tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77326512638136022912024-02-02T04:59:50.464-05:00Real Life is Better Than FictionRuth O'Neilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06486936131825634627noreply@blogger.comBlogger308125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732651263813602291.post-65082881878743396172020-07-27T00:00:00.000-04:002020-07-27T00:00:01.816-04:00Ivy IntrospectivePlease welcome Kellyn Roth to the blog today. She has a new book out and was kind enough to share it with us.<br />
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<b>What inspired you to write this book?</b></div>
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I always knew I was going to write a story about Alice's sister, Ivy. So I did. I'd somewhat impulsively said she'd had mental issues in book 1 (darned little 14-year-old me!) - so I had to do the research. And once I did, I realized writing a story about her was going to be challenging at the least!</div>
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However, I was determined to do so - and more than that, to help her. Because it's not easy having any minor learning disability or anxiety or anything of the sort even in today's world. In the Victorian era, it was more like a death sentence.</div>
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So, slowly, I found a way to help! And that's the story I wrote.</div>
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<b>Is there a message in your book you want people to walk away with?</b></div>
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That they have worth no matter who they are or what they've done, and they are not too far gone for God. It doesn't matter who you are - God loves you. He loves you all the more for your faults because they show how much you need Him. But not only does He love you even in your sin ... but He won't just leave you there. He'll make you into something better!</div>
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<b>Is there anything in your book and/or books based on real life experiences?</b><br />
In this particular one, not really. I've drawn elements from people in real life for all my books (Jordy McAllen is basically my best friend, Bailey, in male form!). Some of my books over the years have been influenced by life events, but my most recent ones haven't.<br />
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<b>What books and/or writers have influenced you the most?</b></div>
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My list includes Jane Austen, Charlotte Bronte, Maud Hart Lovelace, Gene Stratton Porter, Kristi Ann Hunter, Roseanna M. White, Sarah Sundin, Tamera Alexander, Karen Witemeyer, and Regina Jennings. It is sorta a random list, but I've drawn inspiration from all of these lovely ladies!</div>
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<b>What has been your greatest challenge when writing?</b></div>
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Editing! Gah, who invented it? :P I guess necessity. But that doesn't mean I have to like it!</div>
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<b>Are you working on anything new?</b></div>
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Always! Of course I've got books 2 and 3 in the works, as well as a series based on Jordy McAllen's siblings (as adults). It's super fun! I'm also developing a historical mystery novel in the same vein as <i>Rebecca </i>and some of Joanna Davidson Politano's books, and a couple historical romantic comedies.<br />
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<b>What have you learned from writing and do you have any advice for other authors?</b></div>
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To keep writing. :P That's generally what I learn from my writing projects - because every single one is individually challenging. Yet I've got to keep on keeping on!</div>
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Advice for authors? Make extra sure you understand the writing craft! Dive into character building, story structure, themes - read countless articles and books - listen to all the podcasts - and most of all, write.</div>
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I always advise people who are thinking of publishing soon to make sure they've written a lot and read about writing a lot and then applied what they've read to still more writing! And, of course, got lots of feedback from people who know what they're talking about.</div>
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Thanks so much for hosting me on your blog today!</div>
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Ivy Knight lives her life in a blur of confusion as the world passes her by in a tumultuous melody. She isn’t the perfect daughter or student, but as long as she can be with her family, she doesn’t mind watching rather than living.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcx7nYoiMf4CYm7T0kRLfqlP6uFdlcSBm8h5Ho0Oz_dM9Pl-NzcZd7NXsxQc3T6cw5cPGTfI1grgeNz1f9ga3hS5goolczo0-JuETvJ4-UXfQVCXvB6lCBkVtkn4x2QNwIUmtZMnlpYSY/s1600/Instagram+Graphic+3+-+IvIn.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcx7nYoiMf4CYm7T0kRLfqlP6uFdlcSBm8h5Ho0Oz_dM9Pl-NzcZd7NXsxQc3T6cw5cPGTfI1grgeNz1f9ga3hS5goolczo0-JuETvJ4-UXfQVCXvB6lCBkVtkn4x2QNwIUmtZMnlpYSY/s200/Instagram+Graphic+3+-+IvIn.png" width="200" /></a></div>
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Mrs. Chattoway treasures both of her granddaughters now that they’re reunited. When Ivy’s parents enroll her in a Scottish school for unique children, she’s happy to chaperone.<br />
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In a new place with a new guardian, Ivy discovers a special talent that helps her see the blurred world in a new way. There’s a light at the end of the tunnel, and Ivy becomes determined to find it—and help others do the same.<br />
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<b>About the Author:</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8si3SWxPrh2VJu8PV52Agl5hPijUbTAAeqekSTWEY6xBn6q5tfRxzxB1PfVPWIw1NeEp42jo0ZOmJHovS1HMgsb5HZ6DvUmGd8xiBNKbLKQLY8LyR_w0JWJCSagtB4ZOUHMCbZaKaWms/s1600/Kellyn+Roth+-+Author+Photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1224" data-original-width="816" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8si3SWxPrh2VJu8PV52Agl5hPijUbTAAeqekSTWEY6xBn6q5tfRxzxB1PfVPWIw1NeEp42jo0ZOmJHovS1HMgsb5HZ6DvUmGd8xiBNKbLKQLY8LyR_w0JWJCSagtB4ZOUHMCbZaKaWms/s200/Kellyn+Roth+-+Author+Photo.jpg" width="133" /></a><br />
Kellyn Roth is a Christian historical women’s fiction & romance author from North-Eastern Oregon who loves border collies. A ranch girl with a love for storytelling, she’s been writing since she was seven and published since she was fourteen.<br />
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Kell lives in the country outside a small town in North-Eastern Oregon with her family, cat, and three puppy-dogs. When not writing, she teaches writing and talks about writing, but she also enjoys other things. She just can’t think of any right now.<br />
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<b>Author Links:</b><br />
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Website & Blog: <a href="http://kellynrothauthor.com/">http://kellynrothauthor.com/</a><br />
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Email List: <a href="http://kellynrothauthor.com/newsletter">http://kellynrothauthor.com/newsletter/</a><br />
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Facebook: <a href="https://facebook.com/kellynrothauthor/">https://facebook.com/kellynrothauthor/</a><br />
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Instagram: <a href="https://instagram.com/kellynrothauthor/">https://instagram.com/kellynrothauthor/</a><br />
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Ruth O'Neilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06486936131825634627noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732651263813602291.post-11842046027852101412020-07-21T16:23:00.001-04:002020-07-21T16:23:43.129-04:009 Authors, 9 Books, 9 Weeks of Summer, ¢.99How about that title!<br />
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Summer has definitely arrived in my neck of the woods. It's been 90* or above for the last couple weeks, and it doesn't look like it's going to change any time soon. That means the weather is only good for reading by the pool, at the lake, or on the beach. Fortunately, a few writing friends and I have teamed up to offer you some great deals. Here is a list of books that are all only ¢.99. But you need to grab them quickly. Just like summer, these HOT deals won't last long. Click the covers to purchase from Amazon.<br />
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B085ZPBCFH/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B085ZPBCFH&linkCode=as2&tag=rusreli05-20&linkId=51672758fc2889755e813c2ca372b6b8" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=B085ZPBCFH&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=rusreli05-20" /></a>THE GREEN VEIL by Naomi Musch: Set your summer reading for a gripping family saga! In book one of the Empire in the Pines series, lumberman’s Colette Palmer has always loved timber cruiser Manason Kade, but during the summer of 1841, she leaves him behind to travel across Lake Michigan and settle with her family in the heart of the Wisconsin wilderness. Growing into womanhood, she eventually makes her vow to another. The day finally comes, however, when Manason plants roots of his own in Wisconsin Territory, and Colette’s husband will stop at nothing to ruin him. Logging enterprises collide as the territory nears statehood. In the midst of turmoil, Manason and Colette meet again. Now, she will have to choose between her first love and her commitment to her marriage vows, while her dreams, her faith, and an empire in pine hang in the balance. The Red Fury (book two) and The Black Rose (book three) continue this three-generation, historical romance series.<br />
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0578411865/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0578411865&linkCode=as2&tag=rusreli05-20&linkId=cb74fa406d7af4be3780e4428c22da23" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=0578411865&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=rusreli05-20" /></a>YESTERDAY’S POISON by Carol McClain ~ What could be a greater summertime indulgence than hours on the beach? The answer: Hours lolling in the sun with an unforgettable book that immerses you in the world of forgiveness and friendship. One that will rivet your attention from the first word until the last. Heartbreak catapults Torie Sullivan into the care of paramedic Adam Benedict when she crashes her car in a drunken frenzy. In middle school she and her cronies had bullied him mercilessly. Now he’s tasked with saving her life. Each character drinks yesterday’s poison. Their friendships intertwine their lives and expose their toxic pasts. They must learn to forgive the unpardonable.<br />
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07KCBMFCX/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B07KCBMFCX&linkCode=as2&tag=rusreli05-20&linkId=07a01a5134fbcd5fe088f833808377af" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=B07KCBMFCX&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=rusreli05-20" /></a>COURTING DANGER (A Katerina “Kat” Andruko/Dimitri Garmonin Novel, Book 1) by Nike N. Chillemi ~ The temperatures are steamy. Florida hurricane season is coming! A murderer is terrorizing young women in Pelican Beach and so is the first storm of the season. A newly installed detective, Kat feels she knows the murderer but can’t place him, and it’s tearing at her. Her first suspect is debonair profiler Dimitri Garmonin who finds her intriguing. An excellent summer read. But also check out all the other contemporary detective novels/mysteries for any season on Nike N. Chillemi’s author page. Fast paced, taut suspense, action packed, sweet romance, quirky secondary characters, wry humor.<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=rusreli05-20&l=am2&o=1&a=B07KCBMFCX" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B082VMDPFS/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B082VMDPFS&linkCode=as2&tag=rusreli05-20&linkId=dd9c5f40ffd29eee417083695189e9a2" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=B082VMDPFS&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=rusreli05-20" /></a>LUNCH LADIES (What a Difference a Year Makes, Book 3) by Ruth O’Neil ~ “Everyone rattled off their offerings for the Fourth of July feast and the fun that would follow. Besides an enormous amount of food, there would be water balloons, water guns, yard games, pool fun, crafts, and of course fireworks. It really was the event of the summer that everyone looked forward to.” Cookouts, parades, picnics, swimming, camping. Whatever your summer activities, you’ll want to take this novel with you. These seven women will make your summer one to remember as you follow them through thick and thin. They’re best friends who stick together through storms and sunny days, sharing each sorrow and blessing. You’ll wish you were a part of their circle. Or maybe you’ll be encouraged to create a close-knit circle of friends with whom you can enjoy the highs and lows of this journey called life. Look for other books in Ruth O’Neil’s series What a Difference a Year Make.<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=rusreli05-20&l=am2&o=1&a=B082VMDPFS" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01H2O3VX4/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B01H2O3VX4&linkCode=as2&tag=rusreli05-20&linkId=a6411e8b837671e079138043ab52008b" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=B01H2O3VX4&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=rusreli05-20" /></a>NATE’S HEALING (The Florida Irish Series, Book 6) by Suzanne D. Williams ~ Nate Sawyer has suffered a devastating illness when he meets his parent’s new neighbor, Georgianna Smith. Their attraction for each other sparks immediately. She’s funny and caring and a great cook. Yet a secret she carries grows larger and larger in her mind, and it could be he isn’t strong enough to accept it. Curl up by the pool or in your favorite chair and travel back to a simpler time this summer. Often lighthearted, the budding feelings of Nate and Georgianna are also frustrating and incredibly heartwarming. Take a glimpse at a cast of characters from The Florida Irish series in this short, 99 cent, historical romance novella, then check out more of this author’s book catalog.<br />
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00PULUH2K/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00PULUH2K&linkCode=as2&tag=rusreli05-20&linkId=858026f28525ba34a659382afd39b3b3" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=B00PULUH2K&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=rusreli05-20" /></a>SHE’S MINE by Tammy Doherty ~ This summer is going to be explosive for Caitlin Harrington and Sean Taggart. Caitlin dreams of a quiet life teaching math at her hometown middle school. Except someone is leaving ominous notes on her door. It could be her ex-boyfriend or someone else who doesn’t want her back in town. Sean Taggart thinks Caitlin is beautiful…and possibly crazy. When he finds out the truth, Sean wants to help. Can he save Caitlin before the stalker turns to murder? If you take this book to the beach, be sure to slather on the sunscreen because you’ll be captivated and unable to stop reading until the end. As one reviewer says, “Fantastic read. Poured through this book because I couldn’t put it down! The storyline kept me guessing. There is a masterful plot twist, that I didn’t see coming – and I loved it!!<br />
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KNIGHT IN SHINING APRON (Appleton, WV Romantic Mystery Series, Book 2) by Carole Brown ~ Come spend your summer in Appleton, WV where everyone knows everyone and there’s always another mystery going on. Friends are loyal, and the foes are determined to win. Romance is swoony-worthy and the mystery is intriguing. Meet friends like a professor-turned-author, a knighted chef from England, a restaurant owner who can’t cook, an Italian carpenter, a brother and sister who co-own an antique/junk/collectible shop and more. Help discover who the villains are. Whether you’re at the beach, the mountains, or at home, these books will transport you to a world that will make you year to visit or live in Appleton. Don’t just settle for one book. Check all the books in this Appleton, WV Romantic Mystery series, with more coming.<br />
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0874XY7C1/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0874XY7C1&linkCode=as2&tag=rusreli05-20&linkId=1e849f7ebdc78ffeb04cafbdf4f44cd9" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=B0874XY7C1&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=rusreli05-20" /></a>JUSTICE FOR ELIZABETH (Detective Carhill Mystery Book 2) by Mary Vee ~ Sipping sweet iced tea on the veranda of a Manhattan mansion seems divine, unless you are Elizabeth Alexander, wife of the man on trial for embezzlement. A speedy trial, the best lawyer money can buy backs away, and circumstantial evidence feeds the gossipers and threatens the Alexander family name. Elizabeth hires Detective Carhill, PI, to find the one who set up her husband. Murder, romance, kidnapping, shopping. Sweet ingredients to a summer read you’re sure to love.<br />
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Ruth O'Neilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06486936131825634627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732651263813602291.post-24765814732721501862020-07-14T00:00:00.000-04:002020-07-14T00:00:00.710-04:00Small Boats and Big Waves – with Giveaway<img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=rusreli05-20&l=am2&o=1&a=B087LTY9S3" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
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Please welcome Leeann Betts to the blog today!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge0jIUtf8hn1gbSUmY661_Ts3rUSBnz1RQiqbsWjEpedgSnw8-hC2zISQui_RExEA6ZwLeNDEXXuDXbvXEboyac6n3zj74gvZoScHQmvmuhIbwqzkmCf-zpmsZRQOMqbK5zKxI6TnJEFk/s1600/Leeann+Betts+small+DSCN4267.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="639" data-original-width="803" height="158" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge0jIUtf8hn1gbSUmY661_Ts3rUSBnz1RQiqbsWjEpedgSnw8-hC2zISQui_RExEA6ZwLeNDEXXuDXbvXEboyac6n3zj74gvZoScHQmvmuhIbwqzkmCf-zpmsZRQOMqbK5zKxI6TnJEFk/s200/Leeann+Betts+small+DSCN4267.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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Small boats—and the thought of drowning, terrify me. This
fear paralyzed me and caused me to miss out on numerous things—until God helped
me see the bigger picture.</div>
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We went to Peru on a mission trip with my church. We arrive
at a collection of tiny structures in the middle of nowhere, providing food and
supplies for weary travelers. We slip, slide, and scramble down a muddy bank to
the water’s edge where our sailing craft awaits. I look upstream. Nothing but a
couple of canoes. I look downstream. A metal boat about ten feet long, its
canvas covering long rotted—a tiny outboard putt-putting to life under the
tentative ministrations of a teenage boy.<o:p></o:p></div>
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My hubby helps me clamber in, and I sit in the middle of the
middle seat, clinging to the edges of the warped board. The rest of the team is
chatting, laughing, leaning against the side, ignoring me, for which I’m
thankful. I think, “Okay, God, I can do this. I just have to do this one more
time, on Sunday, when we leave.” <o:p></o:p></div>
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I ask about crocodiles, and they laugh and say there aren’t
any. Phew! “But keep your hands out of the water,” somebody says. “There are
piranha.” <o:p></o:p></div>
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Oh, nice.<o:p></o:p></div>
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When will this be over?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Then the Lord showed me the riverbanks, which in some places
looked like sculpted sand. He reminded me that the river didn’t carve these
banks, because although we’re at the headwaters of the Amazon, the water is
slow-moving.<o:p></o:p></div>
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God pointed out the wake of the boat nudging up against the
riverbank, and told me that the hundreds of boats that ply these waters daily
made the contours in the riverbank.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B087LTY9S3/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B087LTY9S3&linkCode=as2&tag=rusreli05-20&linkId=98a6c5c89f7ad35ebbfc01d9c7f3398a" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=B087LTY9S3&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=rusreli05-20" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Click the cover<br />to go to Amazon</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
“You are like the waves,” He said. “A little touch here. A
nudge there. Your presence changes the lives of people, just like the wake
changes the shoreline.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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In Risk Management, Carly learns that her life makes a
difference. She must make decisions about a future she doesn’t want. And while
the Peru connection isn’t where we find her, it, too, makes a difference.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Question for readers:</b> How has God spoken to you recently
about making a difference?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>We will draw randomly from all comments left for a free
ebook copy of Risk Management.</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>About Leeann:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Leeann Betts writes contemporary romantic suspense, while
her real-life persona, Donna Schlachter, pens historical romantic suspense. Risk
Management is the 12th and final story in her cozy mystery series, “By the
Numbers”. Watch for a segue novella in September that weaves Carly’s story with
the upcoming new cozy mystery series, “Mysterious Ink Bookstore Mysteries”, with
its first title releasing in December 2020. Together she and Donna have
published more than 30 novellas, devotionals, and full-length novels. They
ghostwrite, judge writing contests, edit, facilitate a critique group, and are
members of American Christian Fiction Writers, Writers on the Rock, Christian
Authors Network, Pikes Peak Writers, and Sisters in Crime. Leeann travels
extensively to research her stories, and is proud to be represented by Terrie
Wolf of AKA Literary LLC.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Website: <a href="http://www.leeannbetts.com/">www.LeeannBetts.com</a>
Stay connected so you learn about new releases, preorders, and presales, as
well as check out featured authors, book reviews, and a little corner of peace.
Plus: <b>Receive a free ebook simply for signing up for our free newsletter!</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://bit.ly/2VB26JH">Bonanza Books-in-a-Flash:</a>
order autographed print copies of books that are shipped directly from the
author.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Blog: <a href="http://www.allbettsareoff.wordpress.com/">www.AllBettsAreOff.wordpress.com</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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Facebook: <a href="http://bit.ly/1pQSOqV">http://bit.ly/1pQSOqV</a>
<o:p></o:p></div>
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Twitter: <a href="http://bit.ly/1qmqvB6">http://bit.ly/1qmqvB6</a>
<o:p></o:p></div>
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Books: Amazon <a href="http://amzn.to/2dHfgCE">http://amzn.to/2dHfgCE</a> and Smashwords: <a href="http://bit.ly/2z5ecP8">http://bit.ly/2z5ecP8</a> <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://what-can-be-online-institute.teachable.com/">What
Can Be Online University</a>: online courses on the craft of writing<o:p></o:p></div>
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</div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/Dare2DreamUS?ref=search_shop_redirect">Etsy
online shop </a>of original artwork, book folding art, and gift items <o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br />Ruth O'Neilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06486936131825634627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732651263813602291.post-34018394964002427982020-06-08T06:30:00.000-04:002020-06-08T06:30:11.801-04:00Rice Pilaf<br />
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<img height="170" src="https://www.cscassets.com/recipes/wide_cknew/wide_25664.jpg" width="400" /></div>
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You might think this is going to be another food
blog, but it isn't. Well, sort of, but not really. Rice pilaf. It's such a
little thing. Yet, it's such a big thing. You see, last year I fixed a meal for
an older couple at our church. The wife was undergoing chemotherapy and several
of us were taking them meals. I made grilled chicken, grilled vegetables, and
rice pilaf. An hour after I dropped that meal off, I received a phone call from
the husband.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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"That was the best meal anyone's ever cooked for us.
Especially that rice pilaf. That's my favorite."<o:p></o:p></div>
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It made me happy to think that such a simple little thing
could make someone's day. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Recently, after a time of remission, the wife's cancer came
back. <o:p></o:p></div>
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"Is there anything I can do for you?" I asked the
husband when I saw him.<o:p></o:p></div>
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"Are you making rice pilaf anytime soon?"<o:p></o:p></div>
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I laughed. "When do you want some?"<o:p></o:p></div>
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"Saturday night?"<o:p></o:p></div>
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"You got it."<o:p></o:p></div>
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After the second rice pilaf (with grilled teriyaki pork
chops and corn) delivery, I got a text. I'm not posting that because it's a
little embarrassing with his over the top praise. <o:p></o:p></div>
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My whole point is that during these times of difficulty,
look for the little things you can do for someone. Does an elderly neighbor who
is afraid to go out need groceries? Deliver flowers to a shut-in. Take your
kids to visit with someone who is not able to leave the house. (Little kids are
great for lifting people's spirits!) Drop off homemade cookies or cake to a
friend. Send handwritten cards to long distance friends and relatives. Find that little thing that you can do to show you miss someone or are
thinking about them even during these times of social distancing. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Don’t stay holed up in your house. Get out there and do
some small thing for another person. It will improve their day and yours. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Ruth O'Neilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06486936131825634627noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732651263813602291.post-50220588533183197712020-05-11T16:04:00.000-04:002020-05-12T15:32:04.569-04:00Canning Chicken Tortilla Soup<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Lately, I've put a lot
of time into canning. I love walking down to my basement and seeing shelves
full of healthy, prepared foods. I think I've been on a canning kick since
quarantine has been keeping me at home, my shelves were a little depleted from this
past winter's use, and the weather has been unseasonably cool. The canning
helps warm the house up some without having to load up the wood stove. We
really should be done with heating our homes by now, right?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifG6tO5KDSQGe_09JTytpTHY2oLpQDuFZulO4KVm1F2C7z2nnZr_qgJtbXitNGvHMp8Tc5bUfwylBXkiHQd13rUk4adF_YyLw9guexnm3R97YYOPTTORGR2XteVzpeHryCuBixTtwcwRY/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifG6tO5KDSQGe_09JTytpTHY2oLpQDuFZulO4KVm1F2C7z2nnZr_qgJtbXitNGvHMp8Tc5bUfwylBXkiHQd13rUk4adF_YyLw9guexnm3R97YYOPTTORGR2XteVzpeHryCuBixTtwcwRY/s320/96233105_10217743145713902_5471913632184926208_o.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The good stuff!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Anyway, I shared a
picture of one of my canning projects on Facebook last week and received a lot
of requests for the recipe. I thought it might be a good idea to share it here
as well. I started canning years ago when my kids started working and weren't
home as often. It didn't matter how many people ended up home for dinner, I
could open as many or as few jars as I needed. Home canned food is also much
healthier than store bought canned food. Take a look at the ingredients and
then look at the sodium content on some of the packaging. It's astonishing! And
sometimes kind of gross.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">I realize not everyone
cans food, so I created the recipe for one batch. For canning, I double or
triple the batch. Also, when I'm canning it, I use all fresh peppers and
tomatoes. I also use dried beans as they get less mushy when canning. If you
decide to make it, I'd love to see your pictures and hear your thoughts on how
it tastes. It really couldn't be any easier to m</span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">ake.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 24pt;">Chicken Tortilla Soup</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">½ cup diced onion<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">1 garlic clove, chopped<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">2 15 oz. cans black
beans, drained<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">1 4.5 oz. can diced
green chili peppers<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">1 14.5 oz. can of diced
tomatoes<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">2 ½ cups chicken broth<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">1 cup fresh corn<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">1 Tablespoon chili
powder<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">1 teaspoon cumin<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">½ teaspoon cayenne<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">2 chicken breasts, cut
into 1-2 inch pieces (raw is fine)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">1 teaspoon salt<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">1.4 teaspoon pepper<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">1 bay leaf<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Cilantro – keep separate<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvrlymou5pQflBoR-cegNdg1b-nY7FcT-aFTPkR2DbnV9_qALON9TxaWmytGqMiZVkDW6xsQuuroi3MXmF7Sih2-DgDJYsM2aJvaIGlxvsOf0ZsagIeu-Dm1Sg4Sq_XxsHOOWt7O872ys/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvrlymou5pQflBoR-cegNdg1b-nY7FcT-aFTPkR2DbnV9_qALON9TxaWmytGqMiZVkDW6xsQuuroi3MXmF7Sih2-DgDJYsM2aJvaIGlxvsOf0ZsagIeu-Dm1Sg4Sq_XxsHOOWt7O872ys/s320/IMG_0534.jpg" /></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Dump everything, except
the cilantro, in the crockpot. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Top with
fresh chopped cilantro. (If you don't want to use a crock pot, you can also
cook this on the stove top. Simmer for about an hour. Feel free to adjust the
seasonings to your family's preferences.)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br /></span>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">(Canning directions:
Cook the chicken to make the broth. Place the chicken in a stock pot and barely
cover with water. It isn't necessary to add seasonings since you'll be adding
that later. Simmer for about 30 minutes until chicken is cooked through. In a
very large bowl, mix everything together except the broth but including one
chopped bunch of cilantro. Mix it up really well and divide up between jars.
Top off the jars with the broth to within an inch of the top. I usually fill
the jar to just up under the rings. Wipe the rims with a vinegar soaked paper
towel to remove any oil residue. Follow the manufacturer's directions for your pressure canner
and process for 90 minutes for quart jars and 60 minutes for pint jars.)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVQS0aiF2YkxMw6I8Le6Mom_OOpARxp2ApRjTaxGWxh3E_HeVrCko65xEIGn59bZoPSmff97zpId23Ammork3CajEx6A3ktezUa3MBcLMy0WupSBZEby_YfwIWIbbWVEAJj8bgNLmrK9g/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVQS0aiF2YkxMw6I8Le6Mom_OOpARxp2ApRjTaxGWxh3E_HeVrCko65xEIGn59bZoPSmff97zpId23Ammork3CajEx6A3ktezUa3MBcLMy0WupSBZEby_YfwIWIbbWVEAJj8bgNLmrK9g/s320/IMG_0532.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">When quadrupling the batch, I ended up<br />
with 10 quarts and 1 half pint.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />Ruth O'Neilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06486936131825634627noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732651263813602291.post-1128505714008714232020-05-07T13:39:00.002-04:002020-05-07T13:39:43.185-04:00Reintroduction<br />
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I had to step away from the blog posts for a little bit as
life was overwhelming. Not bad. Nothing was wrong, just incredibly busy. I had
to find a few things to drop and the blog was one of them. But, I feel now is
the perfect time to pick it back up. Working on week 7 of quarantine here, I
think I'm finally caught up and ready to begin again. It's funny how sometimes
God knows how much you need a break and gives one to the entire world as well.
I for one have been thankful for the downtime.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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So, what I have been doing during under house arrest?
Working on some house projects. You know all those things that you walk past
every day and say, "I need to take care of that," only you keep on
walking? Yup. Got a bunch of those done. There's still a lot I want to do but I
need a little help. Fortunately, my husband has been an essential worker so I
haven't wanted to pester him with silly things. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx4XRMLjQGvgxlYxB7ZnIsvbUSCI8HecUG8mHY96bdx7hRxoXTmYzYVw3NhaK0q694_SUAefpRMKQUtxV-RLzhRIqzpbeEsmdykM1GZTY7NEulJVdmWU4mn8PqfFbCk2KCzNWmTt89m3M/s1600/IMG_0382.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx4XRMLjQGvgxlYxB7ZnIsvbUSCI8HecUG8mHY96bdx7hRxoXTmYzYVw3NhaK0q694_SUAefpRMKQUtxV-RLzhRIqzpbeEsmdykM1GZTY7NEulJVdmWU4mn8PqfFbCk2KCzNWmTt89m3M/s320/IMG_0382.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All those little triangles are made <br />up of 2-inch scraps</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Another thing I've been doing is working on ways to save
money – repurpose, recycle. My mom was a great proponent of waste not, want
not. I think I've managed to take that to a whole new level! The quilts I sew
have become waste not the littlest pieces of fabric; instead, find an appropriate
pattern with which to use them.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I have also put that attitude into my cooking. I love
cooking food. I love canning food. I love eating food. Recently, I have
discovered several recipes that put that waste-not-want-not mantra into practice.
You know all those new subscriptions you can get for boxes of imperfect
produce? I think it's a good idea. It's just one that has been standard in my
home since I was a child. We had a garden growing up, and not every vegetable
that came out of it was perfect. Did we throw it away? Absolutely not! You
couldn't tell how ugly a green bean was once you cut it up!<o:p></o:p></div>
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So, I hope you'll stick with me along the way. I'll be
posting about all the things I love: family, food, books, and quilts. Maybe you'll
learn something from me, and maybe I'll learn something from you. Looking
forward to what's ahead. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Ruth O'Neilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06486936131825634627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732651263813602291.post-14817367827044842552019-12-23T00:00:00.000-05:002019-12-23T00:00:01.524-05:00Monday Meditations - Nativity<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzwqhb-oPoFWIKBnwD5khq0D5nGKv_7h6LMhVBpihjJp6qx0rCRfRaj4GWii7c39kxYKKamjgguahkdHfbD1k2t36Wm8ul0nw2ISr-vm_lYdvNcfb_cN5IeLRfofdRl398ymivmnGsIL0/s1600/nativity.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1237" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzwqhb-oPoFWIKBnwD5khq0D5nGKv_7h6LMhVBpihjJp6qx0rCRfRaj4GWii7c39kxYKKamjgguahkdHfbD1k2t36Wm8ul0nw2ISr-vm_lYdvNcfb_cN5IeLRfofdRl398ymivmnGsIL0/s320/nativity.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Nativity</span></span></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">But made
himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made
in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled
himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. </span></i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Philippians 2:7-8<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">When
we think of nativity, Christmas automatically comes to mind. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">A nativity</i> is simply the place,
condition, and circumstances surrounding a birth. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">The Nativity</i> is the place, conditions, and circumstances
surrounding the birth of Christ. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Place – Jesus was born in Bethlehem, which fulfilled prophecy. What a lowly
place for the King to be born. Herod, evil as he was, was used by God as a
tool. He was taking a census of the people, requiring them to return to the
city of their birth. So Joseph packed up himself and a very pregnant Mary, to
go to Bethlehem, thus fulfilling one prophesy of Jesus being born in Bethlehem.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Conditions – While most of us were born in the sanitary conditions of a
hospital, Jesus was born in a stable. If you’ve ever been in a barn, you know
that it is anything but sanitary and not the most comfortable place to give
birth. I'm sure a stable was not exactly what Mary had in mind.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Circumstances – There is a lot of prophecy surrounding Christ’s birth. Just
being born He fulfilled a number of prophesies. The only reason God came to
earth in the form of a man was because of us. If it wasn't for our decisions to
lead sinful lives, Jesus would have stayed in the comfort of His heavenly home.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">If
it wasn't for us, He would not have come. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N1LTH26/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B01N1LTH26&linkCode=as2&tag=rusreli05-20&linkId=96b4626788e737e50b20ff72c7f4ed5b" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=B01N1LTH26&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=rusreli05-20" style="cursor: move;" /></a>If you enjoyed this post today, it is an excerpt from <i>The 25 Days of Christmas Family Devotional.</i> You can grab a copy for your family by clicking the cover to go to Amazon.
Ruth O'Neilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06486936131825634627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732651263813602291.post-54522155425332297892019-12-16T00:00:00.000-05:002019-12-16T08:01:33.910-05:00Monday Meditations - Rejoice<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBMveA2O59cBgSbaxzVDDNpAcPeyrN8i5jPOz0UAx2W8EFS75WpcQm3_Zyh0yyC-oLbR7VyqeIdl0-OIUpDaVeTZozdDZpLRDjvZ_8ZZMGiA30YDj4sy6wYyNHZec56lY3RGs0GxrXkcg/s1600/Rejoice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1237" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBMveA2O59cBgSbaxzVDDNpAcPeyrN8i5jPOz0UAx2W8EFS75WpcQm3_Zyh0yyC-oLbR7VyqeIdl0-OIUpDaVeTZozdDZpLRDjvZ_8ZZMGiA30YDj4sy6wYyNHZec56lY3RGs0GxrXkcg/s320/Rejoice.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Rejoice</span><br />
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Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Philippians 4:4<div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Rejoice
– to take joy in, give joy to, take possession of<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">When
an angel appeared to Mary and told her that she would bear a child – out of
wedlock – how did she respond? She rejoiced. That would probably not be the
response of most young women today had they had the same experience. They would
probably scream, holler, cry, etc., but not Mary. Mary rejoiced.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Mary
knew the Scriptures, as is evident in her song. Here she quotes the Old
Testament 15 times. She rejoiced because God was giving her a gift, not only a
gift just for her, but for the entire human race - past, present, and future.
She rejoiced that she was the vessel God chose to use. While she was proud of
this fact, she was not conceited. On the contrary, she was very humble. Mary
was spending time with her cousin Elizabeth when she sang this song. I can't
help but wonder if she needed a little bit of time to escape and soak up
everything that God was doing for her and for the world.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
all have gifts God has given us. We should rejoice in those gifts and use them
accordingly. But, be careful not to be jealous of another’s gift. One of the
Ten Commandments says, “Do not covet.” That applies not only to physical
things, but to spiritual things as well.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Rejoice
that God has sent the Savior. Rejoice in the gift He has given you to help you
share the love of the Savior. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N1LTH26/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B01N1LTH26&linkCode=as2&tag=rusreli05-20&linkId=96b4626788e737e50b20ff72c7f4ed5b" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=B01N1LTH26&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=rusreli05-20" /></a>If you enjoyed this post today, it is an excerpt from The 25 Days of Christmas Family Devotional. You can grab a copy for your family by clicking the cover to go to Amazon.
</div>
Ruth O'Neilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06486936131825634627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732651263813602291.post-87961222126158896082019-12-09T00:00:00.000-05:002019-12-09T00:00:01.769-05:00Monday Meditations - Emmanuel<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIGFBL9xLxH_9GwIYDyr9dER7V_PS9yKDVLsmeV_Rc5ANlT1IwVjPOLQ3e6oq9SZDVMUIDKzJvbnJD63nptIxx-z1DAHcLQ57aWbfuO1FAapCgX1MjPqq1KfIjiZ2cHAALdI_CcXbuY6k/s1600/Emmanuel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1237" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIGFBL9xLxH_9GwIYDyr9dER7V_PS9yKDVLsmeV_Rc5ANlT1IwVjPOLQ3e6oq9SZDVMUIDKzJvbnJD63nptIxx-z1DAHcLQ57aWbfuO1FAapCgX1MjPqq1KfIjiZ2cHAALdI_CcXbuY6k/s320/Emmanuel.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Emmanuel</span><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify;">
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<i>Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel. Matthew 1:23</i><br /><br />This story, like many stories I tell, was taken from a real-life scenario from a friend of mine:<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
While our son Kev was being wheeled into surgery, he just kept crying for his bear he had named Baby Jesus. Although Evie was only getting tubes, Kevin was having a more serious surgery. To be honest, that bear that had been dragged through the mud, into stores, many doctor visits, and finally into the hospital, had unknowingly become my security blanket that day. <br /><br />I remember the empty feeling I felt as the nurse took Baby Jesus from me and took him off to the operating room to comfort my own baby. I know, it was an inanimate object, but just the feel of Kev’s ugly, scrawny, yet loved bear was somehow giving me comfort when I didn’t have my own baby in my arms. <br /><br />I sat there in the waiting room for a few minutes feeling empty and alone when suddenly I remembered my Emmanuel. My “God with us!” While Kev needed that bear to give him comfort in his childlike belief of Baby Jesus, I had the real-life version of a Savior who came on Christmas morning. Born to die so that on the morning of my son’s surgery, Kev, in his childlike faith could cling to a bear named Baby Jesus and I could be filled with the presence of the now arisen King who knew my suffering mama’s heart and comforted me like no other person or object can. <br /><br />The Hebrew "Immanuel" literally means “with us is God!” Can you imagine? No matter what we have to face, a tough class at school, a bully who will not leave us alone, a surgery we are dreading, a fear we just can’t get past; it doesn’t matter, God is with us!</div>
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One of my favorite Christmas songs. Hope you enjoy!</div>
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<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kulQAvz7haY" width="560"></iframe>
</div>
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<br />
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N1LTH26/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B01N1LTH26&linkCode=as2&tag=rusreli05-20&linkId=96b4626788e737e50b20ff72c7f4ed5b" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=B01N1LTH26&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=rusreli05-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=rusreli05-20&l=am2&o=1&a=B01N1LTH26" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />If you enjoyed this post today, it is an excerpt from The 25 Days of Christmas Family Devotional. You can grab a copy for your family by clicking the cover to go to Amazon.
</div>
Ruth O'Neilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06486936131825634627noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732651263813602291.post-63412967981214593402019-12-02T00:00:00.000-05:002019-12-02T08:15:10.519-05:00Monday Meditations - Ornament<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNLF4hXc5C7-uF0Dk1Z26DRFX_CVl9hAfGRLV8zJuaTQnXbS-rEcBQXuONI1yy1yczNmUCnSlDlaEoI9Ads6wiF3N9NBek2vWuIPgOuidYLznb4L61r1BckT98edvwhIBzsfWaZsr5JZ4/s1600/Ornament.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1237" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNLF4hXc5C7-uF0Dk1Z26DRFX_CVl9hAfGRLV8zJuaTQnXbS-rEcBQXuONI1yy1yczNmUCnSlDlaEoI9Ads6wiF3N9NBek2vWuIPgOuidYLznb4L61r1BckT98edvwhIBzsfWaZsr5JZ4/s320/Ornament.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Ornament</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRczsFSD5SknUK07w9ooMQqZ8Gg1dSKm3NZaxAlVakhmZFUSVpbnDfA8JCTjUtAI2lYvq_5IN4VwY5qf4UJVqE31jFcDH5HuEI0p1sgB9ezvknzuQ4DTm5ZOtzW504I4gkbQZYqv9Yfdo/s1600/DSCN1727.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRczsFSD5SknUK07w9ooMQqZ8Gg1dSKm3NZaxAlVakhmZFUSVpbnDfA8JCTjUtAI2lYvq_5IN4VwY5qf4UJVqE31jFcDH5HuEI0p1sgB9ezvknzuQ4DTm5ZOtzW504I4gkbQZYqv9Yfdo/s200/DSCN1727.JPG" style="cursor: move;" /></a>They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor, their righteousness endures forever. Psalm 112:9a<br /><br />Each year our trees look more and more beautiful as we place ornaments all over them. One year, while bringing home our Christmas tree on a very windy day, the tree blew off the top of the car, damaging the top portion of the tree. Once we placed the tree in its stand at home, we had to do a little doctoring to make that tree even somewhat presentable. Some strategically placed ornaments helped as well. Other people may not have noticed, if they didn't look too closely, but our family knew the truth behind it all.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ4xApjT2029jywf2FjSAWjsyOnRk3PzCAayVSwwb0ncuoKGee3uZ3qcAgmA3VQHx9cJ1N0LHJ00ADtqGwzraMTksJMDLnUzLnLwzikGWetmUofbYkpS_AErrol1b44q3x7fH8AEVXnxM/s1600/DSCN1726.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ4xApjT2029jywf2FjSAWjsyOnRk3PzCAayVSwwb0ncuoKGee3uZ3qcAgmA3VQHx9cJ1N0LHJ00ADtqGwzraMTksJMDLnUzLnLwzikGWetmUofbYkpS_AErrol1b44q3x7fH8AEVXnxM/s200/DSCN1726.JPG" /></a><br /><br />Sometimes people are the same way. We dress ourselves up in nice clothes and put on a little make-up to improve our appearance, but all that preparation does nothing for what's on the inside. We may think we're fooling people, and we may be, but we can never fool God. He knows all about us, inside and out.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI-qzwH0QbnM1B14b3yU_1QZLq-RVP-Dkc0TBD1v73q6T2MZcFZimhLomqZfLrmgdUtg9__EqfJe9j6n7jN0Jysb543f0sUcuGSRuwNMAWO3yyp4juvdBkGYe-nw1oWuhgQ8KBqeLeiAA/s1600/DSCN1730.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI-qzwH0QbnM1B14b3yU_1QZLq-RVP-Dkc0TBD1v73q6T2MZcFZimhLomqZfLrmgdUtg9__EqfJe9j6n7jN0Jysb543f0sUcuGSRuwNMAWO3yyp4juvdBkGYe-nw1oWuhgQ8KBqeLeiAA/s200/DSCN1730.JPG" /></a><br /><br />This Christmas season let's not jump to conclusions about how someone looks on the outside. Deep down inside we all want love. We want someone to care about us, even if we are only given a word or a smile. <br /><br />God created us all. He loves us all. We need to love others unconditionally as He does.<br /></div>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N1LTH26/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B01N1LTH26&linkCode=as2&tag=rusreli05-20&linkId=96b4626788e737e50b20ff72c7f4ed5b" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="200" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=B01N1LTH26&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=rusreli05-20" width="129" /></a><br />
<br />
If you enjoyed this post today, it is an excerpt from <i>The 25 Days of Christmas Family Devotional.</i> You can grab a copy for your family by clicking the cover to go to Amazon.Ruth O'Neilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06486936131825634627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732651263813602291.post-51414198501365594742019-10-07T00:00:00.000-04:002019-10-07T00:00:07.865-04:00Monday Meditations - Bible<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhJjIKlM0Bn6O-jogsbGOf9T9prbfgiqo8UHBgrIF0vsy_qkPCqi2HzZyaFQU2-rklFKxdQUEYoeocAu-xpzHz0W87vAgOjchi5pV13yHLllwhPNmmuqIaaxx2pZLCTo_BKGvFDNgZn_Q/s1600/Bible.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1237" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhJjIKlM0Bn6O-jogsbGOf9T9prbfgiqo8UHBgrIF0vsy_qkPCqi2HzZyaFQU2-rklFKxdQUEYoeocAu-xpzHz0W87vAgOjchi5pV13yHLllwhPNmmuqIaaxx2pZLCTo_BKGvFDNgZn_Q/s320/Bible.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Bible</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Books are some of my very favorite things. I am rarely
without a book nearby. If I have a few moments to spare, I indulge and allow
myself to escape reality. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And then there is the Bible. That is the Ultimate Book. When
I get lost in the pages of the Bible, I see miracles, I learn more about God
and Who He is, I grow closer in my relationship with Him. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Reading the Bible is one of the ways in which God
communicates with me. But, do I pick up the Bible enough? Do I spend enough
time searching the Scriptures looking for answers to my prayers and questions
and finding out how He wants me to live my life? <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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The answer is probably no. We can never spend enough to too
much time in the Word. I remember the Christmas I received my first grown-up
Bible. I spent the afternoon reading through the first chapters of Genesis.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That is definitely one of the things I need to be working
on. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Ruth O'Neilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06486936131825634627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732651263813602291.post-44991766795286434902019-09-30T00:00:00.000-04:002019-09-30T00:00:07.546-04:00Monday Meditations - Persistent<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLwLD44JI5Zyj7p2ADCL_Re4gNug49ms9W7DEXZvzTyuPbYVaA3a1gSUV0UlsQpKpIH1JDvThulluRzjXVSFhAL9SanBMNgURS23W4wvIr5V518j4LvAMot3b5JlO70W2mK7AiV4-7Qbs/s1600/Persistent.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1237" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLwLD44JI5Zyj7p2ADCL_Re4gNug49ms9W7DEXZvzTyuPbYVaA3a1gSUV0UlsQpKpIH1JDvThulluRzjXVSFhAL9SanBMNgURS23W4wvIr5V518j4LvAMot3b5JlO70W2mK7AiV4-7Qbs/s320/Persistent.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Persistence</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Children may not know the meaning of the word persistent,
but they have the concept down pat.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"Can I have a snack?"<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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"No."<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"Can I have a snack?"<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"No."<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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"Can I have a snack?"<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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"No."<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is a typical conversation with one of the little people
I babysit, only the conversation lasts a lot longer. I don't have a problem
with snacks, but I do limit them to no more than 20 per day. She'd like more.
She's persistent.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As a child, I was persistent. Not for snacks, but for
salvation. Every night I would pray and ask Jesus to come into my heart. I was
afraid that maybe I didn't do it right or something. God was more than willing
to listen to the persistent please of a child. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now, as a writer, persistence is key in my life. I have to send
out a lot of articles and stories if I want to receive paychecks. You know that
old adage, "If at first you don't succeed, try, try again." That
definitely applies to the life of a writer.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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What about your life? Where do you need to be a little more
persistent? Is there a relationship you should persist in pursuing or renewing?
Wherever it is, find that area of your life that need a little more effort and
go for it. Give it your all and see what happens.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Ruth O'Neilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06486936131825634627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732651263813602291.post-52901123658425564962019-09-23T00:00:00.000-04:002019-09-23T00:00:04.471-04:00Monday Meditations - Reliable<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdx526KScfThmwg1jCjAGANjSxzRSNcqmYOzM7TDFOdDF5zRIk9XUCCea1XLWZXb9APLC0I6x24DPflirH5OM1RS4QlEq-a_tTuL-CW77BzKRiddd-SiXUzytUxLH-3-v5-yWGWroClp8/s1600/Reliable.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1237" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdx526KScfThmwg1jCjAGANjSxzRSNcqmYOzM7TDFOdDF5zRIk9XUCCea1XLWZXb9APLC0I6x24DPflirH5OM1RS4QlEq-a_tTuL-CW77BzKRiddd-SiXUzytUxLH-3-v5-yWGWroClp8/s320/Reliable.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Reliable</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div>
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We all want to be friends with that person who is reliable.
Reliable people are the ones you can depend on. They are the ones you can call
on when you're in a pinch and need a helping hand. Reliable people get things
done. I had a great example of reliability in my parents. If they made a promise
to do something, it would be done, and it would be done well. That's something
I'm still working on.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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A friend of mine falls into the category of reliable. She is
always the first in line to fix a meal, bring a treat, or take care of any job that
needs doing. I want to be like her when I grow up.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A few years back I was convicted about my own reliability. A
friend of mine desperately needed some help. She didn't call on me at that
time, but I had to think about what I would have done if she had called me. Would I have told her I was too busy? Would I have dropped everything and ran to her
immediately? I honestly can't answer about what I would have done that night,
but it sure has made me aware of what I will do should I ever get that "I
need help" call from a friend in the future.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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I want to be reliable. I want to be there for those who need
me. I want to be the light of Christ. But, the only way I know I can be
reliable is when God is at work through me. I want to work on being more
reliable this week and in all the weeks to come.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Ruth O'Neilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06486936131825634627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732651263813602291.post-3087775219034990422019-09-16T00:00:00.000-04:002019-09-16T00:00:03.784-04:00Monday Meditations - Dedication<br />
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</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgKWSn78HwRlH7akithE7FTniB5JbFvj5C1Akrxg3Dws8z3ypMVWAmu33pG75A5Mb0npfwurGEX0rZIGEZvajQ7TJPJ9hrKjKIQKoGF-81NeKgL9Fu6r0uv80pEsRhZlF_ZlRN4oFJXh8/s1600/Dedication.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1237" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgKWSn78HwRlH7akithE7FTniB5JbFvj5C1Akrxg3Dws8z3ypMVWAmu33pG75A5Mb0npfwurGEX0rZIGEZvajQ7TJPJ9hrKjKIQKoGF-81NeKgL9Fu6r0uv80pEsRhZlF_ZlRN4oFJXh8/s320/Dedication.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Dedication</span></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dedication is something I think is seriously lacking in today's
society. So many people aren't dedicated to anything. Young people get a job
and find out it isn't as much fun as they thought it should be so they quit, or
better yet, they just stopped showing up. They have grandiose ideas about jobs
they love with huge paychecks. There isn't anything wrong with enjoying the job
or looking forward to payday, but the reality is that jobs aren't always what
we expect them to be.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Another reality is that companies aren't exactly dedicated
to their employees anymore either. People would often take a job and plan on
being there into retirement. My grandfather started working for the railroad when he was a teenager and stayed until he stopped working altogether. If someone wants to do that today, companies make
it very difficult, if not impossible.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But it isn't just the workforce where this is true. People
say they'll work in an area at church or volunteer with a local organization, but often forget to show up.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Friendships have a hard time surviving when there's
dedication on only one side.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Marriages fall apart every day because of a lack of 100%
dedication from both parties. It's easy to get a divorce, especially if there
are no children and its uncontested.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We need to be dedicated when we promise to do something. We
need to see it through whatever it is – job, friendship, marriage, any place
where we have made promises.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What areas of your life could use a little more of your
dedication? Think about that and then put forth the effort. Don't leave things,
or people, hanging and waiting for you.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Ruth O'Neilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06486936131825634627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732651263813602291.post-46401700256399218642019-09-09T00:00:00.000-04:002019-09-09T00:00:16.468-04:00Monday Meditations - Patience<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXGnStZFCB7OjTVkq-suiFYkMle70wDgN83bxhTMNs28lJWIwWjt1lcO2XY68RDmw_I07ZZjZFf_89VO_8ck6HhpmkuZZOozOkqVz_qDsVrsA-ozHKXBzNH62F4iPovYBmGDAxnEyEkCg/s1600/Patience.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1237" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXGnStZFCB7OjTVkq-suiFYkMle70wDgN83bxhTMNs28lJWIwWjt1lcO2XY68RDmw_I07ZZjZFf_89VO_8ck6HhpmkuZZOozOkqVz_qDsVrsA-ozHKXBzNH62F4iPovYBmGDAxnEyEkCg/s320/Patience.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Patience</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Years ago I had to make a trip to the DMV. Since I
homeschooled my kids, they pretty much went everywhere with me, including the
dreaded DMV. This was back before we could do most everything conveniently
online. That day my little boy learned the word "patient." I
thought he understood the meaning, but I learned the next day that I was wrong.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I had to go to the fabric store – one of my favorite places,
but not his. Again – homeschoolers – kids went everywhere with me. I had put The Boy in the cart so my hands were free. He wasn't happy and pleaded with me
to let him out, "I will be patient!"<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A fellow customer standing nearby burst out laughing.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So, he hadn't learned what patience was after all. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It takes
all of us time to develop that P word. Patience is not a natural human trait. We must learn and
practice it. As we mature spiritually we will develop patience. It's one of the Fruits of the Spirit found in Galatians 5.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
While we may struggle with patience, has no problem with
it. All you have to do is read about the Israelites to see that. But don't be
too quick to judge them. Take a look at your own life to see where God has been
patient with you. God's patience is thankfully immeasurable.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Patience sometimes requires us to look at a situation from
someone else's perspective. We don't all see things the same and we won't all
react the same. A little patience can go a long way. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So, this week, when you're
tempted to be impatient, look for the positives instead of the negatives, extend
a little patience and along with it a little grace, to those around us – our
spouses, our children, our parents, other drivers, and even the exceptionally
slow cashier at Walmart.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
Here's a little song on patience from my childhood for you to enjoy!<br />
<br />
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GMyW3oZb2fs" width="560"></iframe>Ruth O'Neilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06486936131825634627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732651263813602291.post-83829300265570383182019-09-02T00:00:00.000-04:002019-09-02T08:25:02.006-04:00Monday Meditations - Believe<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAM3GQIdvqwzXAsmZgMIjFw00rgDMYfGYHPMowClqEDvh1Rn1hs62ox7DafnKAfVXRlTOoxKQ4xBUz-cRxXLXjwea8hO5njBSDLw8hsXmyg_G2AahLm-JkQqxnFTncRQ2CTtCqNF2b0E8/s1600/Believe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1237" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAM3GQIdvqwzXAsmZgMIjFw00rgDMYfGYHPMowClqEDvh1Rn1hs62ox7DafnKAfVXRlTOoxKQ4xBUz-cRxXLXjwea8hO5njBSDLw8hsXmyg_G2AahLm-JkQqxnFTncRQ2CTtCqNF2b0E8/s320/Believe.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Believe</span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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Here's a question for you: what do you believe? I know, it's
a rather broad question. What do you believe…about what?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I believe it's going to be a beautiful day.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWWyjvLRY-nxTEVgXXUUz-NMuMkz4j1wPnT2dc8YoDu0mKs8dQpHNS7nYak4sD5Bd-ZiW2WLWxF5wWrcHnLB28VODz0nzoT0TROA_yesod_gcMyxU4JhkuDjzj4tkQaXxDbI_jyw2y4-I/s1600/DSCN2746.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWWyjvLRY-nxTEVgXXUUz-NMuMkz4j1wPnT2dc8YoDu0mKs8dQpHNS7nYak4sD5Bd-ZiW2WLWxF5wWrcHnLB28VODz0nzoT0TROA_yesod_gcMyxU4JhkuDjzj4tkQaXxDbI_jyw2y4-I/s320/DSCN2746.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I believe I'm going to cross things off my to do list today.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What do you believe about God?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Some of my favorite times of the week when my kids were
still all at home were Sunday afternoons. We would have Sunday dinner and sit
at the table for a couple of hours talking. Those were the best conversations.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
These discussions don't happen as much anymore since the
kids are all grown and have their own lives, but once in a while they do. One
happened the other night with my son and his girlfriend. She was commenting on
an article she had read about a Christian celebrity. The point he wanted to
make was that we got so caught up in so many different things about worship and spirituality, people have a tendency to push the actual Word of God aside.
People are more concerned about the style of music, which version of the Bible
is used, and even their own feelings and opinions and trying to make God's Word say what they want to to, to match their agendas.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So many people read book after book by Christian authors.
People soak up every word of some authors, while at the same time pushing the Bible
aside.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Let me back up and say there are some amazing authors out
there. Reading their books is not a bad thing, but when we use them to supplant
God's Word, that is when they can become detrimental. However, not every author
with the Christian label is, for lack of a better word, good. Some lead readers
to believe things that go against God's Word. The only way we can protect act
ourselves is by staying in the Word. Test what the author you're reading right
now says against the Word of God. Is what they want you to believe
questionable? Are they taking verses out of context and giving them a completely
different meaning?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A couple years ago a friend gave me a book that she said I
just had to read. I didn't get very far into it before I was questioning some
of the doctrine. I wondered if I was alone in my beliefs because so many people
were gaga over this author. I went to good old Amazon and read the one star
reviews. I discovered I was not alone. One reviewer had taken<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
quotes from the
book – many of the same ones I had struggled with – and refuted them with
Scripture.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA1KIunXEx75C9b1XR5yEJTYzOoAyqSoAQYrmoabiACGJ2rvQ-0l-yZkinRC0R9KCuj0oZCe-81H0lRJ_QcHEkhk8FDH8Zguv7jcOeK4gfTQlAVkblDHsu5KcmINRRDe0zU_Z8s4ls3DY/s1600/DSCN2751.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA1KIunXEx75C9b1XR5yEJTYzOoAyqSoAQYrmoabiACGJ2rvQ-0l-yZkinRC0R9KCuj0oZCe-81H0lRJ_QcHEkhk8FDH8Zguv7jcOeK4gfTQlAVkblDHsu5KcmINRRDe0zU_Z8s4ls3DY/s320/DSCN2751.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It was good to know I wasn't alone, is but I was also sad by
the thousands of people the author had tricked into believing untruths.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We can learn a lot from other people's experiences and what
they have to say, but you need to make sure their words match up with God's Words.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Don't believe everything you see, hear, or read, unless it
comes straight from the Bible.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<br /><br />“A Bible that’s falling apart usually belongs to someone who isn’t.” - Charles Haddon Spurgeon<br /><br /></div>
<br />Ruth O'Neilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06486936131825634627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732651263813602291.post-33924628213950071432019-08-26T00:00:00.000-04:002019-08-26T00:00:05.512-04:00Monday Meditations - Captivating<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj7Hn4k1F0P9kTLXWZvxcahGINF6kKiCrLPgJaLfaVMzeoM3K_Q9hLBMV4ao4abonZgF9hC6dCtFht-Psiygqu3v7ShTakmbBSaM_gZS6YOHmOjeMNFHzj_DZlDjVnM-hmi9LdjtdRef4/s1600/Captivating.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1237" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj7Hn4k1F0P9kTLXWZvxcahGINF6kKiCrLPgJaLfaVMzeoM3K_Q9hLBMV4ao4abonZgF9hC6dCtFht-Psiygqu3v7ShTakmbBSaM_gZS6YOHmOjeMNFHzj_DZlDjVnM-hmi9LdjtdRef4/s320/Captivating.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Captivating</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Captivating is defined as "to capture and hold our
attention." Think about what captivates you. Movies we watch can certainly
captivate and hold our attention. I read a lot and have friends who read a lot.
We often share titles that sucked us in and wouldn't let us go. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But what about
God? Are we captivated by Him? Does He hold our attention? In a world where
attention spans have a limit of about 30 seconds, there is not a whole lot
that keeps us interested for any length of time. I as a person am not
captivating, but I want my books to be. I want them to draw readers in and captivate them with the presence and holiness of God working in the lives of
ordinary people.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you are a believer and keep your eyes open to see the
hand of God at work, you know it's an amazing thing that can capture and keep
your attention. Even those who have ADD attention spans, every time you turn
your head to look in a different direction, you can see God at work.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have been captivated by God when a sunset caught my eye.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have been captivated by God when a dying baby was
miraculously healed.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have been captivated by God when I saw Him at work in my
children and their relationships with others.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have been captivated by God in final conversations with loved ones who weren't afraid to leave this earth and go to their real home.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I could go on forever, but I think you get the point. Books,
movies, conversations, anything that captures and holds our attention can all
be good things, but make sure it's God that is most captivating in your life.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Ruth O'Neilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06486936131825634627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732651263813602291.post-8117964355972545702019-08-19T00:00:00.000-04:002019-08-19T00:00:18.281-04:00Monday Meditations - Valuable<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgjodEr-fLXU7Af1qnCH8TBK4kkWNKDoxDg4bYbk5fRbQ5q-LB6EsUlbqQMWE3q-FpTssar1JzFWP-1ie33M92j6BAe_G_3jNa9RyDdvgcKfghtZAHnqdVU4aOQ8vPlTGuzK5XFPMD7XY/s1600/Valuable.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1237" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgjodEr-fLXU7Af1qnCH8TBK4kkWNKDoxDg4bYbk5fRbQ5q-LB6EsUlbqQMWE3q-FpTssar1JzFWP-1ie33M92j6BAe_G_3jNa9RyDdvgcKfghtZAHnqdVU4aOQ8vPlTGuzK5XFPMD7XY/s320/Valuable.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Valuable</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sometimes as a mom it's hard to feel valuable. It's often a
thankless job. Nobody sees even half of what you do. Work is often paid for
with a screaming baby, a temper tantrum throwing toddler, a temperamental
teenager, and a husband who just wants his dinner. I once read an article that
said stay-at-home moms "should" be earning $162,581 a year. Where are
my mom friends who see that in their bank account?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<img alt="dead silence GIF by GIPHY Studios Originals" height="320" src="https://media3.giphy.com/media/l2R013mIf1ZXdvoyI/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExNWQ0ODY0MmE3MjQ3NDU0NTU1MDczYzVl/giphy.gif" width="320" /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You know something? Our mom value is not in money. Being a
mom is the highest calling God gave to women, not climbing the corporate
ladder. I am not dissing moms who work outside the home. Each one has to make
choices as to what is best for her family. This is for all those who choose to
stay at home, those who sometimes feel value less.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Our value was in the little lives you are molding each day. Your payment is all the sticky, syrupy kisses and the I love yous from the
lips of those to whom you gave life.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Our value is raising children who become moral, productive
members of society. Our payment is seeing those little people grow up and
succeed.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Our value is knowing that we have done what God called us to
do. Your payment is hearing the prayers of children as they pray and accept
Christ as their Savior.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Our value is the part we played in helping our children grow
to have a relationship with Christ and want to share that relationship with
others so they can have the same. Our reward is…??? I can't answer that. Our
reward will come when we stand before God. While I have no idea what that
reward will be, I have a feeling it will be worth paying more than $162,581. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Don't ever forget, fellow Mama, you are VALUABLE.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Ruth O'Neilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06486936131825634627noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732651263813602291.post-90113329614293767852019-08-12T00:00:00.000-04:002019-08-12T00:00:01.707-04:00Monday Meditations - Radiant<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7U_RFaZTtWlrfeaPmVld2lSgjMPk76-0Vq3b4RvgfWSJDsqiDDfjfSziemUJTXc7NsMgRmOxSDpxDlGSMsVqMbPXBycuGWu9YWMZPp-QU98rUv8Zekck9KNlNm6hpQ1KCHLZF35YwHDQ/s1600/radiant.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1237" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7U_RFaZTtWlrfeaPmVld2lSgjMPk76-0Vq3b4RvgfWSJDsqiDDfjfSziemUJTXc7NsMgRmOxSDpxDlGSMsVqMbPXBycuGWu9YWMZPp-QU98rUv8Zekck9KNlNm6hpQ1KCHLZF35YwHDQ/s320/radiant.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Radiant</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I once knew a girl whose face was always radiant. I have
never known anyone like her before or since. After I got to know her better I
realized the cause of that radiance. It was God and His presence in her life.
She had grown up as a missionary kid in the Philippines and told story after
story of how God had been so real in their lives in such a dark place. Her
face, and probably the faces of her family as well, had to stand out in a place
where witchcraft and demonic activity were so prevalent. Her smiling face would
give makeup companies a run for their money. She never wore any.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I can't help but wonder if there were times she and her
family were in the presence of God. This young woman makes me think of another
radiant face; the face of Moses when he looked upon the back of God upon Mount
Sinai. Moses wanted to look upon God and in a word, God said Moses couldn't
handle it. Got covered Moses in the cleft of the rock until He passed by. God
pulled His hand away after He passed and Moses saw His back. Even seeing just
the back of God, Moses' face shown like no one had ever seen before. In fact,
when he came down from the mountain, the people were afraid of him until he veiled
his face.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What do our faces look like after we've been in the presence
of God? Do we spend time in His presence at all? How can we aim to spend more
time with God today? Share your thoughts in the comments.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<i>"So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord—who is the Spirit—makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image"</i> (2 Corinthians 3:18 NLT).Ruth O'Neilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06486936131825634627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732651263813602291.post-47371154325157792892019-08-05T00:00:00.000-04:002019-08-05T00:00:00.263-04:00Monday Meditations - Victory<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5EPZvIzdUotMmtwljjNR2M4AS7sYgCJPBAxlSb67zf7uCLSzT6ipZnIDoEjvgGPfFa_LpmldHqI4R7Jde75JQjtGe-L9vl2N-2VqMGqXDkvQYndZwomJO-czgvZg1F7CHOrrF4fmW4ZI/s1600/Victory.tif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1237" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5EPZvIzdUotMmtwljjNR2M4AS7sYgCJPBAxlSb67zf7uCLSzT6ipZnIDoEjvgGPfFa_LpmldHqI4R7Jde75JQjtGe-L9vl2N-2VqMGqXDkvQYndZwomJO-czgvZg1F7CHOrrF4fmW4ZI/s320/Victory.tif" width="247" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Victory</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The word "victory" takes me back to my childhood
in a couple of ways. From grades 5-9 I was a <o:p></o:p></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA179gOYsUPll8hwkEZ7V5sU9Ug8wvDZn5uV94fMplL4pKjLpLE9T8fof7TT9C1Ooo2ridgO7mA73fIO_Hsfazaiu17R67jimJXToPnXpb8jMaFMfbvZjptLMYDC310dcFkMA-WQqkoNk/s1600/cheerleading.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="895" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA179gOYsUPll8hwkEZ7V5sU9Ug8wvDZn5uV94fMplL4pKjLpLE9T8fof7TT9C1Ooo2ridgO7mA73fIO_Hsfazaiu17R67jimJXToPnXpb8jMaFMfbvZjptLMYDC310dcFkMA-WQqkoNk/s200/cheerleading.jpg" width="186" /></a>cheerleader in our small Christian
school. Most of our cheers had the theme of either school spirit or victory.
Everyone wanted to win – the team, us cheerleaders, and the entire student
body. The times that victory did come we were all excited. We jumped up and
down. We clapped our hands. We shouted. Victory was sweet!<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A person from my childhood that reminds me of victory was
singer George Beverly Shea. Remember him? He would often travel with Billy
Graham and sing at his crusades. I had the opportunity to attend a crusade my
senior year of high school, and I was not disappointed when Mr. Shea stood up
and sang "Victory in Jesus." His rendition was, and still is, my
favorite. I would often call into the local radio station during request time
and ask they play that song. (He and Joni Eareckson Tada were my regular requests. Am I dating myself?)<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
How do you view victory? Any victory within myself is
because of God in my life. What about you? What do you consider to be victories
in your life?</div>
<br /><i> "But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ " </i>(1 Corinthians 15:57).<br />
<br />
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aBEMKgtURQk" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Ruth O'Neilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06486936131825634627noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732651263813602291.post-22161040961936185722019-07-29T00:00:00.000-04:002019-07-29T00:00:11.784-04:00Monday Meditations - Journey<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrv8uy1sPsSqx1dUChnFML5psHqpuWZ0FIY_6a2OBYdDtGNoGcIV0GrkwECwTIegylbHtdR0O2NddwUARv-R85q-U1sQDhdEqOkvIGIx_c1hO6tq6VETpZofNj-5sTCBr3tp-TQJfj3sU/s1600/Journey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1237" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrv8uy1sPsSqx1dUChnFML5psHqpuWZ0FIY_6a2OBYdDtGNoGcIV0GrkwECwTIegylbHtdR0O2NddwUARv-R85q-U1sQDhdEqOkvIGIx_c1hO6tq6VETpZofNj-5sTCBr3tp-TQJfj3sU/s320/Journey.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Journey</span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi04M2BuxpecMQi4BdZnGmcj1v3xrRV5wJaYgc9RQLzG_wZF8rG6jT9mt3PU3jojD5YZiRmcQNLm3eCQ3xX2QznfMrwRXeBEo72y8R0RTVPuFdepqXqXyG3zUm-dWIliIZr07RKBmi549c/s1600/1c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1111" data-original-width="1092" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi04M2BuxpecMQi4BdZnGmcj1v3xrRV5wJaYgc9RQLzG_wZF8rG6jT9mt3PU3jojD5YZiRmcQNLm3eCQ3xX2QznfMrwRXeBEo72y8R0RTVPuFdepqXqXyG3zUm-dWIliIZr07RKBmi549c/s320/1c.jpg" width="314" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My parents instilled a love of camping in<br />
me at a young age. That little baby in the <br />
stroller, that's me!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Journey is a word that can evoke a lot of thoughts and
feelings. A journey can be physical, mental, or emotional. Sometimes a journey
we take is all about reaching a specific destination, yet other times it's all
about the getting there. We all take journeys from time to time. Maybe the word
brings to your mind family vacations. My family would often go camping when I
was a child. To pass the time the car my brother and I would play a game he
made up called "open your mouth and close your eyes and I will give you a
big surprise." The rules were pretty much self-explanatory. One time when
I opened my mouth and closed my eyes he fed me dirt from the floor of the car.
I didn't want to play the game anymore after that! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Many times a journey needs planning. I tell my writing
students that they should know the beginning and the ending of their stories. The
in between is the fun part – at least in story writing. Sometimes the life
journey isn't quite so much fun when it involves pain and loss or many other
negatives. It's how we handle these in-between's of our journey that count.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One journey I would love to take someday would be to travel
to all the Civil War sites/battlefields mentioned in the novel my mother wrote.
She passed away before it was published, and I think the journey would help me
feel close to her again. It would be even more emotional if my sisters could
join me.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What's going on in your life's journey right now? Do you
have any journey stories you would like to share? I'd love to hear them. Please
share them in the comments.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=rusreli05-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B00CJYML6G&asins=B00CJYML6G&linkId=30bc9d7daa8252c7d7a0b50f8ff451f2&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true&price_color=333333&title_color=0066c0&bg_color=ffffff" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;">
</iframe>Ruth O'Neilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06486936131825634627noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732651263813602291.post-8992199432942299382019-07-22T00:00:00.000-04:002019-07-22T00:00:01.703-04:00Monday Meditations - New<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLi2eik-frfNuA42HVFUur8PxuBMoFPbixfPx7l9iAa3bTsQwUWJBCZy_y0Cny5MD5Bjxlw8QANo8Aiv7_gBk7yGG3wu1tAlR6KYFZsJQ3_nIHpNVKhG8rSyNes2LnuuzzRKqbwTeKitI/s1600/New.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1237" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLi2eik-frfNuA42HVFUur8PxuBMoFPbixfPx7l9iAa3bTsQwUWJBCZy_y0Cny5MD5Bjxlw8QANo8Aiv7_gBk7yGG3wu1tAlR6KYFZsJQ3_nIHpNVKhG8rSyNes2LnuuzzRKqbwTeKitI/s320/New.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">New</span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Anyone who knows me knows I homeschooled my kids from
beginning to end. One of the aspects of that I enjoyed most was seeing the
light shine on their faces when they learned to read. It's fun to see people's
reactions to new things – whether by sight, sound, taste, or feel – especially with
children. Watching a child as he or she puts letters together to read a word is
an amazing thing. Their eyes light up in recognition and realization. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I still have the set of books my mom bought for me when I
was leaning to read. (Not sure she really understood what she was starting with
that book purchase!) I used those same books with my own children and am
keeping them for future generations.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I enjoy visiting new places, trying new food, making new
friends. Every time we have a new experience, we open the doors of our minds
and hearts. When my oldest daughter had the opportunity to go to Europe and see
new things, she came home with a couple thousand pictures and a whole lot more
words. She was excited to share what she had experienced. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What about the newness of a relationship? I remember what it
was like when I first started dating my husband. It was fresh and new and
exciting. We have to work at keeping it fresh and exciting, but we put work
into it because it's a relationship worth the effort. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When we become new creations in Christ, we will want to
share what He's done for us. We're excited in the beginning. The bad part comes
when we lose that excitement. That should never happen! God does so many
wonderful things for us each day. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Bible tells us that God's mercies are new every morning.
No matter what we did the day before, the week before, the month before, the
year before, we can have a fresh new start. God wipes the slate clean so to
speak. Once we accept Christ, we are a new creation. "Therefore if any man
be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away;
behold, all things are become new (2 Corinthians 5:17). I think that verse
pretty much says it all. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Don't lose the excitement of new love in Christ. Keep it
current and share with others how God reveals Himself to you every single day.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/psJg6yNtkNQ" width="560"></iframe>Ruth O'Neilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06486936131825634627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732651263813602291.post-19258476671338808312019-07-15T09:31:00.000-04:002019-07-15T09:31:04.395-04:00Monday Meditations - Gratitude<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsDJlxOMyKRt8Y1wXNIDW-GtlPpC8UDNJULVP6fsTdYewNKsSsOwnGtVx-8TU-y50IhKXGCdjzuhkXfvGScFD869ttoOCy5KjZfARUlf-rggtqix6pn7SGTJbTlHHrcnlehF2Bn61peFU/s1600/Gratitude.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1237" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsDJlxOMyKRt8Y1wXNIDW-GtlPpC8UDNJULVP6fsTdYewNKsSsOwnGtVx-8TU-y50IhKXGCdjzuhkXfvGScFD869ttoOCy5KjZfARUlf-rggtqix6pn7SGTJbTlHHrcnlehF2Bn61peFU/s320/Gratitude.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Gratitude</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Gratitude is something we are not exactly full of these
days. We would much rather show ungratefulness with all of our petty
complaints. And what do we complain about? Big things? Sometimes. But more
often than not we gripe about such minor issues like the temperature being too
hot or too cold.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Have you ever known someone who complained about everything?
Did/do you like to be around that person? The complaining person can be almost
toxic. They bring us down and make us want to complain more.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
There was one time I was going through the checkout at the store. The cashier complained about the company that employed her the entire time. Apparently she needed to be out of her apartment that day and wasn't allowed to take the day off. My cynical mind didn't want to hear her griping. I'm sure she had more than a couple hours' notice to vacate her apartment. As usual, my mouth was at work before my brain.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"You should be glad you have a job."<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
She was fairly silent after that.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At the time I had several friends who had been diligently looking for work and finding nothing. I felt she needed to show a little gratitude. (Isn't it funny how we can point out the faults in other people?)</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_p2Sw7xWwtujD76EnR9mjxkmRSvvW5ZDNyzOfjTNNTcGmd71FTXtAZxVuto9fcpG5JCryhm6cquXSEdH_AbjJipB3matcJcQ56G4l4Prf4Qn_HWy8xXt5LVXnBp_vJAEMfdCZMD5HV10/s1600/DSCN2714.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_p2Sw7xWwtujD76EnR9mjxkmRSvvW5ZDNyzOfjTNNTcGmd71FTXtAZxVuto9fcpG5JCryhm6cquXSEdH_AbjJipB3matcJcQ56G4l4Prf4Qn_HWy8xXt5LVXnBp_vJAEMfdCZMD5HV10/s200/DSCN2714.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Blessings Book</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Then there came a time I felt myself becoming so ungrateful. It is it
said that knowing you have a problem is half the battle, and I realized I had a problem. To combat my
complaining, I decided to start a Blessings Book. I had a small journal someone
had given me that I had yet to put to use. I began writing down all the little
(and big) blessings in my life. I jotted down when I missed an accident by one
car. I wrote down the times I went to the store looking for something specific
and found an awesome deal. I recorded the times God protected my family from
catastrophic danger. These entries are not anything anyone else will ever read; they're just between God and me. <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
You know what I noticed? The more blessings I wrote down,
the more blessings I noticed. I was grateful for each one and wanted to make
sure the Lord knew of my gratitude.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sometimes we are the cause of what we complain about. Think
about that. You know it's true.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Instead of complaining this week work a little harder at
having an attitude of gratitude. (A song from my childhood just came to my mind! I'll have to go look that up.)<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Want to start your own Blessings Book?</div>
<br />
<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=rusreli05-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=1432116703&asins=1432116703&linkId=f25ea87f9327c02685775e73bfede2ff&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true&price_color=333333&title_color=0066c0&bg_color=ffffff" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;">
</iframe>Ruth O'Neilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06486936131825634627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732651263813602291.post-13549666137865159682019-07-01T00:00:00.000-04:002019-07-01T07:19:03.589-04:00Monday Meditations - Joy<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPAEiugfKCuSR-Qj75yjwdIRoI55PyBC9elewKXdrcfMRzzT3HeUtIOuDEB9fsKwN3XkvMtyzBv-wDhyphenhyphenHCfmq5EQbgdYgT5supE2MwCjCWwvNUJldIt8sNbV5V8SAy9COS1FE6XNqQuC4/s1600/Joy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1237" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPAEiugfKCuSR-Qj75yjwdIRoI55PyBC9elewKXdrcfMRzzT3HeUtIOuDEB9fsKwN3XkvMtyzBv-wDhyphenhyphenHCfmq5EQbgdYgT5supE2MwCjCWwvNUJldIt8sNbV5V8SAy9COS1FE6XNqQuC4/s320/Joy.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Joy</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Someone recently told me she wasn't experiencing any joy in
her life. Each day she would go through the motions of simply surviving. There
was nothing to look forward to. She didn't feel as if she had many friends with
whom she could get together and make plans. While her feelings may have been
true, the reality of the matter is that sometimes we need to make an effort.
Yes, we need to work. Yes, we must pay the bills. But we also must make time
for the things that bring us joy.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Y1E5G1HhkFd_SxCCEr9Duu1TawqwMhauhmdZry14DsGWjYdmUIoQtud8R0Rpi6nf-5zgERXPtz7hgP-gIwRroXMc1ls0h_2n9NTl_b8Nbb9Ip9pIakY2PK0UP-fJ5bQxRtlBiPjNW1o/s1600/Civil+War+girls.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1344" data-original-width="975" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Y1E5G1HhkFd_SxCCEr9Duu1TawqwMhauhmdZry14DsGWjYdmUIoQtud8R0Rpi6nf-5zgERXPtz7hgP-gIwRroXMc1ls0h_2n9NTl_b8Nbb9Ip9pIakY2PK0UP-fJ5bQxRtlBiPjNW1o/s320/Civil+War+girls.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="232" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My sisters and I dressed up<br />
in some CW finery.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
One of the things my family did for fun when I was growing
up was Civil War skirmishing. That is something that is similar to reenacting,
only the different regiments shoot at targets for competition instead of at
each other. My parents started doing this when I was only five
months old. They continued doing it after I got married. We camped with the same
people many weekends from spring to fall. We made lifelong friends, some I'm
still friends with today. (Although it's not necessary to mention how many
years later!)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We looked forward to those skirmishing weekends. Those
weekends were the only time we saw those friends. Spending time with those
people and doing something we loved brought us joy. I still have so many precious memories of times and people from those years!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiCKG18eLRd12mZ-13BsyvqYZmaq4WRRYwkn6q8ph7vMUWl-GeSRR79SfOEC5Vv6GePgnh6fUIcHsJYGx1OwjVO_O5hljXg7YC6jPVSfiW6Hvro0iClXqhKQQOVassFc4m2p0WwVWTi_k/s1600/43a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1171" data-original-width="933" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiCKG18eLRd12mZ-13BsyvqYZmaq4WRRYwkn6q8ph7vMUWl-GeSRR79SfOEC5Vv6GePgnh6fUIcHsJYGx1OwjVO_O5hljXg7YC6jPVSfiW6Hvro0iClXqhKQQOVassFc4m2p0WwVWTi_k/s320/43a.jpg" width="254" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My parents. My mom made so many<br />
CW clothes, from uniforms to camp<br />
dresses to ball gowns.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEy-qNQUNcS_URClxLYj9A12WXEs44o-vYcqR1mg5EiqP5_QjjRdgWsxCLmO7gcgRgep0NL8rtsx2vxs0uzNe0UtI5W4QIx8IR24mej47Kny8hOIGr9wNwb8J1LAQ5QiOkvS1Bzf5Bxgw/s1600/43c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1216" data-original-width="864" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEy-qNQUNcS_URClxLYj9A12WXEs44o-vYcqR1mg5EiqP5_QjjRdgWsxCLmO7gcgRgep0NL8rtsx2vxs0uzNe0UtI5W4QIx8IR24mej47Kny8hOIGr9wNwb8J1LAQ5QiOkvS1Bzf5Bxgw/s320/43c.jpg" width="227" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My brother and me.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3t_jq4g3b-6z5id4P-QbIsAJHDXtUF94DDT8TRCXaQy6mk6NUIcT-1Ca0u7S59LrCk9twpEhDw_cCxFKxflXrNkOz3J-2w6FyPc_zIgzi1kCBviWPHZzu7K8yyPTAquKq_cL9lBbGyvc/s1600/20190620_102419.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3t_jq4g3b-6z5id4P-QbIsAJHDXtUF94DDT8TRCXaQy6mk6NUIcT-1Ca0u7S59LrCk9twpEhDw_cCxFKxflXrNkOz3J-2w6FyPc_zIgzi1kCBviWPHZzu7K8yyPTAquKq_cL9lBbGyvc/s200/20190620_102419.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Happy Place</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As an adult, I'm a simple girl. It doesn't take much to
bring me joy. All I need during the summer months is my chair, a book, and some
sun. If there is a pool, that's just icing on the cake. If I can sit outside
and read for an hour, I feel rested and recharged enough to complete the rest
of my daily tasks.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I'm not good at thinking up stuff I want. My kids get frustrated with me at Christmas, Mother's Day,
and my birthday. They ask what I want, but I can never think of anything
tangible. I would much rather spend time with them doing something. It's often
the littlest things that bring me the most joy.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What about you? Do you feel you need a little more joy in
your life? What can you do to make that happen? What hobbies did you once
enjoy? Take some time, even an hour a week to revive it. Call a friend, go out
to lunch, and catch up. Don't look for only big things to bring you joy. Take a
walk. Enjoy the sunset.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This week find one little thing that brings you joy and take
advantage of it.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My mom enjoyed writing and the Civil War. She combined them when she wrote her novel <i>Victory Song.</i></div>
<br />
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CJYML6G/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00CJYML6G&linkCode=as2&tag=rusreli05-20&linkId=df7a328ca4ef5efff022ff2b2193256f" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="200" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=B00CJYML6G&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=rusreli05-20" width="130" /></a>Ruth O'Neilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06486936131825634627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7732651263813602291.post-49032007558268365132019-06-24T00:00:00.000-04:002019-06-24T00:00:15.077-04:00Monday Meditations - Enjoy<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHUpBAb5ZTvNjz4kHuGFrKh7dDN9042_FQefxyz37yGwVoXNh384Wu9bltzEMz-teGp-fQ3Nks4h2L9rcwRORT-lmclILaqQsr4O8Z6cx9griZYh7wXrsQj8sfT4y3b9KxsRppVIAPthQ/s1600/Enjoy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1237" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHUpBAb5ZTvNjz4kHuGFrKh7dDN9042_FQefxyz37yGwVoXNh384Wu9bltzEMz-teGp-fQ3Nks4h2L9rcwRORT-lmclILaqQsr4O8Z6cx9griZYh7wXrsQj8sfT4y3b9KxsRppVIAPthQ/s320/Enjoy.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 37.2pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 37.2pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Enjoy</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 37.2pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 37.2pt;">
Summer is a time when people often
think of vacation. Families make plans when the kids are out of school. Summer
is a time to enjoy life. The weather allows for more outdoor activities. People
plan BBQs (activities surrounded by food are something I always enjoy!). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 37.2pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 37.2pt;">
As a child, summer for my siblings
and me meant riding bikes, making trails through the woods, plenty of
badminton, and long, sunny days at the community pool with friends. We would
spend hours with our friends and only come home at dinner time or when Mom rang
the bell Dad had installed on the porch to get our attention in far off places.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 37.2pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 37.2pt;">
Now that we're all adults, whenever
my siblings and I are all together we do a lot of reminiscing. We remember
those days gone by that we enjoyed so much. We enjoy the time remembering. So
many of our conversations begin with, "Do you remember that time…"<o:p></o:p></div>
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"Do you remember that time you
spit on my head?"<o:p></o:p></div>
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"Do you remember when Martha punched
Grandma in the face while she was sleep-cheerleading?"<o:p></o:p></div>
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"Do you remember Sarah's sexy
dress?"<o:p></o:p></div>
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"Remember when Billy went to
the ER for…?" (You can literally fill in that blank with anything!)<o:p></o:p></div>
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"Remember our Olympics
competitions?"<o:p></o:p></div>
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Oh, this list could go on forever!<o:p></o:p></div>
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One thing I've learned over the years is that God wants us
to enjoy life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>"I know that there
is nothing better for people than to be happy and to do good while they live. That
each of them may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all their
toil—this is the gift of God" (Ecclesiastes 3:12-13 NIV). That doesn’t
mean He will give us every little thing our spoiled hearts desire, but I imagine
He enjoys hearing us laugh and carry on with friends and family. I can't help
but wonder if He enjoys it as much as we do. After all, we are His children,
and as any other loving parent, He wants to see His kids happy and enjoying the
life we have. <o:p></o:p></div>
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So go enjoy life today!</div>
<br />Ruth O'Neilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06486936131825634627noreply@blogger.com0