Tag Archives: #ShareFourSomethings

Share Four Somethings ~ November

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Share Four Somethings ~ November 2021

Time…. The days can feel as if they fly by and yet, minutes also feel like they last forever. So here we are at the end of another month and believe it or not, almost another year. There were parts of it that ticked on by and others that had me waiting for what felt like a long time. I think that’s why I love “Share Four Somethings” so much. It is a way to capture bits of our month to share. Here are a few moments from my November:

Something Loved

“Everyone was amazed and gave praise to God. They were filled with awe and said, ‘We have seen remarkable things today.'” Luke 5:26 (NIV)

After being away for a month, I counted the days until I was able to return to visit my daughter and family. Was it ever worth the wait! The hugs, the laughs, the adventures, all balm for my soul! What fun it was to be there to help put up their new Christmas tree. I loved every minute! As I looked back through the pictures I took, I realized that I’d captured the pure wonder only a child can bring. And isn’t that exactly what the Christmas Season is all about?

Something Read or Said

“I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 (NLT)

Lament. I’ve done my share of it in the past few months. I know many of you have too. When I came upon these words this month that Lisa Appelo shared on her Instagram page, it felt as if time stopped for a moment while I caught my breath. “Wrestling with the paradox of pain and the promise of God’s goodness” is exactly what I’ve been experiencing but just couldn’t put into words myself. What a gift when God uses someone else’s to encourage and reassure me!

Something Treasured

“A friend loves at all times” Proverbs 17:17a (NIV)

I’ve talked about them before, my heart friends that I couldn’t do life without. This month we gathered for a delicious brunch and lively conversation. When we took our seats at the table each of found a keepsake at our place. The framed photo may remind us that we’ve aged a bit, but it’s also a treasure that shows that true friendship is timeless.

Something Ahead

“I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow!” John 15:11 (NLT)

There she stands, waiting. Waiting for Christmas to fill each branch and change her. I’m looking forward in this Advent season to spending time in Scripture and readings, preparing my heart to celebrate the Babe in the manger, letting the pure wonder of Christmas that only He brings, change me, too.

Well, that’s it for another month. How’d you spend your time? I’d love to know your Four Somethings for November! You can share them with me in the comments. I wish you a Very Blessed Christmas. Let’s not forget to cherish every minute!

Share Four Somethings ~ September

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Share Four Somethings ~ September

I know I always say this, but it feels as if I just wrote my August Four Somethings post! This month has come and gone and I’m not sure how I didn’t notice it flying by. September was full of good news though, and I can’t wait to share it with you! Here we go…

“Children are a gift from the LORD; they are a reward from him.” Psalm 127:3 (NLT)

Something Loved

It’s been the everyday little things I’ve loved this month. Bike rides at sunset, planning and digging an “underground house”, both boys back to school, wild basketball games, singing together, making cookies, and so much more. Each small moment with my grandsons has made a BIG memory that I’ll cherish always. There’s an old Oak Ridge Boys song called “Thank God For Kids” and the last chorus says:

“Thank God for kids there’s magic for a while
A special kinds of sunshine in a smile.
Do you every stop to think or wonder why?
The nearest thing to Heaven is a child.
When you get down on your knees tonight
To thank the Lord for His guiding light
Pray they turn out right.
Thank God for kids.”

Magic, smiles, sunshine, Heaven. That’s how I feel about spending time with the kids I love more than anything and I thank God for them everyday!

 

“When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality.” Romans 12:13 (NLT)

Something Read

To say I’m excited is kind of an understatement. For the first time ever, my words are actually in print! I’m so honored and grateful to be part of this beautiful journal! The “Woven Journal” by http://www.sweettothesoulministry.com is full of devotionals, articles, recipes, art, coloring pages, scripture, and more! The theme of Woven is centered around being invited and hospitality which allowed me to share the story of my first year teaching and the kind veteran teacher who took me in when I had nowhere to stay. She’s now my mother-in-love but that’s a story for another time. Writing has been my dream for a very long time and to read my own words in such a special publication is, well, just plain amazing!

“Anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf welcomes me, and anyone who welcomes me welcomes not only me but also my Father who sent me.” Mark 9:37 (NLT)

Something Treasured

Sutton’s homecoming! Need I say more? Those who’ve been reading along here know that for the past three months my youngest grandson has been in Nationwide Children’s Hospital after a traumatic health emergency in which he lost all of his small intestine. But God. Sutton has now been home for a little over a week and doing fantastically! Life is different but what a gift to have him reunited with his brothers and to be back to being a family of 5 living at home. And what a celebration it was! The wonderful community once again came together and had a Homecoming Drive By Parade with Fire Trucks, Police Cars, and even Silly String! It is a day I will treasure in my heart forever more.

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

Something Ahead

Now that I’m also back home, I feel somewhat adrift, so I’m looking forward to trying once again to do the 31-Day Writing Challenge sponsored by Five Minute Friday Writing Community to anchor me. 31 prompts. 31 days. Can I do it? I haven’t ever completed it the times I’ve tried before, but there’s a first time for everything, right? We shall see how it goes.

I love this practice of reflecting on the month and choosing moments to share with you.  It helps me to be grateful and more aware of my blessings.  How about you? What Four Somethings would you share? I’d love for you to tell me in the comments. And don’t forget that you can always go to http://www.heathergerwing.com to read more or better yet, to join in. As always I so appreciate you taking your time to stop in here to read my ponderings.  It means more than you know!

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 ~ 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!

Close ~ Day 31 ~ 31 Days of Five Minute Free Writes

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This post is part of the October 2018 Edition of 31 Days of Five Minute Free Writes. I hope you”ll join me in seeing where each prompt takes us.
 P.S. Just so you know, I’m finding it difficult to stick to five minutes (**) and it may take me longer than the 31 days to finish all the prompts. Not easy for this rule follower!
You can read more 31 Days entries at http://www.fiveminutefriday.com

Time to Close

Well, here we are: October’s gone and it’s time to end this year’s 31 Days of Free Writes.  I’m disappointed that I didn’t reach my goal of writing for all 31 prompts. Life got busy but there’s always next year! Anyway, decided to close with my “Four Somethings” for October:

Something Loved

October was full of family and I LOVE when we can spend time together!  Traveled to Washington D.C. for a girl’s weekend. My niece was the perfect tour guide and I didn’t have to worry about a thing (except crossing the streets…those D.C. drivers are something!) My mom then came for a visit.  She left the north but experienced her first snow of the year here in the south! We had a wonderful time! Living apart is hard so spending time together is something I cherish and as a bonus I was able to have extra time with my sisters as we met to “hand mom off” to one another.  Ended the month with a little time out and about with my husband as we explored the beauty close to home.  Overall, it was a fun-filled, love-filled, busy month!

Something Said

Trick or Treaters are a joy to me!  I enjoy seeing the costumes but I especially like to watch the process in which the children decide which treats they want.  Some are very specific and some just grab and go. This year a small group of ghosts and goblins approached my porch and I heard, “I told you Miss Cindy lived here!” The next thing I know I was being hugged by a cute monster who said, “Miss Cindy, I’ve missed you!” Talk about a melted heart!  This ole retired teacher couldn’t have gotten a better treat!

Something Learned

Being  in Washington D.C. was eye opening for this country gal!  Fast paced city life is out of my comfort zone but I really enjoyed experiencing it through the eyes of one who lives and loves it! The sights, sounds, and tastes were new and exciting (for a few days)! While there, I learned the art of using an Uber! Yes, had my first Uber ride and I must say the whole process is quite amazing! Some drivers chit chat.  Some yell at other drivers. Some offer you bottled water. Some vehicles smell lovely and others not so much.  My favorite ride was with a gentleman who had a beautiful, large vehicle. Upon arrival, he got out, opened the doors, and helped us in! It felt quite special traveling like that!  Not sure I could handle Uber on my own yet,  but I’m glad to say it’s something I’ve done!

Something Read

“Freedom is not Free.” I read these powerful words at the Korean War Memorial. They literally stopped me in my tracks.  Yes, I’ve read them before but never while standing in the midst of those who’ve paid the price for my freedom.  While touring the memorials, many Veterans of the wars were standing alongside me.  I could hear some of them telling their family members stories the statues evoked.  Some shared memories with others who’d served with them. Some stood in silence.  And there were tears.  Including mine.  It’s way too easy to take our freedoms in this country for granted.  We even sometimes abuse them!  It was a wake up call for me and I hope this will be for you! We owe a great debt to those men and women who are sacrificing and have sacrificed so much, sometimes everything, to protect our right to freely do, believe, and say whatever we want because Freedom. Is. Not. Free.

 

I love this idea of “Four Somethings”! If you enjoy it too, you can read more at  http://www.heathergerwing.com I encourage you to think about what YOU have loved, heard, learned, and read this month that has touched you in a meaningful way.  Feel free to share here in the comments.  I’d love to hear them!

Share Four Somethings

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I’m excited to be trying something new today.  As I scrolled through my Twitter feed, I happened upon #ShareFourSomethings at http://www.heathergerwing.com The idea is to share the four somethings: something loved, something said, something learned, and something read you’ve experienced within the past month.  I don’t know about you but June flew by for me.  The calendar page was full of appointments, meetings, special events, trips, you name it; but within the busyness were some very special “somethings” that I’ll always hold dear. So, here we go….

SOMETHING LOVED

 

June brought a double celebration of love! Two birthday parties in one day!  Not a feat for the timid! Our morning celebration, in honor of grandson, Owen’s first birthday was a delicious breakfast buffet that included Cinnamon Roll Cake no less!  How can he possibly be one already?  Owen’s smile is infectious, his curls adorable, and he’s the spitting image of his momma!

Later that afternoon we went “Up, Up, and Away” for Carson’s third birthday! Airplanes and toddlers everywhere!  The energy level was higher than this MiMi is used to! I can’t believe I’ve actually been a MiMi for three years!  Carson has changed so much!  He’s learning new things all the time, loves to cook, and looks just like his daddy did at his age!

I thought I knew all about love until these two precious blessings came into my life!  All the sayings about how wonderful being a grandparent is are true!  Carson and Owen are my something loved in June AND all year round, too!

SOMETHING SAID

It’s funny how what we perceive as reality often isn’t.  I love to write and my kids know about “mom’s little blog”, however, I’ve believed that at best, they think I’m silly and at worst I’m wasting time.  That all changed with the most meaningful words said in a belated Mother’s Day Card, one by the way, I’ll treasure forever! Accompanying a journal, these were the words said:

“This journal is for you to write down all your ideas so that everything is in one place and you can write many books and blogs from the ideas. We can’t wait to call our Mom/MiMi a published author because we know you can do it!”

As you might guess, the tears flowed as I hugged that card to my chest.  To know my family believes in me are some of the sweetest words ever said!

SOMETHING LEARNED

The end of June found me atop a mountain at a cabin retreat with some of my closest and dearest friends.  Now, whenever we are all together there’s laughter that rattles the rafters, food that satisfies every tastebud, stories that go on through the night, and gatherings around a campfire.  This trip was no different except…….the wind!  It was so windy that the fire queen couldn’t safely do her thing.  Did that stop us? No!  I learned that though the howling winds may blow, S’mores will be made and that an electric stove comes in pretty handy when there are six women craving roasted marshmallows and chocolate!

SOMETHING READ

As I wrestle with this desire I have to write, I’m trying to soak in as much knowledge as I can from those who ARE writers.  I belong to a writing group called Hope*Writers and I’m going through all the varied trainings they offer.  One of their recommended readings is “Bird by Bird” by Anne Lamott, so of course I put it right on my Amazon wish list and low and behold it was given to me as an anniversary gift. (After 35 years he’s starting to know me HaHa) As I read it, a myriad of emotions come with each chapter.  I haven’t finished the whole book yet, but this I know from my something read so far……I have A LOT to learn about being a writer!

This was fun! Want to give it a try?  Share Four Somethings of your own in the comments! I can’t wait to read them!  I hope to share with you again in a month! Who knows what wonderments July might bring?

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