Category Archives: Share Four Somethings

Share Four Somethings ~ July 2020

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Has anyone seen July? I mean where did it go? Time these days seems stuck and fleeting all at the same time! Well, one good thing about being at month’s end is that means it’s time for “Share Four Somethings” at  http://www.heathergerwing.com  Here are mine:

Something Loved

“Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.’ ” Matthew 19:14 (NIV)

We are now able to count down in days until baby Sutton makes his appearance. I’m so thankful I was able to go be with my daughter and family this month. There were several jobs on my to-do list, including to help in getting our little one’s bedroom ready. Being able to have a hand in preparations means the world to me and I loved feeling useful and needed while I was there.  We accomplished many things and I think they are now in pretty good shape for becoming a family of five. My sleeping accommodations were a little different on this visit. Two little munchkins requested that “MiMi” camp out in the their room each night and so of course, I did. Loved that, too!

Something Read

“I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.” John 15:11

In the midst of all this social distancing, I’ve been invited to several virtual parties and who doesn’t like to party? So of course I joined in and had fun seeing new and different things for sale.  One of the purchases I made was this devotional, “100 Days of Joy and Strength” by Candace Cameron Bure.  Originally, I thought I might give it as a gift; but after looking through it, I decided to keep it for myself.  Am I ever glad I did!  Reading the short daily entries is both encouraging and challenging. Included each day are also an accompanying Scripture verse, room to jot down your own thoughts, and a prayer.  I’m enjoying it so much that I think I will buy a few more to actually give as gifts this time!

Something Treasured

“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 (NIV)

A God wink and timing are everything! Let me take you back to my visit to my daughter’s this month. When we set the dates for it, I had no idea that my daughter’s sweet friends were planning a surprise baby shower for her at that very same time.  When they found out I was going to be there, they didn’t hesitate to include me in on the surprise.  While it was stressful to try and get her there without giving it away, I will always treasure the memories of being able to be there and experience the surprise standing by her side! The shower began with a prayer that was so precious we all had tears running down our cheeks. Those tears didn’t last too long because the “Taco ‘Bout A Baby” evening included a taco bar, beautifully decorated fiesta cookies, a delicious piñata cake, lovely gifts, and lots and lots of laughter. I’m so grateful July included this surprise for my daughter… and me!

Something Ahead

“No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.” Hebrews 12:11 (NIV)

I don’t know about you but planning ahead seems impossible right now. Last month I talked about my blank calendar page and nothing has really changed since then. But, even though I’m not stepping out the door to do something, I am stepping out of my comfort zone. Before the day’s end I will have sent the first children’s story I’ve written to be critiqued by someone I don’t know….a professional!!!  As I look ahead to the next few weeks of waiting for the results, I feel a mixture of excitement and dread. I’m not sure how I should prepare to receive remarks that may be hard to read, except to remember they are remarks that will help me make this little, baby stage story grow into a better one.

From a baby’s room to a baby shower to a baby story: July has been a month about birth, I guess. And, just like any birth, it’s been hard, exhilarating, exhausting, joyful, and a little scary.  That’s life isn’t it? How about your July? What things will you remember from this past month? I’d love to know.  Just leave them in the comments if you’re willing.  As always, I so appreciate you stopping in to read the ramblings of my scattered mind.  (I’m afraid this pandemic has only made it more scattered, too.) I hope this finds you happy and well. May God bless your August!

Share Four Somethings ~ June 2020

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Time is strange when it’s not anchored by a calendar! With nothing to do or plan for, the days seem to pass one the same as the other.  Sometimes I feel like they drag on forever and yet, here I sit, it’s July 1st, and I have no idea where June went! I’m glad to be joining http://www.heathergerwing.com today for her “Share Four Somethings”. Maybe it will help me hold on to June for just a moment more!

Something Loved

I’m a storyteller at heart.  I think that’s why photographs mean so much to me! Each picture evokes a memory and shares a story. That’s why I loved participating in the #junejoy Instagram Challenge this month. Every day there was a new prompt and I looked forward to searching through my many, many, MANY photos to find just the right one. Some, spoke for themselves, and others allowed me to tell the tale. Pictures and words….now that’s a combination I love!

Something Read

One of my favorite things to do with my grandsons is to read them their bedtime stories. We often choose long-time favorites like Dr. Seuss, Berenstain Bears, Ferdinand the Bull, and many more. But, what’s really fun for me is to discover new “favorites” like this one! “I Wonder” is a cleverly written book that asks its readers questions that make you, well…wonder. As much as I love this book, listening to my littles offer their own answers to these whimsical questions is the best part of reading it! Something read with my grandsons always brings me great joy!

Something Treasured

We’ve just returned from our annual pilgrimage to the beach. When we first began talking about making the trip, I didn’t think it would happen. Mostly because I’m a Nervous Nellie and was apprehensive about traveling out of state (or anywhere for that matter) with everything going on in the world. But, after a lot of prayer and seeking wise advice, I found no one who supported my worry and so I decided to pack up my concerns as I packed the suitcases and we set off on our adventure. Oh, how thankful I am that we did!

We’ve traveled to the same wonderful spot for over twenty years now. And while this trip wasn’t quite the same as we’ve been used to (masks, take out, crowds) my soul was still refreshed by the rhythm of the rise and fall of the sea; and, in a place where many memories have been made with our kids, we now have made new ones with our grandkids to treasure.

Something Ahead

Do you find it hard to make plans these days? I find myself saying, “if this or that doesn’t happen” or “let’s tentatively set”. It’s as if I’m protecting myself from being disappointed if things don’t work out by just not really planning anything because honestly, who expected to be in the situation we’re in now?  I’ve sensed a change in the last week or so though. I’ve begun to think about the possibility of finally visiting my mom in Michigan. We haven’t been together since October and I’m ready for some mother-daughter time for sure! OK, I haven’t written anything on that blank calendar page yet, but I am looking ahead and hoping that by taking all the precautions necessary, we can safely be together very soon!

Well, there you go: June in a few paragraphs. I’m praying that July brings us all peace, health, and things to write on our calendars! I’d love to hear your “Four Somethings”. Share them in the comments so I can learn what your June was like. As always, I so appreciate you stopping in! God Bless!

Share Four Somethings ~April 2020

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“Husbands, go all out in your love for your wives, exactly as Christ did for the church-a love marked by giving, not getting. Ephesians 5:25 (The Message)

Something Loved

This month I am my something loved! Whether it’s a note left by the full coffee pot when I rise each morning, a bottle of my favorite Dunkin Donuts Iced Mocha Coffee tucked among the groceries (not easy to find in our store), or beautiful spring flowers gathered precariously from the hillside and brought home: I feel loved! 

Because of his offer to do all of the grocery shopping so I don’t have to go out, the prayers said holding hands at the table, and words he’s spoken to encourage my lagging confidence: I feel loved! 

In our almost 37 years we’ve had many ups and downs, but through it all we’ve learned a valuable lesson, one that we’ve been reminded of in these last few weeks: the importance of showing how much we care for one another! And that’s what we try to do. This month as we’ve spent more time than usual together, I’m reminded what a gift God gave me when He plopped me right in the living room of a young farmer so many years ago! There’s no doubt: I AM loved!

 

“Therefore, we never stop thanking God that when you received his message from us, you didn’t think of our words as mere human ideas. You accepted what we said as the very word of God-which of course, it is. And this word continues to work in you who believe.” 1 Thessalonians 2:13 (NLT)

Something Read

Oh my goodness! This study has come at just the right time with just the right words I need! Here’s the thing, under normal circumstances I wouldn’t have been able to join in.  Originally, the ladies at Faithfully Following Ministries had planned to study Gideon locally, in North Carolina, where I do not live. But, because of social distancing, they were unable to gather so decided to offer it online. Lucky me! And on top of that, unexpectedly, the publisher has offered the usually costly videos that accompany this study to everyone for free! Everything came together and now we’re about half way through the study. Have I learned so much already! I’ve added it as another “Pandemic Positive” on my list!

 

“I will remember the works of the LORD; yes, I will remember Your wonders of old. I will reflect on all You have done and ponder Your mighty deeds.” Psalm 77:11-12 (BSB)

Something Treasured

As I wrote in my last blog post, I received a note from my mom in which she included two letters I’d written to her in 1985 right after our county was ravaged by a deadly flood. Reading them took me right back to that scary, uncertain time and reminded me of all the emotions that accompanied that devastation. Unexpectedly, those letters have been an encouragement to me in this crazy time we’re in. They showed me first of all, how much better off I am now than I was back then. Rereading them has also helped me remember how God saw us through that time when we didn’t have any idea what the other side would look like. That’s why I’m treasuring these letters today; because, they reassure me He is at work, seeing us through this pandemic, too! 

 

“Children are a blessing and a gift from the LORD.” Psalm 127:3 (CEV)

Something Ahead

As an ole retired teacher, my heart has been heavy thinking about all the students who are out of school, especially the Seniors and the very young children. Keeping my two and four year old grandsons entertained is challenging under the best of times, but now their mom and dad are trying to work full time from home too. Needless to say, it’s rather stressful! So, I’ve been trying to help out (long distance) a little. I must admit it’s been fun for me to search out and mail activities for the boys to do.  I’ve even found a few that we’ve been able to work on together via FaceTime. Those are my favorite, of course! The most recent is this little greenhouse we made. Now, even though theirs hang in a window four hours away from mine, I’m looking forward to all the discussions ahead that the three of us will have as we watch our beans sprout and grow! I’m not sure though, which are growing faster, the beans or the boys!

Well, there you have it! My Four Somethings for the month of April and while it’s been an unusual month, I have been blessed in many ways! How about you? What are your Four Somethings? I’d love for you to share them in the comments.  I hope you know how much I always appreciate you being here with me and if you’d like to read what others have found their Four Somethings to be, just click over to http://www.heathergerwing.com God Bless you and be well!

Share Four Somethings ~ March Gifts

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Time is funny. It seems Christmas was just yesterday and yet it also seems we celebrated it long ago.  So much has happened since then. And March? Goodness what a month! But here we are on the last day and as I’ve pondered on my Four Somethings, I realized something important! March has given me many good gifts:

Something Loved~Unexpected Gifts

“Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.” 1 Corinthians 13:7 (NLT)

In the midst of this unstable, uncertain, un-anything time, I’ve been trying to be aware of all the good things happening which wouldn’t have, except for the fact that “normal” life has come to a standstill. And guess what? I’ve found many wonderful things occurring in my family and in families across the country! One of the most special to me so far, is our first “Girls Zoom Meeting”. My mom, sisters, nieces, daughter-in-love, daughter, and I all joined together for a coffee chat that lasted over an hour.  Stories were told, lives updated, memories shared, and we laughed…..A LOT! I loved spending time with these women and it would have never taken place if everyone was immersed in their regular day to day lives. Unexpected gifts….what a blessing!

Something Read~Gift of Words

“Listen to the words of the wise; apply your heart to my instruction.” Proverbs 22:17 (NLT)

I read several blogs, but I have a couple that are my favorites.  I eagerly watch for each new post  on those, so I’m sure not to miss their wisdom. This past month, I’ve been especially inspired by the encouragement written by Julie Lefebure! She recently shared that she’s felt God leading her to offer hope to others this month through her writing. And has she followed His lead faithfully! Julie’s relatable, creative, faith-filled words are a gift to her reader! They truly have touched my life in a most positive way! You can find her at http://www.julielefebure.com

Something Treasured~Gift of Hope

“May the God of 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 (NIV)

In the process of building our new house I lost all my spring blooming plants, that is until NOW! Last summer as I was packing up and getting ready to head home after visiting my family, my sister came along and with a swing, she plopped a big (and I mean big) bag of daffodil bulbs into the back of my car. I asked her what I was to do with all those bulbs and she simply answered, “Plant them.” I thought it a little extreme at the time, but plant them I did. Fast forward to March. Green leaves began emerging from the ground, pushing their way up between the dried, crunchy leaves of winter.  Soon, stems with buds joined the new leaves. Before I knew it, sunshine bright, yellow blooms began opening up all around my yard. Am I ever grateful I have a sister who goes to the extreme for me!  I treasure each beautiful golden gift; gifts of hope, promise, and renewal.  Something I think we all need right about now!

Something Ahead~Gift of Life

“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” Psalm 139: 13-14 (NIV)

March has given me many gifts; but the biggest, most wonderful one of all, is learning I’m going to be a MiMi to a third grandson in August!  Talk about something to look forward to! I can’t wait to see his little face and personality! The gift of life is so very precious and honestly, I think that’s what March has been trying to teach me all along!

“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 (NIV)

What about you? As you look back over the month what gifts have you received? I’d love for you to share them in the comments! You can find others sharing their Four Something over at http://www.heathergerwing.com  And I always want you to know what a gift you are to me!  Thanks for joining me here today!

#Sharefoursomethings ~ January 2020

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Share Four Somethings

A new year, a new chance to reflect on life each month by sharing “Four Somethings”.  The categories have changed a little this year and we’re now highlighting “Something Loved”, “Something Read”, “Something Treasured”, and “Something Ahead”. Here are mine from this past month:

Something Loved

“Grandchildren are the crowning glory of the aged; parents are the pride of their children.” Proverbs 17:6 (NLT)

Full house = Full heart! I love when my kids and grandkids are all gathered at our house! It’s fun to go and visit them, but there’s just something that fulfills those parenthood dreams (and a momma’s soul) when they come “home”.  There’s a popular saying: “Home is where your story begins” and that’s so true. Even better now? Home is where the story continues!

Something Read

“As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.” Proverbs 27:17 (NLT)

“Walking With Henry” by Rachel Anne Ridge has been my January read.  I’m actually not quite finished yet.  I’ve been reading and discussing it with a friend which makes the insights and encouragements found within the pages that much more richer and meaningful. It always touches me when someone I’ve never met and who’s living a completely different life than mine, can write just what I need to hear! It just goes to show that we’re a lot more similar than we know! If you are like me and love a book that inspires, makes you laugh and cry, and that resonates with your soul, this one’s for you!

Something Treasured

“I remember the days of old. I ponder all your great works and think about what you have done.” Psalm 143:5 (NLT)

Look what I found in my mailbox! It took me a while to put it together, but the work was worth it! I’ve always treasured photographs! They adorn the top of my piano, cover my walls,  hang on my refrigerator, and fill album after album (and now book after book)! Special people, places, and events…..Remembering them brings me great joy!

Something Ahead

“Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart.” Proverbs 3:3 (NIV)

New Year’s has always been a time of goal setting. I’ve never been too keen on it though. Mostly because I hardly ever follow through on mine. Especially when they have to do with weight loss or exercise! (Which they usually do)  Even as much as I enjoy writing, committing to the goal of #Write28Days took some convincing; but in the end, the challenge of writing to a prompt and the chance to join with other aspiring writers won out. Now, my little mind is filled with a jumble of thoughts and ideas as I look forward to writing for as many of the 28 (or 29 as is the case this year) days as I can in February! And hey, if you love a challenge too, there’s still time for you to join in on the fun!

So there you have them: my #sharefoursomethings for January.  If you’d like to read what others have chosen as theirs, just click over to http://www.heathergerwing.com/january-2020-share-four-somethings/ And as always, I’d love to hear what yours are too! Just leave them for me in the comments to enjoy or better yet, join the link up above!

Looking Back~Share Four Somethings

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Labor Day weekend is upon us! How can it be that we’re already looking back on August? I don’t know about you, but for me this summer has passed in a blink of an eye! One good thing about month’s end though, is joining with others at http://www.heathergerwing.com to look back at our Four Somethings.  It also just so happens that today’s prompt at http://www.fiveminutefriday.com is “Back” thus, I’ve decided to do double duty with this post.  So sit “back” and relax as I share a bit of my month with you. And then…I’d LOVE for you to share your Four Somethings with me in the comments.  Here are mine:

Something Loved

“Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God.” Philippians 1:3 (NLT)

My heart’s been happy this month because I’ve been able to spend time with some of my favorite people in some of my favorite places! It’s always an adventure when I’m with my grandsons. Just after this photo was taken the entire jug of bubbles spilled onto the patio. I immediately got the hose to spray it off but looking back now, I realize it wasn’t my best idea.  I’ll just leave it to your imagination to figure out what happened next!

I’ve recently returned from a trip back to Michigan to visit my mom and sisters.  We aren’t able to get together as often as we’d like, so each visit is a true blessing. There’s something special about being with those who’ve known you the longest and love you anyway! Whether it’s spending time watching my grands growing up or spending time with those I grew up with, I’ve loved making memories that I’ll now look back on and treasure!

Something Said

“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.” Philippians 4:6 (NLT) / Pixabay

There are several things about myself that I’m working on to change. One big one is the amount of time I spend worrying. Looking back, I’ve realize just how much time I’ve wasted “rehearsing disaster” that’s never happened! As I’ve already said, time slips by in an instant and I don’t want to spend what I have on worthless worry.  It’s time for a wake up call!

I love it when right at a time I need them, just the right words are shared. How appropriate that my need for a wake up was met with words said about an alarm clock! I’d never thought to compare worry to an alarm clock but it resonates with me and maybe it will with you, too. The idea is that we can let our worry work as an alarm clock, warning us that there’s something we need to pray about.  AND…..we certainly don’t let an alarm clock keep ringing once it’s done its job of getting us up, so we shouldn’t let the worry alarm keep ringing after we’ve taken our concerns to God, either. I love that visual and hope to apply it from here on out and to not go back to letting worry take up all my time!

Something Learned

“Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed.” Ecclesiastes 4:9 (NLT)

What a great time I had this month working along side my daughter while learning to do something new! We were invited to attend a workshop at a new shop being opened by our family friends called “Board and Brush”. It’s a wonderful place where you can go to created fun and unique decor projects from scratch!  We learned how to assemble, distress, stain, and stencil. I was so thankful for the support and encouragement I received to help me complete my sign. The experience was so enjoyable that I hope we can go back and do it all again very soon!

Something Read

“Cheerfully share your home with those who need a meal or a place to stay. God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another.” 1 Peter 4:9-10 (NLT)

Oh this book! Through stories of her homes, gardens, communities, friends, and family Christie Purifoy creates images of place and home which inspired me to reflect on the places that have contributed to bringing me where I am and helped create who I am. The emotions she shares and the knowledge she offers create a symphony of words and thought that made it hard for me to take my eyes from the page.  The subtitle: “Cultivating Places of Comfort, Beauty, and Peace” is exactly what this book does for the reader! If you desire to stay in the home you have, long for a home from your past, or dream of a new home in the future, this book is perfect for you! With her beautiful writing style (and beautiful it is….I might have a tiny or not so tiny case of writer’s envy) Christie takes us on a spiritual journey which reminded me that no matter where it is, God’s gift of home is meant to be shared. “Placemaker” is a book that I could read from front cover to back again and again and learn something new each time! I loved it!

Well there it is!  August was a good month but I must admit I am looking forward to September bringing some cooler weather and the introduction of Fall with it.  As you look back on this past month, I hope you too, can see many blessings.  Don’t forget to share a few of them with us! God willing we can share our September Four Somethings too so…….

Y’all come “back” now! Ya hear?
(sorry, just couldn’t resist)

Share Four Somethings ~ May

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Honest to goodness! Where did this month go? Granted, it was a busy month for me but it sure flew by fast! Maybe it’s my teacher friends wishing to make it to the end of the school year, the count down on my daughter’s phone telling us how many days are left until we head to the beach; whatever the reason, May was here and gone in a blink of an eye for me! How about you?

One good thing about the ending of one month and the beginning of another, is the opportunity to reflect and think about those things we loved, were said, we learned, and read during the month.  It’s so much fun to share them with each other! You can read what others have come up with over at http://www.heathergerwing.com Here are mine for May 2019:

Something Loved

“And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” 1 Corinthians 13:13 (NIV)

I was able to spend Mother’s Day weekend with this lovely crew! We left Indiana, Michigan, and West Virginia behind to meet up in Ohio.  We fit a lot of celebrating in one weekend.  Unexpectedly, we celebrated my 60th birthday (again…it was in March) with decorations and a cake, but the real reason for celebrating was honoring our Mom! We found fun things to do we knew she’d enjoy: dinner in an old train car, a carrousel ride (I’ll talk more about that in a minute), a walk through beautiful gardens that had peacocks roaming freely, and thanks to my creative sister we even had a proper Mother’s Day tea party (thus the hats above) with crumpets and everything! There’s just something about being with the ones who know you best! We shared stories, laughs, and lots of love.  And the greatest of these was love!

Something Said

“Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.’ ” Matthew 19:14 (NIV)

Be still my heart! These are my precious grandsons playing train while watching a show about trains.  We’d already built a tent and played in it, raced cars on a track, read books, and so much more when “MiMi” (that’s me) had to come up with some new adventure; so we boarded the Dining Room Chair Railroad for a fun trip.  From my “reserved seat” in the recliner, I blew the whistle, shouted, “All aboard!”, and started chugging us down the track.  It was a smooth ride with lots of fun things being discussed when my oldest grand looked at me seriously and said, “MiMi? Are you on the old people’s train?” “Why yes, yes I am!”, I replied. “I thought so.”, he so confidently answered. There’s nothing said like the wisdom that is shared by children!

Something Learned

“They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green.” Psalm 92:14 (NIV)

While on our Mother’s Day Girls’ Weekend, I learned that the Richland Carrousel Park is home to the first new, hand-carved carrousel to be built and operated in the United States since the 1930’s. Now I don’t know about you, but it’s been a long time since I’ve actually ridden on the back of a carrousel animal.  Oh, I’ve stood alongside holding on to a little one as they traveled up and down but I can’t remember the last time I raced round and round, rising and falling with the beat of the calliope music! Until this month, that is!  There were bears, ostriches, cats, rabbits, a giraffe, lion, tiger, and of course horses. So, for one dollar I ventured atop a trusty steed and while we traveled together I learned an important lesson: it’s possible to feel like a little kid again even though I’m 60! And a fun lesson it was!

Something Read

“Then God said, ‘ Let the land produce vegetation: seed-bearing plants and trees on the land that bear fruit with seed in it, according to their various kinds.” And it was so. The land produced vegetation: plants bearing seed according to their kinds and trees bearing fruit with seed in it according to their kinds. And God saw that it was good.” Genesis 1:11-12 (NIV)

There’s lots going on in this little mind of mine, including ideas for stories to tell children.  I have a goal right now to learn all I can about writing Picture Books. A large part of what I’m discovering is coming from Picture Books themselves. There are so many great ones available and I learn something new from each one.  I was looking for stories about dirt to share with my grandsons since they love to dig and these two fit the bill! “Carl and the Meaning of Life” is the story of an earthworm searching for his purpose in life and it teaches us how living things work together in nature.  “Badger’s Perfect Garden” is written to remind us that life isn’t always perfect but that doesn’t mean it isn’t good!  I’ve enjoyed interacting with both these cute and beautifully illustrated books and can’t wait to pull them out for bedtime story time with my grandsons!

Well, that’s it for me, as always I’d love for you to share YOUR four somethings with me! Just leave them in the comments. I can’t wait to see what May has offered you and I pray that June brings you many blessings, Cindy

Share Four Somethings ~ April 2019

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Share Four Somethings

There’s just something about April! The first weeks feel as if we are on pins and needles just waiting for those first signs to tell us that Winter is over and Spring is on the way.  April toys with us though, raising our hopes with higher temperatures and sunny days but then dashes them again with the return of cold and snow. Finally….as the month progresses the birdsong becomes a symphony accompanying the daffodils bursting forth and dancing in milder breezes while trees bloom and the mountainsides become covered in more shades of green than anyone thought possible.  April is a good reflection of life isn’t it? Days that can be cold and dark  but are followed by bluer than blue skies and gifts of bloom all around us. What seemed dead escapes the tomb of hibernation and shouts “I’m alive!” And we feel alive, too!

It’s hard for me to believe that April is leaving us already and making way for all that May will bring and yet, here we are on the last day of the month.  That means it’s time for me to “Share Four Somethings” with you once again.  If you enjoy reading mine hop on over to http://www.heathergerwing.com  to read what others are sharing this month.  And as always, I’d love to hear your four somethings if you’re willing to share them with me in the comments. Here’s what the month brought me:

 Something Loved

“Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act.” Proverbs 3:27 (NIV)

I have a very special group of retired teacher friends and we try to get together as often as possible. We eat. We laugh. And we usually do a simple craft.  I love everything about our visits! This month we decided to make these cute bunny cups, fill them with Easter candy, and then deliver them to some of the residents at our local nursing home.  We had so much fun making these little treats.  As you can see,  we all use the same supplies but our finished products always turn out totally unique, just like we are! Don’t you just love when that happens?

Something Said

“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Ephesians 2:10 (NIV)

Everyone’s abuzz about Emily Freeman’s new book, “The Next Right Thing”  and I too, have it in my stack to read; but this month I finished reading her earlier book, “A Million Little Ways”. I actually started it last month, however her words to me, are so profound and inspiring that I had to read a little then stop, letting them sink in, and then read some more. Underlines and highlights of the “million things” Emily said that touched my soul fill the pages of my book. I only wish I now knew a way for them all to saturate my heart and mind so I can fully live them!

Something Learned

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 (NIV)

Our nephew recently enlisted in the Army! It was a big step for him. We wanted to send him off to boot camp this month knowing we were all behind him, so we gathered as a family.  And what better way to celebrate than with cupcakes? Now, I’ve been making cupcakes for years and years but this was the first batch I ever frosted using a decorating bag and tip. What took me so long???? I quickly learned that frosting with this technique was so much quicker and easier than frosting them with a knife and it made them just a little fancier looking for such a special occasion!  So we ate together, we shared stories, we prayed over our nephew, and we ate a few cupcakes. It was difficult to say goodbye but we couldn’t be prouder!

I tried a new frosting recipe for these cupcakes.  I learned it was not only tasty but it was also the perfect texture to go into the decorating bag.  Want to try it for yourself?

1 stick of butter, 3 and 3/4 cups powdered sugar, 4 TBLS milk, and 2 tsp. vanilla. Combine all ingredients and beat on medium-high speed until well blended and fluffy. Add food coloring if desired.

Something Read

“Then Jesus said to his disciples, ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it.’ ” Matthew 16:24-25 (NIV)

Advent was a more meaningful journey for me this year because of the devotional, “In the Shadow of the Cross”  by Stephanie K. Adams. Stephanie leads her readers through the last days of Jesus in a personal way.  She offers insights, scriptures, and prayers that helped me see things in the Gospels I’d never noticed before and new ways to apply them to my own life. It made celebrating the Resurrection on Easter morning a richer, deeper experience for me than ever before! It was a perfect read for April!

Well, there you have it: a month wrapped into Four Somethings! I pray you found special somethings in your month too! Wishing you many blessings in May! Cindy

 

Share Four Somethings ~ February

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February has been a weather extravaganza!  We’ve had rain and more rain. Sleet, snow, ice, sub-zero temperatures, and today it is sunny and 50 degrees! Plans have had to be changed, there’ve been unexpected challenges, and also moments of immense beauty. We can’t control the weather. It plays with our emotions and definitely gives us something to talk about!  Isn’t that just like life? I pray your life has gone a little more smoothly than the weather has this past month!

I love being part of this link up at http://www.heathergerwing.com where we share “Four Somethings”: Something loved, Something said, Something learned, and Something read each month. Here are mine….

Something Loved

“She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future. When she speaks, her words are wise, and she gives instructions with kindness.” Proverbs 31:25-26 (NLT)

I don’t know about you, but these days my mail usually consists of bills, requests for donations, and advertisements for things I don’t want. This month was a little different though because in the midst of the everyday delivery to my mailbox, I unexpectedly found my something loved.

Opening a tiny box revealed a big surprise. Nestled inside, lay a necklace created from my Grandma’s signature. Memories immediately filled my heart and overflowed down my cheeks. The accompanying card, containing words I’ll treasure forever,  was as much a gift as the necklace itself.

Going to the post office that day, I never imagined I’d come away with a blessing. A blessing that reminds me that Grandma’s life is inscribed upon mine and that, inspires me to be to my own grandchildren, who she was to me. This something loved also motivates me to look for unexpected ways to show my love and appreciation for others, just as was so generously done by a special someone, for me.

Something Said

“Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, jus as God through Christ has forgiven you.” Ephesians 4:32 (NLT)

I recently watched a documentary on PBS about Fred Rogers, better known as “Mr. Rogers”. Watching the evolution of his passion for and commitment to his show was inspiring! But more than that, Mr. Rogers’ love for and understanding of children touched my teacher’s heart deeply. His message of kindness and acceptance are timeless and so vital for us today! Here is something he once said that has resonated with me:

“I believe that appreciation is a holy thing–that when we look for what’s best in a person we happen to be with at the moment, we’re doing what God does all the time.  So in loving and appreciating our neighbor, we’re participating in something sacred.” Fred Rogers

Just imagine what our neighborhoods could be like if we would live these words Mr. Rogers said!

Something Learned

“Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him that they are?” Matthew 6:26 (NLT)

I’ve learned that birdwatching in my front yard is now so much more exciting, all because of my Valentine’s Day gift!  My husband surprised me with a telephoto lens for my iPhone! Who knew such a thing even existed?

As you can see, it just clips right on to the lens and you’re ready to get those close up shots! Because of the extra weight (of the lens not me)  I’m not as steady as I’d like to be. It will take some practice to produce clear, focused pictures, but I won’t mind at all! Camera + Birds + New Gadget = Learning Fun

Something Read

“I will search for my lost ones who strayed away, and I will bring them safely home again. I will bandage the injured and strengthen the weak.” Ezekiel 34:16a (NLT)

Oh. My. Word.  This book!  The story of a wayward donkey who is rescued, cared for, and loved by a family who never expected to be his owners. And while you might think that Flash, the donkey is the lucky one, the story is actually about how he transforms and blesses his people! Rachel Anne Ridge writes in such a way that you feel you’re sitting across the table from her drinking coffee together or on the sofa side by side sharing a bowl of popcorn as she tells you her story of how a large eared donkey taught her about “life, faith, and second chances”. It’s one of those books that I wanted to highlight line after line in!  I can’t wait to read her soon to be released sequel!

Well, there you have it!  February with her ups and downs, sunshine and snow, peaks and valleys is all but finished. What surprises did she bring you? Be sure and let me know in the comments. Until next month, Happy Loving, Listening, Learning, and Reading!

Share Four Somethings ~ January 2019

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Can you believe that January is already drawing to a close and it’s going out with a polar plunge at  that!!!! I’m joining in on the fun of “Sharing Four Somethings” over at http://www.HeatherGerwing.com . I’d love to know yours, so please share them in the comments!

Something Loved:

 It doesn’t happen very often.  Everyone has responsibilities and busy schedules but I just treasure when my family can spend quality time with each other! January brought us all together for a few days and it made my heart so very happy! Meals shared, games played, stories told, love given. What a gift and a blessing! I cherish every single moment!

“Love is patient and kind.  Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude.  It does not demand its own way.  It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged.  It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out.  Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.” 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (NLT)

Something Said:

It continually amazes me how God uses the words of others to speak to me! Whether they’re sung in a song, read on a page, or spoken from the heart, there are times when simple words said are a love note to our soul.This past month found me questioning and doubting (what’s new?) Then, at the right moment, just the words of encouragement I needed were said.  I can’t begin to tell you how much they meant! It reminds me how important it is for each of us to always say what’s on our hearts, even if it seems like a little thing, because we never know when God will use what we say as a note of love to a tender soul, exactly like He did with the words said to me.

“Kind words are like honey–sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.” Proverbs 16:24 (NLT)

Something Learned:

I am new to the world of Podcasts. I know, I know, I’m behind the times but I’m happy to say that in this new year, I’ve begun to listen to a few and have I found some gems!  The insight shared is inspiring and I’ve learned so much from the episodes I’ve heard! Another great benefit is hearing the actual voices of people I’ve admired from afar!  Now, I feel like a fan on the Red Carpet edging my way up, getting as close as I can to the Stars! 

“How much better to get wisdom than gold, to get insight rather than silver!” Proverbs 16:16 (NIV)

Something Read:

Oh my goodness!  This book! I am still in the process of reading it because I want to take in small amounts at a time and ponder them before moving on. Emily P. Freeman has such a reassuring way with her words both written and spoken. These pages have brought me to tears in such a good way.  If I were to write down all the lines that have resonated with me, we’d be here awhile! But….one that I’ve especially been holding close is this:

“Listen to what makes you cry.” Emily P. Freeman

The message in “A Million Little Ways” is a spiritual journey for me and I know I’ll be changed for the better as I continue to stroll through each chapter!

“Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy.” Psalm 126:5 (NIV)

January has been kind to me, I hope to you, too!  As I said above, I’d love to hear your “Four Somethings” for the month.  Just jot them down in the comments and I will celebrate each one with you! Here’s to a fabulous February!