothes have become extremely tight and small so that our beautiful young girls can be exposed to every pervert around. Not to mention that they put cute little sayings on their behind, not that men needed any help looking there. Then our boys are going around with their pants half off and looking like a gang member whether they are or not. Then there is TV and internet. Do I need to go into detail except to say OMG!!!(translated Oh my goodness). We are bombarded by food commercials and then right behind them are Nutrisystem adds to help you look like a barbie doll. That's just a small way we are influenced to eat whatever we want but we should diet to lose all those extra pounds. No wonder our society is stressed out. At any given time our TVs can show partial nudity, homosexuality, adultry, children disrespecting their parents and blurt out some foul language. Please understand, I'm not condemning the people but the sin and immorality. We are to love each other but speak truth to one another. When God started showing me this stuff, I asked if I could send him the hate mail that I would receive. He simply said tell my people to be aware of what is going on and be part of the solution. All of the modern technology we have is wonderful as long as it is used for the proper reasons. But internet is destroying lives and taking our children by storm. Be careful little eyes what you see and be careful little ears what you hear. For the next month or so, be aware of what you are watching, reading, eating, and thinking about. If you don't like your thought life, examine what you and others around you are allowing to influence you. I guarantee you that what goes in will come out. The word says to think on things that are above. It's hard to be stressed, depressed, critical, or consumed by the world when your head is in the clouds.

KINGS KIDS

Do you love your children? Most mothers would think that was a pretty stupid question and the answer would be yes. No matter what other relationships you have, none compare to parenthood. Have you ever wondered how you could love another human being so much? Think about it for a moment. First, you carry the little critter or critters for 9 months and then go through the worst pain of your life to bring them into the world. The first years are vague because you were delirious from lack of sleep. If you weren't a multitasker before, you learn to become one overnight. Then they begin to grow and pretty soon it's off to school. Now this child you have protected is going out into the world. Here go some life lessons. Even if you homeschool, the baby you once held wants a little freedom. As time goes on, you hurt when they hurt, you cry when they cry, and you laugh when they laugh. You also stand back when you want to fix everything because some battles they have to face. But no matter what, not one time do you ever stop loving them. You try to make life as easy as possible but sometimes they have to learn the hard way and suffer the consequences of their actions. Isn't it amazing that no matter what they do or say, they can always come back to the comfort of your arms. Whether you have a relationship with your parents or maybe they have passed away, you always have a parent that loves you. God created parent/child relationships so we could feel just a portion of His love for us. The world has become a society that has portrayed good devil, bad God. Well let me assure you that God loves us and He is nothing but Good. So the next time you feel like you are alone or God can't hear you, remember how you feel about your children. You are a child of the King of Kings and His arms are open wide whenever you need to run into them. You will not find unconditional love like the love of your Father. You're the apple of His eye and His favorite!

Baggage Claim

Got baggage? Ever feel like you have the weight of the world on your shoulders? Well, some of us do. We are carrying so much around with us, I'm surprised we can walk. Think about luggage for a moment. It has many different compartments. It has the outside that can look fairly normal. Then the inside that usually has alot of space to store things. Also, there are those zipper parts where we put our personal things that we don't want to share with just anybody. We have all kinds of baggage too. We can roll it, put bags inside of others, and throw it over our shoulder with the strap. Why do you think we have all these things? Bingo! So we can carry more. Please understand that what happens in the spiritual, always happens in the natural first. Ladies, we are carrying things that we were not meant to carry. You can't see our baggage but I think it's time for us to take it to baggage claim and leave it there. Let me explain what is considered baggage: divorce, abortion, sexual, physical, or emotional abuse, abandonment, rejection, loss of a loved one, and the list goes on and on. If we could see what we were carrying, I'm sure some of us would have things strapped around our necks and tied to our ankles because our hands were full a long time ago. I even had a vision of some of us inside a trunk because we were so consumed with past hurts and memories. Guess what that means, someone or something is controlling our lives because I've never seen a trunk move itself. Why do you think you can only take one bag on an airplane, because you and 900 other people couldn't fit down the aisles with all that stuff. I simply said all that to say this: Where the Spirit of the Lord is there is Freedom. So let's cast our care on Someone who is strong enough to carry it.

Do You Like Parties?

Do you like to have pity parties? Unfortunately, I send myself an invitation quiet frequently and almost always RSVP. What's not to love? You're the guest of honor, you can dress however you would like, and nobody will ruin your party. If you really want to have a blast, add candy and a sad movie. Last week, I threw a Big Bash for myself. Come on, I know I'm not the only one who does this. I was having an unusually bad hair day. I want a style that is easy and does not require hairspray. It's probably not going to happen this side of heaven. I was feeling lonely and really missing my family that all live 800 miles away. I was dreading putting on another shirt that had Lake City Bowl stamped on it. I had no desire whatsoever to go to work with a smile that had to be surgically removed. Somehow I managed to muttle through the day (poor me). Then I was annoyed because I had to go to both sides of Walmart to get what I needed. Of course, I would have to be friendly to people that I came in contact with. When I finally came to my senses, a still small voice (Holy Spirit) spoke deep down inside. He said someone would love to be you. I don't mean that in a prideful way because He kept speaking. If I was having a bad hair day, I had hair. I was missing my family but families are sending their loved ones to war everyday and not sure of their return. If I was putting on a work shirt, I have a job. Also if we have customers, who are also our friends, then God is blessing our business. If I could go to both sides of Walmart and greet people then I could walk and talk. So I think from now on, I will do my best not to attend my pity parties no matter how many invitations I get. We are God's children and He wants the best for us. Just like when we give our children things and they concentrate more on what they don't have. It makes you want to strangle their little necks. We serve a loving and merciful God and His word says that He knows the plans He has for us, to prosper us and not harm us. Let's start thanking Him for what we have and watch Him move.

BE A BLESSING

DO YOU HAVE A NEED? IF NOT, PLEASE CONTACT ME AND I WILL GIVE YOU ONE OF MINE. I WAS IN MY CLOSET THIS MORNING AND GOD STARTING SPEAKING. I THINK HE DOES THAT TO SEE IF I'M LISTENING AND HOW I WILL RESPOND. AS I LOOKED UP AND SAW A CHRISTMAS PRESENT THAT HAD NEVER BEEN USED, I REALIZED THAT SOMEONE MIGHT ENJOY HAVING THAT. WELL, IT SNOWBALLED FROM THERE. I GOT INTO RUMMAGE SALE MODE. I WASN'T GOING TO SELL MY THINGS BUT TRY TO FIND SOMEONE WHO COULD USE THE STUFF THAT OBVIOUSLY I WAS NOT IN NEED OF. IT HAD TO BE GOD BECAUSE I'M NOT THAT SHARP. HERE'S THE COOL THING, IF WE MEET THE NEEDS OF OTHERS, OUR NEEDS WILL BE MET. ALSO YOU CANNOT HAVE YOUR MIND ON YOUR PROBLEMS WHILE YOU ARE CONCENTRATING ON WAYS TO BLESS PEOPLE. THERE ARE MANY WAYS TO GIVE TO OTHERS. IT DOESN'T ALWAYS HAVE TO BE MATERIAL THINGS. FOR INSTANCE, IF YOU WANT FRIENDS, BE A GOOD FRIEND. IF YOU NEED ENCOURAGEMENT, ENCOURAGE OTHERS. IF YOU WANT BROWNIES, BAKE SOME FOR SOMEONE ELSE. I HAD TO THROW THAT IN BECAUSE WE ALL KNOW THAT CHOCOLATE IS THE EIGHTH WONDER OF THE WORLD. I PERSONALLY THINK I WILL GIVE AWAY KNEE HIGHS BECAUSE I HAVE RUNS IN ALL OF MINE. WITH OUR COUNTRY IN THE SHAPE IT'S IN, NOW IS THE PERFECT TIME TO REACH OUT TO OTHERS. LET'S NOT LIVE IN FEAR BECAUSE THE WORD SAYS THAT YOU REAP WHAT YOU SOW AND GOD IS THE SAME YESTERDAY, TODAY, AND FOREVER. KEEP YOUR EYES AND EARS OPEN AND OPPORTUNITIES WILL COME YOUR WAY.

JOY STEALERS

Are you frazzled, frustrated and fed-up? Do you get up everyday and do the same thing expecting different results? We as humans do the same thing and expect either those around us or our circumstances to change. Well, wakey, wakey, the chances of that happening are slim and none. That means that in order for our lives to be different, we are the ones who have to initiate change. I have found that some easy steps can bring some much needed joy to our otherwise day to day life. Please understand that happy and joy do not mean the same thing. On this side of heaven, we will probably not ever be completely happy because life has tribulation but joy can give you hope to be content in the situations not for them. For instance if you always feel rushed, allow just 10 more minutes for the tasks ahead. Have you noticed that if you are running behind, it seems like everybody is driving 20 miles an hour. Well, if they are it's because they looked in their rearview mirror and saw a minivan maniac behind them. Also, I promise you they do not adjust the traffic lights to stay red longer on the days you're in a hurry. I heard a long time ago that poor planning on our part does not equal an emergency on everybody else's. If you do arrive at your destination without having an accident, how many did you cause? I think life has convinced us that we can't make it without doing everything, going everywhere, and having everything. At the first of the year, I made some small changes that have changed my life. I started having my time (an hour a day). I have to get up an hour early (ouch) adjust to fit your schedule. I stopped doing everything everybody wanted me to and I put God first, my husband and son (in that order) second, then mininstry or giving to others. Try to make a few small changes. Your flesh may think you are killing it and you are but the results will astound you. Even those that think they can't make changes, I speak favor over you to find a little joy in every day. The joy of the Lord is our Strength. If you're feeling weak, check your joy tank.

SLOW DOWN

Ladies, I think we should start the tortoise movement. That may sound a little odd but you know God has a sense of humor because he told me to slow down and referred me to the Tortoise and the Hare. Remember that wonderful cartoon before SpongeBob took over. I looked it up on YOUTUBE and studied it for a while. It spoke volumes to me. The tortoise got up the day of the race and he was not a bit stressed. I'm sure he didn't fret over which shell to wear or if he had prepared enough. Then he comes out and politely greets his opponent who just disses him like he was nothing. He got a late start but that didn't defer him at all. He got moving and met up with a few snails to run along side. The Hare of course had run ahead but stopped for a rest. When the tortoise got by, the Hare flew by but the Tortoise was unharmed because he had a protective shell. At the end, the Tortoise had to pull out all of his resources and stick his neck out to win. I know you're thinking what in the world does that have to do with us. Well I think we could learn a lesson from the old Tortoise. He got up everyday with complete confidence in who he was. He treated others with an unconditional love regardless of their reaction. He took time to spend a few minutes with those around him. When the wind got to strong, he retreated to a safe place and last but not least, he stuck his neck out to cross the finish line. It almost seems like to me that he just believed the best and enjoyed life. Jesus came that we may have and enjoy our lives. So slow down and be secure in a ever changing world that the Lord never changes.

WHO ARE YOU?

When was the last time you spoke to the little girl inside of you. I'm not talking about mom, wife, sister, friend, or any other label we carry. Somewhere deep inside of us is the real deal. It's not who we are at work, what we do for others, or even what others expect of us. Are you tired of trying to please everybody but yourself? Well here are some simple steps that may release some of the pressure.

1. Don't take on other's responsibilities (even if you think you can do a better job).
Come on ladies, you know what I mean.

2. If you are already stretched to your limit and someone asks you to do something for them, say NO! (Say it with me: NO) That was one of the first words we learned, ask any 2 year old.

3. Don't try to be Susie homemaker if you're not. That means quit condemning yourself because you are not like your neighbor. Guess what, you can do things they can't.

4. Who cares if you can't afford the lastest fashions because you're trying to clothe and feed your children. If you have clothes, that's more then some people in the world.

5. If you are in charge of something that you've done for twenty years and you don't enjoy it anymore,DELEGATE. Maybe there's something new for you to try.

6. Take time for yourself. To some of you, that sounds foreign but you are worth it. If only five minutes a day, take a deep breath and take the world off your shoulders.

7. Last but not least, remember that you are living, breathing human being that requires some TLC and need it in your daily routine.

The Word says that you are Fearfully and Wonderfully made. God doesn't make junk so I challenge you to remember who you really are.

It's 5:59 a.m., you are a lifeless lump under the covers. The alarm buzzes at 6:00 a.m. and out pops Wonderwoman. Before your feet hit the floor you are applying the outfit. In my case, a girdle is required. You're going to need it before you pick-up all the hats you wear from the nightstand. Of course, there is one that has to be surgically removed (MOM). All of us are in one of three catagories: we either have children at home, a spouse, or a terribly demanding pet that trained us. Heaven help us that have all three. I don't think I have to describe mornings in detail except many life-altering things can happen before you leave the house. When you do reach the door, you have a plan for the day. We are multitaskers so our minds are mapping the perfect day. Basically we somehow feel that we are supposed to save the world. If we get to go straight to work, we instantly become employee, friend, or maybe boss in some cases. For those that don't work outside the home I extend grace and mercy to you. While at work, we are already thinking about what we have to do when we leave. In the course of the day many things can happen, you fill in the blanks. If you planned ahead, you have a dinner plan intact, if not, you hit the store after work. Of course, you could have had everything you needed but do all the people that seem to control your life have their needs met. You get home and the race is on, dinner, homework, laundry, phone calls, and so on. After going full speed all day, it's finally recliner time or just a minute or two to yourself. Then it happens, you either remember something to be done or someone adds to your to do list. Finally, you drag your weary body to bed so you can get up and do it again tomorrow. Well the good news is we can do all things through Christ which strengthens us! So before you start a new day, let him add His Super to your natural and we can be all He's created us to be.

The Gray Hair Day

This is for the audience of women over thirty. For all of us who tried to do everything before the age of 20 because we were brillant. You thought your life would never change. We are always searching for the perfect hair style or should I say hair color. I'm know I'm not alone when I say, I have no idea what my natural hair color is. I've gone through the home dye sessions, pulling your hair through a cap (what were we thinking) and now we stick tinfoil in our hair to get the ultimate contrast. I said all that to say this, no matter what effort we make, the inevitable happens. Yes, I'm talking about the dreaded GRAY HAIR. While styling my hair the other day, I was confronted with total reality. I pulled out a few hairs and noticed immediately they were not normal. The best way to describe gray hair is comparable to horse hair. It is totally thick, stubborn, and a head full might require a wirebrush. Well that's where the Lord started to speak. His word says that He will give us beauty for ashes. So in His suttle loving way, he showed me beauty in the ashes that are forming on my head. Let's face it ladies, none of us would go back if we had to do the same thing over. So, the next time you see a gray hair, smile and know that with each new one that pops up, God is going to shower you with beauty.