Perhaps I will add some more pics maybe in another place...so I am a little curious to see if I can link this one as I was unable to link my Spirit of Christmas...Anyway...It is still Christmas at my house...
lyp
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Spirit of Christmas...and more...
Perhaps I will add some more pics maybe in another place...so I am a little curious to see if I can link this one as I was unable to link my Spirit of Christmas...Anyway...It is still Christmas at my house...
lyp
Monday, December 26, 2011
The Spirit of Christmas...
And the morning brings me to the solitude of My Kitchen Table...a place I come...and this morning my table is not where it usually sits...a reminder of the day yesterday...a time shared with family...a time shared with Love...and I am thankful for all of the blessings I have...not just the blessing of gifts received but more importantly of family and friends who I love and who love me...and so while I thought I would finish this before Christmas...I realize that Christmas does not end when the gifts are opened...perhaps it only begins as again it is begins a new season...a celebration for Christians...though I stop and think if I really give the honor and time and gift of my love...to the One who first loved me. Perhaps it is just a reminder...and I look at My God Calling from yesterday...and I take this from the website God Calling.
And so I go back and look at the past week...of when I started this particular writing...
This Christmas is such a collage of emotions...this morning at my kitchen table...I was given this picture of life being a puzzle...some pieces come easy...some do not seem like they should fit at all...but perhaps someday we will be able to stand back and see how all of the pieces seemed to fit...even though now such odd shaped pieces that do not seem to fit any where...
The other night after it snowed...I pulled in the yard and my little display of outdoor lights seemed to just welcome me and so I wanted to capture that picture and include it in some way...it was a cold night but was still...while I am writing this I think of that first Christmas night...as Mary Did You Know plays in the background...I wonder...I think of Mary's puzzle...
So back to the lights...I ran out and snapped a couple pics that just got part of the picture...but then I turned my camera so that it was taking in the long view and I snapped...it was--for lack of a better word--SO COOL! The flash seemed to "clink" (this is where you bear with me and I think of when I describe things in such ways that the shepherd says and how was that again...) but anyway it seems to capture something that my eyes could not see before...because to some it might look like it was snowing...but it was not...I am sure someone can give me a "logical" reason...but I choose to think I captured the "Spirit of Christmas". That unknown "Magic" that touches us all...those moments that you cannot help but stop and Thank God for the blessings around you...and that there is so much more than what we "see"...
And I think of going shopping and the scripture that was presented before going...yes it was just as I came along in the "ians" and "COINCIDENTAL" that this would be the one I would read before going shopping...2 Corinthians 9:6-15.
And so I put in the picture of it from my kitchen table. I have it sitting on a journal in the picture above that was given to me from Jay's mom...a precious gift for my birthday that I have chose to keep for stories such as this...ones that might not easily be explained...but precious gifts all the same. But as I pull it out of that box that morning...those that are not familiar with Precious Moments they have little names...you can't really read this one maybe as clear...but I had not read it in the store and probably just as well because I had already had tears when buying this and the woman had said are you alright mam! And Izzy just looked at me as though why are you crying Ahma...I had turned to the woman and said she just lost her daddy...and her mouth flew open and not really sure what she said...and as I write this now...I think...NO, she has not...though he is not there with her on a day to day basis...he is there with her in love...a gift without ending...So back to what it was titled..."GROW IN THE LIGHT OF HIS LOVE". WOW! If that does not give you chills or at least some emotion...yes...the "Spirit of Christmas". And I know that Izzy will grow in the Light of God's Love...as well as the Love of her daddy...as well as all of us that are a part of her life...
I opened my gifts...and one precious one that...seems to stick with this theme was one that touched my heart...you see I have several rolls of undeveloped film (that's why I love digital). Well Tim had been given instruction to get some of this film developed...this is one that Heather has told me...you need to get those developed mom...and so this gift was a special gift...but a gift indeed as these had been put in a picture album...
And the morning brings me to the solitude of My Kitchen Table...a place I come...and this morning my table is not where it usually sits...a reminder of the day yesterday...a time shared with family...a time shared with Love...and I am thankful for all of the blessings I have...not just the blessing of gifts received but more importantly of family and friends who I love and who love me...and so while I thought I would finish this before Christmas...I realize that Christmas does not end when the gifts are opened...perhaps it only begins as again it is begins a new season...a celebration for Christians...though I stop and think if I really give the honor and time and gift of my love...to the One who first loved me. Perhaps it is just a reminder...and I look at My God Calling from yesterday...and I take this from the website God Calling.
Babe of Bethlehem
Kneel before the Babe of Bethlehem. Accept the truth that the Kingdom of Heaven is for the lowly, the simple.
Bring to Me, the Christ-child, your gifts, truly the gifts of earth's wisest.
The Gold -- your money.
Frankincense -- the adoration of a consecrated life.
Myrrh -- your sharing in My sorrows and those of the world.
"And they presented unto Him gifts: gold, frankincense and myrrh."
"Though the Lord be high, yet hath he respect unto the
lowly: but the proud he knoweth afar off." Psalm 138:6
lowly: but the proud he knoweth afar off." Psalm 138:6
And so I go back and look at the past week...of when I started this particular writing...
This Christmas is such a collage of emotions...this morning at my kitchen table...I was given this picture of life being a puzzle...some pieces come easy...some do not seem like they should fit at all...but perhaps someday we will be able to stand back and see how all of the pieces seemed to fit...even though now such odd shaped pieces that do not seem to fit any where...
The other night after it snowed...I pulled in the yard and my little display of outdoor lights seemed to just welcome me and so I wanted to capture that picture and include it in some way...it was a cold night but was still...while I am writing this I think of that first Christmas night...as Mary Did You Know plays in the background...I wonder...I think of Mary's puzzle...
So back to the lights...I ran out and snapped a couple pics that just got part of the picture...but then I turned my camera so that it was taking in the long view and I snapped...it was--for lack of a better word--SO COOL! The flash seemed to "clink" (this is where you bear with me and I think of when I describe things in such ways that the shepherd says and how was that again...) but anyway it seems to capture something that my eyes could not see before...because to some it might look like it was snowing...but it was not...I am sure someone can give me a "logical" reason...but I choose to think I captured the "Spirit of Christmas". That unknown "Magic" that touches us all...those moments that you cannot help but stop and Thank God for the blessings around you...and that there is so much more than what we "see"...
And I think of going shopping and the scripture that was presented before going...yes it was just as I came along in the "ians" and "COINCIDENTAL" that this would be the one I would read before going shopping...2 Corinthians 9:6-15.
"The Cheerful Giver
6 But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. 7 So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may have an abundance for every good work. 9 As it is written:
“ He has dispersed abroad,
He has given to the poor;
His righteousness endures forever.”[b]
10 Now may[c] He who supplies seed to the sower, and bread for food, supply and multiply the seed you have sown and increase the fruits of your righteousness, 11 while you are enriched in everything for all liberality, which causes thanksgiving through us to God. 12 For the administration of this service not only supplies the needs of the saints, but also is abounding through many thanksgivings to God, 13 while, through the proof of this ministry, they glorify God for the obedience of your confession to the gospel of Christ, and for your liberal sharing with them and all men, 14 and by their prayer for you, who long for you because of the exceeding grace of God in you. 15 Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!"
“ He has dispersed abroad,
He has given to the poor;
His righteousness endures forever.”[b]
10 Now may[c] He who supplies seed to the sower, and bread for food, supply and multiply the seed you have sown and increase the fruits of your righteousness, 11 while you are enriched in everything for all liberality, which causes thanksgiving through us to God. 12 For the administration of this service not only supplies the needs of the saints, but also is abounding through many thanksgivings to God, 13 while, through the proof of this ministry, they glorify God for the obedience of your confession to the gospel of Christ, and for your liberal sharing with them and all men, 14 and by their prayer for you, who long for you because of the exceeding grace of God in you. 15 Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!"
And I go back to my journal that day...and I write..."Thanks be to God can I get an Amen! Yes Phyllis I think of you." I think of Phyllis my mother's cousin on her mother's side...how I loved Phyllis...she had such a quiet strength about her...but on our family site...she would put an "Amen" in there...something she was "working" on...but sometimes...I think of Phyllis at my kitchen table...and it is not in a way in which I can describe...perhaps I feel her love and this particular morning her son comes to my thoughts as well as one of her sisters who I know is dealing with missing her...as I know all of her family does...Phyllis is one of those that you "miss"...that her very presence was felt and so how can we not help but feel her love even though not here...But what seems to go with my theme on this particular day is I think of her son so clearly...and I open up my facebook and it is his birthday...Happy Birthday Bill...as I know he misses his mom...and I think of the "Spirit of Christmas"...a love that passes all understanding...
That day as many others this "season" I have just had special "gifts" that were not ones that you might explain...but gifts none the less...and perhaps it is those gifts you cannot explain that are truly the sweetest!
Christmas Eve, we got to spend time with Jay's family...a gift...as I know this has to be such a sad time for them...as it is for me...but I was thankful to get to spend time with them...and we exchanged gifts and Isabel gave her mom her "gift". One that brings tears to my eyes even as I sit here...I may have told part of this before...but I tell it again...While Heather went to the doctor...Isabel and I went shopping. Her Mom had given her money to buy gifts...I think of Heather talking about how someone had shared on the site for those who had lost I beleive it was for police officers...I am not certain...but the thought for whoever...in that those who have lost a spouse...that sometimes...no one steps in and helps the kids get a gift for the one left behind and Heather had commented that she had many that would...and I am thankful for that but I pray that others would have someone step in and do the same...
I go back to the "shopping". Isabel seems to shop much like her daddy and I think of the fun that they would have...oh probably not a lot of shopping done...but as we stopped and played on the cars for quite a while...looked at puppies...and one that really did was Izzy telling me to go back to the game store...that she wanted to go in there...and I think of her and her dad could have spent a good couple of hours...playing games.
But though I stray off the subject a little...I am still there...because though not physically there shopping with us...oh yeah...Izzy's daddy was shopping with us...because as we went through the Hallmark store...we first started looking at ornaments and then we headed to the Precious Moments! Heather has always loved those and I have sometimes gotten her some...but Jay has many times gotten her one...so I find this sweet little girl with a lamb that says, "Jesus loves me" and I tell Izzy do you like that one. I thought it would be a cute sweet one coming from her to her mama...and then she seen it...It was a mommy and daddy holding a precious little baby. And she said, "That one Ahma!" To which a lump formed in my throat and I said well what about this one...and with that same determination that her mom and dad both have (she stands no chance) when they have made a decision said...even though I tried to have her look at more...she had yes....the "Spirit of Christmas" with her...the love of her daddy seemed to be with us and though I knew it would be hard for her mom...it would be a cherished gift...and a special reminder of a happy family! As I told the woman at the store we wanted that one...she said it is a baptisimal one are you sure...I said OH YES! That is the one...I think of Izzy being baptized...an out of the ordinary...but precious gift all the same...and her daddy was there then and is with her always...yes that "Spirit of Christmas" thing...
I opened my gifts...and one precious one that...seems to stick with this theme was one that touched my heart...you see I have several rolls of undeveloped film (that's why I love digital). Well Tim had been given instruction to get some of this film developed...this is one that Heather has told me...you need to get those developed mom...and so this gift was a special gift...but a gift indeed as these had been put in a picture album...
And so I put in some of the pictures...that were "gifts" almost as though I got a special visit from some special memories...
Some of these were from our 25th wedding anniversary...so that would have been 5 years ago...our kids had put on a special gathering for us...but some are from I think Lance's 16th birthday...the one I think that the first picture is from that just makes me smile...because there at my kitchen table where I write so many days...in her "seat" while Curtis Ball a special friend and Heather I am guessing were going to give Lance his 16 spankings...I smile just thinking of the memory...
 |
| Curtis and Doris at my bar...probably Lance's 16th... |
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| My Mom sitting and listening ...and my baby... |
And as I continued on in the album...like I said from our 25th...but I smile and remember when my future to be son-in-law had came for the event...and I smile at the way he would (as my brother had described once on a picture talking of how my mom would light up when on his arm) but I think how he would make Heather light up...how he made her laugh...and I think of this and as I am finishing this and getting ready to add those pics...a video comes on that the first time I heard made me think of Heather and Jay and so Heather and I are watching it and I think of Jay telling Tim one of the first times he met us about not having as much time and money...and Tim telling him well dump her...and so I put the video in because while it brought tears thinking...Heather doesn't get to finish watching it because a little voice upstairs is hollaring, "Mommy"...but I think of the frame I found for Heather...It's not the breaths you take but the moments that take your breath away...
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| Heather, Jay, and the famous "Screaming Neon" |
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| Heather always had a thing for teddy bears... |
 |
| I smile at this as none of remember what they were chasing but I smile at Jay in one of his classic Jay ensembles... And I go through to more of the 25th and I see my Aunt Betty and cousin Vonnie sitting on the porch swing and I think how I enjoy these two...but sitting next to them is "Butch" as I'm sure my Aunt B would call him...and how I think of Heaven...will we all just be sitting on the front porch...I don't know but I am thankful for Jesus and how I have that promise...of a place where I will be with those that have gone on...but now I am given gifts of the "Spirit"... |
I put in a picture that was included...that just reminds me of how fast time flies...and I love this picture of my nephew Ethan and how he is now a freshman in college...and I smile at my mom's old van...and the "parties in a van" she would bring to our house and how we had taken chili to Heather's and I had commented about thinking of Mom and her parties in a van...and as I am writing on Ethan's picture...I receive a text from him...sure he is on the other side of the mountain...but he knows when I am thinking of him...
And I end this watching Izzy playing with her last present (she kind of opened in shifts...partiall because she may have got a few presents...and partly because she is 2 and maybe she gets distracted...not a trait she gets from her Ahma because I still got mine) and her mama is writing I-S-A-B-E-L M-A-R-I-E S-H-E-R-I-D-A-N and Heather tells Isabel what's mama's last name...and she says Sheridan...and she says what is Ahma's last name...and Izzy says Sheridan to which her mom replies no that's what Grammy's is...to which Izzy replies, "AHMA,AHMA,AHMA!" And my heart fills with the "Spirit of Christmas"...
And so I stop right now because...I have one little Firecracker who wants to play...McDonalds (probably ranking up there as her favorite gift...a little cash register, head set, cheese burger, fries, and more...although I think she liked the Radio Flyer and Basketball goal from Ahma and Oppy)...and so she is telling me hurry up...so I break for now...because I got a "HAPPY MEAL" to order...
So I come back here and again the house is quiet...the kids have headed home...the tree is missing presents but one little picture frame I put underneath with a picture of my Firecracker and I am thankful for the family I have and more importantly I am thankful for my faith...and for that Spirit of Christmas...
God bless you in this season...
lyp
lyp
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Goodbye Joe...
Today we went to the Memorial service for Joe Petramala...it was a very loving tribute and I am still so impressed with his son Jonathan's words. My daughter said he was always good at speaking and writing...and today he probably gave the hardest talk of his life...and he was awesome. He had us laughing, crying, and when he was done there was applause...
Joe's wife Janie was as one person put it..."a class act". Another said while Joe did the marketing and buying...Janie would be fine with all those sheep--she was the worker. I refer to Janie as a "shepherd". I have seen her first hand in going through our own tragedy with sheep and watched her...she is a "shepherd" and I mean that as a great compliment...Jonathan spoke of his parents complimenting each other in their strengths and weaknesses...and I know Joe will be so missed by them both. I am so sorry and saddened by this loss...
The tribute was a good one...and was filled with great love by all those who spoke as well as the many that packed the large church. And so when I got home tonight I ran to the post office and for those who seen the sunset it was an awesome one! The picture below does not even do it justice. As soon as I got home I ran and grabbed my camera...but I missed the awesome glow that almost seemed to glow as fire as the sunset behind the trees and the mountains in my rear view mirror. As I drove, Casting Crowns played Spirit Wind...and the music made me pray for the family that they would be filled with the Spirit Wind...as well as all who thirst for more...
And so I ran out to the road to snap a picture and as I stopped and said goodbye Joe...I started to turn when out of the corner of my eye...a hawk soared in the adjoining field and I just snapped my camera with out focusing. As I knew as I have experienced before...it was one of those Selah moments...those moments you pause and calmly think of this. And so since the picture was blurred...I added a different view to it...one that you might feel the peace I felt as I watched it soar and land in a distant tree...(And as I go to finish this...my shepherd comes in and says it looks like it might be going to get foggy...and I think of one of the stories told today and thought probably when I hear of fog...I will think of Joe...and wonder if in fact we will receive moisture in 100 days...)
I think back of when I first remember meeting Joe...we purchased fencing materials from him where I worked...He was good to do business with...if he told you it would be there...it usually was. However, we then got to know him through the "sheep" world as well. By the number of people that were there today...it is obvious that he touched many lives and will be missed by many...so though we said goodbye's today Joe...we will remember you much longer.
God be with Joe's friends and families...I pray for their strength...I pray for their peace.
Goodbye Joe...
And I include Spirit Wind...perhaps a prayer for us here in the valley...
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Do not be afraid...
So this morning at my kitchen table...I seemed to have a bit of a different schedule...I chose not to go into work this morning because of the weather conditions...we had a bit of a snow storm last night and the shepherd is out playing in the snow as we speak...for those with livestock...a white Christmas usually means a little or a LOT more work...I look out at the sheep who usually seem somewhat white and against the blanket of snow on the ground they seem to darken...Drifts of snow against the water tank has a little lamb sinking in and seems to be next to its mama saying, "what is this mama?" As his little legs sink in up to his belly. And the shepherd now has a mountain of snow that has made way for a clear place for the sheep to eat...yes a shepherds way of clearing off the table...compliments of his favorite toy--a skid loader. (hmm wonder if that would fit in the house!!)
As I have said...God seems to talk to me in so many ways. I had listened to a deal on the radio awhile back as to what kind of affirmation we like. I think mine is verbal affirmation...I assume verbal--so I look it up...YEP..."of, relating to, or consisting of words". THAT IS WHAT I LOVE--WORDS!! Not always something shared by others close to me in my INNER circle if you will! In fact one of my son's favorite lines is from Pure Country...so perhaps I can't quote word for word but it is when Ernest says, "So what has any one got to say that hasn't already been said." Sometimes my family may not say it out loud but are probably thinking it.
I get back to my story...I am also such a visual and sometimes a little thick headed. I have sometimes it seems received messages that seem to be CAN YOU HEAR ME NOW!!! I have been reading and many of them seem to be talking of fear...and so COINCIDENTAL that while on my way to Colorado Springs there in Pueblo on the bridge...someone's graffiti...but it was pointed out to me and seemed to be written on my heart and mind..."Do not be afraid". So then my next God Calling by A.J. Russell...(YES THE TWO LISTENERS) seemed to play right on that...yesterday it read:
And so this morning I think of those around suffering of sadness and how we handle that and what should I read in my God Calling for today...
Depression...I heard it described as being "ugly and helpless". I listened to someone else a while back who was discussing depression and how times people will not treat it as seriously as they would if someone had a drug or alcohol problem, cancer, heart problems...yet it can be as dangerous...but because we can not SEE it as clearly. Sometimes it is chemical...sometimes environmental...so complex I do not even try to define...but I remember the guy talking on it as saying helpless and not himself...
And so here I am at my kitchen table with all these words that I seem to have a need to put down...perhaps for those other verbal's out there...perhaps just for my own internal processing. And the sun is trying to shine and my journal page says at the bottom, "The promises of God are more certain than a sunrise after nightfall." I think of all of those going through their own personal blizards...their darkness of the night...and I pray for light and sunshine...the Light that we can only receive through our Lord our God! I thank Jesus for this time of year...but I also know that this time of year is hard as well.
I snap a picture of the sheep eating...of the pile of snow...that if we let him, our Shepherd will clear our way...and I give thanks for the light of day that only earlier was clouded...I come across a scripture that is in a writing...a writing that I have had my own fears about...but one that I am just going to let go...but I add it...
lyp
As I have said...God seems to talk to me in so many ways. I had listened to a deal on the radio awhile back as to what kind of affirmation we like. I think mine is verbal affirmation...I assume verbal--so I look it up...YEP..."of, relating to, or consisting of words". THAT IS WHAT I LOVE--WORDS!! Not always something shared by others close to me in my INNER circle if you will! In fact one of my son's favorite lines is from Pure Country...so perhaps I can't quote word for word but it is when Ernest says, "So what has any one got to say that hasn't already been said." Sometimes my family may not say it out loud but are probably thinking it.
I get back to my story...I am also such a visual and sometimes a little thick headed. I have sometimes it seems received messages that seem to be CAN YOU HEAR ME NOW!!! I have been reading and many of them seem to be talking of fear...and so COINCIDENTAL that while on my way to Colorado Springs there in Pueblo on the bridge...someone's graffiti...but it was pointed out to me and seemed to be written on my heart and mind..."Do not be afraid". So then my next God Calling by A.J. Russell...(YES THE TWO LISTENERS) seemed to play right on that...yesterday it read:
Perfect Love
Our Lord, give us that Perfect Love of Thee that casts out all fear.Never let yourselves fear anybody or anything. No fear of My failing you. No fear that your faith will fail you. No fear of poverty or loneliness. No fear of not knowing the way. No fear of others. No fear of their misunderstanding.But, My children, this absolute casting out of fear is the result of a Perfect Love, a perfect Love of Me and My Father. Speak to Me about everything. Listen to Me at all times. Feel My tender nearness, substituting at once some thought of Me for the fear.The powers of evil watch you as a besieging force would watch a guarded city -- the object being always to find some weak spot, attack that, and so gain an entrance. So evil lurks around you, and seeks to surprise you in some fear.The fear may have been but a small one, but it affords evil a weak spot of attack and entrance, and then in some rushing despondency, doubt of Me, and so many other sins. Pray, My beloved children, for that Perfect Love of Me that indeed casts out all fear.
"Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring
lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:
Whom resist steadfast in the faith." 1 Peter 5:8, 9
lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:
Whom resist steadfast in the faith." 1 Peter 5:8, 9
Depression
Fight fear as you would fight a plague. Fight it in My Name. . . . Fear, even the smallest fear, is the hacking at the cords of Love that bind you to Me.However small the impression, in time those cords will wear thin, and then one disappointment, or shock, and they snap. But for the little fears the cords of Love would have held.Fight fear.Depression is a state of fear. Fight that too. Fight. Fight. Depression is the impression left by fear. Fight and conquer, and oh! for Love of Me, for the sake of My tender, never-failing Love of you, fight and love and win.
"Here my voice, O God, in my prayer; preserve my life from fear of the enemy." Psalm 64:1
And so here I am at my kitchen table with all these words that I seem to have a need to put down...perhaps for those other verbal's out there...perhaps just for my own internal processing. And the sun is trying to shine and my journal page says at the bottom, "The promises of God are more certain than a sunrise after nightfall." I think of all of those going through their own personal blizards...their darkness of the night...and I pray for light and sunshine...the Light that we can only receive through our Lord our God! I thank Jesus for this time of year...but I also know that this time of year is hard as well.
I snap a picture of the sheep eating...of the pile of snow...that if we let him, our Shepherd will clear our way...and I give thanks for the light of day that only earlier was clouded...I come across a scripture that is in a writing...a writing that I have had my own fears about...but one that I am just going to let go...but I add it...
 |
| If you look on the pole...yep there is a bird...Selah... |
Joshua 1:9
"Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”
And I think how I have received some Divine Editorial input today and a wonderful lesson at my kitchen table...and so I add in the picture and words I received earlier regarding VERBAL...I go to find the picture to include and SHUT the definition tab...when VERBAL seems to come up and bite me in the...well it goes on as the definition to expand and give two other meanings...meanings that seem to be ones to take heed:
With that said...I think I better just quit talking and get busy...
- of, relating to, or involving words rather than meaning or substance <a consistency that is merely verbal and scholastic — B. N. Cardozo>
- consisting of or using words only and not involving action <verbal abuse>
lyp
Monday, December 19, 2011
Go rest high...one more time
Today has been 10 years since I lost my Mom...December 18, 2001...and with that I think back on her as well as those that we lost this year! I think it is extra hard at the holidays...and this being the first Christmas without Jay...We miss him so...
We went to the cemetery in Fowler and decorated my Mom and Dad's and Grandma Bessie's graves. That is why my Grandma wanted buried there...was so someone would be around to take care of it...and when she died in 1981...it was such a pretty cemetary...although the drought took it's toll. My Mom always went over and so I try to keep the tradition going...I found a small wreath this year for Grandma's...but it just reminded me of her...she loved the reds and golds. I found one similar in color for Mom and Dad's. I actually am somewhat early for me this year...
While I do not believe that those I love are there...it is where their body was layed to rest...while their soul has moved on...I take it as a time to remember and respect the lives of those that have went on...I stop and think how precious life is and we do not know how much time we have.
In wanting to take something to Jay's grave, I didn't find a wreath I wanted so came across some greenery and blue ribbon...and then it just seemed there was inspiration of things to add to his wreath. While it had the American flags to honor him, it almost had some other items...just because they made me think of Jay...the fish bottle opener...the little goat...the angel bird...and various other things that either make one think of Jay or add some "Christmas" to it. Perhaps it isn't a traditional or ordinary wreath...but Jay wasn't really a traditional or ordinary guy. I miss getting to shop for him for Christmas...it was always fun...as I would find a crazy hat...something cammo...
Which takes me to this afternoon...as the shepherd and I went to Limon by way of Colorado Springs...We were going to meet up with Heather and since she was in Fort Collins we decided to do a little Christmas shopping...so would it be a "coincidence"...when we headed for Sportsman's Warehouse...I think was probably one of Jay's favorite places to go shop in the Springs...but as we pulled in...came on the radio...Vince Gill...Go Rest High On That Mountain...My Mom loved Vince and this song was played at both her and Jay's funerals...so Tim and I just sat in the truck holding hands...thinking of those we had lost...I am blessed to have such a caring man.
I really don't think it was a coincidence...my devotional in My Utmost For His Highest by Oswald Chambers this morning...was one of those that just had many parts that seemed to speak to me...granted not all things I chose to hear...but talked to me all the same...(like the complaining part!)
At my kitchen table this morning I had read the above...and so when I said that I didn't think it was a coincidence that Tim and I heard that song...and made us stop and think of those we love and miss so much...Like I said I loved finding Jay that special cammo something or other. So in keeping with the tradition...I found Izzy some pretty cute pink cammo that I couldn't pass up!
And as I had said at the beginning...2011 was a tough year...we lost Curtis Ball a special friend...a special man...then we lost Jay Sheridan--my favorite son-in-law...and many others...and one that we are dealing with right now...Joe Petramala. I think of his wife and son and feel for them for what they are going through...to lose one they love.
But the one that seemed to stick with me that is one of the things that I look towards in being a Christian and believing...and especially at this time of year a reminder of my faith that through the birth and then death and resurrection of Jesus Christ that the following will come true...Revelations 21:4-5
Another coincidence that I would come across these...and it seemed to speak to me..."Write, for these words are true and faithful."
So I pause and put up another memorial for those we have lost because their life was precious to me. I stop and think of their family and friends, that they would reflect on being blessed that they had someone in their life who we do love and miss...
But I also stop and think of getting to eat dinner with friends in Limon...HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMY! Happy Birthday to my Aunt Betty tomorrow...or perhaps it is today as I look at the time...and the clock has since passed twelve...so I say...
Peace to all! God be with you...
We went to the cemetery in Fowler and decorated my Mom and Dad's and Grandma Bessie's graves. That is why my Grandma wanted buried there...was so someone would be around to take care of it...and when she died in 1981...it was such a pretty cemetary...although the drought took it's toll. My Mom always went over and so I try to keep the tradition going...I found a small wreath this year for Grandma's...but it just reminded me of her...she loved the reds and golds. I found one similar in color for Mom and Dad's. I actually am somewhat early for me this year...
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| Jimmie and Peggy Lance Love you Mom and Dad |
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| Grandma Bessie Love to you as well... |
In wanting to take something to Jay's grave, I didn't find a wreath I wanted so came across some greenery and blue ribbon...and then it just seemed there was inspiration of things to add to his wreath. While it had the American flags to honor him, it almost had some other items...just because they made me think of Jay...the fish bottle opener...the little goat...the angel bird...and various other things that either make one think of Jay or add some "Christmas" to it. Perhaps it isn't a traditional or ordinary wreath...but Jay wasn't really a traditional or ordinary guy. I miss getting to shop for him for Christmas...it was always fun...as I would find a crazy hat...something cammo...
Which takes me to this afternoon...as the shepherd and I went to Limon by way of Colorado Springs...We were going to meet up with Heather and since she was in Fort Collins we decided to do a little Christmas shopping...so would it be a "coincidence"...when we headed for Sportsman's Warehouse...I think was probably one of Jay's favorite places to go shop in the Springs...but as we pulled in...came on the radio...Vince Gill...Go Rest High On That Mountain...My Mom loved Vince and this song was played at both her and Jay's funerals...so Tim and I just sat in the truck holding hands...thinking of those we had lost...I am blessed to have such a caring man.
I really don't think it was a coincidence...my devotional in My Utmost For His Highest by Oswald Chambers this morning...was one of those that just had many parts that seemed to speak to me...granted not all things I chose to hear...but talked to me all the same...(like the complaining part!)
"THE TEST OF LOYALTY
And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God.
It is only the loyal soul who believes that God engineers circumstances. We take such liberty with our circumstances, we do not believe God engineers them, although we say we do; we treat the things that happen as if they were engineered by men. To be faithful in every circumstance means that we have only one loyalty, and that is to our Lord. Suddenly God breaks up a particular set of circumstances, and the realization comes that we have been disloyal to Him by not recognizing that He had ordered them; we never saw what He was after, and that particular thing will never be repeated all the days of our life. The test of loyalty always comes just there. If we learn to worship God in the trying circumstances, He will alter them in two seconds when He chooses.
Loyalty to Jesus Christ is the thing that we "stick at" to-day. We will be loyal to work, to service, to anything, but do not ask us to be loyal to Jesus Christ. Many Christians are intensely impatient of talking about loyalty to Jesus. Our Lord is dethroned more emphatically by Christian workers than by the world. God is made a machine for blessing men, and Jesus Christ is made a Worker among workers.
The idea is not that we do work for God, but that we are so loyal to Him that He can do His work through us - "I reckon on you for extreme service, with no complaining on your part and no explanation on Mine." God wants to use us as He used His own Son.
Romans 8:28"
"THE TEST OF LOYALTY
Loyalty to Jesus Christ is the thing that we "stick at" to-day. We will be loyal to work, to service, to anything, but do not ask us to be loyal to Jesus Christ. Many Christians are intensely impatient of talking about loyalty to Jesus. Our Lord is dethroned more emphatically by Christian workers than by the world. God is made a machine for blessing men, and Jesus Christ is made a Worker among workers.
The idea is not that we do work for God, but that we are so loyal to Him that He can do His work through us - "I reckon on you for extreme service, with no complaining on your part and no explanation on Mine." God wants to use us as He used His own Son.
Romans 8:28"
At my kitchen table this morning I had read the above...and so when I said that I didn't think it was a coincidence that Tim and I heard that song...and made us stop and think of those we love and miss so much...Like I said I loved finding Jay that special cammo something or other. So in keeping with the tradition...I found Izzy some pretty cute pink cammo that I couldn't pass up!
This year I think I would like to start a tradition...for whoever wants to...that in Jay's stocking I pulled out and put by the fireplace with the others. But I would like to put in it something for Izzy that either makes one think of her daddy...something he might give her...just something that helps her remember and know him more. Although in Christmas shopping with her the other day...I felt she had lots of her daddy with us...but I will maybe write of that later because I can't give away what we shopped for!!! But I put in a couple pics from the cemetary...granted these were taken at night...because we might have gotten there a little later...but it does have a cool flashing bow that lights up his picture from just last year at Christmas time...and one realizes that we do not know...
We miss and love you Jay Bird...
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| The greenery doesn't show up...but the picture of Jay does... |
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| We think of you often Officer Jay Sheridan...love you and miss you! |
I found something the other day while on my wreath shopping that I had to get...it brought tears...but it just seemed to symbolize how I think of Jay...there is this large penguin that seems to be hugging and looking over the snow globe and inside is another penguin holding a baby one. I feel Jay's love watching over them both...I hope they feel it. I also found a little snowman in police uniform that was either for their tree or the wreath....but seemed to need to go on their tree...Maybe I will get pictures of my tree...
And as I had said at the beginning...2011 was a tough year...we lost Curtis Ball a special friend...a special man...then we lost Jay Sheridan--my favorite son-in-law...and many others...and one that we are dealing with right now...Joe Petramala. I think of his wife and son and feel for them for what they are going through...to lose one they love.
I stop and think of Joe...a sheep guy...memories of him at the sheep shows...hauling sheep...and I can see that smile of his. He was a special person...did he know? I think of my son--how he enjoyed talking sheep with Joe. I think of others who thought so much of him. And we will miss you Joe and I pray for his family and those left behind for strength...for peace...
And so I end with the scripture I read today...a COINCIDENCE? I think some more of that "engineering". I am still reading in the "IANS". Not sure if I mentioned...decided to go through and read in the New Testament the ones ending in ...ians...so I call them the IANS. But today I had read the last part of 2 Corinthians 5:12-21...
Be Reconciled to God 12 For we do not commend ourselves again to you, but give you opportunity to boast on our behalf, that you may have an answer for those who boast in appearance and not in heart. 13 For if we are beside ourselves, it is for God; or if we are of sound mind, it is for you. 14 For the love of Christ compels us, because we judge thus: that if One died for all, then all died; 15 and He died for all, that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again.
16 Therefore, from now on, we regard no one according to the flesh. Even though we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet now we know Him thus no longer. 17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. 18 Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation, 19 that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation.
20 Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God. 21 For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.
But the one that seemed to stick with me that is one of the things that I look towards in being a Christian and believing...and especially at this time of year a reminder of my faith that through the birth and then death and resurrection of Jesus Christ that the following will come true...Revelations 21:4-5 Be Reconciled to God 12 For we do not commend ourselves again to you, but give you opportunity to boast on our behalf, that you may have an answer for those who boast in appearance and not in heart. 13 For if we are beside ourselves, it is for God; or if we are of sound mind, it is for you. 14 For the love of Christ compels us, because we judge thus: that if One died for all, then all died; 15 and He died for all, that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again.
16 Therefore, from now on, we regard no one according to the flesh. Even though we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet now we know Him thus no longer. 17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. 18 Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation, 19 that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation.
20 Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God. 21 For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.
12 For we do not commend ourselves again to you, but give you opportunity to boast on our behalf, that you may have an answer for those who boast in appearance and not in heart. 13 For if we are beside ourselves, it is for God; or if we are of sound mind, it is for you. 14 For the love of Christ compels us, because we judge thus: that if One died for all, then all died; 15 and He died for all, that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again.
16 Therefore, from now on, we regard no one according to the flesh. Even though we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet now we know Him thus no longer. 17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. 18 Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation, 19 that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation.
20 Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God. 21 For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.
4 And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.”
5 Then He who sat on the throne said, “Behold, I make all things new.” And He said to me,[b] “Write, for these words are true and faithful.”
Another coincidence that I would come across these...and it seemed to speak to me..."Write, for these words are true and faithful."4 And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.”
5 Then He who sat on the throne said, “Behold, I make all things new.” And He said to me,[b] “Write, for these words are true and faithful.”
So I pause and put up another memorial for those we have lost because their life was precious to me. I stop and think of their family and friends, that they would reflect on being blessed that they had someone in their life who we do love and miss...
But I also stop and think of getting to eat dinner with friends in Limon...HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMY! Happy Birthday to my Aunt Betty tomorrow...or perhaps it is today as I look at the time...and the clock has since passed twelve...so I say...
Peace to all! God be with you...
lyp
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