mississippimussings

Discipline of Water; one gallon at a time. The begining

2011-02-28T11:40:00.000-08:00

Such a long time ...
Thinking i should change the name to something else, but that would not get me back here to do what i started out to do .... to capture where i am, where i have been and look to the future ... Perhaps it would work better if i did not have to come sit inside of an unheated space to write ... Wait, i missed summer months too ....

As the picture above shows .... my kitchen froze not to long ago, well really the whole trailer froze .... solid! It took over a week for the water to unfreeze in the pipes (i capped it off before that happened) and another few days for the septic to unfreeze. Did you know that that when a tomato freezes it looks normal until you touch it? Did you know that a computer does not like the cold and mine will not work when the temp gets into the 40's and lower ... How about a lighter will not work when it gets really cold ... Keep those matches around folks! The milk in your breakfast cereal will freeze, in 20 degree temp, before you can eat your cereal!

There is so much that the everyday person in America takes for granted ...

I am taking a time out and looking at life differently (as if i already wasn't). I am going to name this time of my life ---Discipline of Water; one gallon at a time.
Because of the extent of possible damage and the unavailability of plumbing supplies i have chosen to keep the inside water cut off until warmer weather and the return of pvc to the shelves. Thankfully i have water on the property, it is just a matter of bringing it inside ... a much shorter distance than most of the water toting people of the world.

Every glass of water i drink, pot of coffee, ounce of water i use inside the house must be a forethought ... i must plan for everything i do using water. That includes flushing the toilet and washing my hands --even taking a bath and washing my hair. Only once have i forgotten that i was going to wash my hair when i bathed ... not a good time to realize you need another gallon of warm water .... I am learning about the need to plan for the simple things.

It would appear that God has directed me to a time where simplicity is the very best course of action. Most days i find it joyful and funny in my new life ... where i don't it can be a direct cause of lack of planning or forgetfulness (not the same thing, trust me). One of the positive sides of all this is find that i gauge the daily crises, of myself and others, on their actual life threat value. Sometimes .... that is good thing, sometimes not! It is hard to feel sorry for a friend who is telling me how broke she is because she can not pay for her new washer and dryer this week and has to wait. My washer is outside and laundry for me is an interactive event, the shut off on the washer does not work and i must play the part or risk flooding the front yard. I am glad my friend is able to get a new set, i am laughing that waiting a week is a crises. Her old set still works and her life is really not inconvenienced. Then i wonder would this be me had i chosen to live differently ...

Return

2009-12-08T14:39:00.000-08:00

Returning .....
Been away, not very far ....
taking the time, to re open a door .....

update

2009-06-14T11:08:00.000-07:00

Up date, up date ......

I am out of the storage unit and no longer paying to store anything !!!!!

Do have a stove and a dryer behind my shed that need homes, but the 15 boxes of stuffed animals have a new home ---- just waiting for the kids to come and retrieve (hint, hint) ....

Celebrate the small things that is what makes up the memories of life ..................

lightening

2009-06-14T10:39:00.000-07:00

thank you internet picture taker

Lightening ............. something to be watched, something to be enjoyed .....

Last week there was a lightening strike on the hill across the highway ..... I watched the smoke plume grow and then shrink .... life and death of a fire ... because of the location firefighters had to hike into the fire ...... they used the old fashioned method of fighting fires ..... shovels and sweat (yea, they did have chain saws) .... with all the advances in the world I wonder what is it we are giving up to advance ....... Will my granddaughters children know what a book is? Will my granddaughters look back on the extreme advances that are happening in their infant hood and thing how old fashioned?

A few years (3) ago I had a totally awesome black and white TV the picture was crisp and clear .... my youngest got me a color TV (thank you, baby boy) because he did not think mom need to watch movies in black and white .... having grown up on black and white TV I didn't realize there was a problem ..... Narnia was much better in color. The point being the fact that i got to watch TV was cool beans to me, the fact that mom had to be deprived of color was important to the one who grew up on color TV. (I do love my color TV)

Reading the internet (I do like some of the advances) I am watching changes come about where it appears that people are giving up their right and need to think ...... allowing others to think for you is not a safe or natural thing. Just a question, 'Who will be in charge of the thinking in the future?'

George Orwell was not that far off in his writings ....................................

Celebrate

2009-05-31T07:51:00.000-07:00

Celebrate the day! Today is an awesome day in that it is .......... (of course the wind is not blowing, the sun is shining and there is a possibility of afternoon rain) .......

I am almost out of the old storage unit and will move remaining thing to a smaller one with the hope of being out by the end of the summer .......

Been finding all kinds of things in boxes .... childhood (my kids) memories ...... books i forgot i had ..... dishes, quilts, artwork and so much more ........ And there are the "WHY?" things ..... (not going to list) ...... if i calculated the cost of keeping all of these things ....... that pottery mug with my blue flowers (the cheap one not the good one) is worth big bucks ...... The Goal is to downsize what is there to fit in less than 1/3 of a 8x10 storage shed in plastic containers .....

Kids if you are reading this time to come and get your stuff ..... blond daughter has the most ..... she said she'd take it home with her when she comes and changes out horses next month. She has no clue what is waiting for her....

I anticipate Celebrating the end of an era ----- storage queen ----- very shortly!

Time Stealers ....

2009-05-24T08:14:00.000-07:00

Time Stealers ......

Lately i have been thinking about time ...... the clock is ticking ...... no this is not a morbid thing but a realization about the need to be intentional with the use of this valuable commodity. We are all given a set specific amount of time for our day 24 hours - i believe that that breaks down to 1440 minutes or 86400 seconds ..... taking the stance that on an average work day there is 9 hours used for work time ( i have virtually no commute time) and 6 to 8 hours for sleep - that leaves between 7 and 9 hours to be self productive ..... getting things done and down time ...... how is it that i spend these hours? I'm lucky i have no TV, other than movies and no internet at my house. Soooooooo i should be getting tons of things done, right? As the kids used to say NOT!

So what is it i am doing? To my credit i am running around in circles trying to get @10 things accomplished in a limited time and almost doing it, but is there a better way? In my case the answer is most likely. What is tripping me up? 'TIME STEALERS' ; the following of rabbit trails when i should be focused on the task at hand, not having all that i need pulled together so i can get the job done, not having a plan (in some cases a clue) for what i need done, and the list could grow .... the list of things i want done grows on a daily basis ..... and the thing i need to do just to maintain does not seen to shrink ...... is there hope?

Of course there is. The question is am i willing to look for and make changes? (i wouldn't be writing this if i didn't want the changes, duh) but that takes it back to the question am i willing to make the changes? think about this ..... i want a change but am i willing to make the change ....

Time stealers:

Spending the day reading (my personal favorite), procrastination, not being focused on a task, Facebook, internet games (lol, down time at work!), e-mail, internet period when not used for a specific reason (i can find an online computer... i'm here aren't i?), looking for things that should already be somewhere else, no plan of action ........

Look at the Shoes!

2009-05-09T12:43:00.000-07:00

Look at the shoes .....

This is a serious ceremony, a wedding, dressed in traditional clothing .... well till you get to the shoes (they appear new and white)

What things do we add to our traditions to make them our own, to make them comfortable ..... is that a good or bad thing?

PRACTICING THE PRESENCE OF GOD

2009-04-12T06:56:00.000-07:00

OUCH

I love it ---- there are times when there is no better word to use to describe moments in life.

My current moment is not a physical ouch, it is a spiritual one. (try finding a picture for that)

I have been working on my spiritual journey .... placing importance on my relationship with God. One of the must reads in life is Brother Lawrence -- that man had being in the presence of God down. In my small group we have been talking and learning about spending and being in the presence of God during our days (and nights). See where the focus should be ....

This past week things in life got interesting, someone was caught trying to do me wrong ..... trying to do me harm ..... I of course, am not at fault here. (reality --i did not deserve what was going on) My first reaction -- anger== defensive (how dare you)!!!! then came the mind tapes .....

I was driving into town, alone in my truck, no radio on and venting to God ..... do not know how that still small voice got through (i vent loudly) but somehow I heard ..... Why are you practicing the presence of *******(insert name). OUCH!

Practicing the presence of God is inviting Him into our every moment. Acknowledging him in the moment.

I had been spending time inviting stress, discontent, anger, strife, and all else anti-God into my moments .... all in the name of *******(insert name). That did not leave any place for God. Very big OUCH!

What other names to we, you and I practice during our day? How much time is spent pushing God away so that we have room for ________? At the end of the day who did you/I spend the day with?

Funny thing, when I stopped and recognized what I was doing and gave it to God ..... things changed. (yes for my benefit)

Colors

2009-04-07T03:21:00.000-07:00

My daughter took this picture ......

What wonderful colors ..... Just in time for Easter .... Hidden inside the flower is a butterfly ....... Hidden mysteries ..... That was the revelation that first Easter morning ....... Have you taken the time lately to spend time with God? He planned for each one of us before the world began ...... what a concept in pre-planning ..... Enjoy the day!

observation

2009-03-18T04:17:00.000-07:00

An easy observation is that fixing a large appliance is not as easy as one would think ...... spent part of monday gazing into the back of my washer/dryer ...... looked ok to me ..... however nothing happens when you tell it to start working .... did notice that the floor has a fairly large hole in it and should be replaced ...... soon.

Life is full of things that push us to the limit of our understanding. Fixing an appliance or replacing a floor, maybe even events that happen ...... Where is it that you look for your help?

My help comes from the Lord ..... just waiting to see how things work out.

cat humor

2009-03-10T01:01:00.000-07:00

Cat humor ........

computers

2009-03-10T00:57:00.000-07:00

Got to love her, she has something to say about everything ....... I have to add that work computers are just as bad.

transporting

2009-03-07T08:28:00.000-08:00

Sometimes you find a picture that transport you back to a time and place? When I first saw this I went back to my child hood in northern Virginia. I felt the cold, crisp air, smelt the wetness of the snow. felt the silence of the moment.......... That's what happens when you live somewhere where there is no such thing as moisture/humidity .......

picture

2009-03-03T23:03:00.000-08:00

Pictures ...... another to be shared .......

cat picture

2009-03-03T22:59:00.000-08:00

Some times you just can't pass up passing on a picture ..... granted it is not Christmas, but I propose this for the new poster cat for elves.

Been a while

2009-02-25T03:13:00.000-08:00

Don't know where i found this but i love it. Cats will find a way ..... especially if it includes sun.

The weather is wonderful, I will get to sleep through almost 70 degree weather tomorrow. Maybe the wind will not blow. Have tried to get outside to do some cleaning and prepping for spring, need a vision on where and what I want to do on the property. I see graph paper and erasers .......

With out a vision on what we want to do, we get nowhere fast. That is where i am finding myself at this time. I have been waiting two years for J to move off the property, her staying was part of the purchase agreement. She now wants to stay for another 10 mos. In a weak moment i told her to put her offer on paper, she has not done it, but is believing that it is a done deal.......

I realized that i have, and I do, put things on hold for other people so that they can get what they want ...... NEW thought, maybe I should think about what I need for a change. What is it I want? What will it take to get it?

Wonder where this new thought process is leading and what if anything will I change ..... LOL. the cats have a good idea, sit in the sun and doze ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

Why worry

2009-02-07T18:29:00.000-08:00

Winter, it does not seem to want to come to this end of the world. Weather has been fantastic, today almost 70 ..... I know from the past that cold weather is out there ..... I so do not want to have to go out and feed in the cold and wet .... Why worry about what has not come to be ....... Jesus tells us not to worry in Matt. telling us to look to the birds and the flowers ..... God feeds and clothes them, are we not more important ......

Recently God told me to sit back and enjoy his love ....... that is not something I have really thought about, much less done. Last Sunday morning on the way to work I told Him that I wanted a present from him, I acknowledged I did not deserve anything but I wanted something anyway. (truthfully, I was thinking in the candy bar or coke realm) And as with much that comes out of my mouth I forgot my request ........... When I got home the girl in the other house came out and gave me a ring she had found up north that reminded her of me, I thought cool beans, God's gift. A copper ring with horses running on the front. I love it. I then went to go out to dinner with some people from small group, one of the ladies decided she was treating, and we were going to one of the best restaurants in town, Wow, a second gift, way out of the coke and candy realm I had wanted to settle for ...... THEN on Monday....... things fell into place and I was given a pick up truck ......... WAY past the candy and coke realm ...... This has been real lesson in 'more than I can ask or think' ...................

As this next week unfolds, I am asking God to keep me mindful that He loves me more than I can process in my simple human mind ........... That He is aware of my needs, wants and even likes ........ I think I will take the time to curl up and enjoy just being with God ........

Directional thinking

2009-02-01T06:58:00.000-08:00

Ever thought that maybe the way you are thinking may need to change?

My daily reading, today, from Ken Copeland was on Psalm 23. That about covers it, right? NOT!

In most studies and talk on scriptures we seem to focus on who we are in Christ, not a bad thing to know, BUT how much time is spent really knowing Who God is in us? What a view to face the world from.

Think about it .......... Your defence is defined in the Shadow of the Almighty .............

OH yea thank you Internet for a picture that definitely shows directional thinking

Now it makes since

2009-01-28T01:25:00.000-08:00

Well here is an epiphany moment ...... I have for years said that I was using someone else's idea of fun ......... Turns out I was right, I have been using the worlds view instead of God's ...... It is amazing how we let the daily struggles life push God to the side till He only occupies small moments of our lives ...... Reading Brother Lawrence's words on keeping God in our every moment ... OUCH ...... Time to reevaluate ........

Impossibilities

2009-01-25T14:28:00.000-08:00

Impossibilities ...... an elephant in a tree, so ......... Just found a letter I started way back when.... it describes, most likely, the hardest year in my life (1996/1997)...... It also describes

how I dealt with it spiritually..... Looking back from here, and remembering all that was in the letter and what wasn't ..... seeing the faith written on those pages ...... remembering ...... the long hours in the Word, the even longer hours of believing and standing ........ In the natural I would not of survived, (wonder how the kids remember that year).

Just recently the Lord said to 'center myself in the saddle'. I know that when I first heard those words, The above time came to my mind and I let fear sneak into my mind...... God reminded me that life does not have to be traumatic to require you to be centered. LOL, he also has reminded me that you can always improve where you are. (will not go into how long it took for me to realize what God was trying to tell me)

SOOOOOOOOOOO, what am I writing about? Nothing, everything ...... A reminder to self, that I've faced impossible situations and with God's help I won...... that what ever is going on in my life now, is beatable with a firm stance in the Lord.

Poohism

2009-01-20T00:58:00.000-08:00

another Internet picture .........

One of the very best quotes worth remembering comes from Disney's Winnie the Pooh (not the original pooh)

" I'm not lost I'm right where I'm standing".

true to life ..... you must add .... And that is where God placed me ....

Continued from art

2009-01-14T02:28:00.000-08:00

Connection with others ............ Unconditional love .... Profound, tinder, enthusiastic, affection for another from a perfect, unlimited, nonjudgmental positive (non hostile) position.

Supporting, to carry the weight of another without giving way, to provide w/necessities of life, to endure and tolerate/ to submit to, and to uphold as valid.

endure- to bear patiently w/out yielding (not letting go)

tolerate - to allow w/out hindrance- put up with

Nurture, to feed and protect, encourage, educate, train (a life giving relationship).

Friend, attached. bound by emotional ties or affection (devoted to).

devoted- earnest attachment to __________

profound dedication to __________

Hostile, characteristic of an enemy, someone who wants harm or has prejudicial feelings towards another. Opposing words and or actions.

Does the above describe how you interact with others, Christian or not ........ Wait the hostile part ...... OH yea, we are to be non-hostile, the opposite of ............. Stop and think about it .....

Art/ relationships

2009-01-14T01:41:00.000-08:00

Playing on the painting software can make even me an artist .... My art is usually in the three dimension form, how I wish I could make what I see show up on a piece of canvas, kinda like a photo .... I do not have the "eye" transfer life onto paper with out some distortion (some days lots of distortion) .......

Our Spiritual life, is like that sometimes ..... We see fail to transfer the truth into our everyday ..... I do not mean we lie and cheat and steal ..... No, we get the instructions, take off trying to follow them, and yet we do not understand what they truly mean.

One of the questions from my small group was "What kind of connection do you think Christ wants you to have with Christian brother and sisters?" The obvious answers are: to Love unconditionally ...... to support and nurture ...... to be a friend. Most of us do not do our family that way, much less acquaintances and strangers .... or those who's thinking and acting are just weird (oh-- wait -- that's me) .....

To love unconditionally -----a profound, tinder, enthusiastic affection for another in a perfect unlimited positive (not mixed) for certain manner ......

Inside dogs

2009-01-13T04:45:00.000-08:00

These are the inside dogs, the ones who could not understand why Diva should be the only one talked about ..... Arn't they cute.

Frustration

2009-01-13T02:30:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine paid for 3 months on an online dating site ...... I'm not good at going out and talking to people where it might mean something ...... and this is driving me crazy ..... I am attempting to talk to people and not doing very good at it .... would not go back on the site again, exept she paind good money for two more months ...... lol ... it feels kind of like shopping for socks ..... and so many people want to find that special someone ... I would too, but this is almost like begging someone to think I am someone to talk to ...... Thinking that today is not the time to make decisions on anything. (Not that my decision would make much difference.) LOL thinking this is timeout for winning, should go and get some roses .............................

Zeb

2009-01-12T23:00:00.000-08:00

See the beauty in the front? His name is Zeb, this may be a repeat, but he pulled a cute one the night after Nita went home ...... I had put him in her old pen and he was a major toot to get there, at the gate he buggered, (this horse is yard art, he is unstable on his feet, eats like a pig, and give kisses when in the mood) ..... He became ..... WILD MAN... snorting and bucking and running around the yard .... after he let me catch him, into the pen he went, being assured that Nita did not die in the pen and everything was OK ..... I fed everyone and all was well ....... Went out to dinner and when I came back I had the thought to go out and check on the guys, (all three are pictured here) ....... Zeb, was lying down, sitting up but down, (I was not ready for anyone to lie down at this point) so I went into his pen, walked around to the front of him and said 'Zeb, what you doing?' ........ His response ......... to fall over on his side ........ Do not have a clue if he was asleep and just fell over, if I scared him and he fainted or (my guess) he was just being a sh** and playing with me ....... My reaction ..... to get behind him and yell and stomp till he got up and call the vet to come check him out ...... Good thing my vet is smarter than me .... She got me some meds to relax him told me she would check him out in the am, which she did and there was nothing wrong with the cutie, except maybe a real sick since of humor ..... I do wonder if he thought I put him in the pen to put him down ... LOL

Sleeping, moments

2009-01-11T10:50:00.000-08:00

Again another photo that came in via E-mail. Some people have the best luck taking pictures, my animals are cute till the camera comes out then it is: duah!!!!! aren't these guys cute .....

Do not know why but it seems like I can not get enough sleep lately, maybe it is the cold winter, nah, we have had weather in the mid to high 50's, with lots of sun. In fact for all the days I get to sleep in the day time (graves) there will be plenty of sun ..... (if it is light you need to be up and doing) ..... I have tricks to make me believe it is ok to be asleep when the sun is out ..... This does look good, being outside in the sun and (warm) just lazing around .....

Told the other animals that I wrote about Diva yesterday and they all said ' why her, why not me ..... ' LOL Will have to watch for fun things to talk about.

Got a Blessing today, was able to switch shifts and will be able to go to small group early for the dinner that is planned, the pastor's B-day is on monday ..... Get to go home and find something to fix......

Today's thoughts

2009-01-10T13:08:00.001-08:00

The freedom to create ..... do not know where i got this picture, besides loving the topic and the colors it I got a cat who given the opportunity would be right there..... Diva, named for Prima ballerina, not demon, is something to behold. Found by a friend out in the weeds and almost dead from dehydration and malnutrition she shows no signs of her early life. Diva, is the curtain climbing variety of cat, in fact her best trick is to be on top of my clothes sharing her long white hair with all I own. I have a weakness for dried roses, Diva took care of all that I had, the dried parts are being vacuumed from all corners of the house, did leave the stems up for a while so she had something to play with. This morning the great sport was to run up and down the hall for no apparent reason other than it was there to do....... she was creating her own fun. No one else in the house was into that game so she did it by herself for at least 15 minutes. Creating time to have fun is something that seems missing in what I do lately, maybe I should take a hint from the crazy one at the house and make time for fun ....... (No, I will not be running up and down the hall) ........

New Year, New Thoughts

2009-01-03T03:28:00.000-08:00

Just finishing the third graveyard shift this week, then home to bed to be back at work at 2pm today, and again at 6am on sunday.................. this week is wearing me down .......... Next pay period I start two graveyards a week again ........ Getting toooooo old for these kind of turn-arounds.

Enjoyed Christmas with the grand kids and most of my kids...... Could of watched them interact for a few more days before I came back to my world. The big city was a very busy place to be, everyone having somewhere to go .....

Got back to frozen pipes, stopped up sewage and snow !!! Got the water going, the sewage unblocked (uck) and the snow is almost all gone, just in time for sunday's storm. My car which I asked God for 'a few more days till I go on vacation', went down for the count on sunday when i was coming home from small group. Beautiful night, stars out and crystal clear. Nada dog and i enjoyed the wait for the tow truck. I was extra lucky, being part of the system, I got a deputy dispatched right after the wrecker, so I got to stay warm for the wait. Do not know the extent of the problem, but it will be major.

Schedule change left me working instead of going to a friend's for dinner on monday, surprise, surprise, both ladies showed up with turkey dinner, desert, and keys to a pick up so I am not on foot.... Kinda nice to realize that at my age I have acquired some totally awesome friends.

Got news another friend is in the hospital with possible cardiac, have not been able to get back with her LOL!!!! maybe in the afternoon today.....

I got a 3 month subscription to a dating site from a co-worker for birthday/Christmas gift .... that is a whole new bundle of sticks ..... I can not seem to get a picture on the site .... everything on my computer is not the right format !!!! It is weird to see all those people looking for someone, and it is kinda like shopping when you go in and read the profiles; look good, fit the right questions, write the right words, live in the right area ......... talk about an area for major rejection.

Needing to get ready for my replacement to come in, and run as fast as I can to bed so I can be back in 8 hrs. The dogs are really going to love this one.

Life is fun, just wish I could use my definition of fun, not this mixed up one ......

Wonders .....

2008-12-19T13:33:00.000-08:00

This has been another fun week. The car broke down ( it has a temp fix) and today I left the house with sewer water (uckie) in the shower, window open and sheet in front of the door. Am currently looking for a plumbers snake to see if that can be an easy fix ........ In the mist of this I was blessed with a second granddaughter on Wednesday. I can't wait to get my hands on her. I will also be able to see first granddaughter this next week, and of course I had to go get her something else for Christmas, to celebrate the birth of her cousin. Have found a good place in praise as all this stuff is happening around me, kinda fun to be happy and smiling as this that and the next is pulling for any funds i should think i have in the check book ............ Enjoy your Christmas, and for those who read this most of you I'll be seeing you soon,

With sad heart .....

2008-12-14T12:12:00.000-08:00

Sad news sometime on Thursday morning, after I left the house Nita decided to lie down and enjoy the sun, unfortunately she could not get up on her own and I didn't make it home till after 9pm to find her down in the pen, wore out. after many attempts to get her on her feet, called the neighbors ect..... it became apparent she was down for good. This was the third time she had gotten down and could not get up, other two times I got to her right away. we had started walking daily in hopes of strengthening the back legs, she was stumbling on our last walk. Nita went to join Kayo, Annie and Savanah playing in knee high grass and forever sunshine. A forever thanks to those who were there to help that night. A special thanks to the one who helped to make my last wish come true.

What

2008-12-06T07:45:00.000-08:00

What is gained by the power of touch? Took the inside dogs to the vet on Friday, the entire ride up and again on the way the boxer sat in the passenger seat with one paw on my arm. Every time he changed position he re-established his paw on my arm. Funny .....

What is in the power of the words we use to define our relationships with each other? Been working with someone who I can not seem to do anything right for. When I have asked her what is the problem she blows it if as if there is nothing there, however last night it seemed to leave the room and go out over airspace .... to the extent that I got texted 'What the hay?' ...

It is amazing what people in radio land pick up.

In less than 12 hours I comforted one and pissed off another, both totally unintentionally ... What is it that needs to be said to make the work situation better? How should I respond to someone who denies there is a problem, yet it is clear to people not in the room that there is something going on? What is the answer?

color

2008-12-02T08:13:00.000-08:00

color, something we do not often think about, for most of us it is just there ..... till it is gone. then we wonder what happened. Once upon at lifetime ago, I lost my color ...... It took a lot of healing to get it back. Now it is not taken for granted. And the awesome virity of colors out there is mind boggling. Having said that, did you see the moon last night? Venus and Jupiter and the crescent moon were all aligned and will not do that again till after I am long gone ..... and my grand babies will have grand babies of their own ..... Here where I live the sky was clear last night and this morning .... the sky was black and the stars were bright. There were about a million stars out this morning when I went out to feed, pre work. The air was cool, but not biting like it gets when the wind blows. God was very evident with every breath, the earth felt still as if waiting for something ...... It came as a pink sunrise, at one point this morning life had a rose color touching everything ..... you could almost feel the color ...... something that does not happen very often, There is a green color that comes when the weather is susceptible to tornado's, but that is totally different ...... Just a reminder here .... So much of life is a one time shot ..... Enjoy It!!!!

been a while

2008-11-28T10:35:00.000-08:00

Lots of things have been going on ..... some good, some not so good .... Nita went down again yesterday, yes I got her up with the help of the guy next door..... I went out later and cleaned her up and gave her goodies, had a good talk .......

Toby is at the vet, his surgery last week got infected and he tried to grow back a ball, LOL. took him in with the help of a friend, hope to get him back monday ......

The weather has been fun, yesterday woke up to drizzle, and warm some clouds .... then it got sunny, then cold and cloudy again with the clouds playing on the mountains, even some stars last night..... T got some really cool pictures of the sunset last night. today is breezy and cool, chance of snow/rain tonight tomorrow.

Can't tell I'm rambling and not going where i should with this .... now where is it I should go?

Waiting for the jellybean to come out and play, she is not wanting to play, Mom is feeling the end of the pregnancy blues, and pains, wish I could make it better for her ... Getting excited to go and see all for Christmas ... This year is going to be tight, sooooooooo it is hand made things for all, expat the grandgirls, they have some bought stuff ............ If anyone is interested I'll take plywood and Yesterdays News cat litter for Christmas this year, for reals.

Last Sunday in group, B made a statement about God's anointing moving away when you fail to do something He has told you to do..... That is kinda a no-brainer until you stop to think about it on a personal level. If I feel like my prayers are not even reaching the ceiling ---- I usually know that I'm out of step with what I should be doing. But do I take imitate action to change ---- Sometimes. What about the rest of the time .....

How important is my relationship with God .............. What things am I/ have I put in His place?
Kinda reeks of idolism (computer says I've made up a word). *** The first thing God wanted his people to know was He is God and we are to look to Him with all our heart, mind and spirit. And that nothing should be put in His place. *** Stop and think about that.

What is it that occupies our day? What important matter is pressing right this moment, that it has pushed God from the forefront of your thinking to second, third or even not there place?

See how easy it is to let God slip from first to ---- The big question is **WHY** do I/you allow that to happen. It is a choice .... What is it that is more important, more pressing, more satisfying than God?

Scary answer? Deep thinking needed.

That would make a neat poster ***Deep thinking needed****

got to go back to work, have a good day.

Yikes, graves ......

2008-11-15T23:02:00.000-08:00

I'm working a grave ....... only one, then a short turn around and back to work at 2pm. It is funny all the tricks to try to sleep during the daylight hours ..... managed to meditate most of this evening and finely fell asleep when it started to get dark.... The inside cats thought this was a wonderful idea community bedtime is just what is needed when it is cold. Got the kitten back from the vet yesterday----after @ a three week stay, he has something that caused puss to come out his right ear... the vet can't find the cause, and he started up again this morning. started feeding him softened dry food and pro biotics, will put him on silver water and herbs in the next 48 hours, need to make the tea and water!!!!! This is something that I need to stop and get into serious prayer about, what to do for him and how to stand for his healing. It is funny how sometimes we (me) let something important slide ---- Not taking the time and energy needed to go to God for direction. Spiritual laziness ..... got to be one of the deadliest habits believers fall into......
I am something for a time which requires me to purposely spend time in prayer and reading the word twice a day ..... getting it done once is no problem ---- fitting the second time in ---- gets done most of the time but requires diligence. It amazes me how daily things eat up my time, things that need to be done for shure ----- but----leave me so tired that focusing can hard.
Learning to stop and take the time needed before I become un-focusable is a daily challange, so far I seem to be slightly ahead in the possitive, however that was today. Tomarrow is another day.

Envisionment

2008-11-09T05:59:00.000-08:00

Sometime on Friday the neighbors dogs got under my house and got one of the kittens, this is the second litter they have gone after. No I did not see them get the cat: however, they have been chasing the parents in my yard and have been rooting around where the fencing was pulled away from the porch for the last few days. Found the rest of the kittens and one very spooked mama, all ok at this point. talked to the neighbors and they said they would keep the dogs up, also talked to one of the deputies and will start documenting when the dogs are in my yard, complete with pictures .... Think I passed this test with moderate grace, OK maybe not.... I did take the dead kitten and put it on their porch! that was the least ugly of my first thoughts, using the 22 was up there at the very top ..... the dogs are attached to a 9/10 year old boy so I rethought that one quickly ..... And, yes, I took the kitten away before they walked up on their porch .......

While walking the yard looking for the other kittens I kinda looked at the property and the trailers .... It all needs help .... I have kinda sat back and been on hold till June when the other trailer will be empty and the whole place is mine alone ...... special provisions from the sales contract has the old owner occupying her trailer till then ........ She emptied a storage unit and placed some stuff at another location and some stuff on the shared front porch and in the front yard .... I've left it there and added to it myself, focusing more on the fencing than anything else. Yesterday I saw clearly .... UGH!

Now to the reason for the title, Envisionment, spell check just let me know that is not a real word ---- I'm still going to use it. Definition the birthing of and the act of pulling together something that does not exist at this time but will at some time.

The word states something to the effect of ' my people die for a lack of vision', my home and property prove that totally.

I am allowing the whole thing to not so slowly fall apart waiting for June ..... Waiting to define my vision of what I want on the whole place to look like, house, barn, studio, fields and yard ....
That is not working ..... that is something that needs to change, now .....
What is it I want and what little (for me it all has to be little) steps need to be taken to fix this place up? Clean up, take apart, put back together ..... and finish the fencing, which is what I was doing when I found the dead kitten ..............................

I like when things circle around and you know you are finished

persecution

2008-11-08T10:23:00.000-08:00

Persecution is not the manifestation of another person's hate for you. It's a manifestation of Satan's fear of you.

That is a quote from Kenneth Copeland's daily Faith to Faith I receive e-mail daily. All that in place .....

What change in thinking will there be if this is how we look at the slights and brick walls we find ourselves facing on a daily basis? Talk about self esteem .... I am a person to be feared, not for who I am, but for who stands with me ......... When we finely allow ourselves to take that into our spirit and make it a part of who we are ..... And will allow us to focus our response where it belongs ..... to God and his protection promised to each one of us who will call upon his name in the time of trouble ...... In my mind I saw an image of my boxer pup (65lbs) who when challenged will run and hide behind me to bark. Looks silly, but it works. I will not let anything happen to him. We may look silly not reacting how the world or the physical persecutor would expect, but just look at the results ... the bully and his instrument will be put in their place by our protector.

Trust

2008-11-07T16:13:00.000-08:00

Just stopping by before I go do stand-by at a football game, the temp should be in the mid 40 to high 30's, burrrrrrrrrrrrrr
By my front door is a note it reads: the test is not in the situation, but in how you react to the situation.

I have heard how so many Christians are distraught over the results of the elections ..... this is not our test, what is, is what we are called to do from this point on. If you searched God and acted on what you believe he wanted you to do, ie. voting. then you did what you were suppose to do.

"BUT WE PRAYED (for different results)"

Yes, but did we pray for God to be in the elections, I know the group I prayed with did, then the result must of been in God's hands, and we are right where we should be. Think about that.....
For a lot of people that will mean getting back before God and seeking direction. I truly do not know what the future holds with this new president, how the world will react to him, even how we will react to him .....
The word says we are to pray for out leaders, maybe this is a calling to prayer for some of us lazy people who would leave the praying for others ...........

Obama was not my first choice for president, however is now is my president. MY JOB is to pray God's wisdom and direction into his life and actions from this moment on ...... I believe my prayers will be answered. The word states that our hope is in the Lord, and all we have to do is call .............

Fret not, for your help comes from the Lord

Elections

2008-11-03T15:47:00.000-08:00

Here it is the Monday before ***** THE BIG DAY***** and all's I can feel is relief, I am sooooooooo tired of all the negative talk out there, where is what the candidate can do for the people? I read somewhere the presidential race should not be totally based on the popular ideas out there, but on the impact that that person is going to have on the Supreme Court. This president will seat up to 5 persons in that court..... and they are there for life ...... these judges will have an input on my great-grand children.......... I believe my vote will count, I've already exercised that right (why wait, I didn't have to wait in line). It should be interesting to see how things fall in the next 24-48 hours.... with the possibility of protesting the results, Nov 17 is the final date ........ sure be glad when this is a done deal....... I'm ready to go home, Good luck with with your choices ...................

answered prayer

2008-11-01T07:41:00.000-07:00

I love the weekend ..... understand this is not my weekend, I work a shift so my weekend comes mid week for most of the world, this is a time where people try to relax and have a good time. I work in a county sheriff dept ---dispatching .... I also run EMS ..... Sooooooooooooo think about it, if people are having fun and not getting into trouble, I'm ok with that....

Spent the last week watching Nita. Jesse hurt her bad last week and the old lady took a few days to work out the sore, I did get her a seprate pen built and she will not share a pen or pasture with jesse again, ever. Was hoping that Jesse's attitude was hormones and a little copper would fix things, WRONG. Got the ladies at the bookmobile looking for a book on herbs and horses, hope to find something in that.

As I said I spent a lot of time watching Nita, which translates to PRAYING, which causes thinking..... Guess it was Monday, there were a couple of animal issues here at work, one of my co workers little (less than 3lbs) dog got lost, a cool dog at the shelter was facing being put down unless the owner was found, one of the guy's dog was bitten by something and was real sick, then there was Nita...... I went home that night and spent some good time with the Lord...... the end result ..... Wed the little dog came home skinnier than before but ok, the owners of the dog were found, and Nita is moving and eating almost like before, the other dog is still under the weather, and going to the vet on Monday. She is 14yo and been with out the use of her back end for quite a while. The Point, I needed answered prayer in my life, I needed God to say he is listening to me and I'm where I should be at the present...... This week (in the animal realm) God let me know He is there and listening. Don't give up on Pepper yet, I haven't. As some of you know I believe in geriatric animals and their amazing ability to keep on going.

What is it that happens when we pray and do not see the immediate results of change? That is where we have to choose to believe that prayers are truth and have the very real ability to change a situation. To do otherwise is to null and void the time and energy used in the original asking. Thinking back, I do not remember a whole lot of teaching on the hanging on to part of praying, could be because I come out of the Episcopal tradition, and well that should of been covered in Sunday School or at the very least conformation class..... might of been, I do not remember. What little teaching I did get I got from some good teachers, and I am extremely thankful. One called it 'bull-dog faith', the kind that attaches itself to something and does not let go. 'Speaking the Word' over a situation, 'Standing In Faith', all of these terms denote some kind of action on the part of the one believing, and depending on the situation some hard work.

Does prayer always work? YES! Our problem is that we sometimes give up on God before He gets the chance to work. And even better, we are not asking................ or are asking outside of the conditions where prayer is acceptable, and that my friend opens a whole new door......

In defence of the Episcopal Church, the tenants of their faith are awesome, they are not always taught, and not always followed, as with everything else in life ...... taking directions are the option of the person needing them .... out there but not always wanted...............

Continued

2008-10-26T08:44:00.000-07:00

Left the last post at the thought of truth, found a wonderful quote off a friend's blog and like any good friend copied it and it goes as follows:

What is truth? Here's (oh, you'll never guess who I'm gonna quote) Nouwen on the matter:"Jesus sends us the Spirit so that we may be led to the full truth of the divine life. Truth does not mean an idea, concept or doctrine, but the true relationship. To be led into the truth is to be led into the same relationship that Jesus has with the Father; it is to enter into a divine betrothal." (Making All Things New 54)

This comes off Looking Deeper a awesome blog that comes from a wonderful christian woman, check it out....... her reading list is something to look into.

As long as I can remember the fact that as a christian I am the bride of Christ has been taught. This little twist in how I think opens a whole new door in which I can enter and explore. The Word talks about 'walking in the Truth', a right relationship is much easier to walk in than .... an idea, concept or doctrine ..... for we walk in a relationship with God whether or not we acknowledge Him or not. It is our choice how healthy that relationship is.

HOW HEALTHY IS YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH HIM? All relationships need upkeep, don't let the daily grind keep you from enjoying this one.

UPKEEP
Another word for the day, Jessi kicked Nita's butt yesterday, not sure how bad at this point, I did get to put up more fencing separating the two ladies yesterday, I even strung wire fencing on my own ..... I did get to see some of Jessi's anger as she lit into Zeb, poor boy..... Jessi has gotten a little (lot) 'touchie' since the colt came home, I put copper in her water with the hopes this is a hormone problem, and I explained to her the difference of MEGA B**** and plain B****, the plain is what we all work for and the MEGA is not acceptable. Lets see how she took that lecture.
One other situation there is a kitten under the porch, it came out of the nest and for some reason mom and dad did not go get it last night, sure had healthy lungs this am. If still yelling when I get home I have to decide if I go under the porch and get it or leave it to nature (guess which will be the option). Kids I think I already have a home for it if I can get it to eat freely ......
Today would be a good day to knock down the dried weeds and get ready to burn on my days off. Kudos to the outside cats for keeping the mice and rats away from the houses ..... Moved Toby, the border collie, closer to the hay, he is having a blast digging out rodents in his new location, If I were wise I would move him around the top part of the property and clear out the rodents.

Still have not gotten on the roof yet, that is a must .... and I need to get the oil changed on the car .... get hay ..... dry vegetables .................................

Did discover one of the neatest snacks .... dried green chili .......... I am in love ...... wish I had more chili to dry .......

Enjoy your day!

ADDITIONAL THOUGHT
I have read several quotes from Henri Nouwen, he makes you think. I am going to get the bookmobile to see if they can get some of his books for me, you should try to find some of his works, also.

Life's un-realistic directions

2008-10-25T06:57:00.000-07:00

In the last week the "Odd News, Online" has held several unique articles, one on the need to give chimps 'person-hood' because they are dying off and that the greater the smell of a mouse fart means that he is lowering his blood pressure. Yes I do look for the strange articles to read.... Darwin would be proud, what he could not do in his 15 minutes of fame, the green people may pull off..... after all the chimp is the closest of our relatives on this earth, right? I do not think so. We do need to be mindful of the other creatures on this planet, God gave man the job to watch over things, but granting them person-hood!!!! If that happens we will have to give them Medicaid and food stamps, and I will be responsible in my taxes to support the poor chimps that are being held against their will in zoos and other places ...... OH wait we can let them go live in the forest where the spotted owl used to live before they moved out because the green people allowed it to become to overgrown and they, the owls, could not get to the mice on the floor of the forest. Before anyone outside of my realm starts to react, be advised I do have some solar power on my property and am looking into converting to wind/solar for the majority of my power, I recycle and I know how to hyper-mile my car.... But I do not have to agree or pay for the humanization of a chimp and I can express my discuss at the thought.....

When my kids were younger, when I was younger, I had mice and rats for pets, I was under the impression that there were things you did not give them because they did not have the ability to burp or fart ie.... carbonated beverages would kill them ..... used coke to kill wild mice around the house, it worked........ not any more barbaric than the snap traps ...... There is a study, yes we most likely paid for it, that studied the chemical make-up of a mouse fart and it's relationship to the mouse's blood pressure...... If this is real then more power to them ..... This study also destroys the idea that the beans or the orange juice is what is making you stink.... JUST TO TAKE THE WEIRD ANOTHER STEP ..... who decided that mice fart, how did they know, how bad can a mouse fart smell???? and how totally awesome is a mind that would even put the idea of a fart and blood pressure in the same sentence..... I always had trouble with coming up with the unique science fair questions, this guy must of been one of the all time science fair winners, or he smokes pot and just thinks tooooooooooooooo much.

The simple fact both these articles are out there is a striking reflection on where the world is going.... We as a people could care less for the people under bridges, jobless, and homeless. But are concerned that the chimp might feel slighted on it's way off this planet that we did not recognize it as an individual while it was here. IN MY HOUSE, IN MY WORLD all my animals are considered a separate being and each has their own personality, from the inside menagerie to the wild cats and rabbits that call my land their home..... I'm not asking you to pay for my beliefs now or down the line.....

Where is this all going? it was much more entertaining that the political garbage which is being strong across the airwaves,

Before my co-worker left to go home and go to bed we talked about where God is going to allow this Country to go in the next few years. Perhaps we are on the cusp of the end of times, or just another worldwide depression. What ever your take on it, we are going to enter into some real interesting times...... I have been amazed at how the economy is existing on such a false premise. and has done so for years, what makes us think we can bail out some of the system and not all of it? why do I need to pay for the mistakes of others, when mine need help?

not original thoughts..... but valid questions. Told a study group the other night God had it right in the idea of the year of jubilee, lets just give every one a clear slate, and those who built their empires correctly will continue on and those who did not will get a chance to start over, I do not mean that people have to give up what they have but a cancellation of all debt. think about that .... sure somewhere someone will feel exploited, that is the rule of self..... but I bet it would work better than bailing some out and leaving the rest, the lowly middle class and poor to flounder. But I really like the e-mail that said lets give the bailout money to the tax payers and we'll pay our taxes on that money (giving money back to the one who gave it to us) and we could all pay off our debt and get head. concept...... Again only words and thoughts ..... no positive action......

Just spent @5 minutes looking for something to have on the TV here at work, the selection runs mostly in the areas of lust and murder, and most contain both ..... decided to try the public TV that is going to be gardening and woodworking ..... wonder why the above conversations can take place ..... the mind set of the people is what they fill their minds with ...... what is your mind full of? and where did it come from? what were you watching today? what were you listening to today? How much of what you spent your time on today was truly edifying to yourself and others? These are areas that I am looking into in my life. These are questions that I am asking myself. Where Do I Positively touch others in my everyday words and actions? Do I? In the things I've been reading and the discussions I've had in some of my groups, people, myself up front, are self deceiving, we see what we want to see and acknowledge what we want to acknowledge. When and where do we allow the truth to manifest itself? And most importantly what do we use as the basis of our Truth? I believe in the God of the Christian/Jewish Bible. The more I look into what is written in that Book the greater the appreciation that it was put into writing such a long time ago....

rambeling

2008-10-21T14:03:00.000-07:00

Sure wish that I had a machine like in the movies, the one that you talk into as you walk around and it gets saved like a diary. While I was walking around the house and doing dishes I lots to say and think, maybe having the Internet at the house is something to really think about.......

Did want to say that I had a powerful experience yesterday. While in the horse pen, I raised my arms to move Zeb and Jesse back away from Nita and three sections of fence fell to the ground, no one was anywhere by the fence. Think about it, if for some reason Jesse had decided to run I would never have caught the horses, everyone would of followed her awayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy ... no one went over the fence and I tied one panel to the cholla and put up another t post.....

Having fun with colors, just for anyone's information did put natural blond hair coloring on my hair this morning and it came out red!!!!!!!!!, Ok it is light strawberry but it is still RED!!!!

The weather report states the weather will go down into the low 30 this next few days, My weekend.... will have to cover the plants and or pick and dry lots of green tomato's. I got a strawberry this morning it was not a sweet as the earlier ones, I picked it early when i noticed that the one next to it had a bite taken out of it, most likely a rodent.
Outside kittys are enjoying the fact i forgot i had turkey in the fridg and it got tooooooo old for me to eat, they think i luv them very much. Momma looks like she is still nursing, guess the kittens should be about 4-5 weeks old. have not seen any traces of them, and I need to get the underside of the house covered so the neighbors dogs can't get to this bunch, with the birds of the air and the dogs and coyotes i wonder if i am going to have to worry about an over population of the cats. Oreo got out of the chicken coop and when he came back he was real skittish, he is not even trying to get out when I go in. Something out there is Scary!

Started reading the prophets in the Message Bible, interesting wording. I like the way some things are stated, it makes you think, then there are a few old adages placed here and there that I have trouble with coming from the Word. Of course since i do not have the book with me i can not give an example. Again another reason to have the computer at the house working ... Maybe i should write it long hand at home and bring it in and type it out....... that would make this a much better reading, still having trouble thinking anyone can read what i think .... so much for private thoughts. I'm going to put this to bed and get some dinner, this shift is going slowly, new schedules take time to get used to, almost missed coming in today ,,,,,

changes

2008-10-20T10:38:00.000-07:00

Finished up the last week of a small group last night. One of the last questions we discussed was about regrets, in loving, laughing, giving and living. All were pretty well agreeded to change anything in the past would possibly place us somewhere else in the now. I like my now, and the bumps and bruises, although painful put me where I am now. Somewhere I read "I am the sum total of all I have lived".
Because of the events of the last 2-3 (15)(54) years, I have looked back and judged what has passed. (For my kids who are reading this, I thank you for my good report) I realized that as a mother I am a success, all of my kidos are out of the nest and are people I am proud to know, while a couple of their lives are currently in change, they have the strength of character to make the decisions to find their true path, the one God has for them to follow. I have also been able to follow a lot of the paths I have wanted to, reached goals and explored areas that interested me. I have to say that there are only one or two things that I had thought of doing from childhood that I have not yet attempted, the rest I have tried and either have moved on or are currently doing.
Having looked at this in the light of last nights discussions, I realize that if I can call something in my life a success then that part is ended and a new dimension has been opened. That was a DUH, moment when I realized that last night on the way home from town.
The committed christian life would have you: love more, laugh more, give more and live more. The joy of the Lord would demand that of us. This is not something we can change in our past, but the now and the future is wide open to change.

by the by the blond hair color has been pulled down off the top shelf and that change will happen soon .....

blessings and fencing

2008-10-19T06:31:00.000-07:00

It is amazing how much I take for granted, go just a week and a half with out running water, owning livestock and domestic animals, not to mention the daily needs ..... thank you to a special friend who took his time to find a pump, and pull a well which ended up being twice as deep as expected.... LOL It was magic to go home and flush and wash and water.
Making changes to the horse situation, trying to get the whole of the property fenced so that they all can go out and play. That Means ....... putting t-post in the ground, and stringing lots of wire..... found out that you can get quite a goose egg if the t-post pounder hits you in the head, and the headache lasts for days.... did manage to get a pen for a returning horse up by my self and figured out how to straighten curled panels.... blessing in this is the hose will go to the new pen and i did not have to find the other piece of hose i put in a safe place 20 months ago. I need to get the fence up shortly and put up a pen for the old mare, she is not happy in with jesse. I'm hoping the 4 acres will be enough for the two of them to not be ugly with each other. The poor gelding doesn't know whether to run from jesse or chase nita. The trials of living with girls.....
Will go home today and hopefully get the last two holes dug for en posts then the wire strung..... the weather may change this next week and bring rain, would like the charger to have a couple of days of charging before weather comes in. A friend says I am doing overkill on the wire, 3, but i want there to lat least appear to be something there even if it doesn't bite. OH yea, they all will not be hot. thinking i need to do regular gates, but not sure that this fence is where i want it when i get a house.
Am planning on changing my hair to blond, the bump on the head confirmed that would be a good idea.

Weather coming in

2008-10-14T00:08:00.000-07:00

According to the weather man there is snow for the northern part of the state, this afternoon as i watched my neighbors fill my water tanks the wind had a big nip in it. Guess this is the end of indian summer, before i left for work tonight i covered the tomato bushes with sheets, in the hope of getting a few more vine ripe ones.
Being with out water for almost a week is a journey did not realize i had a hand washing fetish. If i was just keeping the house going it would not be much to think about. Three horses drink lots of water.... thank God there are neighbors like the ones next door. They have filled my tanks twice during this time and they are planning on keeping me in water till i get my well up and going. I brought in @15 gallons for the house, dishes, bath, toity, dogs & cats. believe i have less than 5 left. Been thinking there needs to be axcess to the water that is not dependent on a pump.
In days of old they got water out of the ground just fine, i only have to dig 150 feet straight down. LOL
I bought this property knowing there would be up-keep, this past few weeks i realized how much... windows need plastic for the winter, roof needs to be patched, lean-to roof also. fencing needs to go up, got news that the colt is coming back and a whole pasture needs to be put in to keep him in. this would be something if i had a clue how to do all this..... but like most everything else if you think about it you can figure it out. there are some disadvantages for being raised a princess..... daddy never taught me to swing a hammer or fix a toilet, gotten fairly good at both.
Decided to try to eat raw for at least part of my week, that means dehydrating the goodies from the garden and learning to rehydrate things without cooking. If i fail at this i'll have lots of soup stuff. Also been making my own bread, haven't gotten the fluffy down, but made some good sandwhich stuff.