Bluebirds in Fall...

The other day as we were getting ready for market I noticed what looked like a Eastern Bluebird flying around the front garden. I thought surely not, not in the fall... but sure enough there were not one but two~ a pair I imagine! They were going over to the bird house that was meant for them, but get bullied out of each Spring by the sparrows... and again they were being harassed by them. They must have been migrating South and happened by our yard for a rest and bite to eat... either way, it was extremely special to me on such a busy day.  As I stopped to watch them for awhile, they were busily in the garden looking for bugs along with the Gold Finches eating sunflower seeds with the Blue Jays... it was really enchanting... a bit later the Bluebirds, Gold Finches and Sparrows were all bathing and drinking out of the same puddle in the drive way... we got rain all night! I thought about how nicely they were all getting along now compared to earlier with the bird house.  I think the difference was there is just one bird house compared to multiple puddles... (or 'muddles' as Evan calls them)... and food opportunities.   We can be a bit like that too, can't we? 

Everything is going along just fine, we're all getting along famously and then...  There are two friends competing for the same job position... or a family member just got another new car~ (the third in four years) while we drive the same old one we've had for the last eight years... or the neighbor just got a new roof and windows when ours are leaking and drafty... fill in your situation here...  We all can because we are all human and have wants and desires and dreams... we also have needs that sometimes we may not feel are being quite met accordingly by friend, family member or spouse...

What it all boils down to is vanity though... what we want that is.  Sometimes we just have to let go of the wants and understand that if we can't be content with the situation at present, we probably won't be content with the situation we think we want.  That's the way want's go... 'much want's more'.
As we trust Him with our life and allow Him to determine our path the consequences are sure to fit just right... that is with His perfect plan for us...

"The only way I will keep a pliable, obedient spirit in the larger decisions is to look to Him and to obey in the smaller ones."  Catherine Marshall

Until next time,
Jean

     

Friendships

"The simple fact that the believer always experiences something and the unbeliever never does should tell us a great deal. Only the true Christian is sure the sun has risen!"  Tozer

As I read this statement I thought about it awhile and reminisced over how much the Lord has done for me over the years since I have been saved... they are too many to mention.

Our friends have been baling straw and storing it in one of our out-buildings.  There are literally hundreds of bales and they are stacked about ten high... they are almost to the ceiling.  Anyway, this is a great playground for little boys as I am sure you can imagine.  Ryan(10 years) and Evan (4 1/2years) were helping unload and were playing.  Well, this is a great mountain to climb to boys and a real adventure... Evan was quite the mountain climber when he slipped through a few bales and got himself stuck... Thankfully the men and other boys were all around and pulled him out.  Evan later told Taylor that he wasn't afraid because he prayed to God and he knew He would help him out... oh for the faith of a child... 

Evan loves to be read to and he truly enjoys the Bible story books that I read to him and Aaron... they both sit with wide eyes and Evan is always full of questions.  It's these times of sharing and closeness that I believe will have the lasting impact on them.  It's times when the older boys still run and tell me that they couldn't find something and then they prayed and sure enough God showed them where it is... of for the faith of a child...

It's this faith that I believe Tozer is talking about here... As believers we know in our hearts that God is there watching over us and taking care of all our needs.  He is ever faithful and full of grace for the believer... the broken and contrite spirit that cries out to Him He always hears.

Until next time,
Jean

Love In A Mist

It's a flower... yes, Love in a Mist is a name of a flower... interesting isn't it?  I was just looking around in my seed packs and realized I still had a pack of these seeds from a few years ago.  There is a trick to getting them to grow... which I have never succeeded in doing by the way. The seeds need to be go through a winter... a cold spell.  The seed packets say that you can 'trick' the seeds into believing they went through this by simply putting the seeds in the freezer for a few weeks and then planting them.  I tried it but didn't succeed... oh well it's not the first thing I tried and didn't succeed at. 

There are lots of things that we can relate to this, the tricking thing that is.  Sometimes we think someone is a friend, but they are not. There may a situation where you have trusted someone and come to find out they were not sincere or trustworthy with what you have shared... life is full of hurts.  Although there is one that will never trick us or betray us... that person is Jesus.  He cares for us beyond words... beyond actions... beyond expectations... He is ever faithful and He is the best friend you can ever find.  Even when we have not been faithful to Him as we should be... there is no love in a mist with Him... His love is ever perfect and more importantly... it's free to any that ask.... with Jesus life is full of joys that help us along with the hurts.

"Do not be anxious, said our Lord, have peace from day to day.  The lilies neither toil nor spin, yet none are clothed as they.  The meadowlark with sweetest song fears not from bread or nest, because he trusts our Father's love, and God knows what is best."  Helen Steiner Rice

Until next time,
Jean

Home

"Be it ever so humble, there's no place like home..." J.H. Payne

Home is where the heart is... home is a place that should be a relief from the cares of the world... the noise and the hussell and bussell of life...  home is where we create memories, whether good or bad... home is important.  When our children get home from school and it's been a hard day, do they feel the warmth and understanding of mother, is there a nice treat, is there peace for their weary soul?  When our spouse comes home from a day where things just didn't go as planned, are there inviting arms with a hug and 'it's gonna be OK?' Home should be the place where each family member comes and can relax after a tiring day. 

This is the ideal setting...  but we live in a real world where  there and ups and downs to each family members life.  We try to be pleasant and cherry, but we've got a splitting head ache and life wasn't fair today.  Such is life, as I always say...

How do I deal with the head ache and the bad day... do my children hear all the complaints of the trash not being taken out, another broken glass, clothes not picked up, the list goes on and on... do I make excuses for my behavior or use their behavior for an excuse? I am sure most of us can say that both these setting's take place in our home's.  We would be liars to say otherwise... but back on yesterdays note on apologies.  When we have those bad days and don't react like we should or want to, a simple "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to be grumpy" goes a long way, especially with children. When we can admit we were wrong and not make excuses for our behavior or theirs for that matter, they will see us set that example, they will learn to apologize and accept responsibility for their own actions as well. When our children come to us we too need to be there with a willing and open heart to their 'I'm sorry's'... such is LOVE!

Until next time,
Jean
    

Other's Above Oneself

"Consider the rights of others before your own feelings, and the feelings of others before your own rights." John Wooden

This morning Evan, Aaron & I were watching 'our' first Robins having a 'male' fight for the tree this morning.  This was quite interesting to both the little guys.  If you have ever watched a robin fight, it really is quite fascinating~ they seem to be caught up in a whirlwind, twisting and turning as their wings flutter and they peck at each other until they finally fall to the ground with one on the other. This onslaught went on for several minutes until the dominant male won out and the other flew off.  Yesterday we watched as two mean, stinky Starlings tore apart a nest out of one of my bird houses that a pair of house sparrows had built in anticipation for Spring. It was mean, downright mean.  I hate starlings and never feel bad when one gets 'wiped' out! Even cats won't eat them, they have a repulsive odor and just plain stink!  Today after school Ethan & Kyle took Evan out and filled all their bird feeders and hung out cobs of dried corn~ they are so sweet to their little brothers.  I love to watch them talk to him and explain what they are doing and to see him admire and look up to them.  I often tell the two oldest and even Ryan, that they have little brothers that are watching all they do and are looking up to them.  They need to set the right examples in all things. 

The bird fight and nest destruction were both sad to Evan, he couldn't understand why they were being 'mean'. I told him that is how I feel when he is mean to baby Aaron. He was quite offended not thinking he was ever mean to his baby brother.  But I reminded him of how sometimes he takes toys away or a book and so on. He looked at me as though he understood... that is until the next time he wants Aaron's toy tractor :-) !  It takes time & effort to be nice, and then when you are not being treated nicely it's even harder. But if we can just remember that golden rule in all circumstances, I think it would be a bit easier.  Without Him and His love in our hearts, it is much harder.

Until next time,
Jean

Who do we take for granted?

I am reading a book right now called "A Three Dog Night", a memoir by Abigale Thomas.  It is a true story about a lady whose husband had taken their dog for a walk and was suddenly hit by a car. He was left with a head injury that would leave him in a 'present moment' state of mind for the rest of his life, not quite seven years.  He was moved to a home for rehabilitation but would never be the man that he once was.  The story is moving and it has opened my eyes to some things.  So often our spouses may cause us some irritations, bumps in the roads that life will always have no matter what. During these moments of irritation, we should look at that person and think what life would be like if they were suddenly taken without a moments notice. I know several others that have had loved ones snatched away without being able to say good bye as well as others who have had long illnesses that time allowed wounds to be healed, apologies to be made and last hugs to be given. Not all have this blessing.

Today, maybe we could each look at those around us and think of life without them.... Not on any of those heated moments where life 'seems' like it would be easier without them. But think on the much more often 'happy moments'.... where laughter has been shared, goals were made, dreams of the future were drawn on imaginary papers, walks that have been taken hugs that have been given and tears that have been cried out of joy....  Here is perspective again.... So often I think it is easier to focus on the few bad things rather than all the good.
I can change that in my life and so can you.

Until next time,
Jean

All You Need Is Love

"Love doesn't make the world go round, it makes the ride worthwhile." Jones

I am looking out of the office window into what use to be my families small veggie garden.  It has over the last several years become one of my perennial gardens.  It is the home to our Asparagus, Rhubarb, Grapes, Blueberries and I am hoping this summer Raspberries.  It also has my Grosso Lavender and several Peonies in it.  It has several raised beds that hold Basil, Parsley and last summer I added some Sage.  I love this garden, not only for obvious reasons, but also for the happy memories it holds.  It is a 'small' garden and is easy to keep looking pretty & neat.  I always plant a row of Canna's facing the road, which is to hide the ugly late fall garden it becomes; Sunflowers go on the side that the neighbors field is and along the back side which faces our back yard & patio. Our older children have all worked in this garden and grown things... tomatoes, onions, carrots, flowers, pumpkins to name a few. But the most important thing that was ever grown there was love.

Quality time that is shared is love in the making.  Taylor & the boys love when I read to them,  I try to read stories that help their imaginations grow. They also love when we sit on the front porch and watch them play a ball game.  It's fun when mom gets out there and cracks one, and even better when dad get's in on the game.  They are busy boys with imaginations that seem to grow by leaps & bounds~ right along with their legs!  Taylor is a rose in bloom, a diamond in the ruff.  Love shared is worth it in the end. Love can make things grow...

Until next time,
Jean

Tribulations in Life...

"When thou art in tribulation, turn to the Lord thy God." Deuteronomy 4:30

The other day on the way to market we saw a car in the ditch and almost covered with snow.  It did not look nice at all.  I am sure when that person got into the vehicle he/she never intended to end up in the ditch.  It had to be a sickening feeling as they slid and went thump. It  appeared that no one was injured and only the car remained in this unfortunate position.  There are days when each of may feel like we are in a ditch and can't get out, stuck in the mud shall we say.  Tribulations will come and need to be dealt with even when they are unexpected, unwanted and unasked for.  Something has to be done, but what we ask ourselves, what?  When your head wants to hang low... when your shoulders feel to weak to bear another load... when your heart doesn't feel like it can be broken again... when....

So often situations come upon us that perplex us to the point of just not knowing what to do.  We try with all our might to get things fixed or repaired on our own strength, when all we really need to do is cry out to the Lord. He cares and He hears, no matter what...

Until next time,
Jean

Complainers...

We all know a few of these unfortunately don't we?  How do we keep looking up when things don't always seem so wonderful?  My question often is,  "How do I prevent my children from becoming a 'chronic complainer'"?  One that is thankful for Brussels sprouts and just eats without complaining... or one that says 'my cup is still have full instead of my cup is already half empty'.  I have so little patience for a complainer.  My discussion yesterday about unconditional love really comes into play for me in this department.  I just look at all we have and how good we have it.  I wonder if the starving people in Africa or Russia would complain about the food put in front of them... I wonder if the child sleeping in a card board box in a Los Angeles alley because they have no home would complain about going to bed at nine o'clock.... I wonder if the widow would complain about her husband coming home late from work or just be thankful she has him coming home... I wonder.

Complaining  can become a terrible habit and the more one looks for the negative the more one will find it.  When we look for the good, we are sure to find that as well.  Today it is snowing so I must practice what I preach right now, and it isn't easy for me on days like this.  Especially when yesterday I walked to green house with no jacket.  But I try to be thankful for the snow because my children love it, and I love them.  It is all in our mind set isn't it?

"Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things."   Philippians 4:8

Until next time,
Jean

Unconditional Love & Appreciation

"The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched, they must be felt with the heart."  Helen Keller

Today Evan & I were in the green house again, him playing in the dirt box and me seeding pepper's, eggplants, lettuces and more herbs.  I am getting some things ready for the plant swap at the winter market.  It was 80degrees in there and the warmth of the sunshine felt so good.  Evan wanted to go bare foot, and really it would have been warm enough, but I thought not yet little buddy.  His big blue eyes looked at me and suddenly he said to me, "Mom, know how much I love you?" Of course he wanted to me to say no and ask how much, so I humored my little boy.  "I love you all da'way to da' stars & moon mom."  "I love you that much too Evan".  When I saw this quote from Helen Keller who couldn't see any of the beautiful things that I get to gaze upon each day, I thought of this moment with Evan. He is so sweet and little and his unconditional love for me never seems to fail. 

Unconditional love is not always an easy thing to give but when we bestow it upon the unworthy it always comes back three fold.  When we give a smile, we are sure to receive one back.... when we give a listening ear to a weary soul, we will someday be rewarded with a caring friend.... when we give a helping hand, we will indeed be helped some time in one of our times of need. 

"Love is patient, love is kind.  It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.  It is not rude, it is not self seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.  Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.  It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.  Love never fails..."  1 Corinthians 13: 4-8

Until next time,
Jean

Love is....

"The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched, they must be felt with the heart."  Helen Keller

Today Evan & I were in the green house again, him playing in the dirt box and me seeding pepper's, eggplants, lettuces and more herbs.  I am getting some things ready for the plant swap at the winter market.  It was 80degrees in there and the warmth of the sunshine felt so good.  Evan wanted to go bare foot, and really it would have been warm enough, but I thought not yet little buddy.  His big blue eyes looked at me and suddenly he said to me, "Mom, know how much I love you?" Of course he wanted to me to say no and ask how much, so I humored my little boy.  "I love you all da'way to da' stars & moon mom."  "I love you that much too Evan".  When I saw this quote from Helen Keller who couldn't see any of the beautiful things that I get to gaze upon each day, I thought of this moment with Evan. He is so sweet and little and his unconditional love for me never seems to fail. 

Unconditional love is not always an easy thing to give but when we bestow it upon the unworthy it always comes back three fold.  When we give a smile, we are sure to receive one back.... when we give a listening ear to a weary soul, we will someday be rewarded with a caring friend.... when we give a helping hand, we will indeed be helped some time in one of our times of need. 

"Love is patient, love is kind.  It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.  It is not rude, it is not self seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.  Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.  It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.  Love never fails..."  1 Corinthians 13: 4-8

Until next time,
Jean

"Angry words, oh let them never rise..."

"Treasure each other in the recognition that we do not know how long we shall have each other."  Joshua Loth Liebman

Whenever our truck pulls out of the lane with some of my family members, I send a prayer Heavenward.  We never know if in the morning when we wake if we shall go back to bed that evening.  We hear stories everyday of people suddenly being taken out of this world and sent into eternity.  We have no guaranties in life and with that thought do we consider the things we say and do?  We are all human and have our short comings and regrets.  Each day presents itself with different joys & sorrows, how do handle them?  Each day we are graced with gives us a new opportunity to keep or make things right in our lives. I know for myself there are days I wish I could erase out of my life, I am sure most of us do.  Although I need to focus on everyday being an opportunity to add a happy page in my life book.  What will people remember us by when we are gone?  How much money we had or how successful we were?  By the kindness and love we showed to others or by a mean spirited temper?  Everything we do everyday of our life will leave some memory or story about us with someone.

On that note lets focus on making joy filled memories. One's that our children will grow up telling their children and laughing over.... one's that will bring tears, not of sadness but of tender, loving moments in their lives.... one's that we will have no regrets over.  The things we do today will be the stories they tell tomorrow.

Until next time,
Jean
 

Life's Happy Moments

"Have a heart that never hardens, a temper that never tires, and a touch that never hurts." Charles Dickens

The sun is shining and the day is absolutely beautiful.  Neil & I went for a stroll in the green house to look things over and the plants are growing famously.  You add a few days of sunshine and some smelly fish fertilizer and wow, how things burst forward- or should I say upward.

This brings me to another type of growing, what we allow to grow in us.  I am a gardener through & through which means  I relate a lot of things to growing and what it takes to make them mature.  Love for instance only grows when we are happy, content, peaceable, respectful, friendly and most importantly lovable.  Love can't grow through anger and bitterness nor can it grow through disrespect and thoughtlessness.  Just as a tiny seed must be nurtured, so must love in any relationship.  Plants need four things to grow: a container of some sort with a growing medium, moisture and  sunshine. If I were to water the seeds with vinegar they would never grow.  The two main ingredients to a happy relationships are love & respect. Most ladies want to be loved and most men want to be respected.  These two ingredients make for a much more friendly environment and when applied liberally you watch things grow. It's not always that easy is it?  Not at all, but this is where the growing part comes in.  I once heard, "Feed what you want to grow and starve what you want to die."  There is a lot of wisdom in this and can be attributed to just about every aspect of life.

I find as I feed my Christian walk with 'good stuff' I grow upward and this helps with the everyday stuff that happens in life.  When I slack off and start starving myself of the 'good stuff' then I start on a downward slope.  Each day is a choice on what I will feed or starve.  It is for each one of us...
"Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 37:4

Until next time,
Jean

True Friends...

"The beauty of a true friend is that they look at you through the eyes of hope,not seeing the weeds, but the beautiful flowers that God is growing in the garden of our lives." author unknown

True friendship is a blessing that words cannot describe.  Anyone who is reading this and has or has had a friend that touched your life in a way that left footprints on your heart knows what I am saying. The kind of friend you can call with the most exciting news and they too will cheer.  Or call in tears and they will cry with you.  Friends are a gift and need to be treated as such.  I do believe that God places people in our lives for a reason.  I do not believe in chance for one second.  How do I embrace my friends and show my love for them?  My love language is Act's of Service and I think I probably tend to show love to others in the same way.  Little acts of kindness, small gestures to help- that sort of thing...  This week I am going to work a little harder at showing love, not just to my friends but to all those around.

Until next time,
Jean