August 2020 Share Four Somethings
August 23rd….In some ways it doesn’t seem possible that we’re this far into 2020 and then again, it feels like it’s taken a long time to get here! But the end of August is where we are: a time of back to school ads on TV, towering sunflowers in the garden, and Share Four Somethings right here! My month was rather quiet and status quo and that’s a good thing these days; but let me share with you just a few highlights….
Something Loved
“Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble.” 1 Peter 4:8 (NIV)
Our church Christmas tree is large and difficult to move. Each year we struggle to get it in and then struggle to get it back out of the sanctuary. It takes many hands. This year, for several reasons we were short handed, and so, the tree stood there unadorned in the corner. Then Covid 19 hit and we could no longer go to church. That’s when I decided to take a little piece of church to our congregation. So far, this Christmas tree has become an Easter tree, Patriotic tree, and everything in between. (This is our August Summer tree) I’ve loved decorating it with a monthly theme and then sharing pictures and a greeting with our members through our FB page and email. It’s brightened my mood to see it come to life and I pray that, even though we aren’t together, it’s helped make our church family feel just a little closer, too!
Something Read
“Everything in the Scriptures is God’s Word. All of it is useful for teaching and helping people and for correcting them and showing them how to live. The Scriptures train God’s servants to do all kinds of good deeds.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17(CEV)
Books are stacked on my bookshelves and side tables and yet, for some reason I just haven’t picked one up to read in a long time. (Too much Netflix binging maybe) Despite not having a book to offer you, I have been participating in an online Bible Study called “Arise: Seeking God as Your Hiding Place” at http://www.faithfullyfollowingministries.com Each day they offer scripture to read and study, a free journal to keep notes in, and insight into each day’s subject. So far my take-aways have been: “Arise and Refocus on Him, Arise and Follow in Hope, Arise and Let My Heart Sing, Arise and Shape My Worries into Prayer, and Arise and Release.” I’m inspired and encouraged through the women who share in this study and am grateful for the wisdom and words they offer. I’m looking forward to all I’ll read and learn in the next week as it finishes up.
Something Treasured
“Teach children how they should live, and they will remember it all their life.” Proverbs 22:6 (GNT)
There are lots of blessings that come with being a teacher, but one of my favorites is watching my little Second Graders grow up and move on into the world. Even better, when they reach out and let me celebrate with them. This year in addition to announcements, I received a thank you note that included words that I’ll treasure as they warmed this ole teacher’s heart and brought tears to my eyes. It reminds me how important all our interactions with others are. We never know how God will use us to touch others or how He’ll use them to change us!
Something Ahead
“Grandparents are proud of their grandchildren, just as children are proud of their parents.” Proverbs 17:6 (GNT)
Well, we’re down to days until the arrival of our new grandson and I’m ready to pack up and go as soon as I get the call! Every day as a MiMi has been a gift and I’m looking ahead to all the reading stories, singing songs, baking, playing, cheering on, and making memories with THREE grandsons! MiMi X 3 = Love, Love, Love!!!! (and maybe a little exhaustion added in)
Well, there you have it, a glimpse into my August in a few paragraphs. Now it’s your turn! I’d love for you to share your Four Somethings for the month in the comments so we can help celebrate your month with you. Oh, and as we move into September, best of luck to everyone playing a part in starting school. May your year be blessed!
I so enjoy this practice of Sharing Four Somethings! If you’d like to join in or read more just click over to http://www.heathergerwing.com I look forward to seeing what September offers us. It’s my prayer that we find our new normal and move forward with our confidence in God who is in control of all our months. As always I’m so blessed to have you here with me. It means more than you can know.
I love the idea of a Christmas tree with a different monthly theme – very sweet. I’m sure it encouraged your church members. Congratulations in advance and hoping all goes well with your new grandchild!
Wemi, I am so sorry it’s taken so long for my response. I’ve been on “MiMi duty”! Everything went well. Thank you for the wishes! I’ve had great fun choosing ornaments for each month and putting them on the tree. I pray it is a bright spot in my congregation’s day when they see it. Not many are back attending yet but I post pictures on our FB group, too. I so appreciate you stopping in and commenting. It is a gift to me! God Bless!
I was confused to see the Christmas tree at first but I love the explanation. That’s such a sweet idea! And I hope everything goes well with the arrival of your new grandson!
I’m so sorry for my late response to your comment, Lesley. I’ve been on “MiMi duty”! I really have had fun with the All-Season Tree! I think it takes the place of my classroom bulletin boards which I loved to do monthly! Just added little red apples to the sunflowers for September! I’m so grateful for you taking time to comment. It means more than you know! God bless!
I’ve noticed my reading has been down a lot lately too. Oh well! We can always add “Netflix Lists” to our “Read” list 😉
Brooke, I’m so sorry this reply is delayed. I’ve been on “MiMi duty”! I like the idea of a Netflix list. I’ve seen some previews of shows that look good! I really appreciate you taking time to stop in! Have a great weekend!
Congrats, MiMi! And thanks for sharing about the Arise study! You are such a natural encourager.
I’m the one being encouraged by you and Faithfully Following. Love the inspired creative study! Thank you so much for stopping in. I appreciate it more than you know!
Celebrating with you Cindy!
4 things: Family time! Boat rides! VBS! and patio swings.
I’m so glad that you are enjoying the Arise study and loved reading your thoughtful statements from last week.
I love all four of those “somethings”! Sounds like a full and fun August! I always gain when I’m learning from you! I appreciate you taking time to comment. It means a lot to me!
Very exciting that there’s a new grandchild on the way!
Yes it is! We’re on pins and needles! Thanks for stopping in!