Saturday 31 March 2012

De do do do, de da da da.................... Is all I want to say to you

De do do do, de da da da
Is all I want to say to you

We all remember these lyrics by The Police................ 
Lead singer and front man Sting had several jobs before he began teaching.  This he did until he hit the big time with The Police.  Sting loved music from an early age after becoming obsessed with a Spanish guitar at the age of 10.  As I listened to the now somewhat iconic line of the chorus I turned to my husband who was of course singing along and asked him what it actually meant.  He said it probably meant nothing, but was perhaps there to fill an empty lyrical space.  Regardless of the reason I remember singing it countless times, along with my friends, in the school playground, feeling somewhat rebellious.

Sting has gone on be one of the most successful singer / songwriters of a generation.  He has enjoyed a life doing what he loves most, making music and made a pretty decent living doing it.  One of my favourite collaborations of his is 'Rise and Fall' which he did with Craig David. 

I have wanted to be a teacher since about the age of 8/9 and have gone on to fulfil that dream.  I have not amassed Sting's apparent estimated fortune of £180 million but I have enough to put a delicious lasagne on the table and treat the love of my life to the odd electronic gadget.  I am privileged to be doing something I love with a passion.  Every now and again I also get to indulge in one of my other passions, drawing, specifically portraiture. 

As parents, my husband and I encourage our children to embrace and experience as much of life as they can through music (singing & playing instruments), sport, dance, reading widely (Gracie is enjoying the works of Shakespeare at the moment, currently reading Julius Caesar, the children's version), through travel and of course through strong wholesome fellowship. 

My prayer of thanks today (day 96) is that they will be blessed in which ever respective professional path they choose later on in life.

Friday 30 March 2012

Footprints in the sand................

In Team Briefing this morning the Headteacher thanked us all for our support during what he described as a somewhat long and challenging term.  You know, life can be like that, challenging, testing our resolve to the max.  It can feel that we are being hit from all sides and left to our own devices we would perhaps want to just curl up into a ball and hide until the outlook was brighter.  He was right when he said the support of caring people had made all the difference.  I sincerely believe that we are not meant to exist in isolation, but to embrace outstretched arms of love from those around us.

At this time of year we are reminded of the outstretched arms of the One who loves us more than we could ever imagine and who will carry us when ever the going gets tough and for that I am thankful today (day 95).

The well known 'Footprints in the sand' sums it up succinctly:

The Lord replied,
"The times when you have
seen only one set of footprints,
is when I carried you."
Mary Stevenson

School's out and a much needed break is upon us.  Thank you Lord for Your goodness and mercy that lasts when all else fails.  Have a most blessed week-end!

Thursday 29 March 2012

Nothing like a good book............

There's nothing like a child's hunger for knowledge and the acquisition of a sense of right and wrong.  Ayo is going through Proverbs with our younger two.  He first explained what proverbs were and that God intends us to read them and apply them daily in our lives.  Their absolute excitement as they began to read and decipher the meaning of each.  They were in awe of how sometimes, a few words can mean so much.  Gracie could relate the moral message contained in each proverb to her experiences, at school for instance.  It was a struggle to get them to stop and go to bed.

As parents we have to be so careful of the influences and teachings our children are exposed to.  They will contribute to informing the adults they will become.  Gracie and Aaron love reading and shared tonight's instalment with their Dad.  You know there is no other book that is: a manual for daily living; a fool proof guide to parenting; for the young, old and in between; a book that reveals something new each time you read it.  Thank God for The Bible!

Today (day 94) I am indeed thankful to see my children so hungry to taste all that is good in the Book of Life.

Wednesday 28 March 2012

Keeping a sense of gratitude.......................

I so loved today's word for today.  It was talking about keeping a sense of gratitude.  Here is some of it:

Why do we lose our sense of gratitude and begin to overlook God's goodness? For three reasons: (1) Problems. If you close one eye and hold a penny close enough to your other eye, you can actually block out the light of the sun. Getting the point? (2) Pressures. Sometimes the perks we thought would bring us pleasure end up wearing us down. (3) People. When they disappoint us we turn sour and forget all that God has done for us. What's the solution? 'The [unfailing] love of the Lord never ends...Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning' (Lam 3:22-23 NLT). God's mercies begin each morning, and your gratitude should too. Indeed, your days should be saturated in it. Continual gratitude comes from looking beyond your blessings to their unfailing source, the Lord. His love, His faithfulness and His mercy are already at work when your eyes open each day.

UCB Word for Today

The three Ps that can cloud our sense of gratitude; Problems, Pressures and People.  This is absolutely spot on and I feel one way to overcome such distractions (that is what they are) is to be in a state of constant and sincere gratitude to the God.  My gratitude to Him is renewed daily and begins each morning.  I only have to open my eyes, look across at my husband and know that God's love, His faithfulness and His mercy are certainly at work, even before the day has begun, before my Gracie comes bounding in wearing the biggest and warmest morning greeting and for this, today (day 93) I am thankful.

Tuesday 27 March 2012

A snapshot of me........................ not by a long shot!

Today's staff meeting was quite a heavy one, OFSTED talk as their visit is imminent.  An OFSTED visit is an interesting one; a group of government appointed personnel visit a school for a day or two and make an assessment / evaluation of the school based on snapshot lesson observations as well as other data provided.  I have deep concerns about such an evaluative process by people who know nothing about me but whose words, written / spoken can tear me down or build me up.  Despite the Head teacher's encouraging words we were all pretty depressed at the end of the meeting. 

Today (day 92) I am thankful that the One who knows me and knew me before I was even formed in my mother's womb is greater than any inspector.  He doesn't take a snapshot but looks at me as a whole and knows that I am His work in progress.  What an awesome God I serve.  I am so thankful that He loves me, warts and all and will not define me by an isolated lesson that I teach, but rather looks deep into my heart and knows the passion I have for my job / profession and that each day I do my very best for the children in my care.

Monday 26 March 2012

Be a blessing where ever, when ever...............it's our calling!

It is so good to bless as well as to be blessed.  I was happy to be on the giving end today.  God calls us to be a blessing to all around us, in what ever way we can.  My TA came in today and as we always do we shared tales of our week-end with each other.  She was very tearful as she told me her daughter had been ill and had gone to the emergency room.  She continued that although her daughter was 32 she would always be her baby and that she was upset because she had gone to the hospital on her own. She knew her parents were entertaining during the week-end and didn't want to disturb them.  I gave her a hug and asked what I could do to support her.  As her daughter was returning to hospital today she asked if it was ok for her to accompany her although it would mean leaving me without support.  I told her that her priority was her family and she did not need to worry about school.  Liz is such a blessing to me in every way and to be able to support her is a privilege.

Opportunities to be a blessing continued and after school Ayo picked up children of a friend who was in hospital and they spent the evening with us.  It felt like an episode of the Waltons.  It was lovely watching them interact with each other and simply enjoy playing together in the warm sunshine.  Listening to their banter as they ate together in the garden, childhood is such a wonderful thing.  Together with our younger two they all snuggled together to watch a movie as one of our friend's boys said 'Aaron you're like a brother to me' to our younger son.  Out of the mouth of babes we can learn so much.

Lord today (day 91) I am thankful to be able to be a blessing where ever I am, in what ever capacity I am called to be.

Sunday 25 March 2012

R & R Sunday...............

Sometimes, lazy Sundays are just the ticket to re charge worn out batteries!  We certainly indulged and enjoyed much needed R &R.  Ayo and I did though venture to Tesco to pick up essentials (I had missed available week-end delivery slots), ahead of a larger shop later in the week.  It was my first trip to Tesco this year and I must admit I am not tempted to make it a habit, I think I'll continue using the home delivery service.  The best part was just been out with my husband; I'll take my dates with him any which way they come, although our forthcoming get away to Bath beats our Tesco date hands down.............

As we ate dinner tonight I just beamed at the gorgeous faces around me and know that I am highly favoured and for that I am today (day 90) most thankful.

I pray that as we enter this final week in March that His Grace and Love shines on you and yours and your stash of blessings continues to grow.

Saturday 24 March 2012

Birthday blessings...........................

Every good thing comes from Him; the One that is most high and today (day 89) I am so thankful that so many good & God things came from You today.  The sun shone beautifully which was a welcome appearance as I joined a special friend as she celebrated her day.  First it was a lunch for just the girls in a wonderfully snug venue where good food, company, laughter and the giving and receiving of beautiful gifts were on the menu.  Later on, together with my crew we continued the celebrations with an impromptu BBQ at the home of lovely friends.  Singing, dancing, more eating and lovely fellowship continued until late.

My Lord and my God your blessings are plentiful, Your goodness, endless and Your Love, everlasting.  In a world where so many have so little and no one, I am so thankful for the out pouring, from You, of all that is good in this life.  To You I will always sing praises of thanksgiving when I wake in the morning and lay my head on my pillow at night.

Friday 23 March 2012

Simple gratitudes..........

Today (day 88) I am thankful that although the day has been something of a whirlwind, it has been a lovely one.  A busy, productive day at school followed by a full on activity evening, ice skating and sleepover as Aaron enjoys belated birthday fun with his mates.  Gracie and I are out numbered tonight, 8:2, so we have semi indulged in a chick flick!  I say semi as we were both dropping off to sleep during the first chapter. 

I was so blessed at lunchtime when I had to pop out to run some errands, including picking up some tuck for Aaron's do.  With only 35 minutes to do it all I prayed for the blessing of a car parking space which would be something of a miracle during market day lunchtime, but guess what, I had the choice of two.  I could have cried, I was so thankful.....................

My boy is home for a couple of weeks and really does get more handsome each time and we will all relish every minute, especially when we finish school next Friday.

Here's hoping the sun shines for us all this week-end, what ever you are up to be blessed.

Thursday 22 March 2012

Blessings come in all shapes and sizes.................


As I was walking into school this morning I stopped to chat briefly to one of the school's many lovely TAs.  This lady in particular is a real gem who recently has been going through a tough time health wise which in turn has been causing her to feel quite down.  She said she had been just thinking about me, hoping and praying that my temporary contract would be extended as she loved having me work at the school.  We don't actually work together but I always stop to ask after her well being.  What a blessing it was to hear such kind words!

The blessings continued.................. a truly wonderful lady I've mentioned before blessed me with a gift after school.  I previously shared that I have been tutoring two year 6 children to give them that extra boost for their SATs in May.  I have been friends with the mum of one of them for a while now and previously tutored her eldest two in Maths. Well today was the last of the sessions and it was a little sad as both pupils had  really benefited from them.  After the session my friend handed me a bag with a selection of home-baked cookies, cupcakes and flapjacks.  this was unnecessary as she always thanks me at the end of each session and has often collected Gracie and looked after her whilst I tutored.  This act of appreciation is typical of her and was a most welcome and yummy blessing.

The blessings don't stop there..............  My husband is blessing me with a week-end to one of my favourite cities, Bath, during the hols.  I am mega excited.

Today (day 87) I am thankful that blessings come in all shapes and sizes but are always timely and sincerely received.

Wednesday 21 March 2012

Giving thanks with a grateful heart..........

The countdown is on.............only a week and a bit before an eagerly awaited holiday and although the path is still laden with many administrative tasks before then, it's onwards and forwards.  I have completed assessments with the children in my class (bar the few that are poorly) and normally I would bring them home and mark over the hols but with a steely determination to try and put my feet up and just hang loose (I think) I ploughed on with the marking straight away.  Sometimes when I have an onerous task to do I find it helps if I almost go into a mechanical mode and just get it done!  Get it done, I did and I am most thankful that I was able to get my head down and finish the job after school.  I can now focus on planning my teaching for the summer term.  It feels so strange to think that the final school term for this session is on its way.  Where does the time go?  The lovely weather today might even have fooled us into thinking the summer term was here already.  It has certainly wet my appetite and I want more of it.  Come on sun, shine! 

Talking of planning I don't know about you but I do find daily to-do lists a most useful way of prioritising and taking stock of all I need / want to do.  I do two lists, school and home / personal. My to-do list speaks to me during the course of the day, a silent personal assistant.  Tonight as I glance at my lists and carry things over I am thankful for all I have been able to do today at school (day 86) which means a lighter load tomorrow.  I am also very grateful to my TA with whom I am able to share some of those loads.

Tuesday 20 March 2012

Lunchtime liasons!

Sometimes it's great to go off site at lunchtime, it really makes all the difference, especially when you have a lunch date with a tall, dark, handsome husband.  That's exactly what I've enjoyed this week; mid day rendezvous over a cup of tea and sandwich!  Even though I am only home for a short while, probably no more than half and hour the smile that greets me (which I gladly return) makes it worth while. The uninterrupted quietness allows us to get through a great deal of chat.

It is hard sometimes, to snatch quiet, 1:1 time with each other, with so many pulls on our time and energy, but you know any time, any where is a special time.  I do cherish my time away with my husband, in fact we were just chatting about planning a trip soon, but until then I am happy and thankful that today (day 85) I am blessed to be local enough to enjoy such lunch dates!  I think it's cheese and tomato sandwiches tomorrow.  Yay!

Monday 19 March 2012

Pump up the volume!

Since its original release in 1972 by Bill Withers the song 'Lean On Me' has been covered by many artists.  Today I was listening to another cover of it by Michael Bolton, having gratefully received his album for Mother's day.  I really like the soulful depth of his voice and he did the song justice.  He was accompanied by a melodic choir and the combination was just pleasing to the ear, I kept the button on repeat for so long the other tracks went on strike!

It got me wondering about choirs and the fact that so many artists, even those that might be considered extreme choose to have choirs perform with them.  I don't think it's by accident, even if the artists don't realise it.  There is something about heavenly voices that simply lift your innermost core.  There is a stirring in your soul.  The voices of Ladysmith Black Mambazo choir, you can't touch it.  Let me tell you a short story about the power of anointed voices.

Years ago when we lived in London and I was heavily pregnant with Aaron I was outside washing my car (as only a woman would do), listening to Ladysmith when a gentleman walked by we exchanged courteous greetings (you could do that in London back then).  He walked past again but this time stopped to share how much he liked the music, having seen an advert on TV for Heinz baked beans, that was fronted by Ladysmith.  He didn't realise they had released a CD.  I gave a quick history lesson (well if you stand still to talk to me for too long............) and told him that I would be more than happy to copy it for him and I did.  He collected it the following day and gave me flowers to say thank you.  I didn't see him again but felt sure that he would be blessed every time he played that CD............  The children in my class would worry if there wasn't music playing when they came into class in the morning!  The lyrical power of songs are immense and I am so thankful today (day 84) to be able to enjoy such a wide genre of music. 

Go on pump up the volume!

Sunday 18 March 2012

Days like these....


Happy Mothering Sunday; wonderful worship led by none other than yours
truly, followed by encouraging testimonies and inspiring messages to babes
and mothers alike. Hand decorated pots by precious hands, with carefully
planted bulbs were delivered with cards to waiting hands and flowers to all
the ladies. Cakes and tea to follow, thank you Lord for a lovely start to
an awesome day!

Today (day 83) I am thankful for 1000 kisses (I counted) and hugs, pictures
and priceless words that expressed heart felt sentiments, good food and fun
filled fellowship.

Saturday 17 March 2012

Work in progress..............

Having woken up with one of those 'Mother of all headaches'  I decided to linger in bed a bit longer and read.  I decided to read a book that I had previously enjoyed, that had been given to me by my cousin.  It's titled 'Woman to Woman' by Joyce Meyer, a charismatic speaker and writer.  It's funny how each time you read something, the same thing, you extract so much more from it than the first time.  It is a book that really speaks out to all women, who ever, where ever you are at; no frills or thrills, just raw faced truths and experiences that we can all relatd to, backed up by the word of God.  You find yourself nodding regularly whilst reading, in acknowledgement of what she has written, a bit like the 'Churchill dog'!  "Oh yes!"

Here are some of my favourite quotes (just a few as there are too many to list, but I am happy to loan you the book) so that you may be uplifted as I am...............

'Each one of us a rare, one-of-a-kind valuable woman of God'

'He wants to help us to become all that we can be'

'Start each day by declaring "This is the day the Lord has made.  I will rejoice and be glad in it" (Psalm 118:240)

'As women we must be patient with ourselves.  We must keep pressing on believing that we are changing every day because the Spirit of God is working in our lives'

'Do not compare yourself with other women.  Even women who look as though they've never made a mistake in their entire lives have made mistakes.  We all have strengths and weaknesses'

'Pray about everything and worry about nothing.  God has not fashioned women for worry, care and concern'


This song by Hillsong Australia, for me, sums up the essence of this book.  If you can check it out on You Tube and let it just minister to your very being!

'I will never be the same again'

I will never be the same again,
I can never return, I've closed the door.
I will walk the path, I'll run the race
And I will never be the same again.

I will never be the same again,
I can never return, I've closed the door.
I will walk the path, I'll run the race
And I will never be the same again.

Fall like fire, soak like rain,
Flow like mighty waters, again and again.
Sweep away the darkness, burn away the chaff,
And let the flame burn to glorify Your name.

There are higher heights, there are deeper seas,
Whatever you need to do, Lord do in me.
The Glory of God fills my life,
And I will never be the same again.

Fall like fire, soak like rain,
Flow like mighty waters, again and again.
Sweep aways the darkness, burn away the chaff
And let a flame burn to glorify Your name.

Fall like fire, soak like rain,
Flow like mighty waters, again and again.
Sweep away the darkness, burn away the chaff,
And let a flame burn to glorify Your name.

I will never be the same again,
I can never return, I've closed the door.
I will walk the path, I will run the race
And I will never be the same again.
And I will never be the same again.
And I will never be the same again.
[ Lyrics from: http://www.lyricsmode.com/lyrics/h/hillsong_united/i_will_never_be_the_same_again.html ]

 Today (day 82) I am thankful that I am a work in progress........................

Friday 16 March 2012

It's not so much what you know but whom you know........

It was quiz night at our local entertainment centre and I was invited to make up a team with some friends.  Actually I think they were scraping the barrel when they asked me: fountain of real knowledge, no way; knower (I should start my own thesaurus) of all things random, then I'm your girl. When Gracie asks a questions outside of the primary school curriculum I can often be heard to say 'Gracie ask daddy because he's the clever one in this partnership'.  He truly is somone who knows a lot about a lot of things.  Now ask me the name of the first Bond movie or how many movies George Lazenby did and my knowledge will runeth over!

I couldn't attend tonight because I was waiting for the man of my dreams to return from Belfast (I think it's the super king size bed that he can sleep in diagonally that's drawing him back there), but quiz nights are fun.  It's not about the winning, it's the taking part that counts, so we tell our children.  We usually leave it to the teams of very retired folk to battle it out, well they have all the time in the world to read up!  I just go for the fish and chips, lovely company and side splitting laughter.  We all know that it's not what you know but whom you know and I know a Man in the highest of places and He comes highly recommended.

So instead of such high powered brain activity at the start of a week-end I opted for a more sedate activity called 'take-away & movie night', well a girl's gotta live a little.

Today (day 81) I am thankful for the fact that my boy will be home in 7 days............  What ever you have planned for this extra special week-end (they are all special in my book) enjoy to the max and God's blessings too.

Thursday 15 March 2012

Ahead of 'Mothering Sunday'

I have been tutoring two pupils weekly, after school; giving them additional help with their writing and I am thoroughly enjoying it.  I only had one of them attend today and after some warm up games and a debrief about her writing this week she decided to write a poem for her mum, in honour of  'Mothering Sunday'.  I know her mum well and she is a truly lovely lady so it was heart warming to see the poem take shape.  A great deal of thought, choice words / phrases went into it.  She knew the exact message she wanted to convey to her mum.  After the lesson she took it home to decorate and will return it to me tomorrow so that I can laminate it and then her mum will have it for always.

Ahead of 'Mothering Sunday'  I would like to share one of my favourite poems with you.  I read it often and have a copy in various notebooks / journals.  I particularly like the last 4 verses.



Your Mother Is Always With You
           Your mother is always with you...


    She's the whisper of the leaves
    as you walk down the street.


    She's the smell of bleach in
    your freshly laundered socks.


    She's the cool hand on your
    brow when you're not well.


    Your mother lives inside
    your laughter. She's crystallised
    in every tear drop...


    She's the place you came from,
    your first home.. She's the map you
    follow with every step that you take.


    She's your first love and your first heart
    break....and nothing on earth can separate you.


    Not time, Not space...
    Not even death....
    will ever separate you
    from your mother....


    You carry her inside of you....

    - Sherry Martin

    I am so thankful today (day 80) that I have someone I can call on Sunday, who although not my birth mother is an answer to my prayer, one that I prayed in my teens.  My Father in heaven honoured that prayer and my mother-in-law and I have shared a most special, blessed relationship.

Wednesday 14 March 2012

Cosy evenings and the good old days!

Move over 'Von-Trapps', the Ainas are in town!  Hee hee.  Gracie, Aaron and I have been harmonising to some of the most inspiring, uplifting tunes by the talented Matt Redman (Heart of Worship), Ron Kenoly (Ancient of Days) & Hillsong.  We went up a massive notch when the man with the voice arrived home after work.  It has certainly been an evening of creative out pouring as Aaron drew some of his friends, cartoon style and Gracie amazed us with her ballet moves as her dad tested her knowledge of some French words used in ballet...................  Being with my guys really is my most favourite thing in the world.  There is no God like Jehovah that's for sure, look how He has blessed me, way beyond all measure.

Talking of blessings I must tell you a story.  I was watching a Bond movie the other day and Ayo and I were discussing the retro styling of the earlier movies featuring Sean & Roger (I am on first name terms with them).  From the beautifully cut suits and Grace Kelly style dresses to the furnishings back then.  We got on to discussing the 1960s traditional dial phone and reminisced for ages about that long forgotten model with that instantly recognisable ring!   It brought back memories, like using a 'Bic' Biro to dial...........................  It suddenly occurred to us that with the speed at which technology was moving, gadget wise, our three would never experience the same 'good old days' as us, days of superb craftsmanship & styling.  It's like that with a lot of things.  Do you remember the televisions sets of the 70s (gosh I am really showing my age now) and the LP record player.

Well my gorgeous husband, who himself won a 'Best Dressed Man' award in the 90s (and would obviously still win one, hands down, now) decided to take me down memory lane and treat me to an original, refurbished and restored working 1960s traditional dial phone in the best colour ever, canary yellow!  I get emotional every time it rings because it just takes me back to a time when although life was at times tough, I made precious memories with my siblings and today (day 79) I am most thankful.


Tuesday 13 March 2012

Reflecting some more.................

Following on from my post yesterday, the last week or so has been a period of reflection for my colleagues and I at school.  One of the hardest things about belonging to a professional institution like teaching is that we are at times subject to abuse by parents and other members of the general public.  In the past it has been limited to playground banter, but more recently has now extended to ridicule and abuse, intended to embarrass, humiliate and hurt via 'facebook', the social networking website. 

My Head Teacher has recently been the subject of such treatment and I just don't get it.  It has hurt him deeply and impacted all of us.  The past week has been a somewhat sombre one.  As a teacher I don't claim to always have the answers or always get it right, but I do give 100%, all the time, establish positive relationships with parents and strive to bring out the very best in the children in my care.  I work very hard, every day, in a profession that I truly love.  Parents know that they are able to approach me at any time to discuss all things pertaining to their child.

I believe the purpose for which facebook was created is a good one but when adults use it in a way I believe can only be described as cowardly and destructive as I have witnessed, many times, it really saddens me.  The deep wounds it has caused will leave scars that will take time to heal.

Today (day 78) I am thankful that with the encouragement, support and kind words of us all my Head Teacher is able to smile again.

Monday 12 March 2012

Time to reflect.........

Reflection is such a wonderful thing.  I treasure my time of reflection through my daily posts.  In fact the excitement of sharing my daily blessings means I am reflective throughout my day, regardless of the situations I face and that is such an awesome state of being.  There is an objective perspective and outlook that comes from being reflective.  It really does change you, especially if it becomes a regular habit. 

Reflection for me comes in many forms; always when I listen to music and as I am a 'people watcher' I reflect on what I observe in others, at work and at play. 

Reflection stops you from making the same mistake twice, it gives you the courage to take risks, it encourages you to forgive, it makes you strive to be the best person that only you can be, it whispers in your ear how much He loves you, warts and all...................what an awesome God !

Today (day 77) I am so thankful for quiet times of reflection.

Here are some of my favourite quotes about 'reflection'

Reflect upon your present blessings -- of which every man has many -- not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some.”
Charles Dickens, A Christmas Carol and Other Christmas Writings

The past can't be changed, can it? It can just be forgiven.”
Elizabeth George

Follow effective action with quiet reflection. From the quiet reflection will come even more effective action.
Peter Drucker

Sunday 11 March 2012

Fellowship worship......

I like the analogy made in church today; of a car low on diesel and sucking in sludge and other impurities and a person running low on fellowship worship fuel.  There is something to be said for worshipping in numbers at Sunday service; it really does fuel you up and when you are running low during the week you can tap into it.  I hear my children do it.  During the course of the week you can hear them giving renditions of the songs they heard and sang on Sunday.  I love to meditate on the lyrics and they really really do lift you up.  We sang one of my favourites today - this one by Paul Baloche:

Hosanna [Praise Is Rising]
Praise is rising, eyes are turning to you
We turn to you
Hope is stirring, hearts are yearning for you
We long for you

When we see you we find strength to face the day
In your presence all our fears are washed away, washed away
Hosanna, Hosanna
You are the God who saves us, worthy of all our praises
Hosanna, Hosanna
Come have your way among us
We welcome you here Lord Jesus

Hear the sound of hearts returning to you
We turn to you
In your kingdom broken lives are made new
You make all things new

Fellowship worship is not a replacement for our own personal time with our Father, but is an awesome blessing and today (day 76) I am most thankful.


Saturday 10 March 2012

Faith triumphs............

Boy am I looking forward to my snooze tonight; when your kids volunteer to go to bed, at the week-end, you know they must be tired!  It has been a day and a half, but you know it is a blessing to know that there is a comfortable place of rest to get that much needed recharge.  My children fall asleep where ever they are in faithful belief that my husband or I will take them to their beds.  They trust us completely, just as God wants us to.....................

Being faithful is easy when we know the outcome.  For instance, I know that if turn on the tap water will gush out but faith which involves embracing the unknown is never easy.  Our daily life experiences, if anything, cause us to doubt and lose faith in the One who is always faithful.  We must though exercise our faith by placing ourselves in the hands of a loving Father, spending time with him in conversation, reading and meditating on examples of faith triumphs, sharing such experiences in fellowship with our brothers and sisters to encourage one another. 

Every day, including today (day 75), I have witnessed and experienced examples of faith triumphs and for that I am thankful.

Friday 9 March 2012

It is good to celebrate

There's nothing like good old fashioned fellowship with lovely friends to warm the cockles. God's Grace abounds and because of Him we will always be blessed with times like these.

Today we celebrate with a dear friend as she celebrates her special day, which I know has been full of much fun, love and 'nough laughter! God is good....oh yes He is. This week has been a quick yet slow one, if you know what I mean.

 My wonderful husband has returned from work in Belfast and boy I have missed him. A week-end of R & R me thinks and today(day 74) I am thankful for all these things. What ever you have planned, enjoy yours!

Thursday 8 March 2012

There is always cause for celebration!

Today is 'International Women's Day' (IWD) and I must admit I didn't really know much about it, its origins and how it is celebrated.  We have many such days now, I was not sure if this was just another one, but my research led me to uncover some fascinating facts. 

  • It has been observed since the early 1900s. 
  • Today it is a public holiday in many countries and the tradition sees men honouring their wives, girlfriends, colleagues etc with small gifts and flowers. 
  • In some countries IWD has the equivalent status of mother's day where children give small gifts to their mothers and grandmothers.
  • It appears to have been rooted in a desire to change attitudes in both women's and society's thoughts about women's equality and emancipation
  •  More recently the tone and nature of IWD has, for the past few years, moved from being a reminder about the negatives to a celebration of the positives.
  • Annually on 8 March, thousands of events are held throughout the world to inspire women and celebrate achievements. A global web of rich and diverse local activity connects women from all around the world ranging from political rallies, business conferences, government activities and networking events through to local women's craft markets, theatrical performances, fashion parades and more.
 Apparently in the UK 437 events will be taking place this year in honour of IWD!

source: international women's day.com - well worth a visit if you have the time.

Well we had cakes (kindly provided by a colleague) in honour of  IWD and a natter during lunchtime at school today.  I think that counts.  Personally I am all for anything which seeks to encourage, acknowledge and build upon, using past experiences without dwelling on them.

I salute all you international women out there.  Happy IWD!

Talking of celebrations it is so good to rejoice in the faithfulness of God.  He always comes through,  in ways beyond our expectations or understanding.  Today (day 73) I am thankful to be able to say thank you to Him for what he has done and is doing in the lives of some friends of ours.  It has been a long (they'd probably say, very long) journey for them, one which has tested their resolve to the max, but today they can see that they are not forgotten, rather, they are princes and princesses of a King! 

Wednesday 7 March 2012

Who are you relying on?

I am a real fan of the UCB 'Word for Today'.  You just can't beat it for sound biblical teaching and its relevance and application in our lives.  It is a must to start your day and focus you, regardless of what is going on around you.  It is my daily dose of 'something'!

The reading today was just an early morning cup of hot stuff!  It was titled 'Who are you relying on'?  After reading it (I'll share it with you in a moment) I decided to set my self a mini-challenge.  For everything / task / activity I would do today I would indeed ask myself the question 'Who am I relying on' in order to achieve / be successful / get through difficulties.   Does this make sense? 

From waking up and getting us all ready and out of the house on time, to performing the errands on a rather long list, I can trace it all back to reliance on one source .......................... I rely on the Grace of the Lord Jesus Christ to see me through.  It sufficient for me and each day I refill my cup with His Grace.  It's a bit like putting on your make up; it hides a multitude of flaws.  So does His Grace; it hides a multitude of character flaws, in so doing, allows us confidently, but gently, face the day and any trials (big or small) that come our way.  Beautiful........................


As I promised here it is:
I particularly love the last sentence and feel that this is something we should do every day, I certainly do, I have to.  What about you?

WHO ARE YOU RELYING ON?
'We stopped relying on ourselves and learned to rely only on God.' 2 Corinthians 1:9
Jesus said, 'Here on earth you will have many trials' (Jn 16:33 NLT). You solve one problem, and another one comes along to take its place. They're not all big, but they're all necessary to your spiritual growth. How do you assess the strength of something? By testing it! The Bible says: 'Don't be...shocked that you are going through testing...It will prepare you' (1Pe 4:12-13 CEV). Some of your most life-enriching experiences will come during your worst moments-when your heart is broken, when you feel abandoned, when you're out of options, when your pain levels go through the roof-and you turn to God. That's when you learn to pray heartfelt, honest-to-God prayers. When you're in pain you don't have the energy for superficial ones. And that's when you discover, 'The Lord is close to the broken hearted' (Ps 34:18 NLT). God could have kept Joseph out of prison, Daniel out of the lions' den, Jeremiah out of the slimy pit, and Paul from being shipwrecked, but He didn't. As a result, each one of them was drawn closer to God and impacted the world around them. Your problems force you to look to God and depend on Him instead of yourself. This is especially hard on super achievers like Paul. 'We...saw how powerless we were to help ourselves; but that was good, for then we put everything into the hands of God, who alone could save us' (2Co 1:9 TLB). You'll never know what God can do until God is all you've got. So place your needs into His capable, loving hands, and watch what happens.


Today (day 72) I am thankful to have someone I can rely on, by just placing my needs into His capable, loving hands and am ready to see what happens when I do.

Tuesday 6 March 2012

Embracing the fullness of now

There is nothing I love more than finishing a day at work at just putting the key in the front door.  I'm home, I can kick of the shoes and shed the clothes (don't worry I do replace them with comfy lounge-wear).  For me it is such a poignant act, it signals the beginning of a slower pace, more listening (from me) than talking (it's a requirement of the job, honest); I can just sit and stare at my babies as they de-brief, often at the same time, about their day.  I do so love it.  For that moment of time I don't think about tomorrow, instead, embrace the fullness of now. 

I must share something else that made me very emotional.  When I was chatting and catching up with my good friend yesterday we were sharing how we (our fellowship of friends from years back) had been going through different things, sometimes really tough things and really needed the strength of each other to lift and build.  One of the things we used to do back then was for our men to get together, once a quarter, for some male bonding, the benefits of such times of fellowship were clear to all.  Life can and does get busy, often beyond our control and desire and such initiatives fall by the road side.  But because 'The name of the Lord is indeed a strong tower' good times are resurrected.  Blessed be his name! 

Today (day 71) I really am just thankful for where I am at and what God is teaching me about myself and this roller coaster called life.

Monday 5 March 2012

Talking, jaw breaking...............never!

Anyone who doubts the existence of God need only look at the perfect artistry that He has fashioned called a woman's jaw and boy was it made strong.  Well with all that talking we are destined to do. 

After a marathon session with a dear, dear friend who had originally called to speak to Aaron (yes his birthday does spilleth over!) we had a lengthy catch up, but she did do most of the talking.  Then my Dad called to touch base with Aaron & we had a brief tete-a-tete.  As I was about to put fork to mouth another friend called (I thought it was my husband calling from a very cold Belfast, honest I did) for a necessary de-briefing session on the good stuff the Good Lord has been doing.  Hey hey hey, see what I did there?  Aaron then called another friend to say thank you for his pressies and I was summoned to the phone, but this time only for a short while.  Finally it was the turn of my boy, Sam, well he's got to catch up with his mum and you can't put a time limit on that!!!!!!!!!!!!

I am still waiting for one more call, from a tall, dark, most handsome bloke.  Please tell my husband......

You know what will happen now.  No one will call for days and I'll get a complex.....

Cliche but 'It is good to talk'.  Wonderfully uplifting dialogue does wonders for our spirit and is definitely what God intended and I am thankful that today (day 70) I was blessed with such conversation that spanned the ages.

Now what is that tipple that's recommendation as a good jaw lubricator, oh yes, a glass of sherry.  Tempting, but I'll settle for a cup of tea.  Night night........................

Sunday 4 March 2012

O Happy Day.........................

O Happy Day, Happy, Happy Day........................ and an emotional, thoroughly thankful young man of just '12 years of age' retired to bed this evening knowing how so very much he is loved!  Grandma called 3 times today after calling yesterday to wish him a 'Happy Birthday Eve'.  One of his best mates, James had popped over yesterday evening to spend some time with him.

I love birthdays, especially my children's, even though with each they get older and more independent (you know what I mean, we'd like them to stay our babies for a little bit longer).  Aaron had an emotional start after he awoke to jubilant cries of 'Happy Birthday'.  He just missed his big brother and the fact that he would not be joining us to share the day. I sat with him and shared the story of his birth, as I do every year; his arrival and the joy he brought with him.   Well..................... he likes the story (I think).  A bacon and cheese sandwich later (bread lovingly buttered by Gracie) and birthday messages from his Aunt / Uncle / cousins  and friends he was all smiles again.

Now Aaron didn't have substantial requests on his birthday wish list.  He never does, but always gratefully receives whatever he is blessed with.  However over the past few weeks he had been mentioning a few popular children's brands and a t-shirt or hoodie he had spotted and taken a liking to.  He has lately been restyling himself and has definite ideas about the look he wants to achieve, gets it from his most stylish dad!!!!!!  With his stylish dad for back up we discussed the over pricing of said items due to nothing other than the brand names, but said we were willing to consider a possible purchase for him should we see the big 'S' for sale sign.

Imagine his eye opening delight when Kat popped over and on opening one of his pressies there was one of his much longed for tops, a perfect fit, just for him..........................  Time to update his BBM (that's what they call it) status and upload photos to back it up!

I sat and just said quietly to myself 'God heard the simple prayer of a child and blessed him' and today (day 69) I am thankful for such a reminder.

Saturday 3 March 2012

The seasons of life

At a conference at our church today we were reminded of that scripture from the Old Testament.

Ecclesiastes 3

A Time for Everything
1 There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under the heavens:
2 a time to be born and a time to die,
a time to plant and a time to uproot,
3 a time to kill and a time to heal,
a time to tear down and a time to build,
4 a time to weep and a time to laugh,
a time to mourn and a time to dance,
5 a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing,
6 a time to search and a time to give up,
a time to keep and a time to throw away,
7 a time to tear and a time to mend,
a time to be silent and a time to speak,
8 a time to love and a time to hate,
a time for war and a time for peace.

Although some of the above might seem radical, the message behind this scripture is that life is made up of different seasons and there is a definite start and end to each one.

Today (day 68) I am thankful for this reminder.

Friday 2 March 2012

His Grace is sufficient....................... always

Today (day 67) I am thankful that His Grace is sufficient for me and I will 'Bless the Lord, O my soul and all that is within me, Bless His Holy Name...........................  He has done great things.

You know how children get when they are over tired.....................well adults get like that too!  I am just cream puffed 'pooped', but not too pooped to raise my glass of water and paracetamol to my Lord and my God for: giving me the strength of a lion when I needed it; enthusiasm to keep going when it had long left the station; tanswers to 1000 questions when I needed them; the ability to smile through gritted teeth when I needed to; fast decision making skills when I was called to make them and at the end of the day all I have left to do is to say 'Thank you Lord'!  Through it all I was still able to encourage, laugh, sing your praises and say yes because I knew it would make a difference.

Happy spring week-end whatever you have planned.

Thursday 1 March 2012

Life experiences ...............wow!

As I collected the children from the playground there was a chorus of "Mrs Aina, where is your costume?"  Yes, 'World Book Day' has come around again, far too quickly in my opinion!  I am, however, a great advocate of reading and also a real fan of dressing up.  However I still have clear memories of dressing up seven years ago as the 'Cinders' half of 'Cinderella whilst a colleague who said that as her boyfriend had not yet proposed marriage pleaded to be allowed to go as the post fairy godmother 'Cinderella' as it might be her only chance of wearing anything close to a wedding dress!  Yep I was conned.  He did propose and two children later..........................  The children truly embraced the spirit of the day as did my very own 'Snow White'!

I feel that there are certain experiences in life that are life changing outside of experiences of marriage, motherhood, illness, untimely passing of loved ones.  For me, for instance, being ministered to by the children from the 'Watoto' Ugandan Orphanage and the privilege of having some of them spend time in our home; having conversations with inspirational people; reading books about inspirational people like 'Doreen Lawrence'. 

There are also movies that do the same thing; 'The Blind Side', 'Coach Carter' and I can add 'The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel' to my list.  I went to see it on the recommendation of a friend of mine and I truly believe every adult who has lived a little or a lot and experienced the ups and downs of life should see it.  I laughed at intervals through it, but when it got going so did my tears.  The life lessons were too many too mention and I am still absorbing all that this film was.

One quote from it that I so truly believe is that 'Life is a privilege' and that when we wake up in the morning our heart's desire must be to do the very best we can.

Today (day 66) I am so thankful for the opportunity to have seen this film and like my friend did to me, I highly recommend it to you!