tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90094566567951534082024-03-19T01:48:49.729-07:00Meditations of my HeartMeeting the Miraculous in the MundaneMartha Jane Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11620499267401065780noreply@blogger.comBlogger1376125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009456656795153408.post-82132145409373090932024-03-14T22:00:00.000-07:002024-03-14T22:00:00.141-07:00I Weep<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhHB7H0dpGm9sb3TKtFW7kVIOuxD-tTn-osYbpkTeqOt86Qi5bwoWaapy2gkx7-0efA867NnpLICveIi-eAS9Gcw8uFh7aUg9CHXnLZxK-WAQhq4PPmK8vO-EULzzmw3-44w2pc9_JDfHU5otrIunyyWlBGW3lxQwxJ_EZ41I7tjEHbYSxeVdlFNZm0Lse/s581/tears.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="340" data-original-width="581" height="187" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhHB7H0dpGm9sb3TKtFW7kVIOuxD-tTn-osYbpkTeqOt86Qi5bwoWaapy2gkx7-0efA867NnpLICveIi-eAS9Gcw8uFh7aUg9CHXnLZxK-WAQhq4PPmK8vO-EULzzmw3-44w2pc9_JDfHU5otrIunyyWlBGW3lxQwxJ_EZ41I7tjEHbYSxeVdlFNZm0Lse/s320/tears.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b>Jesus wept. ~John 11:35</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>I weep for hurting souls </i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Who never saw the coming</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Of travesty, now mourning</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>The ones who suffered</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>I weep for the children</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Who never will see light </i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Of day, God's promises</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Denied because of</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Choices, selfish, made</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>I weep for those whose</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Health betrayed them</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>When it's needed most</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>And in the weeping, I</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>See hope and grace</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>In Father, Son, and Holy</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Spirit, Three in One.</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Amen!</i></b></span></p>Martha Jane Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11620499267401065780noreply@blogger.com47tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009456656795153408.post-10310292331896008282024-03-07T22:00:00.000-08:002024-03-07T22:00:00.132-08:00Tiny Droplet<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqjlqgFLWFQfRGd72gmDbmHODoADdrehi7XuSIkwhMSQgwk5KguFKkcrH4qIYW6qlXiz_cdsvV5fbAlDikTZGl8xmZ69EI05PcxLRZJJB6rja12WnqWSdS_IHUfqoQJvKCd0n3_Ti1NCT9ckhqUOYOfX2H9XNsX9kSCtUw1ouHqLivvfwbdiXjwZXGH_mu/s5472/IMG_0206_DxO1%20color.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqjlqgFLWFQfRGd72gmDbmHODoADdrehi7XuSIkwhMSQgwk5KguFKkcrH4qIYW6qlXiz_cdsvV5fbAlDikTZGl8xmZ69EI05PcxLRZJJB6rja12WnqWSdS_IHUfqoQJvKCd0n3_Ti1NCT9ckhqUOYOfX2H9XNsX9kSCtUw1ouHqLivvfwbdiXjwZXGH_mu/s320/IMG_0206_DxO1%20color.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b>For now, we see only a reflection as in a mirror, then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. ~1 Corinthians 13:12</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b><br /></b></span></p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Tiny droplet</i></b></span></p></blockquote><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Clinging After</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Rain has passed</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Inconsequential</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Fleeting until</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>I stop and peer</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Into its orb</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Amazed to find</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Whole world reflected.</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Amen!</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"> </p><p style="text-align: center;"> </p><p> </p>Martha Jane Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11620499267401065780noreply@blogger.com57tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009456656795153408.post-65195955893473096792024-02-29T22:00:00.000-08:002024-02-29T22:00:00.344-08:00God's Wisdom, a Gracious Gift<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRP2GV1k76OqdSwnX7kStJio7F2K-W4QNOLCpoMxkqQ25xz-XkT0XmhSknByugiH0IkZmr9vwWxMBQ7_VK2KgzQ5-d-kGFHW3_Irk_3-edHFbjiMRyixfjn5PmpDpW1ug4wtffUm2Xa8QojPzeJyOr_mIMKc9c-YYPT89uqrCMZe6aRnaATPMvsgZNzSyS/s3685/IMG_0190_DxO1%20color.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3685" data-original-width="3137" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRP2GV1k76OqdSwnX7kStJio7F2K-W4QNOLCpoMxkqQ25xz-XkT0XmhSknByugiH0IkZmr9vwWxMBQ7_VK2KgzQ5-d-kGFHW3_Irk_3-edHFbjiMRyixfjn5PmpDpW1ug4wtffUm2Xa8QojPzeJyOr_mIMKc9c-YYPT89uqrCMZe6aRnaATPMvsgZNzSyS/s320/IMG_0190_DxO1%20color.jpg" width="272" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b>If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. ~James 1:5</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Curious about the photo above? Danny and I buy flowers together for Valentine's Day. While it's lovely to have cut flowers adorning our dining room table, we're aware form the moment of purchase that these will not last forever. Danny trims and refills the water multiple times, but their fate is inevitable. He decides to simply toss them out of the vase and into the woods; some get caught up in the tree limbs, giving the illusion that they are blooms on the tree. Whimsical, don't you think?</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>The nicest part about an early spring, for me, is seeing the gorgeous daffodils come to life in our yard. I plant most of them in late fall in the early years of our marriage. They have faithfully blossomed every year hence, although usually in the month of March, not February. I can recall as if it were yesterday kneeling in the leaf-covered mulch, digging holes in the ground, and carefully covering each bulb with soil, full of hope for a cheerful spring.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>It's a good thing I did so then; just the thought of getting down on my knees and trying to plant either flowers or bulbs, fills me with consternation. Would I even be able to get back up without help? What a difference this aging process has meant for me and done to me!</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinvsXYSEUU8-G05AKFLoy1XsXkU4cHhwY8jQ6vHmWqse58oBwWDW-lQkgLyr0fRargAIkOCDJjqjNQ1-jZ0ka8e3iqVdwvqd6Bqs_JZek9JIdX9174nMDTTdqHjXvuAIik9LFCb_57MXOaH3bK8By7yMkOFM_D7v9UT1QFwzNaLmhwnZmUo3yD_j7iTlY6/s5472/IMG_0191_DxO1%20color.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinvsXYSEUU8-G05AKFLoy1XsXkU4cHhwY8jQ6vHmWqse58oBwWDW-lQkgLyr0fRargAIkOCDJjqjNQ1-jZ0ka8e3iqVdwvqd6Bqs_JZek9JIdX9174nMDTTdqHjXvuAIik9LFCb_57MXOaH3bK8By7yMkOFM_D7v9UT1QFwzNaLmhwnZmUo3yD_j7iTlY6/s320/IMG_0191_DxO1%20color.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM10k0Sq8PZWd1LRFHEYtjGXT9VJNfj7BCOBifwdGHOET_gLKcOEw1Om4mtIXWM4x0jPvj_y0ynpa1u-PnKCrLxSrq4x_PYODbKk_SdTmquVpoIohK7qGgzpp5o7meVtS0w4Xhlbq36slz61sSb57UWl4CI-3-oy-nkZg74Q90d-qOd8skiAUb13_iMHXN/s5472/IMG_0192_DxO1%20color.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5472" data-original-width="3648" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM10k0Sq8PZWd1LRFHEYtjGXT9VJNfj7BCOBifwdGHOET_gLKcOEw1Om4mtIXWM4x0jPvj_y0ynpa1u-PnKCrLxSrq4x_PYODbKk_SdTmquVpoIohK7qGgzpp5o7meVtS0w4Xhlbq36slz61sSb57UWl4CI-3-oy-nkZg74Q90d-qOd8skiAUb13_iMHXN/s320/IMG_0192_DxO1%20color.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUOJQL4pmM5igJyNOdFM489qcv_yf-eDcAflSOUw5l17w4HoTy05rflI-r5-xlbj_PRnZ4kM-wmMzwZo_kV1ugURlSwcMUAnivzAZJfy-wz0qOjrva1sAOuHqRmCGHJsPkHu81YEYNn4d2k2xgINxEGIv2a3P-rMKozq9-RlgtWe0R2CbKGkCf4Q9V_8uA/s5472/IMG_0193_DxO1%20color.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5472" data-original-width="3648" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUOJQL4pmM5igJyNOdFM489qcv_yf-eDcAflSOUw5l17w4HoTy05rflI-r5-xlbj_PRnZ4kM-wmMzwZo_kV1ugURlSwcMUAnivzAZJfy-wz0qOjrva1sAOuHqRmCGHJsPkHu81YEYNn4d2k2xgINxEGIv2a3P-rMKozq9-RlgtWe0R2CbKGkCf4Q9V_8uA/s320/IMG_0193_DxO1%20color.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcAtAq3_8PfjCaYNWf-agXv2eMaTkvRVhW8aXUjO1ixFXMVK7k3Nguw-2HrxmU_Li8ld1yVScJetjlK3NpRqu5U-pvNtRguWORsPJrexzAnCz50_wDszzfXDubw_9U6keMRNDrLGEWTREhJxjTZBGH0X9v6q3V2kN6D1z6uxOiqEBvoLQxR5qKXzoVxEXB/s5472/IMG_0195_DxO1%20color.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5472" data-original-width="3648" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcAtAq3_8PfjCaYNWf-agXv2eMaTkvRVhW8aXUjO1ixFXMVK7k3Nguw-2HrxmU_Li8ld1yVScJetjlK3NpRqu5U-pvNtRguWORsPJrexzAnCz50_wDszzfXDubw_9U6keMRNDrLGEWTREhJxjTZBGH0X9v6q3V2kN6D1z6uxOiqEBvoLQxR5qKXzoVxEXB/s320/IMG_0195_DxO1%20color.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxjcETP8wHCGP0v0KYZWZgj5tg_g-nnq1sTAki4CklZ-D5pSBa-QMLp5kJPPB8B2FgCgcmgsizjv9e2RyA0mlhyKJkyznDX9zW2A_YPM_-AfU5oq5riGYSVMR2-WpYJsb2ncwQY4jsjUYELxkSJbiB6qU8ENFVKra1XZcXx1RLUShBOdjVEti25ZYJ_4nF/s5472/IMG_0197_DxO1%20color.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5472" data-original-width="3648" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxjcETP8wHCGP0v0KYZWZgj5tg_g-nnq1sTAki4CklZ-D5pSBa-QMLp5kJPPB8B2FgCgcmgsizjv9e2RyA0mlhyKJkyznDX9zW2A_YPM_-AfU5oq5riGYSVMR2-WpYJsb2ncwQY4jsjUYELxkSJbiB6qU8ENFVKra1XZcXx1RLUShBOdjVEti25ZYJ_4nF/s320/IMG_0197_DxO1%20color.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><p><br /></p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Aren't they breathtakingly lovely?</b></span><p></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>And for me, today, they are an exceptional treasure. You see, March 1st is my birthday! Such a perfect gift! Not that I like thinking about getting older, especially when I'm physically challenged by chores I once did with ease. But I hope and pray that with my age has come wisdom. God's wisdom. Filling my heart, mind and soul.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>I'd rather have God's gracious gift of wisdom and to love as He loves more than anything else I can imagine. And to think, all we need to do is ask Him, and we will receive it from our generous Father. He doesn't withhold any good gift, but showers us with grace and mercy at every turn.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>May I live out my days with gratitude for all my blessings.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Amen!<br /></b><br /></span></p>Martha Jane Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11620499267401065780noreply@blogger.com66tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009456656795153408.post-61453238668237870002024-02-22T22:00:00.000-08:002024-02-22T22:00:00.128-08:00Investments<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJBTQctjTp3DTlb7f47d4OZXPJV29L7BAMwup9KoMmqJk0DU0IcxbM4kwM9rC5f-zesDFOpr6XyhdArZnyo3rk_L2xkkWwNWU9H89TALVyexTcCwi6zfgO9Jnwox2WYSUqBsdvAfvXUtvI-KdP9QPUKQb3MjcPQ_wGzTeE6I3h4eJ3I0olgpMUn4mUEnFx/s770/Water-Soluble-Vitamins-In-Food-1457433817-770x533-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="770" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJBTQctjTp3DTlb7f47d4OZXPJV29L7BAMwup9KoMmqJk0DU0IcxbM4kwM9rC5f-zesDFOpr6XyhdArZnyo3rk_L2xkkWwNWU9H89TALVyexTcCwi6zfgO9Jnwox2WYSUqBsdvAfvXUtvI-KdP9QPUKQb3MjcPQ_wGzTeE6I3h4eJ3I0olgpMUn4mUEnFx/s320/Water-Soluble-Vitamins-In-Food-1457433817-770x533-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b>Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil. This will bring health to your body and nourishment for your bones. ~Proverbs 3:7-8</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>It seems the older I get (too quickly, I might add), the more supplements I've introduced to my body. Although some have truly made a difference for the better, there are some with which I part ways. Their promises for more energy and better health ring empty.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG1d-lkiY-0FddxH-nHnbDaKwY0IZ-qKXeZJqvOVoTCObQJ3rAgO6RZNGdDbR30wZw14JgWyVc24OddzWmYKW16Sr20LzHxIXUsqgLgRjyKhNRetl_FGgaeK-eBIrGao42la_nvD-mJha8qiSQdd81JY7juY9OAnLr22kjRfh5b-xlSojfuWtfbPCZ71X-/s4032/PXL_20240221_213457382.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG1d-lkiY-0FddxH-nHnbDaKwY0IZ-qKXeZJqvOVoTCObQJ3rAgO6RZNGdDbR30wZw14JgWyVc24OddzWmYKW16Sr20LzHxIXUsqgLgRjyKhNRetl_FGgaeK-eBIrGao42la_nvD-mJha8qiSQdd81JY7juY9OAnLr22kjRfh5b-xlSojfuWtfbPCZ71X-/s320/PXL_20240221_213457382.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><br /><b>I've also ditched my daily tumeric I have been taking for joint pain, especially in my wrists. Too much time on the keyboard? Probably. Instead, I've opted for this:</b></span><p></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizb4Fhx-pDCd8CRpx33UTLYaWjjzZp9rLutD2b1yj7wYgO1RYgFRYCUWXxJeFxUgJK74h9qiZwqdARebAKOl2O30Y3IYfrxGwnVo3TbnqH3CxdQ9lHkBz6qDSBpGwjMMFxYYBAnNHszYBDLMtF0FyOHhnLFRGslsy2Q68qd3fYTZHUVHqKQmshJH3Ay1mY/s4032/PXL_20240221_214059546.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizb4Fhx-pDCd8CRpx33UTLYaWjjzZp9rLutD2b1yj7wYgO1RYgFRYCUWXxJeFxUgJK74h9qiZwqdARebAKOl2O30Y3IYfrxGwnVo3TbnqH3CxdQ9lHkBz6qDSBpGwjMMFxYYBAnNHszYBDLMtF0FyOHhnLFRGslsy2Q68qd3fYTZHUVHqKQmshJH3Ay1mY/s320/PXL_20240221_214059546.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5NRRNDBcuOAzC9Ktzz2nFDuO9rKBbRnnkJGBs91dbIP-GygAhJamxiIwup-WsMdQoM-4bUP3i8kxoj2IWlDG4r0sJ1dDzYwYhO9E2fn1swwmgl_mk89ik_3IrHh4zZrDsqk9PhXK5czxmPx8rFt6XwzYFcU1bT41tjC45EkEvxcPw9_aDsue0B1-eaGCh/s4032/PXL_20240221_214117179.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5NRRNDBcuOAzC9Ktzz2nFDuO9rKBbRnnkJGBs91dbIP-GygAhJamxiIwup-WsMdQoM-4bUP3i8kxoj2IWlDG4r0sJ1dDzYwYhO9E2fn1swwmgl_mk89ik_3IrHh4zZrDsqk9PhXK5czxmPx8rFt6XwzYFcU1bT41tjC45EkEvxcPw9_aDsue0B1-eaGCh/s320/PXL_20240221_214117179.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><b>Danny researches this product thoroughly, and in only two weeks of taking it, I can feel a measurable improvement in pain-free mobility. It's a win-win for me since it also helps with hair growth and skin health. I'm already takin Nutrafol, recommended by my dermatologist, for battling thinning hair. Who would ever think that the product, so widely advertised, would actually do the trick?</b></span><p></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0o9MUbxdgqg87Eiyve4qTt5tZxiPGhk0aUZELZ2cvHkpacWswYRhA8MFuByvFak8sfkWefuczeN2DHUAKOqTYeI6nTKJ8sszqpCxv-l_6ngQw-x4sfh3pc6yMalsXQpfsZ_2TgNtliAVB6veE7HvhBAJzMxxtlE5ynaLEhklxGlWPwDKa6FVqDvRsBN3Y/s4032/PXL_20240221_213710752.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0o9MUbxdgqg87Eiyve4qTt5tZxiPGhk0aUZELZ2cvHkpacWswYRhA8MFuByvFak8sfkWefuczeN2DHUAKOqTYeI6nTKJ8sszqpCxv-l_6ngQw-x4sfh3pc6yMalsXQpfsZ_2TgNtliAVB6veE7HvhBAJzMxxtlE5ynaLEhklxGlWPwDKa6FVqDvRsBN3Y/s320/PXL_20240221_213710752.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><br /><b><br /></b></span><p></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>I highly recommend it to any of you who are struggling with hair loss. However, keep in mind that is by no means inexpensive.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>But in my book, Nutrafol has been a worthwhile investment for me.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Yes, good health and nutrition are the bulwarks for living our best physically, but what about spiritually? How can we boost the quality of time we spend with God each day?</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>We invest.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>In His Word. In prayer. In quiet contemplation. In listening for and to His still, small voice. Not just daily, but moment by moment.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>And as we do, we come to realize that all our surroundings speak to the sacredness of life and living well.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQzeDlhCtCQ-R1Ur4tFn9Mm7pdFegwa0_PxrOgYyCQgDSBUWZoFj8Bl8cUwgTwcOywm0h1KFoga0ewx_9JumSXA-gzUmenDHQyM112I5zHphjlavxEgFJEIpYRJThaqkrh7axLuaG9kjQz8N6AARXONrrmXfXiVRcDm5DdiJbZNkdUqqD64QtW06usDnYN/s4032/PXL_20240222_163450199.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQzeDlhCtCQ-R1Ur4tFn9Mm7pdFegwa0_PxrOgYyCQgDSBUWZoFj8Bl8cUwgTwcOywm0h1KFoga0ewx_9JumSXA-gzUmenDHQyM112I5zHphjlavxEgFJEIpYRJThaqkrh7axLuaG9kjQz8N6AARXONrrmXfXiVRcDm5DdiJbZNkdUqqD64QtW06usDnYN/s320/PXL_20240222_163450199.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKlsiK_20EgcvZyiPd642we4y7nS5n_RhkuPLgJZg4x2WeHqIieJlbE-VkU7Zq6tHcR2qMTcy0z-HShOQb-aLg1NLstdvMnyy0zi79dPbMrGTGvH-wDQUdgy4MJF_t1ViNjLBEP5vlS0Rcr_xd5PEYEknI1Kp_ZpTl3uByxpnish7Wnn5LatUKhvu6zJ2M/s4032/PXL_20240222_163457725.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKlsiK_20EgcvZyiPd642we4y7nS5n_RhkuPLgJZg4x2WeHqIieJlbE-VkU7Zq6tHcR2qMTcy0z-HShOQb-aLg1NLstdvMnyy0zi79dPbMrGTGvH-wDQUdgy4MJF_t1ViNjLBEP5vlS0Rcr_xd5PEYEknI1Kp_ZpTl3uByxpnish7Wnn5LatUKhvu6zJ2M/s320/PXL_20240222_163457725.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><b>(I will be reviewing <u>Sacred Surrounding</u> by my good friend, Jean Wise, soon!)</b></span><p></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>God is with us, for us, in us. At all times and in all places, no matter what circumstances we face or what troubles may come.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>No matter how much our joints might ache or how disheveled our hair looks, God loves us just the same.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Every one of us.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Amen!</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><br /></b></span></p>Martha Jane Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11620499267401065780noreply@blogger.com54tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009456656795153408.post-78018076505736204932024-02-15T21:30:00.000-08:002024-02-15T21:30:00.136-08:00Alpha and Omega<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-2BCLrTJnS6P5Utj71E2LqSBOCCd3ZTQyLW5g0mS6pmzBni5En10SWhyVhUVAIK8jwV8HlocI42LYpXoQHh_mg411d_I1sU2tAYT4Hv5UfLzVNbDGn9sx9Gwcq4N9zkLzYZ9Ua3p-CjbCqTcX45CKiuZK8JQZYZeRCagh7llnlE0goLbvKTOSUepLQYFW/s525/AlphaOmegaLG.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="396" data-original-width="525" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-2BCLrTJnS6P5Utj71E2LqSBOCCd3ZTQyLW5g0mS6pmzBni5En10SWhyVhUVAIK8jwV8HlocI42LYpXoQHh_mg411d_I1sU2tAYT4Hv5UfLzVNbDGn9sx9Gwcq4N9zkLzYZ9Ua3p-CjbCqTcX45CKiuZK8JQZYZeRCagh7llnlE0goLbvKTOSUepLQYFW/s320/AlphaOmegaLG.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b>"I am the Alpha and Omega," says the Lord God, "who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty." ~Revelation 1:8</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Tenuous times</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Temporary times</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Uncertainty rules</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Obedient hearts </i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Now wander, wonder</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Pray unceasing</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>For closure sure</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>A future hope</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>In faith reveals</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>A promise made</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>A promise kept</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>He is the Alpha</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>And Omega</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Today, forever.</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Amen!</i></b></span></p>Martha Jane Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11620499267401065780noreply@blogger.com46tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009456656795153408.post-61298891003927813392024-02-08T21:30:00.000-08:002024-02-08T21:30:00.126-08:00Just Then, the Bed Broke!<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicbqmiBploXynGEiqahs6GBLGXHrhWDFSrq3iyDzonIHbTbrASHp3wY_7uZIzTCL4iYUbM1CTuN_fTqZVm_8tMGIOCnbb0bIHSPAuTkZbohWd440b40RGIh4hOogEDL-UFsmqd7ALN_x-WNnUHSXNhDBGMUNLygZ8GHbDNRiefdzUP0-xaAjJudgRG0PSg/s4032/20240205_094203.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicbqmiBploXynGEiqahs6GBLGXHrhWDFSrq3iyDzonIHbTbrASHp3wY_7uZIzTCL4iYUbM1CTuN_fTqZVm_8tMGIOCnbb0bIHSPAuTkZbohWd440b40RGIh4hOogEDL-UFsmqd7ALN_x-WNnUHSXNhDBGMUNLygZ8GHbDNRiefdzUP0-xaAjJudgRG0PSg/s320/20240205_094203.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b>In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life. ~1 Timothy 6:19</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>My grandmother, whom I called Nana, had a unique way of always looking on the bright side of things, no matter what the circumstances. She had a favorite saying when it appeared as though everything was going downhill fast: "Just then, the bed broke." In other words, life happens in ways we least expect, and we have no other choice but to go along for the ride.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>One time, when we were visiting her and my Grandpa, Nana had all of the grandchildren piled on one of the beds, giggling, bouncing, and creating genial chaos when, lo and behold, the bed actually <i>broke!</i> We kids were momentarily shocked and dismayed at what our rambunctiousness had seemingly caused, until Nana, with her ready smile, declared, "Just the the bed broke!" Oh, how we screeched with laughter and relief! No one was going to get in trouble that day.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>I wish I'd inherited more of my Nana's indominable spirit. The other night around 3:00 in the morning, our bed frame gave way out of the blue. Can you see it listing in the photo above? The slope it created made it impossible to sleep there. Danny takes the small double bed in our guest room.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie0KlRj4GLXrw_iygo4vxzu3Ix-wpdCkPSFba4GeIW2_pcq1ZKPUcIPXCVzyKz1mvUR7hJC3OHVAC-2gHF96erGeh-Q9XcUh5SBtHUcGe-MDlYkKKhIE4edXImIj272ncHy3hkituOqFOQ3AzU73VPlhxpX_x6erNe-B0rjeWc5aCXFBKmccbmHW-09sH3/s4032/PXL_20240205_235903106.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie0KlRj4GLXrw_iygo4vxzu3Ix-wpdCkPSFba4GeIW2_pcq1ZKPUcIPXCVzyKz1mvUR7hJC3OHVAC-2gHF96erGeh-Q9XcUh5SBtHUcGe-MDlYkKKhIE4edXImIj272ncHy3hkituOqFOQ3AzU73VPlhxpX_x6erNe-B0rjeWc5aCXFBKmccbmHW-09sH3/s320/PXL_20240205_235903106.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><br /><b><br /></b></span><p></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>I take the living room couch, where I'm used to taking my naps.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGHfbuiZXh5ulPpIv5esH_61IpbLTMG8P3eILIB8sSok6Vue-8sTj9q_7YDO917HpdlKvLp3xOReAVW-sh0XYh-KvOWANPVscOvtKWhOfHiSLpsdCqPx8dOZB3T291xYgqY_e11G1-0sh93oBFHK2bcSus9zcGcAILAtqlF3iT75MdmJQsEDvw9b3pB9Fh/s4032/PXL_20240205_235948947.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGHfbuiZXh5ulPpIv5esH_61IpbLTMG8P3eILIB8sSok6Vue-8sTj9q_7YDO917HpdlKvLp3xOReAVW-sh0XYh-KvOWANPVscOvtKWhOfHiSLpsdCqPx8dOZB3T291xYgqY_e11G1-0sh93oBFHK2bcSus9zcGcAILAtqlF3iT75MdmJQsEDvw9b3pB9Fh/s320/PXL_20240205_235948947.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><br /><b><br /></b></span><p></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>We weather the night fine, but when morning dawns, we are left with an unexpected dilemma - how are we going to remove the damaged frame to allow the bed and box spring to rest on the floor itself. Because of his recent surgery, Danny is prohibited from moving or lifting anything heavy with his right arm. Our thoughts turn to Nicco for help, but we quickly realize this is too big of a job for him to do successfully on his own. The bed is just too cumbersome for any one person to maneuver.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Danny wonders if some new friends from church might be able to help. They've been checking in on us since the recent incident, and as soon as we contact them, dad, Matt, and son, Joe assure us they'd be glad to help out.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Such a welcome turn of events! In no time, it seems, the three guys dismantle the frame, move it to another room that can easily store it, and put our bed to rights for the time being. Once again, we have a firm foundation upon which to thankfully enjoy a rejuvenating night's sleep.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4lY8CEqbgAHRYhWD-B7nNnFtGYZxZ_eK-NIz_LJpj42JbpeFWq7BAl9CC0PBAtKsq6qTvgle0ySNnUyu-xfXxkrneBSGuysdflIZBFjnTMoQLDN9O0pWJMX9rLRo8qnFxmsRwDlf6zNn3Os1RTq_foMaymuroHTsfTIEFdk2IpwDcAJfexJlOqACmjih7/s4032/PXL_20240205_235830987.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4lY8CEqbgAHRYhWD-B7nNnFtGYZxZ_eK-NIz_LJpj42JbpeFWq7BAl9CC0PBAtKsq6qTvgle0ySNnUyu-xfXxkrneBSGuysdflIZBFjnTMoQLDN9O0pWJMX9rLRo8qnFxmsRwDlf6zNn3Os1RTq_foMaymuroHTsfTIEFdk2IpwDcAJfexJlOqACmjih7/s320/PXL_20240205_235830987.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><br /><b><br /></b></span><p></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Our bodies certainly need a firm foundation, but so do our souls. Are you depending upon Jesus for that flawless foundation He has prepared for all of us? It is there where we can grab hold to the life that is truly life, and rest peacefully in His arms. No bed can break there!</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Amen!</b></span></p>Martha Jane Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11620499267401065780noreply@blogger.com64tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009456656795153408.post-90162571264466428572024-02-02T13:29:00.000-08:002024-02-02T13:29:45.080-08:00Our Refuge and Strength<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA_Cv-ANRb0YhCHjr6B5780G9x8ZkcVuevBLShJtNMtZL7ycn85jmRmDzD4NSBstDfzCZ-XciDgtgZOxT2MCinPZtNEHDf5kSRCPoF0qkjRb7pOW9g0lQaH6wzK1Uqt5ocs8IBz6Vb_ysqJxLqfDc0o2ut8GoDZQRyMqHkOWFpIOxrnqX-KUiD6cas2C45/s4032/1000000505-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA_Cv-ANRb0YhCHjr6B5780G9x8ZkcVuevBLShJtNMtZL7ycn85jmRmDzD4NSBstDfzCZ-XciDgtgZOxT2MCinPZtNEHDf5kSRCPoF0qkjRb7pOW9g0lQaH6wzK1Uqt5ocs8IBz6Vb_ysqJxLqfDc0o2ut8GoDZQRyMqHkOWFpIOxrnqX-KUiD6cas2C45/s320/1000000505-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b>God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. ~Psalm 46:1</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>This has been a week when Danny and I have turned continuously to God for refuge and strength. With every breath, we have asked the Lord to walk with us, to hold us up in His righteous hands, to turn the seemingly impossible to the absolutely possible for us.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>He has done it!</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Here's the background story:</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Last Thursday, we set out on a trip to Brunswick, Georgia, in order to attend my SIL's mother's memorial service on the following Saturday. We think, too, that this could serve as a mini-vacation for us and a chance to physically reunite with family.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>We book an Airbnb on St. Simon's Island within walking distance of the beach; a perfect place to visit during the off-season. Friday morning, after breakfast, we take a stroll on said beach. As you can tell from the photo above, it is an extremely foggy day, and the nearby fog horn loudly sounds its warning. Danny likes nothing better than being in the midst of a misty day. We are yet to discover just how foggy this day will become.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>When it's time for lunch, we drive to the Village on St. Simon's to dine at Barbara Jean's, a restaurant renown for their excellent crab cakes. Oh, my, their reputation proceeds them! Such a lovely treat we enjoy, and look forward to chowing down on more seafood during our stay.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>We return to the Airbnb; Danny is fine for about an hour. Suddenly, he tells me he's feeling woozy. I suggest he go to the bedroom and rest for a bit. No sooner does he recline, then he shouts, and I mean SHOUTS my name. His pacemaker is shocking his heart with a force he's never experienced before. As I hastily dial 911, I'm trying not to panic. I've never seen Danny in such excruciating pain, a pain that has his body flailing beyond his control; and we are praying and pleading, confessing our forever love for God and each other.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>It seems like a week before the ambulance finally arrives and the medics sweep Danny out of the house and on to the hospital. I don't ride with them because I need to get in touch with my brother. Of course, Bill is more than willing to get me to the hospital as soon as humanly possible. Why don't I drive myself? I am shaking uncontrollably and certainly not confident being behind the wheel in such a state. The last thing we need is another crisis on the heels of this one.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Once at the hospital, the nurses and doctors successfully stabilize Danny with the utmost are and attention. He is transferred to the ICU for observation overnight, which is the safest place he can possibly be. By the time I see him, he is calm and the color has returned to his face. Talk about feeling encouraged and hopeful!</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Long story short, the resident cardiologist sees him repeatedly (how many times does that happen on a weekend???). It is decided to replace the pacemaker on Monday. Now, I'm a bit concerned, because the last time Danny had an issue with his device, we were out of town, just like now, and the wound became infected. I am praying, praying, praying!</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>While all this is transpiring, Danny's two boys, Giovanni and Nicco, are heading our way at a clip. I don't know how we would have navigated these stormy seas without them. Danny is released from the hospital on Tuesday, we stay in a hotel that night, and the next morning, we hit the road for home. Giovanni drives our Subaru as wife, Hope, takes his car back to Florida. She is a life-saver, too!</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Giving thanks and praise to God is just as natural as taking a breath. It is non-stop. Now that we are home and settling back into our usual routines, Danny and I are slowly adjusting. Both of us have experienced PTSD-type episodes; fortunately, they don't linger too long, but certainly indicate the severity of the trauma we've experienced. </b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>With God's help as our refuge and strength, these, too, will dissipate in time.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Because life goes on, with or without us. And while we have breath, we should never cease to love God, seek Him, thank Him, praise Him.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Until the Lord calls us home, let us cherish and live life to the fullest.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Amen!</b></span></p>Martha Jane Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11620499267401065780noreply@blogger.com62tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009456656795153408.post-88264094492662106542024-01-25T22:00:00.000-08:002024-01-25T22:00:00.127-08:00Faithful Steward<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFltgN9ZkDm8QyqYLTzcTpmg64m3N440BJe_bQjTkC0cotuIGLbN0NzNNrBDhSSu_-TzNbjRkrv9db9s3Ltuiwx2oNm2UV8IdABI31ikWlTamF-DVA2kMuIHNpThR6Tj2L703HlhWb1ewaKnR3Gqp1_JKp_ZexRXV2rwjl98zYMimRIdi83O1ghRrxV1vg/s720/IMG_1701.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="405" data-original-width="720" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFltgN9ZkDm8QyqYLTzcTpmg64m3N440BJe_bQjTkC0cotuIGLbN0NzNNrBDhSSu_-TzNbjRkrv9db9s3Ltuiwx2oNm2UV8IdABI31ikWlTamF-DVA2kMuIHNpThR6Tj2L703HlhWb1ewaKnR3Gqp1_JKp_ZexRXV2rwjl98zYMimRIdi83O1ghRrxV1vg/s320/IMG_1701.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b>Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms. ~1 Peter 4:10</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>The source for this blog comes from a Lifestyle article I found on Fox News at the beginning of January. In reading it, my heart was so touched, I just have to share the story with y'all.</i></b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>If you live in Pensacola, Florida, and frequent the Scenic 90 Cafe for your morning cup of joe, chances are you've seen Mr. Lee, a retired Navy veteran, sitting at his usual seat at the counter. The restaurant staff look forward to him coming through the door like clockwork every morning.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnRq2N2FeiefWpQpVcvCI8k-UUg2c_6Oknv62LaDEV5_BRMoSLZK5uQS3dBphRgEq0odF89HFrkiWYN07L4BVnbzAyq9oiPvkGfULRjXhSXkeZaahSh5crP_dpFRErLnrAQKRjB3JWfK42AHBAGGNUd6eqEjJXeJCNgMSwm6Q8CvszAK_GSdgVm9kplVjA/s720/lee-chair.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="405" data-original-width="720" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnRq2N2FeiefWpQpVcvCI8k-UUg2c_6Oknv62LaDEV5_BRMoSLZK5uQS3dBphRgEq0odF89HFrkiWYN07L4BVnbzAyq9oiPvkGfULRjXhSXkeZaahSh5crP_dpFRErLnrAQKRjB3JWfK42AHBAGGNUd6eqEjJXeJCNgMSwm6Q8CvszAK_GSdgVm9kplVjA/s320/lee-chair.webp" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><br /><b>Mr. Lee's preferred breakfast? "A house special that includes an over-easy egg, chees grits, a biscuit, and a sausage patty." Sounds good and hearty to me!</b></span><p></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>While he dines, Mr. Lee regales the staff with stories from his 30-year service in the Navy and shares tales about his wife, who is now deceased, and his children as they were growing up. Server, Kelli Gomez, has been waiting on Mr. Lee for at least a year now.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>"He loves watching us separate filters for the coffee machine (and) watching us grind the coffee - and one day, he just started helping with this," she said.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhxf3ARK3qAvg9U7Vw0q630dsmQRe03YRpMxPHNQOdMFMG9ufziGJZQ6ffITVuOEIjSM3oNkFfZRtPTjl_5QUqi-WbHWxAaq8x1GsYvdMe0u8SXi7tBgfHBXQm7Nc9jI-yN46wHsmrKtPYRoYVn0L__HuIK6xB5b5MkjzMyFqpIjK9kEQrtXvg4W247XRD/s720/lee.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="405" data-original-width="720" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhxf3ARK3qAvg9U7Vw0q630dsmQRe03YRpMxPHNQOdMFMG9ufziGJZQ6ffITVuOEIjSM3oNkFfZRtPTjl_5QUqi-WbHWxAaq8x1GsYvdMe0u8SXi7tBgfHBXQm7Nc9jI-yN46wHsmrKtPYRoYVn0L__HuIK6xB5b5MkjzMyFqpIjK9kEQrtXvg4W247XRD/s320/lee.webp" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><br /><b>Lee's daughter, Tracy Rutland, says he does so "because that's just how he was raised." She has fond memories of her dad being the first to offer a helping hand to anyone in need in his community.</b></span><p></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Owner and head chef of the Scenic 90 Cafe, Gus Silivos, says, "The people that come in and sit there primarily are either single people or widowers who come and really socialize with our staff." And it's a great opportunity for veterans living in the community to connect with young people.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJaIRvriJEE-DYx0rlpihlunBa_ow3MxvbZ5s_9b9J3cl4JG_mvR50sY816qdYD20SBrPlNjqRgxZljNzeZC0DQR8zeKPmPN9pXSM4E-SswJo1a4wNeC0kTpA4z8qfXe9fEvhdHRxCPXYGlTD7MuuEOSg6BnP3hp9VEgHlTg_VPMPmYqJ7FvwHwc6bv_9K/s720/IMG_1707.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="405" data-original-width="720" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJaIRvriJEE-DYx0rlpihlunBa_ow3MxvbZ5s_9b9J3cl4JG_mvR50sY816qdYD20SBrPlNjqRgxZljNzeZC0DQR8zeKPmPN9pXSM4E-SswJo1a4wNeC0kTpA4z8qfXe9fEvhdHRxCPXYGlTD7MuuEOSg6BnP3hp9VEgHlTg_VPMPmYqJ7FvwHwc6bv_9K/s320/IMG_1707.webp" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><br /><b>In March, Mr. Lee will be celebrating his 90th birthday. According to the article, the restaurant staff had already planned decorating his customary chair with balloons, but then got the idea to expand their scope. Since they'd already shared a bit of news about Mr. Lee on their Facebook page, and had received such positive feedback, they decided to go all out, asking people to send Mr. Lee a birthday card. Can you just imagine how many cards this delightful man will get, especially as the address was published in the Fox News article? Danny and I have already sent ours, and it's not too late for you to join in. Here's the address:</b></span><p></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Mr. Lee c/o Scenic 90 Cafe; 701 Scenic Highway, Pensacola, FL 32503.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>I don't know about you, but I wish there would be more inspiring and uplifting stories like this one in the news. There are simply so many folks out there who are using, joyfully, the gifts God has given them to serve others.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>And we should celebrate them every chance we get!</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Amen!</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Here is the <a href="https://www.foxnews.com/lifestyle/us-navy-veteran-visits-florida-cafe-day-breakfast-helps-tasks-staff-birthday">link</a> to the original article.</i></b></span></p>Martha Jane Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11620499267401065780noreply@blogger.com50tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009456656795153408.post-7481368614398869622024-01-18T22:00:00.000-08:002024-01-18T22:00:00.330-08:00Salt of the Earth<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhllF3-fQZKoOlepmcgDb0pBp3dA_LDExaiIiCJpW7k-UGNx9rT5zhRUux6zr5m00JPo3jlIqjb2ue1ceywfvFoMv4BN4w_3XxE_4JtfeV2Ytth1TYkpcJVG-1NaJvFkwn9XErU38Xtu7EOJPZvMberFBHrKWMod5sQyPpLpL_-kq_NSrmEDhsQCw6kpQDP/s4032/PXL_20240117_124353215.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhllF3-fQZKoOlepmcgDb0pBp3dA_LDExaiIiCJpW7k-UGNx9rT5zhRUux6zr5m00JPo3jlIqjb2ue1ceywfvFoMv4BN4w_3XxE_4JtfeV2Ytth1TYkpcJVG-1NaJvFkwn9XErU38Xtu7EOJPZvMberFBHrKWMod5sQyPpLpL_-kq_NSrmEDhsQCw6kpQDP/s320/PXL_20240117_124353215.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b>"You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot." ~Matthew 5:13</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Pictured above is our indoor/outdoor thermostat on Wednesday morning. 13!!! For where we live in Georgia, this is considered a low temperature in any winter. I know, I know - my blogging friends living in the Midwest or in New England must be laughing themselves silly. But folks, you have to remember that unless we are seasonal ski buffs, we simply don't have warm enough clothing to suit up appropriately for this extreme cold when we have to venture out.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>I am truly amazed at the hardiness of the Iowans who turned out for this week's caucuses. It takes more than a blizzard and subzero temperatures to hold them back from anything they are determined to do. For this Southern gal, that's a miraculous feat in and of itself.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>And it should be an source of inspiration for all of us.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>There are so many people still in this country who consider the right to vote a privilege, and will move heaven and earth to exercise it. They believe strongly in the principles upon which this nation was founded. No matter what nonsense is hurled at them, their devotion to the land of the free and the home of the brave is rooted deeply in every fiber of their being.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>These are the type of people our country needs more of.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Patriotic and God-fearing Americans, unafraid to stand up against the evils threatening our independence, our sovereignty, our way of life.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>And I can confidently declare, without reservation, that these people are truly the salt of the earth. We would not have a country without them. May they never lose their saltiness!</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Amen!</b></span></p>Martha Jane Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11620499267401065780noreply@blogger.com52tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009456656795153408.post-8074030619588105552024-01-11T22:00:00.000-08:002024-01-11T22:00:00.136-08:00Farewell, Henry<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNsLvw7ymQLPYw7SteRQ2ocgSxm3SAqAU2rpWC5SxDwzBGYb9lRU7ngVECn-S3kj_AEPkxoTSjlVKVOY_4-2SZXrLtYfxHGueg_ft_4BF-YSc_L_TZNUw9OrC1daZDmvak-5S6i5NAAju8qWHzNcoNGlTRHYjjLTnQFsv0pUa8FTgW_8RPVmQmksDhmrCl/s3264/IMG_1261.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2448" data-original-width="3264" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNsLvw7ymQLPYw7SteRQ2ocgSxm3SAqAU2rpWC5SxDwzBGYb9lRU7ngVECn-S3kj_AEPkxoTSjlVKVOY_4-2SZXrLtYfxHGueg_ft_4BF-YSc_L_TZNUw9OrC1daZDmvak-5S6i5NAAju8qWHzNcoNGlTRHYjjLTnQFsv0pUa8FTgW_8RPVmQmksDhmrCl/s320/IMG_1261.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b>The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. ~Psalm 34:18</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>This has been a trying and sorrowful week for daughter, Sarah, and her husband, John, along with their daughters who are mourning the unexpected passing of their beloved cat, Henry. A week ago, dear Henry curled himself under their Christmas tree and breathed his last. No fanfare. No tell-tale signs of distress. Just a quiet passing in peace.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Isn't that what we all hope for when our time comes?</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Yet the loss and trauma are painfully real for everyone in the family, but especially, for Virginia as illustrated by these photos from 2020.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuIbM9e2CHfgxGUyetm9tfssZoO6W0svXxsYaZUEO-hd-3QEEdSdXKMYhGEuBvIgB86CZQc5doOpp78Uyub7ntZw1-NIVcAy9AOtUpchDzpcDL9JJ39c7xDjmTUfwx3jKb0rM3jLZp1s-F4o7OttL9LXc5m-v67vGEhplBSiVC8Q9essVGt76vsMP4qzHH/s1280/-4790264136458845907.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuIbM9e2CHfgxGUyetm9tfssZoO6W0svXxsYaZUEO-hd-3QEEdSdXKMYhGEuBvIgB86CZQc5doOpp78Uyub7ntZw1-NIVcAy9AOtUpchDzpcDL9JJ39c7xDjmTUfwx3jKb0rM3jLZp1s-F4o7OttL9LXc5m-v67vGEhplBSiVC8Q9essVGt76vsMP4qzHH/s320/-4790264136458845907.jpg" width="240" /></a></span></div><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></span></p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><br /><b><br /></b></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXR_yQSqa9r0iROsxzJN-tK5zc9zGuVPe7sKSwRULmpsXdhXLzhPGsHZL0MlFAVKQCfLuSwUY_KKaquLEq8-EbFnHGctdgCeA6MXgu0syiYC8seJQb3CmfUVzTBapsmIO0YvloLA6l3SCPP9phr6fnX7IZxNCrga5D5k1xRQGO42IffTSjDonTerfaAiEy/s1024/-6703391380706716710.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXR_yQSqa9r0iROsxzJN-tK5zc9zGuVPe7sKSwRULmpsXdhXLzhPGsHZL0MlFAVKQCfLuSwUY_KKaquLEq8-EbFnHGctdgCeA6MXgu0syiYC8seJQb3CmfUVzTBapsmIO0YvloLA6l3SCPP9phr6fnX7IZxNCrga5D5k1xRQGO42IffTSjDonTerfaAiEy/s320/-6703391380706716710.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBHQdi-HLmThFONiA9J_EQlRDjEJNm8MD5k12tX79cuLCXWSGJ2hWCkYBAY6LZl7hYMuriy0tHTahNlqwtAyxc7WE1ln3q_ElESEi936yT1GjJ5kt-OASDMAas_IwhebkCe4eKqhorF2fwbk_Y2Lxsf7wdBIr54QBGq80ROV9SRYGgz4t38POvDeR1MeVG/s1024/-8143188754233171500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBHQdi-HLmThFONiA9J_EQlRDjEJNm8MD5k12tX79cuLCXWSGJ2hWCkYBAY6LZl7hYMuriy0tHTahNlqwtAyxc7WE1ln3q_ElESEi936yT1GjJ5kt-OASDMAas_IwhebkCe4eKqhorF2fwbk_Y2Lxsf7wdBIr54QBGq80ROV9SRYGgz4t38POvDeR1MeVG/s320/-8143188754233171500.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Henry was not just a family pet to her, but a best friend. As he snuggled with her every night, she could share her thoughts and heart with him, knowing that he would love her without fail. She has, on multiple occasions, referred to Henry as her closest confidant and beloved companion in life.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>The home they live in now is a rental, so there was no option to bury him on that property. Thankfully, John's parents, Paul and Karen, own a lovely acreage in North Carolina, about two hours away. They readily agree to allow the family to come there to lay Henry to rest. Not only that, but Paul takes the time to design and make a beautiful casket in his work shop.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9JQFb64nNQCn7m00s7mxwaH4lpOCkKaafOExyVMOFykWKuf3fhq6w1fik_ad_QAs7mMYkQ8HJYsdzcXWV66ev7-n4nJphXR7zMduNrHidZdQ94sxCde0abvo2Lv53YsxDEWkMFVmwuEDuUVuDRiNM1R51LixHI6d0X2QOh5EC_b3erZbcmGAQp2808ZWR/s1600/8040703234952561234.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9JQFb64nNQCn7m00s7mxwaH4lpOCkKaafOExyVMOFykWKuf3fhq6w1fik_ad_QAs7mMYkQ8HJYsdzcXWV66ev7-n4nJphXR7zMduNrHidZdQ94sxCde0abvo2Lv53YsxDEWkMFVmwuEDuUVuDRiNM1R51LixHI6d0X2QOh5EC_b3erZbcmGAQp2808ZWR/s320/8040703234952561234.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><br /><b>Inside the coffin, Virginia, Savannah and Alexandra place photos and letters to Henry. His remains now rest in a former garden plot, where the girls can revisit his gravesite whenever they visit their grandparents on a weekend in the future.</b></span><p></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-TRfw754Oh8OAVOigcT9ZZSBFxOWkkGlCaw9ba0VN9EpcrlWNy7AvadCzeuN6uwSRspYGARA05tuXFOpX5bhsxRGHu5kAos47ChWBUE0WDTHf-lWbXVXH3SPdrAgDzi0uAIsIC7_WA0C2Cpd10uZhR_aR_xiMexaoUAM9SEo8pCx7o4TgmHtBpK1dW3Vb/s1024/6159384152444733261.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-TRfw754Oh8OAVOigcT9ZZSBFxOWkkGlCaw9ba0VN9EpcrlWNy7AvadCzeuN6uwSRspYGARA05tuXFOpX5bhsxRGHu5kAos47ChWBUE0WDTHf-lWbXVXH3SPdrAgDzi0uAIsIC7_WA0C2Cpd10uZhR_aR_xiMexaoUAM9SEo8pCx7o4TgmHtBpK1dW3Vb/s320/6159384152444733261.jpg" width="240" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifhJWhmNGBVXR7ovXssBjaHcKYxAh5iwu4k4aXYbiXDz7oDq8MXuMZAfpXsnMA8jjX728LlZu8HvsKoQYE-FKqoJBagvgQ0TBwwwAMVAoidmhKpWDGziCE_emNAjTbHTQZTdClhSuUHfFr049pBBbyb5fkEsuyYuX73ZeWWfBT6jCOYiF3kXkMg8V72Wx6/s1024/-2349091390921127487.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifhJWhmNGBVXR7ovXssBjaHcKYxAh5iwu4k4aXYbiXDz7oDq8MXuMZAfpXsnMA8jjX728LlZu8HvsKoQYE-FKqoJBagvgQ0TBwwwAMVAoidmhKpWDGziCE_emNAjTbHTQZTdClhSuUHfFr049pBBbyb5fkEsuyYuX73ZeWWfBT6jCOYiF3kXkMg8V72Wx6/s320/-2349091390921127487.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><b>It will take lots of time to heal from this loss, and though it will grow less painful, they will always carry the grief with them. In their hearts, minds and souls.</b></span><p></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Will you all be so kind to keep them in your prayers? Thank you!</b></span></p>Martha Jane Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11620499267401065780noreply@blogger.com63tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009456656795153408.post-74894821366805662692024-01-04T22:00:00.000-08:002024-01-04T22:00:00.242-08:00I Surrender All<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigxZzhvcju8UKPrpNAZVNRmxjojVZh6b2Wssv21jGx3J6jNXRr1DWrtIkACjYKD2Way7UgVHYWDi8UZ4kBRxB8fGK62IDWEM12nsc9PtlksdonlzQ3QTGv2FSbEo8A1Ix0wFmjdO_UrfNJzbFS16MPLUQtET9i6pBIDu1Y04avXBTeX6DFMVmSoY39fReQ/s612/2024.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="408" data-original-width="612" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigxZzhvcju8UKPrpNAZVNRmxjojVZh6b2Wssv21jGx3J6jNXRr1DWrtIkACjYKD2Way7UgVHYWDi8UZ4kBRxB8fGK62IDWEM12nsc9PtlksdonlzQ3QTGv2FSbEo8A1Ix0wFmjdO_UrfNJzbFS16MPLUQtET9i6pBIDu1Y04avXBTeX6DFMVmSoY39fReQ/s320/2024.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b>This, then, is how you should pray: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. ~Matthew 6:9-10</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Happy New Year, my friends! Now that the holiday celebrations are behind us, I pray for all goodness, mercy and blessings to greet you in 2024. It will, no doubt, be a roller coaster of a ride for many of us as we look toward the impending presidential election and its outcome. Rest assured, this self-proclaimed news junkie will be glued to every nuance and turn of events as the year unfolds.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Yes, there will be predictions and pontifications galore by pundits and reporters, but I'm choosing to take these with a grain of salt. As the old saying goes: "It ain't over 'til the fat lady sings." And smart as any of us think we are, we cannot predict the future with absolute certainty.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Why?</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Because the future is in God's wheelhouse, not ours.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>So, what is it about our human nature that tries to trick us into thinking we're the ones in control? Wouldn't it make more sense to live each day confident that God is large and in charge? How free of worry and anxiety would we be if each morning, when we rise, we completely surrender to God's will, assured that He will see us through?</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>In the title and this preceding paragraph is my Word for the Year. Can you see it? You're right! It's SURRENDER!</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>God did not create us to be constant fretters and worriers, but instead, to lay all our cares and troubles at the feet of Jesus. Life is too short to allow the "what-ifs" and "if onlys" to clutter our hearts and minds. That just robs us of the precious communion we are invited to enjoy in our daily walk with the Lord.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>So, with complete trust and hope in the One who keeps His promises, I vow to surrender, to submit, to God's ways, and will do so every day of this year and beyond. A surrendered life is an abundant life!</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>I'm all in!</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>What about you?</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/j04Bx9pKwpU" width="320" youtube-src-id="j04Bx9pKwpU"></iframe></span></div><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><br /><b>Amen!</b></span><p></p>Martha Jane Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11620499267401065780noreply@blogger.com64tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009456656795153408.post-39140697705874811232023-12-21T22:00:00.000-08:002023-12-21T22:00:00.243-08:00Merry Christmas!<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1MsEsT2wWbGx1TuNz3DSOw3rA6CL6HLXPseS3_-6B33SzCBZLVFJerFHAv_3972XrPdKt830FVksnwfgiLzbgXisOvsNyDV3lxqrwFAMF6kimTxuvYZfE96Z5j2ON2fqZq0hKrAkOsFe2lU23CscEQQiYkDSdfDcgK-0_hDj8AuDvuNFjM3mMEQIQT0zQ/s4981/IMG_0157_DxO1%20color.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3521" data-original-width="4981" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1MsEsT2wWbGx1TuNz3DSOw3rA6CL6HLXPseS3_-6B33SzCBZLVFJerFHAv_3972XrPdKt830FVksnwfgiLzbgXisOvsNyDV3lxqrwFAMF6kimTxuvYZfE96Z5j2ON2fqZq0hKrAkOsFe2lU23CscEQQiYkDSdfDcgK-0_hDj8AuDvuNFjM3mMEQIQT0zQ/s320/IMG_0157_DxO1%20color.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: Dancing Script; font-size: large;"><b>From our house to yours,</b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: Dancing Script; font-size: large;"><b>Have a very, Merry Christmas and a Blessed and Happy New Year!</b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: Dancing Script; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Dancing Script; font-size: large;"><b>Dear Friends, it's time for me to take a blogging break. I will be back posting in the New Year. I will still be reading and commenting on your blogs.</b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Dancing Script; font-size: large;"><b>Love and blessings!</b></span></p>Martha Jane Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11620499267401065780noreply@blogger.com57tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009456656795153408.post-44948163203366516162023-12-14T22:00:00.000-08:002023-12-14T22:00:00.130-08:00Advent<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguT0HgBN9wbGVeqvj7AfQu9eCd4ohwAYNrSXrsAdcQKlxhNjm5iH8tyNMlmN_sIpO0jmtD6u-Ed86e6vLLbmoXmJCXhJZ5JFfWE_N5V-ChIEAGhnauTNNvqOt8aVsoA467laj8BFNXdAT5p1JNFmcgLLav4j1ZOaRCfWytG2pSlUIbRsExkYfRZnR7oASy/s1500/AdventWreath-184927200-596509225f9b583f18154ca1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1500" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguT0HgBN9wbGVeqvj7AfQu9eCd4ohwAYNrSXrsAdcQKlxhNjm5iH8tyNMlmN_sIpO0jmtD6u-Ed86e6vLLbmoXmJCXhJZ5JFfWE_N5V-ChIEAGhnauTNNvqOt8aVsoA467laj8BFNXdAT5p1JNFmcgLLav4j1ZOaRCfWytG2pSlUIbRsExkYfRZnR7oASy/s320/AdventWreath-184927200-596509225f9b583f18154ca1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #351c75; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Holy candles</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #351c75; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Lit in hope</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #351c75; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Peace and joy</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #351c75; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Laced in love</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #351c75; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Everlasting</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #351c75; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Flames ablaze</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #351c75; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Light profound</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #351c75; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Darkness flees</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #351c75; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>When God surrounds</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #351c75; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>The soul and self.</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #351c75; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Amen</i></b></span></p>Martha Jane Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11620499267401065780noreply@blogger.com59tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009456656795153408.post-64031756405008655942023-12-10T22:00:00.000-08:002023-12-10T22:00:00.130-08:00Let Every Heart Prepare<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzb_UU3Wvv2T_gyppLon-qvvKay3Y4vETIIbhK7ed6cfD_WZeEQsxMNASZMWyDKwNcKXlyMmx36dl_bV-C1CxYCOAC4TDET1UAGF1AEEe9XtzPHgEJgYSyda_N7UUN1kcjFQqJ8YyswQ5kQ0hDHF0Rzn_yah2UQAgLDKJC8n5bx0pLaXbcmZUdc7CHtr3_/s4032/PXL_20231210_180904143.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzb_UU3Wvv2T_gyppLon-qvvKay3Y4vETIIbhK7ed6cfD_WZeEQsxMNASZMWyDKwNcKXlyMmx36dl_bV-C1CxYCOAC4TDET1UAGF1AEEe9XtzPHgEJgYSyda_N7UUN1kcjFQqJ8YyswQ5kQ0hDHF0Rzn_yah2UQAgLDKJC8n5bx0pLaXbcmZUdc7CHtr3_/s320/PXL_20231210_180904143.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b>For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this. ~Isaiah 9:6-7</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>By this time in December, I expect you have at least some, if not all, of your decorations up and ready for the coming of Christmas Day. It has been several years since Danny and I put up a tree; without family coming to visit, it didn't seem as meaningful to do so. But this year, we buy a 7' artificial tree to replace our monstrous one that Danny has had for over 32 years! Fewer decorations, yes, but tasteful and manageable all at the same time.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRglcsadvAlkXL7N9zWUUOqIThV35SrO04BUwEvoBg8RQ6JgfYJDG5cOZALqovupGxd5ncrNgD2tnvgz8WnnXp9Oqhi-Nm2eoOErYKa_xQ2txH2hGEFWL6AVOBc6Xbsm-mWT8CVM9OJiQmeMnvBrxXqtjBadHuzPWZLVmjf6n9anuqWK_3vVG2V3bUPrZy/s4032/PXL_20231209_215312298.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRglcsadvAlkXL7N9zWUUOqIThV35SrO04BUwEvoBg8RQ6JgfYJDG5cOZALqovupGxd5ncrNgD2tnvgz8WnnXp9Oqhi-Nm2eoOErYKa_xQ2txH2hGEFWL6AVOBc6Xbsm-mWT8CVM9OJiQmeMnvBrxXqtjBadHuzPWZLVmjf6n9anuqWK_3vVG2V3bUPrZy/s320/PXL_20231209_215312298.jpg" width="240" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGg7IpeHQ5k9e2RC8pFRhNikcyN3ktAoPQDqdZ13BXa3M504Lsxd6cVueBCoer3luiONqOwhvJyxKl7DRzP775npJKDgSd_HWsLoWCQ8OuNpA6BNQuOZtOysGZWzabgGmPKtZhzOY3w7IaKAAUAw129zypRqwYFo-5GZFB1XC5HiVh1AxcbnhO6vciXGcB/s4032/PXL_20231209_215340421.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGg7IpeHQ5k9e2RC8pFRhNikcyN3ktAoPQDqdZ13BXa3M504Lsxd6cVueBCoer3luiONqOwhvJyxKl7DRzP775npJKDgSd_HWsLoWCQ8OuNpA6BNQuOZtOysGZWzabgGmPKtZhzOY3w7IaKAAUAw129zypRqwYFo-5GZFB1XC5HiVh1AxcbnhO6vciXGcB/s320/PXL_20231209_215340421.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn91sST8tYFYcidgXUsZe9vAk2P6IuVyXVnmtBJyiclzjT57GSSJi5rTsqgoF8codZa_CxqXXb-tDl4pcvjvNlP2IQFdLv3MaivTaHhZZeURbfYP0XDw3LChs0df5xQx3F4ZxYkzt_eCE_rNbShvTyiFOo0DYhDL7-CwJkeAUT7Xv9AKC24V9G4uP8KufL/s4032/PXL_20231209_215346759.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn91sST8tYFYcidgXUsZe9vAk2P6IuVyXVnmtBJyiclzjT57GSSJi5rTsqgoF8codZa_CxqXXb-tDl4pcvjvNlP2IQFdLv3MaivTaHhZZeURbfYP0XDw3LChs0df5xQx3F4ZxYkzt_eCE_rNbShvTyiFOo0DYhDL7-CwJkeAUT7Xv9AKC24V9G4uP8KufL/s320/PXL_20231209_215346759.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinVlk885n7rPN_T2FnC1lRO5g056Iiz59zmZiPPdE087LimP3TD9aXg2AX9nIEtx4lEBfM4QUEKca65xrhr5HeQ5LbL4SaXRRzaL9pVamWows-M91lgoDh21cCdoyh4xUs7HSOPtm1ZRiHiO5qEQPP3UhoAPon3YmYzMxTl3GqS15-6chbgeKnPIY0Lc_0/s4032/PXL_20231209_215414862.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinVlk885n7rPN_T2FnC1lRO5g056Iiz59zmZiPPdE087LimP3TD9aXg2AX9nIEtx4lEBfM4QUEKca65xrhr5HeQ5LbL4SaXRRzaL9pVamWows-M91lgoDh21cCdoyh4xUs7HSOPtm1ZRiHiO5qEQPP3UhoAPon3YmYzMxTl3GqS15-6chbgeKnPIY0Lc_0/s320/PXL_20231209_215414862.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><b>The stockings are hung by the chimney with care, framed by our mantlepiece garland.</b></span><p></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3FyJxavCubYFD80OD5jqtyuhWWkq4oGNHXIZ9gozsGd6tHieRybLpM0oq-MNVFifb7Ouu5CCoNXE4gx29dP9k2vJfLWmf_gN3ePVrcfhVUlQjzjcQgiQG0F3HXvKs001DYzDEqbwMlXY1Wstw62hSgycwsY_iGxlOZD4iw1Ydoeasod-_flqcXFhxoDTI/s4032/PXL_20231209_215447756.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3FyJxavCubYFD80OD5jqtyuhWWkq4oGNHXIZ9gozsGd6tHieRybLpM0oq-MNVFifb7Ouu5CCoNXE4gx29dP9k2vJfLWmf_gN3ePVrcfhVUlQjzjcQgiQG0F3HXvKs001DYzDEqbwMlXY1Wstw62hSgycwsY_iGxlOZD4iw1Ydoeasod-_flqcXFhxoDTI/s320/PXL_20231209_215447756.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><br /><b><br /></b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXp3nIlZkjW-gnoNeSPeeSAm8eJD9BZh3OhtvO-yA_DhnZ_HIeFhGWQSYHecspH9dp9SQ6GYxlslzuMJxVPmLlEaNSuJFBIY9RAGL9m2ceaSbyPvxvq_PFqHDGWgalrG8_IJU11qB8RC-qLwidWjeIEp8f-NEYAH9RQiWlzq95Gubzg4FP2QnEotwLXVIf/s4032/PXL_20231209_215454218.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXp3nIlZkjW-gnoNeSPeeSAm8eJD9BZh3OhtvO-yA_DhnZ_HIeFhGWQSYHecspH9dp9SQ6GYxlslzuMJxVPmLlEaNSuJFBIY9RAGL9m2ceaSbyPvxvq_PFqHDGWgalrG8_IJU11qB8RC-qLwidWjeIEp8f-NEYAH9RQiWlzq95Gubzg4FP2QnEotwLXVIf/s320/PXL_20231209_215454218.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><b>And what home would be complete without an Advent calendar?</b></span><p></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf66JD1X1JwaAHvahSCd48rRlvKkgZT7QMrZlUjIhpf15yUH49MheBZrn8Nv3QZxO6MemVi7qiGHWpUymWwjEMsYMJ5cdwVYQlcXHbrYCV4oC2APZ2SZu6R57_dwFoim-kBWc295ovK4hSCVbFVM29mk04n6tQ0ot-b5m_mQyXw4q2XdyZ1Lv5V_FBVIbi/s4032/PXL_20231209_215618448.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf66JD1X1JwaAHvahSCd48rRlvKkgZT7QMrZlUjIhpf15yUH49MheBZrn8Nv3QZxO6MemVi7qiGHWpUymWwjEMsYMJ5cdwVYQlcXHbrYCV4oC2APZ2SZu6R57_dwFoim-kBWc295ovK4hSCVbFVM29mk04n6tQ0ot-b5m_mQyXw4q2XdyZ1Lv5V_FBVIbi/s320/PXL_20231209_215618448.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><br /><b><br /></b></span><p></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Hung in anticipation of Christmas cards on the way.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmGP8iuV8wtBzSlA9SjFFJVYYhZw5vWT6w6mJbb3oy2IQbD549ObYFRNW5ZnsZcE18zrzMA2UHQ_Igji8Sl3m0dlVZQjLRgF3Q-W124HMHGN2P4FotfhgnNmADbDBJIW-Z2Cdcf6Prp-Epxw56SXPIb9ksh-5SBONUKn-QPzkhWh8TiuVagGJ43vjfEGBp/s4032/PXL_20231210_180701616.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmGP8iuV8wtBzSlA9SjFFJVYYhZw5vWT6w6mJbb3oy2IQbD549ObYFRNW5ZnsZcE18zrzMA2UHQ_Igji8Sl3m0dlVZQjLRgF3Q-W124HMHGN2P4FotfhgnNmADbDBJIW-Z2Cdcf6Prp-Epxw56SXPIb9ksh-5SBONUKn-QPzkhWh8TiuVagGJ43vjfEGBp/s320/PXL_20231210_180701616.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><br /><b>I'm still preparing mine for mailing.</b></span><p></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3wsCxso13rxHb6dpkdWZb0g3cl-vC3o3-dJdnlH6g5QQ4I6Nv4y3OY6WupsOcq_vm1CJiZvHrdOjeFwI7P0Gm4Iwnn_-D7XD2k7C9vat-yntTLuScP9to1y-8RURwAsEcGvGrtYWfwrEPJpZ5E1TxkaqV2ILwH-O_1ts9MRkvqSwEJcG8Hj3oArn08SFQ/s4032/PXL_20231210_180717350.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3wsCxso13rxHb6dpkdWZb0g3cl-vC3o3-dJdnlH6g5QQ4I6Nv4y3OY6WupsOcq_vm1CJiZvHrdOjeFwI7P0Gm4Iwnn_-D7XD2k7C9vat-yntTLuScP9to1y-8RURwAsEcGvGrtYWfwrEPJpZ5E1TxkaqV2ILwH-O_1ts9MRkvqSwEJcG8Hj3oArn08SFQ/s320/PXL_20231210_180717350.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><br /></b></span><p></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>I'm wondering, in this economy, we will even receive many cards this year. I can always hope, and time will tell.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Last, but never least, our Nativity scene adorns the hearth of our fireplace.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRJrSf63Ew2XJj7UrRSV8WUVE3DZsJ4FMPcZRtVXDKbpxei5nTq1WNKp6rBTFVA8E0FDL7P0_EBNtDOyJ8PJx2LSt1gbjxvll-j3ctRdA-ESc1w-e0OCW31fli-e08n0V7UNNUln7qN9rqMVQDtj3fEEzZfMwOwAFH2HqaTywEGE-D-KxHeEsp5tOWA5P6/s4032/PXL_20231209_215509154.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRJrSf63Ew2XJj7UrRSV8WUVE3DZsJ4FMPcZRtVXDKbpxei5nTq1WNKp6rBTFVA8E0FDL7P0_EBNtDOyJ8PJx2LSt1gbjxvll-j3ctRdA-ESc1w-e0OCW31fli-e08n0V7UNNUln7qN9rqMVQDtj3fEEzZfMwOwAFH2HqaTywEGE-D-KxHeEsp5tOWA5P6/s320/PXL_20231209_215509154.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkDnLA0RG_u5_KGWa7T3BsGnMUk1RQ7CQF31GUfSgoUB9cSXXfl6CClg8rrSXGFp7ZCQeYNzqOBeIqo7GT9Ttd9DYaWTWi4-PVB3eiSorKZTKxIutrue-8MC2Gs5stUcTuBgE4SfMkuVDO4kgzGF3bTIFxBRPdG4GorvQnPXYKSv9__NJp_rZUdciOWjBV/s4032/PXL_20231209_215541630.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkDnLA0RG_u5_KGWa7T3BsGnMUk1RQ7CQF31GUfSgoUB9cSXXfl6CClg8rrSXGFp7ZCQeYNzqOBeIqo7GT9Ttd9DYaWTWi4-PVB3eiSorKZTKxIutrue-8MC2Gs5stUcTuBgE4SfMkuVDO4kgzGF3bTIFxBRPdG4GorvQnPXYKSv9__NJp_rZUdciOWjBV/s320/PXL_20231209_215541630.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><b>May each and every one of you enjoy the peace and rest that the Advent season invites you to enter, and prepare your hearts for the joyful arrival of our Lord and Savior, Christ the King.</b></span><p></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Amen!</b></span></p>Martha Jane Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11620499267401065780noreply@blogger.com54tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009456656795153408.post-55416438006370482502023-12-03T22:00:00.000-08:002023-12-03T22:00:00.128-08:00Christmas Comes Early<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg74O55CauHUnG6KDl8K3ajxrEGeUrLLB5N3nCl4TF4vSV8a0XpVZ1MeKJ9OxDa4CYR_-jD6gREhJwXwjabOiPtylRwvvDS2wbD_0WUXP5Q8QhbOdZJa84ocItmGtbufDYv4p2an9sHyOoNYpcuJc7SyII7O71r7H_RFRsJspcBRUfwynB0y7PNaK1EzA6m/s4032/PXL_20231203_200643800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg74O55CauHUnG6KDl8K3ajxrEGeUrLLB5N3nCl4TF4vSV8a0XpVZ1MeKJ9OxDa4CYR_-jD6gREhJwXwjabOiPtylRwvvDS2wbD_0WUXP5Q8QhbOdZJa84ocItmGtbufDYv4p2an9sHyOoNYpcuJc7SyII7O71r7H_RFRsJspcBRUfwynB0y7PNaK1EzA6m/s320/PXL_20231203_200643800.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b>May the God of all hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. ~Romans 15:13</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Hope is the word heard and used on the First Sunday of Advent as we light the first candle of this treasured season. When Danny and I prepare to attend the service, where we've been asked to play two songs, hope is not at all the feeling I'm entertaining in my heart.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Our church, now known as Shiloh Community Church, recently votes to disaffiliate from the United Methodists. November brings the hard truths of having to remove any and all insignias of the UMC denomination, including our hymnals, from the church premises. Finding replacements is a costly endeavor, so we will be dependent upon someone typing the lyrics for a power point presentation each service going forward.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Disaffiliation is anything but an easy process; we are grateful for all the purchases and donations during our annual Pumpkin Patch sales, as we pray to have enough funds to completely free ourselves from the debt in which we find ourselves. Unless we can pay it off, the UMC could possibly revoke our choice to leave that denomination. I'm certain that God will help us find a way.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>By far, the most difficult aspect of the whole ordeal is the thought of losing our beloved pastor, Jared. Even though he has another full-time job, we fear he will leave us by the end of November. Imagine my delight when I enter the sanctuary this past Sunday and find him there! Ever curious, I intercept him to ask about it; I'm surprised by his answer that clergy is given a one-month reprieve from having to leave their flock. "Oh," I think to myself. "With Christmas coming, maybe those Grinches had a change of heart." As we prepare for worship that morning, I sense the first glimmer of hope rising within me.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>And with the church announcements, that hope fully blossoms. Jared has chosen to disaffiliate along with us, a small congregation, determined to stick by us and help us navigate the inevitable changes that will continue to come.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>What an unexpected surprise! What a blessing! It's truly nothing short of miraculous!</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Christmas comes early for Shiloh Community Church as hope is rekindled, shining as brightly and clearly as that first candle lit in Advent.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>One more of the many reasons to rejoice during this precious season, and to look forward to the coming of Christ in the manger and into our hearts this Christmas.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Amen!</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>For those of you keeping score, I know my comment about the Grinch is not very charitable. I hope you will forgive me as the Lord has forgiven me and you.</i></b></span></p>Martha Jane Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11620499267401065780noreply@blogger.com57tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009456656795153408.post-59078275502184753482023-11-26T22:00:00.000-08:002023-11-26T22:00:00.133-08:00Give God Thanks and Praise<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJf0kl4zVIfKn3TiHcCJtcBTfBVfyzwkIL5xA-PoBxrnD_7a4Em3JvRBw1_UxqLzNwWUzkrdYl8uWqlyZwOy4SaOzLAycdpz4DmdO5wqaeq5gsdtstJR7JBu4dW-SxB_4ol3ap0iMP1RtnbEOwwBMbk0qIwRmra1AbYIIVW7z9HSNwyw7c2Qwy_MvXuGBC/s480/-281782707270234270.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="480" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJf0kl4zVIfKn3TiHcCJtcBTfBVfyzwkIL5xA-PoBxrnD_7a4Em3JvRBw1_UxqLzNwWUzkrdYl8uWqlyZwOy4SaOzLAycdpz4DmdO5wqaeq5gsdtstJR7JBu4dW-SxB_4ol3ap0iMP1RtnbEOwwBMbk0qIwRmra1AbYIIVW7z9HSNwyw7c2Qwy_MvXuGBC/s320/-281782707270234270.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b>Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. ~Psalm 100:4</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>How was your Thanksgiving, friends? I know from reading your blogs that most of you had a marvelous time feasting and spending treasured time with family and friends. That's the way it's been for us for so many years, but not this time around.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Originally, Danny and I had planned to travel to Florida to see our son, Giovanni, and his wife, Hope, near the Hurlburt Air Force Base where he is stationed.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYbxwRNAaXWvuWZNVglI4jGoFGr5ZIY1gB9Z5X87vYRtMc5QRvbginYc0TWsewAtVHCow4c5039uG1uk37d5PHOjQGiwAvsA0dJgl2OzsHWH5bHgCh0EZh3ztHmXr_ayrJvPsKQrAt3GFjIVW0VCPJx8bfYEmI5QQkMba58zdbVxe3g5W-mBK31iL5SFkE/s5472/IMG_0049_DxO1%20color.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYbxwRNAaXWvuWZNVglI4jGoFGr5ZIY1gB9Z5X87vYRtMc5QRvbginYc0TWsewAtVHCow4c5039uG1uk37d5PHOjQGiwAvsA0dJgl2OzsHWH5bHgCh0EZh3ztHmXr_ayrJvPsKQrAt3GFjIVW0VCPJx8bfYEmI5QQkMba58zdbVxe3g5W-mBK31iL5SFkE/s320/IMG_0049_DxO1%20color.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><br /><b>This, sadly, did not come about. Hope's beloved mother, who lived in the Atlanta area, passed away after a long battle with cancer; her funeral was held on the Thursday before Thanksgiving. So, yes, we got to see Gio and Hope, but not in a joyful way.</b></span><p></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Of course, this turn of events had me missing Sarah, John, and the girls more than ever. They, too, celebrated Thanksgiving just as an immediate family. John's brother and his wife were visiting his parents who also live in North Carolina, and there simply was no room at the inn, so to speak.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>When Sarah sends us these photos of their Thanksgiving Day festivities, I'm beside myself with joy at seeing everyone's happy faces. It is almost as good as having them here with us. Allow me to share their holiday with you.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>The photo at the top of this post is the dining table prepared for the ensuing feast.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Here are John and Sarah with puppy, Finn.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJBIkYVIvb892bO2sGeqiBo8s6he584Hy1Q4gmS1jgLLVdEyNKg7EQCLTC3MDwSBLnoEk9qlHm6rlbyT2YR32jHKEh8LsbikzwbGcQx3bRj0UmTUVXfpvCeOPA3JQWxjR6GpcCVaF3nqcNFQEwVXIiDSDMBL3tBRtyEhazjQLLT5TNP-3PhyltRtN8Ig7M/s480/5020010460138116179.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="360" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJBIkYVIvb892bO2sGeqiBo8s6he584Hy1Q4gmS1jgLLVdEyNKg7EQCLTC3MDwSBLnoEk9qlHm6rlbyT2YR32jHKEh8LsbikzwbGcQx3bRj0UmTUVXfpvCeOPA3JQWxjR6GpcCVaF3nqcNFQEwVXIiDSDMBL3tBRtyEhazjQLLT5TNP-3PhyltRtN8Ig7M/s320/5020010460138116179.jpg" width="240" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><br /><b>Virginia and her mom.</b></span><p></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8dv3pDYpCXQ1Iozd8C8UlAfQWdGYAznzvv3jXb6YlzV04Ox7NUzGG9AK9WIG9QsqiMW0y3X0LNl9YCF2vGGcckJtYJyLC8uPkfKHFeQfv3iHiUC04XJBFA_kzM3o-BZavlHEOGKsb2BFowzxiHqyOiphho4SfhU5MxoI2NfVeQYHfmRwWhJctv9VQxbtV/s480/2853509053513228826.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="360" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8dv3pDYpCXQ1Iozd8C8UlAfQWdGYAznzvv3jXb6YlzV04Ox7NUzGG9AK9WIG9QsqiMW0y3X0LNl9YCF2vGGcckJtYJyLC8uPkfKHFeQfv3iHiUC04XJBFA_kzM3o-BZavlHEOGKsb2BFowzxiHqyOiphho4SfhU5MxoI2NfVeQYHfmRwWhJctv9VQxbtV/s320/2853509053513228826.jpg" width="240" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><br /><b><br /></b></span><p></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Alexandra with mom.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvoaWCKol-sMO1zns3Xz1xvx92gJMN6NO2aHxHQS8DmcRFzE8Aulmq7JRT8xr8ht3nJ15Jt4ebkFOGEv5ASC0XOX6wFGKzQSTEgZUVR4JFVhWWMmNxdaLZqbvHOKDBmLLqPwLAZFkMO3jwuowDb_NLGDl6Yjh3n7VwHzmJDqogZMWtS1o_iJ1FHeolA6Dj/s480/-8262001529671825539.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="360" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvoaWCKol-sMO1zns3Xz1xvx92gJMN6NO2aHxHQS8DmcRFzE8Aulmq7JRT8xr8ht3nJ15Jt4ebkFOGEv5ASC0XOX6wFGKzQSTEgZUVR4JFVhWWMmNxdaLZqbvHOKDBmLLqPwLAZFkMO3jwuowDb_NLGDl6Yjh3n7VwHzmJDqogZMWtS1o_iJ1FHeolA6Dj/s320/-8262001529671825539.jpg" width="240" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><br /><b>Virginia looking so grown-up wearing a festive dress for the occasion.</b></span><p></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizg8GKY5BEy6iPVYV6AXbbyIKlPf08eJ-BwUqO2AoxGVw-0ngWho5lg8IjSeO3UTYSa6z0dTHm8Ia3_71D-xAmia7uE-0ZWMbQuuDsruU1U-M8BSJEDn63EBdrmZfu0YpRF5jLCyXwaTz2CIdyRHEoiZ5ABiAvcXoQ_tYf6ws5XyOQCA7cHIMzIGwNHf23/s480/-9205525221899751121.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="360" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizg8GKY5BEy6iPVYV6AXbbyIKlPf08eJ-BwUqO2AoxGVw-0ngWho5lg8IjSeO3UTYSa6z0dTHm8Ia3_71D-xAmia7uE-0ZWMbQuuDsruU1U-M8BSJEDn63EBdrmZfu0YpRF5jLCyXwaTz2CIdyRHEoiZ5ABiAvcXoQ_tYf6ws5XyOQCA7cHIMzIGwNHf23/s320/-9205525221899751121.jpg" width="240" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><br /><b>Savannah holding court with her favorite stuffed animal, Rosie, that we gave her one year for Christmas. It sings "Jesus Loves Me," and it still works!</b></span><p></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJYTlPDbqAS1ebt6MNinMv78YkaGGLpxiRaFpPNY9J2wvs9xTZr7sdvvFiHv_aTmfoKDHGY7n67KbSLm9ob3d8LWgOb8oB_oqptZqm1P0P_6f7yl3ZHTMfPZVtWfzDEPcZYr69TIxisEDvnpPx1A2wIex02QOuXEeb3iyjee_uDUQHIaz3HZgqjD9rTqbK/s800/1181774606224897839.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJYTlPDbqAS1ebt6MNinMv78YkaGGLpxiRaFpPNY9J2wvs9xTZr7sdvvFiHv_aTmfoKDHGY7n67KbSLm9ob3d8LWgOb8oB_oqptZqm1P0P_6f7yl3ZHTMfPZVtWfzDEPcZYr69TIxisEDvnpPx1A2wIex02QOuXEeb3iyjee_uDUQHIaz3HZgqjD9rTqbK/s320/1181774606224897839.jpg" width="240" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><br /><b>And here's the comical Alexandra wearing her mashed potatoes!</b></span><p></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFG5ePdLVYb4ER2Pn0u9dXBC9x5HihLg2sviT62HOv4bqdacBNVRW97Z1j2QojzmSqQQY7-F_BslU1R7zXXY-0U2aGm6QZDgFvJ_WtxW0DLF5ZQEKFSRL1f35kE0eBrp9z-d3oyPxBXLLvbKETLvOF7Kh1u3ViMe3KRlo-I5aaoSs0PVgAN6W3xkyEZMn3/s640/606127608438646383.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFG5ePdLVYb4ER2Pn0u9dXBC9x5HihLg2sviT62HOv4bqdacBNVRW97Z1j2QojzmSqQQY7-F_BslU1R7zXXY-0U2aGm6QZDgFvJ_WtxW0DLF5ZQEKFSRL1f35kE0eBrp9z-d3oyPxBXLLvbKETLvOF7Kh1u3ViMe3KRlo-I5aaoSs0PVgAN6W3xkyEZMn3/s320/606127608438646383.jpg" width="240" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><br /><b>It's readily apparent that a good time was had by all. And I'm so proud of my daughter for lovingly preparing this meal for her family. If I say so myself, this girl was brought up right!</b></span><p></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>So, friends, treasure your memories of this Thanksgiving, and always and everywhere, give thanks and prayers to the Lord.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Amen!</b></span></p>Martha Jane Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11620499267401065780noreply@blogger.com48tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009456656795153408.post-84089339926983532102023-11-19T22:00:00.000-08:002023-11-19T22:00:00.131-08:00Every Good and Perfect Gift<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9_dnULp_PH1VifLj5Vj6IviRMUzqFpfKgHYByuHVrap_hsnkw_icjRIiOlwHZibqUKeIbT2WVocQU79FYjSUMovYVZk10jt-e4ioEdnnAaBsu54d5xe6at_KIb6KsaWWKMMgB1g6SdA3XX5hUjv67taYya8TSm8jSK5JB5d5SGWCxhQMaAcF927snd6Ns/s1024/-3563232732964232295.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="576" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9_dnULp_PH1VifLj5Vj6IviRMUzqFpfKgHYByuHVrap_hsnkw_icjRIiOlwHZibqUKeIbT2WVocQU79FYjSUMovYVZk10jt-e4ioEdnnAaBsu54d5xe6at_KIb6KsaWWKMMgB1g6SdA3XX5hUjv67taYya8TSm8jSK5JB5d5SGWCxhQMaAcF927snd6Ns/s320/-3563232732964232295.jpg" width="180" /></a></div><br /> <span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b>Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. ~James 1:17</b></span><p></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Pictured here is our oldest granddaughter, Virginia Rose, holding a special certificate, one all of us are celebrating. She earns all A's in her first term of 8th grade!!! If we all reflect upon our middle school years, we know that is no small feat.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Virginia decides to work extra hard in school this year, and the results of her labors pay off with great dividends. The morning her dad snaps this photo, she has just finished attending a special breakfast at school, followed by an awards ceremony for her and others in her class who have achieved the same milestone.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>I'm so grateful that God has blessed Virginia with intellectual gifts that have enabled her to reach this coveted goal. She sees for herself how much hard work and perseverance can help her climb the mountains in her life, no matter what obstacles might come. Yes, she is so proud of this recent achievement, and so are we, but I've told her all along that, as a goal she has set for herself, failing to meet that goal, as long as you've tried your hardest, is no reason not to try, try again.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>I'm also thankful to know that the school she is attending still rewards high-achieving students. There are no trophies, or certificates, for 10th place. And that's how it should be.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Children intuitively know when they are being coddled or rewarded for something they haven't legitimately earned. One can hardly feel pride or a sense of accomplishment in getting a "prize" for mediocrity. Virginia lets us know that already, some of her friends are determined to earn all A's the next time around because of her inspiration. Isn't that the best?</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>My hope and prayer? That Virginia will continue to recognize and use the marvelous gifts God has given her, not just for her own gratification, but as an inspiration to others to nurture and develop their unique gifts, too. Seems to me that this "Little Big Girl" is well on her way to doing just that!</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>God sure loves you, sweet Virginia! Always use your gifts and talents, His good and perfect gifts, for His praise and glory as you thank Him every day.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Amen!</b></span></p>Martha Jane Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11620499267401065780noreply@blogger.com59tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009456656795153408.post-16316710158378721822023-11-13T22:00:00.000-08:002023-11-13T22:00:00.134-08:00Ours in Abundance<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkg6ENhkIj9za8ydy3gNDkg2z-7bglehOyovFcrILFSkAx5LzdlY_s9xia6VHORBpDacgFgJ6jhJEkPrDRLMZKxopX2OuAhZGq77G-_K4tRc11vSbNpumpE30VqtQMLDyOD979-2J5c_7d5zK8z3iUTBUKRyg9us1JDCRrjptJZJSP-RyqviqQ2oT4GpQf/s4032/PXL_20231113_162639783.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkg6ENhkIj9za8ydy3gNDkg2z-7bglehOyovFcrILFSkAx5LzdlY_s9xia6VHORBpDacgFgJ6jhJEkPrDRLMZKxopX2OuAhZGq77G-_K4tRc11vSbNpumpE30VqtQMLDyOD979-2J5c_7d5zK8z3iUTBUKRyg9us1JDCRrjptJZJSP-RyqviqQ2oT4GpQf/s320/PXL_20231113_162639783.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b>Mercy, peace and love be yours in abundance. ~Jude 1:2</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Nestled here in the forest, the trees surrounding us are wearing their autumn best before falling to the ground in abundance. Isn't this sugar maple gorgeous?</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwb3VjOnlK4jx0BUlC-EcIMRKSCWfNhm93FDuGrRcCqUTuaHviaAxa2Ftu603voIUk2qNczJwKE5D5TWFn16qeQDaRmrVi5Qo6lOFubyz9JZgo3OEw8LzQvxqiAxIh3HjAAkUOyexzwUITqq1WDVd0TL1rnP6AsXHnvBNs1BaOscPTqt8a7dcGGpTiRfyJ/s4032/PXL_20231113_162628163.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwb3VjOnlK4jx0BUlC-EcIMRKSCWfNhm93FDuGrRcCqUTuaHviaAxa2Ftu603voIUk2qNczJwKE5D5TWFn16qeQDaRmrVi5Qo6lOFubyz9JZgo3OEw8LzQvxqiAxIh3HjAAkUOyexzwUITqq1WDVd0TL1rnP6AsXHnvBNs1BaOscPTqt8a7dcGGpTiRfyJ/s320/PXL_20231113_162628163.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>I'm thankful to be able to watch the turning colors, so bright and cheerful, in the afternoon sunlight.</b></span><p></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>'Tis the time for leaf blowing, even though in this season, it can seem like an exercise in futility. Here is our driveway just one hour after Danny clears it of all leaves and debris.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-C6ovQ_-7o2EyV9KBy1m3T-ODOvAjoXfiTYBKuqC3mYQOPooIwAoetAGEoVNNLU0rQhsCMcOmeN1-h7QWlPOanJZHf_8uMdKuO-5LBIfOiIDr1_-eW_gYG56bqHy3EEn9hOOJlGDoBB17yCM1lrd7JHayJf8UR162vOxCeAHURWJr8IUsl_C3MT0z1gm6/s4032/PXL_20231113_190922574.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-C6ovQ_-7o2EyV9KBy1m3T-ODOvAjoXfiTYBKuqC3mYQOPooIwAoetAGEoVNNLU0rQhsCMcOmeN1-h7QWlPOanJZHf_8uMdKuO-5LBIfOiIDr1_-eW_gYG56bqHy3EEn9hOOJlGDoBB17yCM1lrd7JHayJf8UR162vOxCeAHURWJr8IUsl_C3MT0z1gm6/s320/PXL_20231113_190922574.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdljjreLHBxfjQy3dx__XtPDQ8BhC1dYbOPaQqflztws8d6CMNPhKWEUQWL9Eep4TTsbXQguVceBz-A0XadhdDOf5QVaDTtNh7h8caLNdr56AVYJ7mpIBMEE1zmN1pcLdhcSskmyI28BEnxbLxdghppmjzSsJVdhQZHa1aox5ysqBHZjQmQWkvI5ti7jPj/s4032/PXL_20231113_190932328.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdljjreLHBxfjQy3dx__XtPDQ8BhC1dYbOPaQqflztws8d6CMNPhKWEUQWL9Eep4TTsbXQguVceBz-A0XadhdDOf5QVaDTtNh7h8caLNdr56AVYJ7mpIBMEE1zmN1pcLdhcSskmyI28BEnxbLxdghppmjzSsJVdhQZHa1aox5ysqBHZjQmQWkvI5ti7jPj/s320/PXL_20231113_190932328.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><b><br /></b></span><p></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Still, it has to be done before it gets totally out of control. There's nothing worse than not being able to correctly navigate our very steep drive because the pavement is wearing camouflage. </b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>The constant fall clean-up just comes with the territory of woodland living. It's a much-preferred activity as opposed to having to mow grass in the heat of the summer. Our "lawn" is made up of moss, and Danny is always repairing the patches created by squirrel paws and robin claws; for him, it's a labor of love!</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Yes, we certainly have abundant leaves at our house, and when they descend to the ground, we can feel overwhelmed at times.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>But what if we view this seasonal reality in an optimistic and grateful way? For each leaf we witness floating to the ground, let's recount a blessing that God has so graciously given to us? After all, this is the traditional season for giving thanks, though many of us do so all year-round.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>When we give thanks each time a leaf falls, I know that mercy, peace and love will be ours in abundance. God just works that way!</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Amen!</b></span></p>Martha Jane Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11620499267401065780noreply@blogger.com54tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009456656795153408.post-13274911656916056922023-11-07T22:00:00.001-08:002023-11-07T22:00:00.140-08:00God's Grace is All I Need<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOrEG5JYkKKGypFD0IdjqfdScndBKiWcQZCVze5HkOx7SmxHzWyy3LfHh1semil_4diqemeZ_NG5gZJZOrD6fDaUrzZYI0sACuXyReGHOVScM6qPQ0d6B0-pbah21bri9btcAihtbtWejlrLM1Ku2Ea_bDPNy0FxmxzpLRUituE1GugY6tV_Fdd0R5EGgY/s526/tj3f6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="440" data-original-width="526" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOrEG5JYkKKGypFD0IdjqfdScndBKiWcQZCVze5HkOx7SmxHzWyy3LfHh1semil_4diqemeZ_NG5gZJZOrD6fDaUrzZYI0sACuXyReGHOVScM6qPQ0d6B0-pbah21bri9btcAihtbtWejlrLM1Ku2Ea_bDPNy0FxmxzpLRUituE1GugY6tV_Fdd0R5EGgY/s320/tj3f6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b>Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. ~Hebrews 13:8</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Our time change happens this past weekend. How many of you looked forward to that? No matter if it's fall back or spring forward, our biological clocks are thrown for a loop. Our body's Circadian rhythms do not readily adjust, or willingly, subject themselves to this unnatural manipulation of the clock.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>The older I get, the more my body depends upon a schedule, something that no arbitrary alteration can change. Instead of my inner alarm urging me to rise around the old time of seven, it now transforms to the six o'clock window. I know that many of my readers are consistently early risers, but for me, this is way too early to embark upon the day. Can I get back to sleep? That's problematic. Tossing and turning in frustration is the scenario I experience in the time change aftermath.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Will I eventually adjust? I do believe I will. But the older I get, the longer it takes for this acceptance to sink in. One thing my body seems to need each and every day is a nap. I'm not proud of that, but it is what it is. Older, my friends, is not always better, is it? In reaction to the time change, those naps are happening earlier than they used to. This certainly interferes with the progress and productivity of my post-lunch afternoon. Translation: Limits I don't want to entertain when it comes to my writing/reading time, not to mention my daily exercise.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Am I complaining? It sure sounds like it here! But I want to assure you that I'm grateful for each and every day with which God blesses me. Instead of feeling frustrated about the time change, what I'm most grateful for is that our Lord never wavers in the love, grace and faithfulness He shows to all of us, no matter what inconveniences we might be going through.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>The world is a mess, our country is in tumult, but if His people focus on His words and His promises, we have a secure and never-failing compass to guide us in the way He wants us to go. Even when we feel weak, tired and hapless, God gives us the strength and hope to carry on in His name.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>We can trust that He will be the same, yesterday, today and forever.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>I choose to take Him at His word.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>I choose to live in His eternal promise.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>His grace is all I need to live my life to the fullest.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Amen!</b></span></p>Martha Jane Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11620499267401065780noreply@blogger.com63tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009456656795153408.post-81052130622290922092023-11-02T22:00:00.001-07:002023-11-02T22:00:00.139-07:00Hair Raising!<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAfC1a4huPjv1ZBuAZqdo8G85gSIrKe-IfT_74DXZJg9Jz6GidxsqSOFfFrgMFnwXXwMxkK130bbUjU1mC_fgaHwLC8z7Y3KWVCJneLsIzSK6IllsZ6v77JYhKOJt6Rmio9qpzG0lipMm6I0Y_L7OS7_EBHb1fWBk6T3kf5_9v86-KKdg4OqzM_nSzRrz1/s800/7346685323721974288.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAfC1a4huPjv1ZBuAZqdo8G85gSIrKe-IfT_74DXZJg9Jz6GidxsqSOFfFrgMFnwXXwMxkK130bbUjU1mC_fgaHwLC8z7Y3KWVCJneLsIzSK6IllsZ6v77JYhKOJt6Rmio9qpzG0lipMm6I0Y_L7OS7_EBHb1fWBk6T3kf5_9v86-KKdg4OqzM_nSzRrz1/s320/7346685323721974288.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b>"His master replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things. I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share in your Master's happiness!'" ~Matthew 25:23</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Nothing says "fun" to a child more than dressing up and trick-or-treating on Halloween night. Above is a shot of the grands (Savannah is partially hidden by her witch sister, Virginia) nearing a welcoming, well-lit home in a nearby neighborhood, known for its generous residents and cautious drivers. Sarah and John find the perfect area to take their girls!</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>I know I sound a lot like Scrooge, but because our driveway is enormously steep, with lots of bumps created by thriving tree roots, Danny and I close our blinds and dim our lights so no errant goblin will venture our way on Halloween. Fortunately for us, this works beautifully. I do miss the little ones with their eager, made-up faces and oversized bags begging to be filled, but that's just the way it is.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>I don't go in for horror flicks, and I'm no fan of the creepy and spooky, but I see something on my computer that shocks the living daylights out of me. Maybe, you've seen this, too?</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>A group comprised of both children and adults (yes, adults!) approach a doorstep. The home owners have left out a bowl chockful of candy. The unwritten, but universally understood law of Halloween, is to take one treat and leave the rest for others yet to come. I observe with disgust how the entire hoard empties the bowl into all their sacks - deliberately and with glee!</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>What message are these parents sending to their children by being complicit in the act of stealing? Rudely taking what they instinctively know isn't for them alone?</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>If you, like me, are wondering what this world is coming to, look no further than how children act even <i>when </i>their parents are around. Crass and brazen barely begins to describe them as they mimic their parents' despicable behavior.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>I don't think there's room for a please or a thank you in such an uncivilized atmosphere.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Jesus tells us clearly in the parable above that God expects us to be found trustworthy with the riches He has given us in this life. We are not to cheat, lie, steal, or defraud our neighbors. Instead, if we love them as we love ourselves, and invest in their futures, our riches will return to us ten fold with blessings beyond compare.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>To witness this polar-opposite behavior is downright hair-raising. (Did they forget about Ring doorbells???) Let us pray daily that this errant nation sees the light of God's love and turns, returns, to Him.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>And Him alone.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Amen!</b></span></p>Martha Jane Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11620499267401065780noreply@blogger.com51tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009456656795153408.post-10752058136617779282023-10-29T22:00:00.001-07:002023-10-29T22:00:00.163-07:00In the Letting Go<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6WSFb00t1WD3Lp5ZtzwgRE9Wcu2eC9d2Km24Y2N6ml5KbS52aGgmYlal1C6Oo8psuDqL3WYxLA3dm6_mwIcudmnc7PUTduFGpjmKNPRuggGz_-VWVXYuKA2wMqzeUrU5jh_gSCoVVkxu6kACNraPwFZryisAWsNwTJoOPp15k6YqT1KzkVqsBuU7uNwH6/s4032/PXL_20231029_172425128.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6WSFb00t1WD3Lp5ZtzwgRE9Wcu2eC9d2Km24Y2N6ml5KbS52aGgmYlal1C6Oo8psuDqL3WYxLA3dm6_mwIcudmnc7PUTduFGpjmKNPRuggGz_-VWVXYuKA2wMqzeUrU5jh_gSCoVVkxu6kACNraPwFZryisAWsNwTJoOPp15k6YqT1KzkVqsBuU7uNwH6/s320/PXL_20231029_172425128.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b>There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens. ~Ecclesiastes 3:1</b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Verdant leaf, once was I</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>One of many countless friends</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Who waved and shouted glory</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>In the presence of the sun</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Vibrant, filled with vigor</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Waxing, no thought of waning</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>In the season yet to come</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Season here, my color fades</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Shining green steeped in brown</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>There's not strength to carry on</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>But in the letting go, I live</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Because the promise of the One</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Knows I have played my part</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Amen</i></b></span></p>Martha Jane Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11620499267401065780noreply@blogger.com49tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009456656795153408.post-13121821089545882372023-10-24T22:00:00.001-07:002023-10-24T22:00:00.168-07:00Sing to the Lord!<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsIFxlx-pb77GP16ViAkfdkWp-UYtI_r3B0g9fIf71m27J2YgHaKUbf3uvmOeUsylTmWMELJUybQFjw_Slw4DHMKXg1UDWnXFfLAUKC-dhdDQirZSYA61J2517339yFNhxS9I4gzebeAetqWMActLJFXPT9o8Z-BTLCgbC3F17llUImnOvnJ_JSKKkYQRR/s5472/IMG_0072_DxO1%20color.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5472" data-original-width="3648" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsIFxlx-pb77GP16ViAkfdkWp-UYtI_r3B0g9fIf71m27J2YgHaKUbf3uvmOeUsylTmWMELJUybQFjw_Slw4DHMKXg1UDWnXFfLAUKC-dhdDQirZSYA61J2517339yFNhxS9I4gzebeAetqWMActLJFXPT9o8Z-BTLCgbC3F17llUImnOvnJ_JSKKkYQRR/s320/IMG_0072_DxO1%20color.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b>Sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth. ~Psalm 96:1</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Most of you who have been following my blog know that Danny and I have been invited by our church, now known as Shiloh Community Church since we will soon be leaving the UMC, to sing on the first Sunday of each month. Once a month? Who can't handle that? It's a perfect schedule for us as we are easing back into getting reacquainted with the worship songs we knew by heart so many years ago when Danny still led our praise band at our previous church.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Out of the blue, earlier this month, our intrepid lay leader, Sandy, asks us if we could perform the special music for the following Sunday. We readily agree, knowing that we have a whole luxurious week to practice and prepare for another selection. Everything goes according to plan, which is the way we both like it. After all, we are singing not not just for the congregation, but also to the glory of God.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>As we are getting ourselves ready for church this past Sunday, we receive an urgent and unexpected text from Sandy: <i>Can y'all fill in again this week? I need two songs if at all possible. I'm just worn out with everything I've had to do in the pumpkin patch this week, the pastor's not here, and I really need your help!</i></b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Two songs? TWO???</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Talk about flying by the seat our pants! Fortunately, Danny has earmarked several possible songs for future Sundays that he's also practiced But have I practiced? The answer is a resounding, "NO!"</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Miraculously, Danny and I are left with enough time that morning to rehearse each song once. For me, that's not enough, but it will have to do or we will be late for church. That's when I begin praying in earnest: <i>Please, Lord, let us both get through this today; our singing needs to be to Your honor and glory, not ours. May we represent You well to our congregation today!</i></b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Don't let anyone tell you that God doesn't hear your prayers. He does! And sometimes, His answer is immediate as it was for me on Sunday. Both songs rolled easily from our lips and our harmonies could not have been better, even if we had practiced all week. Wow!</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>This undergirds one of my basic beliefs: If you dedicate the gifts God has given you to His service, all will be well with your soul.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Sing to the Lord a new song of praise today!</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Amen!</b></span></p>Martha Jane Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11620499267401065780noreply@blogger.com53tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009456656795153408.post-92081232718955569902023-10-17T12:50:00.004-07:002023-10-17T12:50:54.823-07:00A Plentiful Harvest<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8j-DcOGVkAvb56Klx8ihUJwROCMA6Y7a7WeM76vxgEllW_iKj7BYaBgrQ9mWd93hZtU641qKr2foe3F8J3kwoNicwZUwkEvD9nU1ZduPcyH-_27aBPG4O33zbdAzD-7wK4iv4XTFu-gc1inI6rkAPKvQCiJ5HPbzq7ZQ6vMLRaGR-VvQ6qXwoDxQRCYfW/s5051/IMG_0052_DxO1%20color.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5051" data-original-width="3367" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8j-DcOGVkAvb56Klx8ihUJwROCMA6Y7a7WeM76vxgEllW_iKj7BYaBgrQ9mWd93hZtU641qKr2foe3F8J3kwoNicwZUwkEvD9nU1ZduPcyH-_27aBPG4O33zbdAzD-7wK4iv4XTFu-gc1inI6rkAPKvQCiJ5HPbzq7ZQ6vMLRaGR-VvQ6qXwoDxQRCYfW/s320/IMG_0052_DxO1%20color.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b>He told them, "The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field." ~Luke 10:2</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>The biggest fund raiser our church holds is the annual pumpkin patch in October. Since Shiloh is located on a busy street in our town of Kennesaw, the presence of the pumpkins is readily noticed by all who pass by. Thank goodness our church laborers were many when the tractor trailer arrives with box upon box of pumpkins! Unloading and displaying them on the adjacent grounds is no small task. Danny and I help as much as we can on Sunday after service, but my continuing issues with balance on uneven ground keeps me from being handy with reaching for and lifting pumpkins from the massive boxes, although I was able to cart the empty boxes away and learn how our purchasing procedures work with the customers who will be parading by in the weeks before Halloween. Needless to say, I will be doing plenty of volunteer work in the weeks to come.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Danny stops by the pumpkin patch this past Monday to snap some photos. Enjoy!</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDQbtOXmO__AFfvn7evGdGrsDwzBPGdXcKMlwhfATqsaEqgeHXejB4H-ncdOJjJx3miwSsPAIoDGASF-kY8hlTrnZ4p25LHioGMESkG1SFcDw7eW9KfTbiDtzylFIZRBi4Jv6fQp_YIvKEsk3Hpo-oCpwBlzvdcqIK5981dH1nwuHE7PMvRyFSnVjeGhUO/s5472/IMG_0076_DxO1%20color.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDQbtOXmO__AFfvn7evGdGrsDwzBPGdXcKMlwhfATqsaEqgeHXejB4H-ncdOJjJx3miwSsPAIoDGASF-kY8hlTrnZ4p25LHioGMESkG1SFcDw7eW9KfTbiDtzylFIZRBi4Jv6fQp_YIvKEsk3Hpo-oCpwBlzvdcqIK5981dH1nwuHE7PMvRyFSnVjeGhUO/s320/IMG_0076_DxO1%20color.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><br /><b><br /></b></span><p></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifQFs2d0uWlsP-ONryvsePgjKPaIIvamafZh2QXDhXaW401dUCWM6S7oQtRfwYuHLX90v-nQ-pi6jhiqGjmDYqlI2PMIax7FtnYD2W7SElFoltHrZ5arNufpvxLqf_AOVn9wdqaExJqqTzFPv-M2AhdHDdUj0Wr9ndCJLP4v1Q-7TEsxwxG9UNFftdl-DE/s5472/IMG_0071_DxO1%20color.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifQFs2d0uWlsP-ONryvsePgjKPaIIvamafZh2QXDhXaW401dUCWM6S7oQtRfwYuHLX90v-nQ-pi6jhiqGjmDYqlI2PMIax7FtnYD2W7SElFoltHrZ5arNufpvxLqf_AOVn9wdqaExJqqTzFPv-M2AhdHDdUj0Wr9ndCJLP4v1Q-7TEsxwxG9UNFftdl-DE/s320/IMG_0071_DxO1%20color.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP_A8SHN3V83iVLFa_HaJP0eHR8EUBile8PAqzRpgewNxXzEbiBPuYHS-UBoIJUpRLwVkeFHq_DUuNeo6LQqayGI2rRMu2JMpbXRuBr1As-Qm_75atLoiAZS3h4lfX3gi2ysMcWyWH1mTlZ-8-Xu4ued-Lxd9AspqAXNQXps6ULnZb150xonsmYtoARolM/s5472/IMG_0063_DxO1%20color.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5472" data-original-width="3648" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP_A8SHN3V83iVLFa_HaJP0eHR8EUBile8PAqzRpgewNxXzEbiBPuYHS-UBoIJUpRLwVkeFHq_DUuNeo6LQqayGI2rRMu2JMpbXRuBr1As-Qm_75atLoiAZS3h4lfX3gi2ysMcWyWH1mTlZ-8-Xu4ued-Lxd9AspqAXNQXps6ULnZb150xonsmYtoARolM/s320/IMG_0063_DxO1%20color.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaEm1NUsxIXYmdH7znLMPk2UBoe_mhP6lX5tgK595V3Tgm-SjEOKf-TURDtTmPhcB9n0ve6YLHvFUqCDuPRcPjsR6w662t1fNHtIWbxf7rIoiD3x0Gm6ZLL8TsC7H1rOWgetawYGPDzKYpnmZteYkcL2FrgDI97ILSB3sIqQAkv-GAZ9qhNqA0RkzA9B6w/s5472/IMG_0058_DxO1%20color.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5472" data-original-width="3648" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaEm1NUsxIXYmdH7znLMPk2UBoe_mhP6lX5tgK595V3Tgm-SjEOKf-TURDtTmPhcB9n0ve6YLHvFUqCDuPRcPjsR6w662t1fNHtIWbxf7rIoiD3x0Gm6ZLL8TsC7H1rOWgetawYGPDzKYpnmZteYkcL2FrgDI97ILSB3sIqQAkv-GAZ9qhNqA0RkzA9B6w/s320/IMG_0058_DxO1%20color.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRXvqU1sg5XF5yKXXKAQ-UaIJjkfGO8rcYyVjHBEOMyVBXaNubObpef9z33h07LwOzIIgYeSK5CoYNqlLKL3XA-vpIbCTTDVuTWAVcgRyoO8hrw8wmLU44aqQYLOMTR9kiChWtlnZfWL1G82dLdc0REH9EMJcMPTjnb4GtJEAgZ4khE6qWaE-gLgAVXt6f/s5208/IMG_0060_DxO1%20color.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3472" data-original-width="5208" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRXvqU1sg5XF5yKXXKAQ-UaIJjkfGO8rcYyVjHBEOMyVBXaNubObpef9z33h07LwOzIIgYeSK5CoYNqlLKL3XA-vpIbCTTDVuTWAVcgRyoO8hrw8wmLU44aqQYLOMTR9kiChWtlnZfWL1G82dLdc0REH9EMJcMPTjnb4GtJEAgZ4khE6qWaE-gLgAVXt6f/s320/IMG_0060_DxO1%20color.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIj8XqX8K5iHX-TW6Hpkt_M4X-VXHRIbRDbvHw32fmppFBtvOLpERbua45uEkdAtlyeZZ2NzGtMp5_3iBK5DYcn6wVn7eS67aIhCnPt1czjPcx-g7b_2CBL0CyPn4eeZ6ZeL-vJ6gs-evK00bzLJQ_Y_AwbqP0MCQrrpeLsROvCeKeAVHRlwfdN8bY0Bn9/s5472/IMG_0059_DxO1%20color.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIj8XqX8K5iHX-TW6Hpkt_M4X-VXHRIbRDbvHw32fmppFBtvOLpERbua45uEkdAtlyeZZ2NzGtMp5_3iBK5DYcn6wVn7eS67aIhCnPt1czjPcx-g7b_2CBL0CyPn4eeZ6ZeL-vJ6gs-evK00bzLJQ_Y_AwbqP0MCQrrpeLsROvCeKeAVHRlwfdN8bY0Bn9/s320/IMG_0059_DxO1%20color.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCeXWaVFHiDGzBjp_oNZnw68t1YcyRskRYYUDwFnhLXrjP48LuhDLyIjy-ovTxejeBbHOVDR0O1a0mySVLoUgD2N7e0-rjLmaGe3ha1Xg66Drum6g84UGUHxJKysuSoayTk3JupxZWMiazat3iRyXWITTVwFZ5KaGJBwBmASXEgd6lMO8dYrsqY4FxADnX/s5472/IMG_0070_DxO1%20color.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCeXWaVFHiDGzBjp_oNZnw68t1YcyRskRYYUDwFnhLXrjP48LuhDLyIjy-ovTxejeBbHOVDR0O1a0mySVLoUgD2N7e0-rjLmaGe3ha1Xg66Drum6g84UGUHxJKysuSoayTk3JupxZWMiazat3iRyXWITTVwFZ5KaGJBwBmASXEgd6lMO8dYrsqY4FxADnX/s320/IMG_0070_DxO1%20color.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1UyiLiGwCDpTlcuHBz8fBKgDP-QzMauxC1xsd1tuCD7yvFIINYnFyU2M1k70vqGcKRxRpL_L3OobugoCDCi7DkJ4U63kXssU6u2S1lYllmJoUNgu1TtQUiEnNxM1v3Xb1RpCtWaR-eXY5yQEH6vVe7SGGtkPGQuhf6SJV3HTZ1DDJCBpl-q6ihJzXvSgo/s5472/IMG_0069_DxO1%20color.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1UyiLiGwCDpTlcuHBz8fBKgDP-QzMauxC1xsd1tuCD7yvFIINYnFyU2M1k70vqGcKRxRpL_L3OobugoCDCi7DkJ4U63kXssU6u2S1lYllmJoUNgu1TtQUiEnNxM1v3Xb1RpCtWaR-eXY5yQEH6vVe7SGGtkPGQuhf6SJV3HTZ1DDJCBpl-q6ihJzXvSgo/s320/IMG_0069_DxO1%20color.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI5a5xvRZ-vFexLTeBJXI30bEL89EraH0r-T4j1yNY6VmckLzWApA4LDXMxHf3Y2VVPIqtzJyE4dAEqOdjop_eC0GLeo31LkwccYkzT5yo3P3abixx9frT8n_3itN3Lz_70BoHFxNF8-Km2KIZ_bw5a_EVjTHOT0moeEXPrXiqK6zsEq-C8ubNEkDeyBJe/s5472/IMG_0056_DxO1%20color.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5472" data-original-width="3648" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI5a5xvRZ-vFexLTeBJXI30bEL89EraH0r-T4j1yNY6VmckLzWApA4LDXMxHf3Y2VVPIqtzJyE4dAEqOdjop_eC0GLeo31LkwccYkzT5yo3P3abixx9frT8n_3itN3Lz_70BoHFxNF8-Km2KIZ_bw5a_EVjTHOT0moeEXPrXiqK6zsEq-C8ubNEkDeyBJe/s320/IMG_0056_DxO1%20color.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj58W8-g4L5BO2JvWsugOPFeubuqUYUTYhpXm_0pItFAPLDSLmUYSwosYSIEj2gAITCvFw1DHmVKkBNR2WA0q9UeyPIV0hcUngsTiytSgwcocJFyA-bjj59WfF0FzS1i6jhl15Y743hL3CEc3lF3QOOJOepO3S2EI0sllbPg9LN1qAob1Z_vTOY9zq9N30c/s5472/IMG_0067_DxO1%20color.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5472" data-original-width="3648" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj58W8-g4L5BO2JvWsugOPFeubuqUYUTYhpXm_0pItFAPLDSLmUYSwosYSIEj2gAITCvFw1DHmVKkBNR2WA0q9UeyPIV0hcUngsTiytSgwcocJFyA-bjj59WfF0FzS1i6jhl15Y743hL3CEc3lF3QOOJOepO3S2EI0sllbPg9LN1qAob1Z_vTOY9zq9N30c/s320/IMG_0067_DxO1%20color.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br /><b>Hopefully, those who visit us to buy their Halloween pumpkins and decorations won't leave empty-handed. We don't want to have any leftovers!</b></span><p></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>And may we always strive to be God's tireless workers to the honor and glory of His name that others may reap the joy of His love and grace.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Amen!</b></span></p>Martha Jane Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11620499267401065780noreply@blogger.com54tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009456656795153408.post-48929900186122265132023-10-09T19:32:00.004-07:002023-10-09T19:32:47.361-07:00Jerusalem's Peace<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8AQY8Xo05Vbyj7BS0APJT1HZuLhqRuQX1x_kxnYpF4mxNXre_MBihYSbwukZGjLhYUVMf1x52S9BHym4nMpwNfxNcqWLo1ukpVKpzQyAkwTb3Mer2a3jkKmj0l2V1D0cvUD6-XYT37Q744E5neGwjWnmMubVcZ2Zf4KXyI80vfCKFHW6vKom_oJC_D-y8/s730/2023-10-09T145108Z_563421090_RC22P3AXWYW1_RTRMADP_3_ISRAEL-PALESTINIANS-1696863293.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="410" data-original-width="730" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8AQY8Xo05Vbyj7BS0APJT1HZuLhqRuQX1x_kxnYpF4mxNXre_MBihYSbwukZGjLhYUVMf1x52S9BHym4nMpwNfxNcqWLo1ukpVKpzQyAkwTb3Mer2a3jkKmj0l2V1D0cvUD6-XYT37Q744E5neGwjWnmMubVcZ2Zf4KXyI80vfCKFHW6vKom_oJC_D-y8/s320/2023-10-09T145108Z_563421090_RC22P3AXWYW1_RTRMADP_3_ISRAEL-PALESTINIANS-1696863293.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b>Pray for Jerusalem's peace! Prosperity to all you Jerusalem-lovers! Friendly insiders, get along! Hostile outsiders, keep your distance! ~Psalm 122:6-9 (MSG)</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>We awaken this past Saturday to an unexpected and unprecedented shock. The country of Israel has suffered an attack on their soil by Hamas in the Gaza Strip. As the news shouts from the television screen, the images are so exceedingly disturbing and heartrending. I feel like I'm viewing scenes from a horror movie. But this is no fictional tale.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>As the day progresses, questions swirl in my mind. Where was the Iron Dome? Why didn't it work? How did Hamas breech the physical border between Israel and Gaza? What was the state of intelligence gathering before this heinous event? Why can't the hostile outsiders learn to keep their distance?</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>I'm sure all those questions and more will be addressed and answered in the coming weeks. But for now, I can only watch, listen and grieve for the families who lost loved ones who were either killed or taken as hostages by Hamas. Just the latter fact will make it all the more difficult to storm Gaza with a barrage of firepower.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>War is ugly. Horrifying. And in this case, unprovoked.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>It is beyond my comprehension that there are people here in America who insist on blaming Israel for this conflict. When did the Jewish state fire the first shot? Kill the first Arab? Declare war against their neighbor?</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>They didn't.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>And now, the United States is not only called upon to engage in some way with this middle-east conflict, but we are also under the obligation to aid our Ukrainian brothers and sisters in their continuing struggle against Russia's power and aggression.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>I can't help but conclude that all this chaos is a product of a weak and feckless administration. No matter what your think, or thought about, President Donald Trump, he governed with the policy of peace through strength, just as President Reagan did in the 1980s.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>And it was working. The middle-east peace treaty enacted through the Abraham accords. Islamic terrorist leaders taken out, stopped in their steps before creating more havoc and unrest in the region. And the hope for more peaceful alliances created in that crucial corner of the world in the future. Think the recent negotiations between Israel and Saudi Arabia.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>How does God feel when He sees His chosen people under siege? I'm sure His heart is breaking with the slaughter of innocents. His heavenly tears falling as He witnesses, once again, man's inhumanity to man on full display.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>May we continue to pray for our Jewish brothers and sisters stranded in their war-torn country as they strive to defend their homeland - the Holy Land. And may God Almighty bless them with triumph and victory over this evil, that Jerusalem may once again know peace.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>The peace that passes all understanding.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Amen!</b></span></p>Martha Jane Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11620499267401065780noreply@blogger.com46tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009456656795153408.post-18361827801084191952023-10-03T22:00:00.003-07:002023-10-03T22:00:00.213-07:00Hanging by a Thread<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCgZqwgQcv2MkWOQE4ZwAs7XI5z1V35zdC1rySfGTqai6L8F9FcXmjjoosGh-w257H_1K8WV_cNzT_1BsAXUN0QyJz-b7xncV-a6LvsjOh74dZDTqRrfCkEvccNPBObWxPbpU02smtbmo02e5ULakZC_tKqOciGPLqFQ4_jkqE5Wo1enGaKEYTwzBqlS6e/s4246/IMG_0045_DxO1%20color.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4246" data-original-width="2831" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCgZqwgQcv2MkWOQE4ZwAs7XI5z1V35zdC1rySfGTqai6L8F9FcXmjjoosGh-w257H_1K8WV_cNzT_1BsAXUN0QyJz-b7xncV-a6LvsjOh74dZDTqRrfCkEvccNPBObWxPbpU02smtbmo02e5ULakZC_tKqOciGPLqFQ4_jkqE5Wo1enGaKEYTwzBqlS6e/s320/IMG_0045_DxO1%20color.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b>He must also have a good reputation with outsiders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the devil's trap. ~1 Timothy 3:7</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: verdana;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Surprised, suspended between heaven and earth</b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Tossed about by errant breezes wild</b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Caught in stray strand of spider's web</b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Held fast by sticky, stubborn thread of silk</b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Bane of insects, now the trap for leaf</b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Where to go? What to do? Expecting</b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Help to arrive with God's grace</b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Save me from the snares of sin, free me</b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>For the mission You have ordained</b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>That my journey here on earth persists</b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Until I hear Your call: Come Home!</b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><b>Amen</b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg5gIQ4TvTw7-KKiJqGy-EyrXoC5aq3luiVR60xtMetou2gK5uRG5H1fGAwmcag2AqVJrML1fiF1QL8R68gHvmA7oj_ke8XnMD_YtjEr2NqyMMgcCTtvDlHbmeSIISTJL1c95q4JRwgUVKqXlAyET8wakZH3rOKxXlahZKMexjzYn0Qp5Wjig4tYr0nl2w/s3757/IMG_9999_DxO1%20color.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2756" data-original-width="3757" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg5gIQ4TvTw7-KKiJqGy-EyrXoC5aq3luiVR60xtMetou2gK5uRG5H1fGAwmcag2AqVJrML1fiF1QL8R68gHvmA7oj_ke8XnMD_YtjEr2NqyMMgcCTtvDlHbmeSIISTJL1c95q4JRwgUVKqXlAyET8wakZH3rOKxXlahZKMexjzYn0Qp5Wjig4tYr0nl2w/s320/IMG_9999_DxO1%20color.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: verdana;"><br /><b><br /></b></span><p></p>Martha Jane Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11620499267401065780noreply@blogger.com53