365 days of gratitude, over, but not out!

Life is a roller coaster ride, full of ups and downs.  The ups fill us with euphoria of magnificent proportions, the downs, with fear, anxiety, uncertainty and weigh us down.  It is much easier to find those willing to join us for the 'up' rides, but eager to get off before the downs............... 

Thank goodness for the One who will take the seat next to us and ride the entire journey.  Thank You Lord.  Thank You Lord, Thank You Lord....... for a Love like no other and without measure, a faithfulness that is steadfast through thick and thin and hope that gives us a reason for tomorrow.......

This 365th post marks the end of a challenge I set myself a year ago, a journey of wide ranging experiences, of discovering a lot about myself and others.  Most importantly a journey in which my daily focus has been one of giving gratitude no matter what!  'No matter what' has been key to my achieving my goal.  Being in a constant state of gratitude has required me to dust thoroughly to get rid of life's cobwebs so that I can keep focused on what is truly important and not be unnecessarily distracted and I will always be thankful for that.

My husband has ideas on what I could / should do with my 365 posts so ................................. this isn't bye bye. 

I have more recently enjoyed randomly picking posts and reading them with fresh eyes and I have to say they have blessed me.

Let us all come and adore Him......

Come and behold Him,
Born the King of Angels;
O come, let us adore Him,
O come, let us adore Him,
O come, let us adore Him,
Christ the Lord.

 

 



 

I don't always tune in to the Queen's Christmas Day speech, but a friend encouraged me to listen to this year's in particular and with the help of  TV replay Ayo and I listened to it this afternoon.  She was right.............. it was different......... from the start she spoke of the birth of Christ as being the significant event of that day, the day we now celebrate as Christmas Day!  Furthermore she made reference to the hymn 'In the bleak mid winter and encouraged us to give our hearts and nothing else to our Lord and Saviour!!! 

 

Christmas Day has been and gone, somewhat quicker this year, possibly because we finished school later than usual.  For many there will be a void, a post Christmas Day emptiness that can only be filled by the love of Jesus Christ, nothing else.  I am so thankful today (day 364) that because of the events of that wondrous day I am here, able to give thanks to Him.

Guest blogging...........again

Hello.. Its your guest blogger Aaron again.  I did a blog a few months ago, and I asked my mum if I could do another one so here goes...............

Today is christmas :D. No suprise, me and my sister were the first ones to get up at 6:30am. My sister kept trying to wake me up and kept asking me how long until Christmas. I could hardly sleep, so in the end m and my sister Grace went downstairs. We turned on the TV to see if there were any Christmasy films on. My sister turned the channel straight to Nick Junior. She watched 2 Barbie Christmasy films in a row. By the time they both finished it was around 9:00am and me and Grace were still waiting for my family to get up so we could open our presents.

 By 9.30am my mum and dad and brother had woken up. We had cinnamon cake for breakfast (Thank you Aunty Charmaine)and then opened our presents. Santa was very kind to me and I got some of the things on my wish list and so did Gracie!

Me and my family had a nice chilled in day at home watching Christmasy films, with drinks and snacks at regular intervals.  We all had such a laugh and just talked.  Around 5ish we had our Christmas dinner with all the trimmings. It was just devine.

We then watched some more films, and to this very moment, beside me. my mum and my sister ( underneath Grace's JB blanket) are fast asleep, whilst my dad is on his laptop listening and making some music whilst my brother is on his laptop watching football.

Now this is what I call the perfect Christmas.  Importantly I learnt that christmas is not about the presents, but it's the season of giving thanks.  All around the world there would have been people, including children my age and younger who did not make it through the night to see this morning, so I am very grateful to be alive and have the best preset ever.. My family.

Thanking my guest blogger, my son Aaron, today (day 363).

The Pursuit of ....................

Thank goodness there are always opportunities in life to put all things into perspective and simply give thanks to God Almighty, to kneel before Him in humble adoration, to just know how very much He loves us.  I give thanks today (day 362) for such an opportunity!

One of my favourite films more recently is 'The Pursuit of Happyness.'  It is, in my humble opinion, a movie that inspires one to pursue dreams, never give and just to keep on going.  Tears well up in my eyes most readily at various points in the movie and I am in awe of a man motivated by his love for his son to pursue ........................ against all the odds.

Christopher Paul Gardner (born February 9, 1954 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin) is an American entrepreneur, investor, stockbroker, motivational speaker, author, and philanthropist who, during the early 1980s, struggled with homelessness while raising his toddler son, Christopher, Jr.  Gardner's book of memoirs, The Pursuit of Happyness, was published in May 2006


Christopher Gardner: I met my father for the first time when I was 28 years old. I made up my mind that when I had children, my children were going to know who their father was.

Christopher: Hey dad, you wanna hear something funny? There was a man who was drowning, and a boat came, and the man on the boat said "Do you need help?" and the man said "God will save me". Then another boat came and he tried to help him, but he said "God will save me", then he drowned and went to Heaven. Then the man told God, "God, why didn't you save me?" and God said "I sent you two boats, you dummy!"

This is my favourite quote from the movie...........

Not long now..............

King of kings, majesty,
God of Heaven living in me,
gentle Saviour, closest friend,
strong deliverer, beginning and end,
all within me falls at your throne.

Your majesty, I can but bow,
I lay my all before you now.
In royal robes I don't deserve
I live to serve your majesty.

Earth and Heaven worship you,
love eternal, faithful and true,
who bought the nations, ransomed souls,
brought this sinner near to your throne;
all within me cries out in praise.

Your majesty...
Jarrod Cooper

Not long now and I'm thanking You Lord today (day 361) for the King of Kings.

Oh, the weather outside is .....................

Oh, the weather outside is frightful
But the fire is so delightful
And since we've no place to go
Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow

 

 

Seriously though, the rain is here to stay, possibly providing us with a wet, if not snowy Christmas!

 

Thanking You Lord today (day 360) for a quiet (ish) Saturday...........



A reason for the season!

Thanking you Lord today (day 359)for a reason to celebrate the season; the birth of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ!.............  Did I hear "Amen!"

I made it!.................

I made it!................................. and I am so so thankful today (day 259)

Here for a reason............. Amen

 

YOU’RE HERE FOR A REASON

‘…I have seen God face to face, yet my life has been spared.’

The Bible says satan works ‘day and night’ building a case against
you (Revelations 12:10). But with God’s Word ‘…in your mouth and…
heart…’ (Romans 10:8 NCV) you can overcome him.
 
When satan says give up,
God says stay the course (Matthew 5:11-12).
When satan tells you to look out for number one,
God says put the other guy first (Philippians 2:3-4).
When satan says it’s okay to hold grudges,
God says forgive as often as it takes (Matthew 6:14-15).
When satan says get even,
God says be a peacemaker (Romans 12:18-19).
When satan tells you to take all the credit,
God says glorify Jesus (John 17:5).
When satan says clean up the outside and people won’t notice the inside,
God says He looks at your heart (1Samuel 16:7).
When satan says you’re ugly,
God says you’re ‘…wonderfully made…’ (Psalm 139:14 NKJV).
When satan says you’re alone and nobody understands you,
God says He’ll never leave you and that He has plans for your life
(Deuteronomy 31:6 and Jeremiah 29:11).

David said, ‘I know you are pleased with me…you have not let my enemies
triumph over me. You have preserved my life…’ (Psalm 41:11-12 NLT).
The devil will play the race card, and if that doesn’t work he’ll try the childhood
memories card, or he’ll dredge up your past sins and remind you of all the
broken promises and dreams. Jacob said, ‘I have seen God face to face,
yet my life has been spared.’

Bottom line: God has a plan for your life;
otherwise you wouldn’t be here!

I believe this and hold on to His promises for my life today (day 358).

Nearly there!

A performance down, one to go .................... thanking you Lord today (day 357).

The Final Countdown.......

I am giving thanks today (day 356) that the final countdown has begun, it is the last week of the autumn term.  Yahooooooooooooo!!!

Seriously I absolutely love my vocation, but do so look forward to hanging up my teacher hat (if that's possible) and indulge in the good things the festive season affords; late rises in the mornings, catching up with family (see you soon sis) and friends, drinking cups of tea whilst they are still hot and been able to steal away to far away places..................... OK, perhaps I exaggerated, my bedroom to chat, without the pressure of time, to my husband, till the early hours!  Actually I do that already, but it's so much more special during holiday times................

Let the countdown continue....................

Great anthems and cafe style church!

There are songs, great songs and finally anthems and here is one of our family favourites which we have had on loop today, acapella Aina style and also one of the many awesome renditions out there!

Great is he who's the king of kings

And the lord of lords he is wonderful

Great is he who's the king of kings

And the lord of lords he is wonderful

Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia

He is wonderful

Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia

He is wonderful

Alleluia salvation and glory honour and pow'r

He is wonderful

Alleluia salvation and glory honour and pow'r

He is wonderful

Check it out on Youtube........ just put in the first line into the search engine.

Talking of styles we enjoyed a wonderful cafe style fellowship in church today, festively decorated tables, hot winter warmers and cakes whilst the children performed their splendid nativity.  The looks on faces as people arrived confirmed that it is good to try something new, every now and again and I give thanks today (day 355) that it was most warmly received.

Telling the most important story of all ......

Saturday .............what a day!

Looking forward to the Sunday school play tomorrow, (day 354) and giving thanks in advance for the blessing it will be to all.

R & R, Gracie style!

It's wonderful isn't it, to know that each day of our lives we have opportunities to learn something new.  Today I learnt not to wash a white car on a wet, muddy day!!!!!!

My favourite Friday feeling is picking Gracie up from school knowing that our weekend can truly begin (although mine started a few hours earlier).  There's an extra bounce in our walk home that signifies our delight that our R & R time is upon us!  Gracie truly embraced that today when I had to go and meet Aaron in town briefly to relieve him of his bags as he was out with his friends and left her with her big brother.  On my return she was cosied up in her dressing gown, the time, 3.45pm.  Giving thanks today (day 353) for precious times of  R & R..........

Have a blessed weekend.

In all situations...........







 

In all situations we must remember that;

 

Our God is an awesome God
He reigns from heaven above
With wisdom, power, and love
Our God is an awesome God ............... and I am thankful and humbled today (day 352).

 

 

Love ..... what a treasure!

To love and be loved ............... what a blessing, today (day 351)!

Double lashings of gratitudes .................

It can be frustrating when technology fails, but alas it happens and so it was yesterday when we had no Internet connection from late yesterday evening until this morning!  It means I have got double lashings of gratitudes to be thankful for.............


The UCB Word For Today have been doing a series called 'Unhealthy Comparisons,' which has been encouraging us to be all that God wants us to be by not comparing ourselves to anyone else and not wanting to be anyone else.  It really is a fantastic 7 part series and started on the 3rd December, it's certainly one to check out.  I never fail to be thankful for the wholesome principles contained in these daily inspirational messages and was thankful yesterday, (day 349).

There are special moments to treasure in life and today sits up there amongst them.  A most excited, but understandably nervous beautiful young lady took to the stage, as the lead in the school play, Tinsel and I have to say she was sensational, they all were, especially the Reception class, just four years old!  It was all put together in about two weeks, due to our visit from Her Majesty's Inspectors.  This time of year is pretty, pretty hectic, on all fronts, but school gets a little 'crazy,' in good spirit.  Next week it's dinners and discos when I get to share my moves with the children...... I can just see their faces now.  I am thankful today (day 350) to be part of a child centred community, my school.

Blessed Sunday

Thanking You Lord today (day 348) for a blessed Sunday!

A mighty gathering around the table.................

Tight squeeze, but we managed it and the three courses that graced it!

What am I talking about?  About 20 of us gathered around a couple of dining tables enjoying some wonderful dishes (we were spoilt for choice) and laughter fuelled banter.  I had never played a 'Texas secret Santa' before, but will certainly be repeating it.  I must think of a way to relieve Alison of my gift, or was it Jennie's gift, before it became my gift and then Alison's!  Confused?  So was I........

WHY ENGAGE IN FELLOWSHIP?

We’re instructed to. Hebrews 10.25 tells us to assemble with other believers.

We are all a part of God’s family – we are the body of Christ. Romans 12.5 and Ephesians 2.19 talk about how we all need each other in order to function properly.

We all need encouragement, especially during difficult times in our walk. Read Hebrews 10.24.

Fellowship provides accountability. When we decide to live the Christian life on our own, we easily open the door to doing things we shouldn’t do, or entertaining ideas that can hurt us spiritually. Good Christian friends will warn us when they see these things, but if we don’t have these friends, we won’t hear the warning.

To get away from the negative influence of the world. Spending time with other believers help us refocus. Our friends will affect you, whether positively or negatively. Choosing to spend time with Christians and limiting time with friends that distract us or are negative influences is a sign that God is working in us and that we are willing to surrender. The Bible tells us it’s not bad to break off bad friendships, even though it may be difficult and we might feel mean or disloyal.

We need the opportunity to share struggles and joys. We need friends, and Christian friends are more likely to identify with the spiritual struggles and joys we experience.

                                                                                                                                     M. Schmidt 2005

Fellowship is a must for life and I am thankful today (day 347) to have been able to partake of some, in lovely company.

Hooray for weekends.......................

Today  (day 346) I am simply thankful that the weekend is here!

The river of God....

The river of God sets my feet a-dancing
The river of God fills our hearts with cheer
The river of God fills our hearts with laughter
And we rejoice, for the river is here
                                                         ............Vineyard

Giving thanks today (day 345) for a river that will never run dry!

The impossible becomes possible!

In Him all things are possible ................. (day 344)!

10 Reasons to Be Thankful....................

Giving gratitude is not a natural disposition for us human beings, but in a world where there is so so much hardship, suffering, loss and despair it is an essential requirement of daily living.  I sat during lunchtime today, just listing the things I had to be grateful for so here is my list of my ten 10 gratitudes today (day 343), although of course there are many many more.

1.    I am thankful that my Heavenly Father accepted my invitation for Him to come into my life, my
       heart.

2.    I am thankful that He loved me so much that He blessed me with my soulmate, my husband, who
       loves me unconditionally and without measure and always has my back .

3.    I am thankful for my three angels, Sam, Aaron and Gracie who represent everything that is good
       in life.

4.   I am thankful for the blessing of my sisters, Sade, Comfort, by brother Jim, close family and
      good friends and my fellowship family.

5.    I am thankful that I am a work in progress, in the Master Potter's hand and that He who began a
       good work in me will be faithful to complete it.

6.    I am thankful for my mother-in-law who is an answer to a prayer I once prayed as a teenager
       with an aching heart, longing for the embrace of someone I could call 'Mum.'

7.    I am thankful to reside in a country where I can freely go to church fellowship without threat.

8.    I am thankful for the gift of music, particularly that which allows me to just sing my praises to
       Him, at the top of my voice.

9.    I am thankful and blessed to be in a profession I truly love and the opportunity to impact and
       change lives.

10.  I am thankful just to be me, warts and all!

What are your 10 reasons today?

Warmth on a frosty morning.....................

I am not sure if it is the super cold mornings, but it was tough getting out of bed this morning and I mean tough.  Somehow the cold seemed to sap all my energy and being greeted later on by a cold classroom didn't shift the 'brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr' feeling, but you know what there was a job to be done and so I think I just blocked the cold and tiredness out.  Doing a job I absolutely love and feel privileged to be doing soon opened the way for a warmth.......... that only comes from Him.  God is good isn't he.  He is there to just keep us going when to be quite honest we really could not go on.  Knowing this soon melts the icy cold of a winter day and I give thanks today (day 342).

Sensational, Serene Sunday..............

Thanking you Lord today (day 341) for a sensational Sunday spent firstly in wonderful worship and fellowship followed by the glorious company of my first team!  That's what I'm talking about.............

Crossways, a home from home............

Oh what a day.......................  It is wonderful to see a person's vision and hard work come to pass. Well done Lisa!  It is the season, that's for sure and looking around at the community spirit in the room gave me a warm glow................. it was our church Christmas fayre and the girl had done good.  People came from all over, with a variety of goods in the shape of food and lots to bring Christmas cheer and a steady stream of visitors meant that there was lots of fun and laughter in 'the house.'  There was a real buzz in the air.

I think lots of Christmas trees and decorations will be going up this weekend, ours included so it will be a packed weekend indeed, but we're loving it!

Lord today (day 340) I am thanking you for our church family and wider community and pray Your mighty hand will continue to rest in that place, our fellowship home, Crossways.

Christmas is well and truly in the air!

School fayres, church fayres, Cliff Richard, Boney M (yes!), carols resounding.
Thanking you Lord today (Day 339) for the start of another festive season.
May the true meaning of Christmas be even more widely known this year - Amen!

Cold nights, warm hearts...................

Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr, it was somewhat chilly today!  In fact absolutely freezing........... even at school,  particularly at the end of the day when the children have left the classroom.  I am so thankful today (day 338) for a warm welcome and a hot meal, so lovingly prepared and waiting for me!

Soaring to great heights!

It is wonderful to see children grow in confidence isn't it? 

Today we had held the auditions for parts in the school play and were overwhelmed by the number of applicants.  In fact nearly half the year group auditioned for just 13 parts and we had a tough job after school deciding who had been successful.  At least half of those who auditioned would not have done so last year.  Seeing such development makes me so happy.  Children who are confident feel empowered to take risks in their learning without the fear of failure.  There will be disappointment tomorrow for those who did not get a part, but again we will celebrate and applaud their auditions and explain that success is in participating and trying and not just in being chosen and that they must not be discouraged for trying again next time.  I am confident that they will!

I am reminded of this beautiful poem....................



If children live with criticism, they learn to condemn.
If children live with hostility, they learn to fight.
If children live with fear, they learn to be apprehensive.
If children live with pity, they learn to feel sorry for themselves.
If children live with ridicule, they learn to feel shy.
If children live with jealousy, they learn to feel envy.
If children live with shame, they learn to feel guilty.
If children live with encouragement, they learn confidence.
If children live with tolerance, they learn patience.
If children live with praise, they learn appreciation.
If children live with acceptance, they learn to love.
If children live with approval, they learn to like themselves.
If children live with recognition, they learn it is good to have a goal.
If children live with sharing, they learn generosity.
If children live with honesty, they learn truthfulness.
If children live with fairness, they learn justice.
If children live with kindness and consideration, they learn respect.
If children live with security, they learn to have faith in themselves and in those about them.
If children live with friendliness, they learn the world is a nice place in which to live.

Copyright © 1972 by Dorothy Law Nolte

 

I am thankful today (day 337) to be in a profession that affords me the privilege of being in a position to encourage and praise efforts and watch children soar to great heights.

sufficient grace,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

Your grace is sufficient for me today (day 336)!

Keep counting those blessings...................

Count your blessings,
Name them one by one
Count your blessings,
See what God has done
Count your blessings,
Name them one by one
Count your many blessings,
See what God has done.

That's what I have done today (day 335) and am giving thanks ...............

JUST DO WHAT GOD’S CALLED YOU TO DO!

In the light of the recent Government inspection (OFSTED) at school this really ministered to me.

JUST DO WHAT GOD’S CALLED YOU TO DO!

‘…Stay within the [boundaries] of the work which God has set for [you]...’

2 CORINTHIANS 10:13

Nobody is good at everything, and nobody is called to do everything. God has given each of us clearly defined roles in life.

 ‘Our goal is to stay within the [boundaries] of the work which God has set for us.’ Only as we do that will we be successful, as God defines success.

God says:-
‘Pay careful attention to your own work, for then you will get the satisfaction of a job well done, and you won’t need to compare yourself to anyone else’ (Galatians 6:4 NLT).

Wonderfully wise words today (day 334).

Recharge ..........................

It doesn't happen as often as I would like, but it is just wonderful when it does.......................
What am I talking about?  A most lazy, lazy day and boy am I just thankful today (day 333).  Even my Sam commented "Mum this is just lovely isn't it!"  Just allowing the body, mind and soul to recharge itself, in the best company of course.

Hoping your Saturday was all you wanted it to be!

I testify!

It's a wonderful blessing when you come out of the other side of an experience and can truly give God all the glory.

Testify that God works in mysterious ways?  I can testify to that!

Testify that God intervenes so that the glory may be His?  I can testify to that!

Testify that God has a sense of humour?  I can testify to that!

Testify that God answers prayer?  I can testify to that!

Testify that over the past 3 days I have witnessed non believers declare that they have been on their knees and said a prayer?  I can testify to that!

Testify that God gives you the strength to carry on when you are running on empty?  I can testify to that!

I testify and give thanks today (day 332)

Having a sense of humour......... or not!

Day two ............... here we come!

Thanking You Lord today (day 331) for being there when displays fall down and technology threatens to fail!!!!!!!!!!

Giving thanks in all situations............

The phone call came, this afternoon!  OFSTED................

Giving you thanks Lord today (day 330).......... in all situations, for all things!

My Father ......................

Today (day 329) I give thanks that My Father is truly the pearl in the vast ocean of life
                                                         He is the rose amongst the the thorns that are our life experiences 
                                                         He is the sunshine on a cloudy day
                                                         He is the source of answers to a million questions
                                                         He is the true path in a hazy maze of uncertainty
                                                         His words quench the thirst of those that seek so that they will
                                                         find
                                                         My Father ..................... 

Feeling and spreading the love...........

I arrived home today with a warm feeling, you know, the sort of feeling you can only get from knowing you are loved.  As I pulled up on the drive I spied my guys coming to the door, excited to see me.  It really does fill my heart with a joy that quite frankly I cannot put into words.  I am just truly thankful and humbled today (day 328) that my Father loved me so much that He blessed with my 'A' Team. 

Talking of feeling the love, my colleagues and class were not too impressed with me as they came into class being serenaded by Cliff (Richard)!  Well he gets to make an annual outing, namely during the festive season and I know I am a bit early, but I could not help myself.  I did warn them that he is out now until January .......................  If they come into class tomorrow wearing ear muffs I'll know why!

The Book of Life .......... what an inspirational read!

It really was just a pleasure to be in the House of the Lord today!  Without bias, the worship time, led by mine truly was simply breathtaking and moved me to tears.  It really did feel like a gathering of family and friends.  Our Friends continued their 10th wedding anniversary celebrations with a special blessing and this was extended to all married couples.  After service we gathered together for light refreshments and my husband commented on how much longer we all tend to linger, that no one is in a hurry to leave our fellowship home.

The Pastor's sermon was about marriage and afterwards I was reminded of something my father- in -law said at our wedding more than two decades ago: -

"If you run into any difficulties in your marriage please don't come to me, but instead go and consult the Book of Life, in which answers will be found!" 

My father-in-law is a most wise man who continues to be an inspirational figure in the Aina family.  I could write a small book full of the many wise life rules he lives by.........

It is so so important to have role models / mentors in our lives to help us to keep a reality check on life and keep us grounded and today (day 327) I give thanks for the blessing of my in-laws.

Milestones......... meant to be celebrated!

Milestones, so many of them and all to be celebrated.

We were very blessed to join a lovely couple celebrate a special marriage milestone, 10 years of wedded bliss!  Actually it was a double celebration as it was a birthday celebration too.

It was wonderful to see the joy and utter surprise on their faces as the party got started............cheers and applause followed with some 'chop, chop' as my dear friend called it.

God is good isn't He.

I am thankful to Him today (day 326) for such a blessed day.

He is wonderful!

Great is he who's the king of kings
And the lord of lords he is wonderful
Al le lu ia! al le lu ia! al le lu ia!
He is wonderful
Alle lu ia! sal va tion and glory.
Honor & power. he is wonderful

You just can't beat a song that sings of His greatness, simple, but succinct!  Young and old(er) coming together in one voice ..............beautiful.  Giving thanks today (day 325) for the beginning of something that will lift the roof tops and minister to all who will hear and receive in their hearts.

Psalm 23:6 ...................

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
All the days of my life;
And I will dwell in the house of the Lord
Forever.

Amen
today (day 324)

Going with the flow..........

Some days things don't always go the way you anticipated and you have to go with the flow.  An early night turned into a late night..................... but hey it's OK and I am giving thanks today (day 323) for a most productive late night, full of wholesome and encouraging discussion.

Be of courage..............

BE COURAGEOUS 'Be strong and of good courage...' Deuteronomy 31:6

On the morning of September 11, 2001, United Flight 93 from Newark to San Francisco was hijacked by terrorists who claimed to have a bomb. When they received telephone confirmation that other planes with terrorists on board had hit the twin towers of the World Trade Centre, the passengers understood the hijackers' intent. Todd Beamer, a thirty-two year old businessman, picked up a seat-back phone and reached Lisa Jefferson, a Verizon Airfone supervisor. He told her that he and others were going to 'jump on' a hijacker who was guarding the passengers in the rear. Beamer asked her to pray the Lord's Prayer with him. He also made her promise to call his wife, Lisa, and tell her that he loved her and their two little boys. Dropping the phone after talking with Jefferson, Beamer said, 'Jesus help me.' Then, after reciting Psalm 23, he said, 'Are you guys ready? Okay, let's roll.' Those were the unforgettable last words Beamer said before he and others rushed the hijackers. There were screams, then silence. That day brave civilians, complete strangers, rose up against impossible odds and tried to save the aircraft. In doing so, they made the ultimate sacrifice. United Flight 93 crashed into a large field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, killing all forty-four on board. Of the four hijacked planes that morning, theirs was the only one that failed to hit its target. Those heroes showed courage-at the highest level. Whatever you are facing today, be courageous, 'for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you'. I never have to look far when I am in need of inspirational, real life stories of ordinary people doing extraordinary things.  Lesser things are suddenly put into perspective.  Thank You Lord today (day 322).

And all God's people said ..................

Your grace goes beyond all measure
No measure is big enough to contain Your love for us
Your love runs deeper than any wound ever inflicted upon us
Wider than the mouth of a river is the girth of Your outstretched arms
To embrace and protect
To protect and embrace
Now and for all eternity!

Amen (day 321)

7 Up..............

The 7 Ups

1. Wake Up!!
     Decide to have a good day
     "This is the day the Lord hath made, let us rejoice and be glad in it."  Psalms 118:24

2. Dress Up!!
    The best way to dress up is to put on a smile.  A smile is an inexpensive way to improve your
    looks. 
    "The Lord does not look at the things man looks at.  Man looks at outward appearance, but the
    Lord looks at the heart."  1 Samuel 1 6:7

3. Shut Up!!
    Say nice things and learn to listen.
    "God gave us two ears and one mouth, so He must have meant for us to do twice as much
    listening as talking.
    "He who guards his lips guards his soul." Proverbs 13:3

4. Stand Up!!
    for what you believe in. 
    Stand for something or you will fall for anything.  "Let us not be weary in doing good; for at the
    proper time, we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.
    Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good..."  Galatians 6:9-10

5. Look Up!!
    ...... to the Lord.
    "I can do everything through Christ who strengthens me."  Philippians 4:13

6. Reach Up!!
    ....... for something higher.
    "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not unto your own understanding.  In all your ways
    acknowledge Him, and He will direct your path."  Proverbs 3:5-6

7. Lift Up!!
    ....... your prayers.
    "Do not worry about anything instead
    PRAY ABOUT EVERYTHING."  Philippians 4:6

Thanking you Lord today (day 321) for all that You mean to me....

'Ellevate'.........just what the Father ordered

'Ellevate' was the name of the conference and elevate it did, in relation to taking our relationship with our Father to another level, to remind us of how much He loves us, how much He has each and every one of us in His hands and his special purpose for us as women!

It is so good for women to get together, come as you are, wherever you are at in your life kind of get together, just to praise, worship, pray, laugh, encourage and be encouraged.  I was so, so blessed.

There was an unexpected treat at the beginning for me.  One of my all time favourite recording artists is Phil Collins, my favourite of his albums is 'But Seriously.'  An awesome track on the album is 'Find a way to my heart' and it was the opening song at the conference.  Truly there are many secular songs that could have been penned by a gospel artist and this is one of them.  The lyrics are like a love song our Father Himself.............  Check it out on youtube, but read the lyrics in the meantime as they are truly profound.

"Find A Way To My Heart"

Find a way to my heart, and I will always be with you
From wherever you are, I'll be waiting
I'll keep a place in my heart, you will see it shining through
So find a way to my heart, and I will, I will follow you

This journey's not easy for you, I know
If your footsteps get too faint to hear, I'll go
Cos you know, questions are never that easy
And never the same
You have the answer believe me
If you have the faith

Find a way to my heart...

Time may come, and time may go, I know
If you should call out for me, I'll go
But you know, there is a code to be broken
I wrap it around
Without a word being spoken
Without a sound

There's a reason I hide my heart
Out of sight out of mind
And when I find out just who you are
The door will be open for you to..

Find a way to my heart...

                      Phil Collins

Giving thanks for a most wonderful time of fellowship today (day 320) and hoping your Saturday was full of blessings too!

 

 

 

 

Celebrations of 'royal' proportions...........

 I wouldn't normally go into school on my day off, but today it was necessary.  One of our loveliest of teaching assistants was celebrating a very special birthday, she was turning 60!  Together with all the children we were surprising her with gifts of song as well as the more traditional form of gift giving - carefully chosen presents.  Her work space was heavily decorated with banners and balloons and a camera ready to capture treasured moments.  We knew she would be very emotional so made sure tissues were at hand to mop up the tears.........  We managed to delay her arrival into the classroom until all the children were strategically placed to give her the 'royal' welcome she so derserved.  The look on her face was just priceless!

Today (day 319) I am reminded of the impact going an extra mile (or two) can have in making an ordinary day an extraordinary one, or in this case, pulling out all the stops to give the wow factor to a landmark celebration.

A God day is a good day

To a God who makes the impossible possible
                 who makes dreams come true
                 who makes every day a God day


I give thanks today (day 318)

There'll Be Blue Birds Over the White Cliffs of Dover

We ran under tables, played games with sweets, enjoyed a special meal, played skipping games outside and sang songs.  World War II day was a success; the children embraced it all, arriving in vintage wear that actually isn't so vintage and home made gas masks round their necks.  To see them give the day a thumbs up makes all the planning and preparation so worthwhile. 
Thanking You today (day 317) for team work that made such a day possible.

When the dressing gown beckons!

I chuckled this evening when I got home after school at the sight of Aaron in his dressing gown.  The cold winter evenings mean that unless he is going out after school he settles into grandpa mode, snug and cosy.  We are creatures of seasonal habit are we not!  In the summer we do no see Aaron for dust as he fully embraces the sunny outdoors.  He plays out far less and when he does returns home much earlier than planned!

I was really blessed by something so simple so let me share it with you .................... about standing out from the crowd.

'Don't become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it
without...thinking...' Romans 12:2

A man walking into a bank held the door open for the lady behind him.
Instead of thanking him, she said, 'You don't have to hold the door because
I'm a woman.' Smiling, he replied, 'I'm not doing it because you're a woman,
I'm doing it because I'm a gentleman.'

Profound I think.

As believers we do what we do because of who we are 'in Christ',
not because of how society thinks we should act. John says, '...
The Holy Spirit...lives within...so [we] don't need anyone to
teach [us] what is true...' (1John 2:27 NLT).

As Christians,...our citizenship is in heaven...We belong to the kingdom
of God...We need to be on our best behaviour, otherwise people will get
a distorted perception of what our homeland is like...Our earthly culture is
pagan to the core...God left us here for a purpose...to demonstrate what it's
like to be a member of another country, to have a citizenship in another land,
that we might create a desire for others to emigrate.' Think about it!

Wise words for which I am thankful today (day 316).

Saying goodbye is never easy...............

Saying goodbye is never easy in any context.............. even when it's to your faithful friend of 10 years!  I did today, to my faithful PT Cruiser.  Having previously been a person who really viewed a car for its functionality the arrival more than 10 years ago of this beautiful piece of mechanical artistry with its retro styling (in my opinion anyway) changed my mind.  My eyes have never felt the need to steal a glance at another vehicle even when it was clear she was beginning to feel her age.  However when potentially serious, safety faults appeared my husband encouraged me to let her go!  Never an easy thing to do though.  Parting photographs have been taken, well she deserves to be pride of place on a wall in our house, I am sure you would agree!

Such is life though.  I give God thanks today (day 315) for the 10+ years of safe motoring my family, friends and I enjoyed in her.

lazy hazy cosy Sunday

A lazy, hazy Sunday was in order after the festivities of my hubby's birthday.  To be honest the heavy rain was a great excuse to just stay in and have a PJ day.  Ayo commented that he didn't mind the cold, grey, often wet skies that is winter................... it means cosy, cosy, warm evenings at home with all of us pottering about.

So with that in mind, potter we did.  My kind of pottering, well it did involve making a start on cleaning the conservatory windows, putting some washing on and a bit more school work.  Well pottering about comes in all shapes and forms! 

With left overs heated up and devoured and the smell of orange and chocolate cake, just baked by my boy Sam filling the room we cosied up on the sofa..........., but only for a short while as I am off on a date with mine truly to see one of my other favourite men, Bond, James, of course.  Yes a date to the cinema, courtesy of a dear friend.

Hope your Sunday has been a chilled, family one too, today (day 314).

Happy birthday to you......................

When the telephone rang at 6.30ish this morning we knew too well who it was, but were somewhat still in the land of sleep.  It rang again at 7.30am and then at 8.30am, at which point I suggested to the birthday boy to answer the call, which was from his mum, wishing her baby boy a happy birthday.  A happy birthday is certainly what he has enjoyed; fun and laughter, wrapped up in a lot of love from family and friends!

I have thoroughly enjoyed seeing my husband take centre stage on his special day, something he does not like to do.  We have enjoyed spoiling him to bits too and if not for time the celebrations could have gone on and on and on and.........................

Birthdays are a wonderful invention and today (313) I am thankful to have been part of the celebrations for a very special one.

Happy weekend............

Thanking God today (day 312) for the weekend ahead and praying that yours is a blessed one too!

How sweet it is to be loved by you...........

October marks the end of the financial year for the company my husband works for and like most privately run companies there has been a mad rush to collect all revenue possible.  The pressure has most definitely been on for my hubby, to write reports in order to close and collect!  During the last few days he has not had a full night's sleep and really has been running on near empty.  He arrived home absolutely shattered tonight, but pleased he had given all he could to the targets he had been set.  The invitation from the bed to lay down his weary head and aching limbs was too hard to resist and he retired soon after dinner.........  Despite his busyness he has still found time to hang with me, sitting next to me working on his laptop as I did school work on mine, making me early morning cups of tea!  I was listening to this old song today, sung by a very talented lady, Ruby Turner and it really summed up what I often tell my husband ............. another song to add to our archives of personal anthems!


How sweet it is to be loved by you
How sweet it is to be loved by you
I needed the shelter of someone's arms and there you were
I needed someone to understand my ups and downs and there you were
With sweet love and devotion
Deeply touching my emotions
I want to stop and thank you baby
I want to stop and thank you baby
How sweet it is to be loved by you
How sweet it is to be loved by you

I close my eyes at night
And wonder what would I be without you in my life
Everything was just a bore
All the things I did seems I'd done'em before
But you brighten up for me all of my days
With a love so sweet in so many ways

I want to stop and thank you baby
I want to stop and thank you baby
How sweet it is to be loved by you
How sweet it is to be loved by you

You were better to me than I've been to myself
For me, there's you and nobody else
I want to stop and thank you baby
I want to stop and thank you baby
How sweet it is to be loved by you
How sweet it is to be loved by you
How sweet it is to be loved by you

Thanking you Lord today (day 311) for a most remarkable, inspirational human being I am proud to call my husband.

Faithful in every way .....................

Gracie, so moved by the inspiring stories she saw last night continued early this morning.............

"Mum losing the tip of my finger seems like nothing compared to what some of those people have been through."
I smiled, acknowledged the sentiment she was expressing, gave her a hug and reminded her of God's abundant grace ................... he healed her finger completely, with a new tip.  All that is left is a very slightly differently shaped finger nail, a reminder of a life experience that was traumatic at the time, to say the least, but also a reminder that she came through it.

God is like that isn't He, a master craftsman and surgeon, perfectionist, faithful in every way and I am so thankful today (day 310).

In awe of so much courage..................

I don't think there was a dry eye in our house tonight after watching the Pride of Britain awards.  Where does one begin, as one inspirational story followed another, stories of lives overcoming the greatest of adversities, spirits digging deep to summon the courage to go on.

Doreen Lawrence, the mother of Stephen, whose racially motivated murder, started her on a journey that would last nearly two decades, but cause a complete overhaul of the justice system has always been a woman I am in awe of.  Her closing statement on receipt of her award, "I would swap this award to have my Stephen back" summed up the depth of a mother's love.  The pain in her heart was so evident and the passing years had not diminished it.  Despite her unimaginable loss she has been able to do so much for young people through the charity she and her husband set up in Stephen's memory.  She is indeed an inspiration..............

My Gracie and Aaron both looked at me and said "We have so much to be thankful for."  Today (day 309) I couldn't agree more!

Don't stop them now............ they're having such a good time

First day of half term and all I can say is "Where do they get their energy from?"  Gracie in particular has been on the go since she woke up this morning, taking gold in the 'how much can I pack into one day award', whilst Aaron, although proceeding at a more leisurely pace was not too far behind.  For them the idea of slowing down and chillaxing is a completely foreign idea.  I looked at Aaron's face as he consulted his social network calendar to investigate what was available for him to partake off and today there was nothing......... much to his dismay.  Tomorrow though is another story as he has already informed me of his possible social engagements!  Me on the other hand, well I pushed the boat out and stayed in bed until 10.30 this morning and enjoyed a lovely breakfast of scrambled egg on toast made by mine truly............. who said I didn't know how to have a good time!!!!!!

Today (day 308) I really just want to give thanks for all that my God has provided for me and mine today; our beautiful home, plenty of food to eat, warm clothing on a cold day and the pleasure of each other's company.

Stepping out .....................

Sometimes when we step out of our comfort zone we find out that it's not too bad.  My husband does not like anything that causes him to be the centre of attention (not in a vain way), but rather, any situation that causes the focus to be on him.  Even in his capacity as leader of the worship team he tries as much as possible to be in the background although it is not always possible (thankfully) because his beautiful voice and guitar playing are always a joy to hear.

Now today he took the pulpit to deliver the morning message in the absence of our pastor and deliver he did.  His message packed a punch and really gave us food for thought.  He would catch my gaze at regular intervals just for affirmation that he was doing alright!  It was just wonderful to see how much he had grown in confidence and looked very much at home behind the pulpit.  He actually seemed to enjoy it and said he would welcome opportunities to do it again and so today (day 306) I give thanks. 

Just the tonic ............. no gin necessary!

It is such a blessing to kick off and just relax in the company of lovely friends................... and put all things work related on hold.  Armed with my slow cooker bubbling with a tasty stew and dumplings (tasty even if I say so myself) we set off for an evening of sharing and caring.  Nothing warms the heart like good food, lots of laughter and great company, three essential life ingredients.

Thanking you Lord for days like this (day 305)!

Embracing predictable days..................

Believe it or not we have now completed a sixth of the academic session.  At the end of what has been, for us as a whole school a quite challenging, draining first half term we were sitting marking and tidying up our classrooms this evening when our Headteacher walked through to wish us a restful half term and gave us pecks on the cheek.  We returned the sentiments by wishing him the same.  He just smiled.   When he left the room we were silent for a moment because we all knew why he just smiled.  Half term should be a time of rest and relaxation, but he has shared on a number of occasions that sometimes it is anything but that.  One of his daughters has the most extreme form of autism, as well as other complications, making everyday unpredictable and emotionally draining. Although my half term break will include days when I will have to prep and I may possibly go into school for a morning I will embrace each day, giving thanks for them, as I do for today (day 304), however predictable they may turn out to be. I thought I would share this message ......... it will bless you! You're Forgiven 'Bless the Lord...who forgives all your [sins].' Psalm 103:2-3

We tend to forgive others more easily than we forgive ourselves. This is especially so when we fail in a major area like a marriage or career, or our actions have hurt others, or our habits have hurt us, or we know we are not doing what we should. So what should you do? 1) Acknowledge it. Don't be afraid to confess what you've done. You're not unique. You're not the first, and you won't be the last to fail. Once you've obtained God's forgiveness, get the support of a trusted friend. 'Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much' (James 5:16 NKJV). 2) Delete it. Often it's not the offence itself, but the guilt and stress associated with remembering our actions that make us feel bad. Our reaction is the problem! Continually revisiting our failures doesn't help at all, and it disappoints God. So catch yourself doing it-and hit the delete button! Focus on the fact that God has forgiven you, then put it behind you. 'In Him we have...the forgiveness of sins...' (Ephesians 1:7 NKJV). 3) Replace it. Instead of guilt, choose gratitude. That's not hard to do; just begin to reflect on God's goodness. That's what David did: 'Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits: who forgives all your iniquities, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from destruction, who crowns you with loving-kindness and tender mercies' (Psalm 103:2-4 NKJV). When you start to look for them, you'll find lots of things to thank God for!

Recharging my batteries................

Tonight (day 303) as I lay my tired head on my pillow I am simply thankful for a warm bed in which I can recharge my batteries!

Work, rest and play.......................

The half term break is nearly upon us and I am a tad bit glad.  Gracie and I have already pencilled in our lengthy lie-ins and our must do breakfast date at one of our favourite stores.  The other day I heard her tell Aaron that he was not invited as it would be a girlie day!  We also have a very special birthday to celebrate during the break so are busy making plans..................

It is always wonderful when you have had several weeks of hard grafting to have some down time and even though it won't all be rest and play (work will sneak in), I am so ready for it and am giving thanks today (day 303) in advance!

10,000 reasons for my heart to sing................

I woke this morning with this song on my heart..........

Bless the Lord, O my soul
O my soul
Worship His holy name
Sing like never before
O my soul
I'll worship Your holy name

The sun comes up, it's a new day dawning
It's time to sing Your song again
Whatever may pass, and whatever lies before me
Let me be singing when the evening comes

only to find Gracie & Aaron singing it too as they brushed their teeth....................

Thanking Matt Redman today (day 302) for such inspirational lyrics.

Keep counting those blessings..................

I did an extra day today to cover for the other unit teacher who was not in which meant I was teaching the other year 5 class.  The looks on the faces of the children in my class as I walked past them to collect the other class from the playground this morning........... they naturally assumed that if I was in school when I shouldn't be then I must be in for them.  They jokingly shouted 'traitor' and 'how could you' as I led the other class in.  It was funny. 
We do get used to things being just so don't we?

Now on a different note my beloved PT Cruiser, my loyal car of 10 years is seriously beginning to show its age and is needing far more TLC than my husband thinks she is worth.  Parting though is not going to be easy.  Today however my husband was most concerned about whether or not, in his absence, she would be reliable enough for me to use this afternoon for a few errands I had to run, as well as taking Grace for her dance lesson.  Well it was a wonderful blessing when as I left school to walk home to be met by my boy Sam who had come to help me carry my bags to quicken my journey.  He knew I would need to get home quickly to see if my car was going to humour my pleas to play ball.

They are everywhere aren't they.............. blessings, the God things sent to us when we most need them, but particularly when we don't even know we need them.  Thank you Lord for giving me such a blessing today (day 301), from my precious boy!

That He first loved me.......................

I was pondering on so many different things today, but you know what they all led me back to the same point.  I really do thank God that I do not have to do things in my own strength because quite frankly I just couldn't.  Just knowing that He loves me more than I could possibly imagine and has my best interest at heart means that I can confidently face each day no matter what it brings.  Each day I still marvel at that ultimate sacrifice that was paid for me, so undeserving, but for His Grace.  I still struggle to get my head around it completely, but I am humbly thankful today (day 300).

A day for lounging..............

W have enjoyed a restful day and were joined for a while by one of Aaron's friends.  Thanking you Lord for today (day 299).

Giving thanks for all things........

Giving You thanks Lord today (day 298) for solutions to challenges and the beginning of the weekend.

Surprises are a lovely thing..................

Surprises are a lovely thing............

Today I was busy marking homework in my classroom when our school receptionist walked in to my class.  Guess who was behind her?  My dear friend.  It was just such a wonderful blessing because we had not caught up for a while.  We soon made up for lost time, nattering about this and that.

Yesterday I wrote about the simplest of gestures being the most meaningful and having great impact (thank you Kristi for seconding that notion) and my friend's visit today really did bring sunshine to what has been a pretty hectic and challenging week at work.  The fact that she came to bring that sunshine to me, at my place of work made it all the more special and today (day 297) I am so thankful!

What a blessing....................

It has been a long old day and I came home somewhat weary after a second night of back to back parent consultations.  My or my, the legs were weak and the throat dry from all that talking!!!  After catching up with my crew and later on seeing Grace and Aaron to bed I decided to have a quick shut eye before finishing off prep for tomorrow and lay somewhat sprawled on one of the sofas.  Ayo had popped out for a quick meeting and returned clutching one of my most favourite treats and just placed it by my head................

I woke a little later and saw it.  The simplest of gestures are more often than not the most meaningful and have the greatest impact.  I am thankful today (day 296) that even in the pouring rain my husband thought of me and my long day and knew just what would do the trick.  What a blessing he is to me!

One down, one to go!

One down, one to go.........................

Parent consultation evenings mean a lot of talking!  What's that you say............. I should be well within my comfort zone!  It was a busy evening, but I enjoy being able to share with parents how well their treasures have settled.......... and even if there are issues or concerns to bring to the table I always make sure I put what ever I have to say in a way that leaves them encouraged. That is always my aim and prayer.  I am thankful today (day 295) for the opportunity to have been able to do that.

mathematical chunking and colourful stopwatches ...........

Having just begun to embrace my long(er) weekend I had to work today.  As I finished my prep I could see the children peering in wondering why I was in school.  When I went out to collect them they were very excited to see me and obviously quizzed me.  Although I had not been left the work I was supposed to teach I just had to improvise and get on with things as best as I could.  We had a lovely day, some of my children were very excited to be doing division using the chunking method!  And me?  Well I was thrilled to be presented with a brand new box of rechargeable stopwatches.  Yes I know how to live on the edge, stopwatches and they are colourful ones.

As His words reminded me to 'make the most of where He has placed me'.......... that's what I tried to do today (day 294) and so I give thanks.

Not my words today, just His...........

Not my words today, Just His................

Make the Most of It

'When it prospers, you will...prosper.' Jeremiah 29:7

Are you at a place in your life and you'd rather not be there? Well, God has a word for you, but it may not be one you want to hear. It's the same word Jeremiah brought to his people when they were slaves in Babylon, far from everything near and dear: 'You're not going home anytime soon, so change your attitude, dig in and make the best of it. Buy homes, plant gardens, let your children get married...and in addition, pray for the peace and prosperity of the city where you're living because when it prospers, you will prosper' (Jeremiah 29: 5-7). The Israelites were in exile because God had allowed them to be taken captive. So, could it be that you are where you are today because God placed you there to bless those around you? Instead of putting your life on hold waiting for circumstances to change, start sowing into other people's lives what you want to come back as a harvest in your own. Why? Because when they are blessed, you'll be blessed too! How do we know? Because Jesus said, 'Give, and it will be given to you...the measure you use...will be measured to you' (Luke 6:38 NIV). Martha Washington said, 'I'm determined to be cheerful and happy in whatever situation I may be. I've learned that the greater part of happiness or misery depends upon our dispositions, and not upon  our circumstances.' That sounds just like Paul: 'I have learned [to be] content in...every situation' (Philippians 4:12 NIV). If you want to go from surviving to thriving, make the most of where God placed you. Just thankful today (day 293)..........

Saturday...........

Saturday, stay in bed a little longer day
Saturday, soak up the natter and chatter day
Saturday, start the washing machine several times day
Saturday, snuggle on the sofa and watch a matinee day
Saturday, slow down and catch your breath day (well sort of!)
Thank you Lord today (day 292) for Saturday.................

Be still and know that He is God!

Friday and another weekend!
It's been a hectic week for all of us, but praise the Lord for a wind-down time.
No cooking tonight, we're all "chillaxing" so it was takeaway night for us.
On the subject of chilling out, Ayo and I have been particularly blessed with this Hillsongs song.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O6Fw8DgvTQA

It reminds us that He is greater than any circumstance or situation, any storm roaring thunder.

Listen to it if you will, dwell on the words, let them speak to you and be blessed!
Today (day 291), I thank you Lord that I can be still in your presence and know that you are God.

Thanking you Jesus...............

Jesus, thank You for being my vision
For being my path,
For being my guide
Jesus

Today (day 290) thank You Jesus............

Sunshine on a cloudy day...................

You know the simplest of things; gestures or spoken words can turn even the most grey day into one that is just oozing with sunshine.  Today has been a pretty testing one at school and I was feeling a little disappointed and let down and a busy evening meant I hadn't yet had time to sit and catch my breath.

As I was bathing my Gracie and chatting about the rides she had enjoyed at the town fair she just looked at me and said "Mummy I am so glad that you are my mum.  I wouldn't want anyone else to be my mum."  You just can't top that.  I am thankful today (day 289) for such a timely blessing that brought sunshine into my day!

He takes us as He finds us.................................

So take me as You find me,
All my fears and failures,
Fill my life again.

I give my life to follow
Everything I believe in,
Now I surrender.

My Saviour, He can move the mountains,
My God is Mighty to save,
He is Mighty to save.
Forever, Author of salvation,
He rose and conquered the grave,
Jesus conquered the grave.

Shine your light and let the whole world see,
We're singing for the glory of the risen King

MIGHTY TO SAVE LYRICS - HILLSONG AUSTRALIA

This is the beauty of my Father.............. He takes each of us from where ever we are in our lives, fears, failures, warts and all and fills us anew.  Pretty mind blowing I think.  That fact alone is enough to be thankful for and I am today (day 288).

On a different note you know how it goes...... you are waiting for a bus for what seems an age and when one does arrive it always seems to bring a friend or two along.  Well the same can be said for tap shoes, yes tap shoes.  We ordered a pair from a dance shop in a nearby village three and a half weeks ago and it has been delayed for various reasons so we tried another dance shop and again there was a delay.  Well guess what?  They have both arrived today!!!  Grace will be thrilled.
Life is like that sometimes isn't it.  It can be a waiting game in one form or another; waiting for a job prospect, a home, a partner, a breakthrough of sorts and at times can be frustrating, even when you are seven years old!

Creative ironing ....... well that's what I call it!

Ironing, love it or not it has to be done!  I cannot count the number of times I've had a stand off with the ironing basket only surrender to the pleas of it's contents, to iron them............. I have, over the years, tried so many different strategies to help me to get through one of my least favourite chores.  Have I come across a perfect strategy........................ of course not, but I am going to keep searching.  In the mean time I put in my hour's worth today and decided today's strategy was to watch one of my favourite movies as I ploughed through the mound of crinkled clothing.  The movie of choice, Wolverine, was a great distraction!  I'm down to do another hour tomorrow.............. my movie choice, that would be telling.

We all have things that we have to do, but really just don't enjoy.  It is wonderful to know that with a little creativity (well that's what I call it) we can get through them cheerfully and today (day 287) I am thankful.

Running the race ............ and winning!

Phewwwwwwwwwwwww!! Do you have those days, sometimes quite a few of them, when you have so much work to do and you don't quite know how you're going to get through.  Inside there's a mini turmoil going on.  You can see the finising line, but how to get there?  Well I tend to sing or listen to music to help me along the way.  I tell myself that I'll be further along tomorrow than I am today.  I am further along today than I was yesterday and with my current workload that's a good place to be.

It is important not to be despondent when the load is a heavy one or the task seems an impossible one.  Just keep your focus on Him, He'll get you through.  In addition the support and practical help (printing, collating, cutting) of mine truly helped me get there a lot quicker and today (day 286) I really am thankful.

To be a woman.......... even when you are just 7 months old?

I bumped into an acquaintance in town earlier today as I went to stock up on treats for Aaron and his friends who were coming for a sleep over later.  No it is not his birthday, but Aaron being the social hub of all things decided (with his dad) that a 'how we are settling into year 8 at school) sleep over!    Direct all questions to his dad please................. lol.  Anyhoo this acquaintance was out with his wife and 7 month old daughter, also a Grace and boy was she inquisitive.  She was sat bolt upright taking in everything around her.  She really didn't want to miss a thing and craned her neck to see something that was clearly out of range.  Her parents said she was already crawling and I am not surprised.  Typical woman, perhaps.  We like / need to be kept in full knowledge of everything going on around us.  Or are we just plain nosey?  Bit of both I reckon.  I feel it is just the way God intended it to be....... and I am thanking Him today (day 285) for those divinely given, inbuilt qualities that can, when nurtured serve us well later on in life.

Thankful for the weekend, whatever the weather!

Wet wet wet, but so glad it's the weekend.................... today (day 284)!

Thanking you, Lord.................

Thank you, Lord

Thank you, Lord, for this new day,
Thank you, Lord, for this new day,
Thank you, Lord, for this new day,
Right where we are.
Alleluia, praise the Lord,
Alleluia, praise the Lord,
Alleluia, praise the Lord,
Right where we are.

Thank you, Lord, for food to eat....

Thank you, Lord, for clothes to wear....

Thank you, Lord, for all your gifts....

 

 

I certainly am today (day 283)!

A teen's world.............

Proverbs 22:6          
Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.

Ephesians 6:1-4         
Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honor your father and mother” (this is the first commandment with a promise), “that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land.” Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.

There are so many passages in the Bible about bringing up children, but you know the reality is we live in a society that is increasingly against the principle values that these scriptures convey.  Children are more than ever under greater pressure from their peers and society's norms.  It is tough being a teenager today..........

I spent the latter part of these evening chatting to a young girl who very much identifies with this.  It was an eye opener just listening to her perspective on life as a teenager, home and away.  I learnt a lot from talking to her; her daily battles trying to fitting in, insecurities about her image, conflicts with home life / social life, resisting temptation,  combined with raging hormones.  What a melting pot!

I learnt today (day 282) the importance of holding on tight to the messages / instructions from the Bible and am reminded of the need to continually pray for our children and I am indeed thankful.

Turning her frown upside!

The face that greeted me when I picked her up from the after school club today........... it was a face that was not pleased.
"Mummy I've been waiting a long time for you to pick me up," she said. 
Even though it was not my day to work I had gone to school to attend the staff meeting and had explained to my girl this morning that I would pick her up as soon as I could.  There she was, at a table, chatting to one of the lovely ladies who care for the children.  As I scooped her up her frown was instantly turned upside and I was instantly forgiven.

On our way home, still continuing with my apology I explained further that Daddy and I make sure that we limit her visits to the after school club, but sometimes it was unavoidable.

It is so easy to feel dreadfully guilty, but the decision to work affords us the ability and opportunity to allow our children to experience widely some of what life has to offer and also bless our family and friends, but at times there will be sacrifices. 

I remember a couple of years ago we wanted to enjoy an extra week in the South of France and the opportunity arose for me to work an extra day a week for a term.  We sat around the table to put forward the proposal that I took on this extra day in order to pay for the extra week, but that both Gracie and Aaron would have to attend the after school club an extra day a week for that term (they were already spending a day there).  They agreed and I did and we were all very thankful for the extra week of glorious family fun in France!

I am thankful today (day 281) for the provision of a facility of an after school club and its team of lovely carers, but importantly I am thankful for the understanding of my little lady.

Who's in charge?

I tell you, boy do the Aina clan have some debates.  As always our topics are always Sam inspired!  Tonight at the dinner table we were debating 'who really is in charge in households, mum or dad?' 

We pooled together our family and friends and dissected.  Boy did we laugh.  Our conversations always allow everyone to put forward their opinions tempered with any facts we have at our fingertips.  We came to the conclusion that whilst Ayo takes care of the bigger picture I am very much concerned with the finer detail which really equates to the day to day running of all things pertaining to home.  It's funny we even talked about who wrote the greetings in birthday cards and when we looked at our friends and family, yes it is us mums, concerned with the finer detail. 

Whilst it might appear I am in charge because the day to day running of our home requires me to be more vocal (tidy your room...........have you finished your homework?........ time to clip those fingernail, the list goes on) it is really Ayo who is in charge!  Of course it is!!!!!!

It is so good to talk and dinner time provides a perfect platform to engage in endless banter.  Today (day 280) I am so thankful we did.

Thanking Him for today

We did have a wonderful time of worship at church this morning, that was clear, but you know it was my three's endorsement and praise of their Dad in leading the worship that was the icing.  They always encourage him by way of feedback and it really lifts him.  Encouragement is such a necessary ingredient to our daily living and I am so thankful today (day 279) witness my children giving it to their Dad.

Now I love old movies and this afternoon I was in for a treat...................'Spartacus,' a real golden oldie from 1960.  When I watch movies like this I marvel at the limited technology available back then, yet they were still able to produce such awesome cinematography.  Wow!  Ben Hur starring Charlton Heston is also one of my most favourite films of all time.

New is good, but sometimes old is even better.

After yesterday's busy, busy day it was my four hour treat!  My children humoured me and let me indulge.  I lasted a few hours before sleep got the better of me.  Still I did record it so..................