Last year at this time we had the joy of Mom B. spending a few days with us over Christmas. Here she is with her great-grandbabies on Christmas Eve. We had SO much fun. We will never forget it. Bingo was such a hit - we're doing it again this year with even better prizes.

I am free to live for YOU

Freedom comes at a cost. I am free to live abundantly, purposefully and forever because Jesus covered my sinner's debt with His own life. And now I am free to live for Him. Will I limp along in my own understanding or will I soar - empowered by the Holy Spirit? I've been limping a lot more than I would like these days. Part of the journey, I've been told. And yet I know "surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life."

Let me introduce you to Irene. Can't you see the fruit of the Holy Spirit in her countenance? She is responsible for the rescue of 2,500 babies to avert their certain genocide under the evil of Hitler. She was up for the Nobel prize that went to Al Gore instead. She kept detailed records to pave the way for their reunion with surviving family. That is a hope-filled mission of love. She barely survived herself, enduring torture until one man intervened on her behalf. All it takes is one person.

Isn't this the cutest animal God created?

This is the baby version of my schipperke Andy (now recuperating from an ear infection). Go ahead -- ooh and aah -- and be forewarned it is impossible to visit a schipperke store and not buy one!

Bump in the Road=Pray More

About the time I am upset because things are "hard" and I so want to live a fantasy life of ease, I am tickled by the Holy Spirit to reflect on how much worse things could be. Like, I have an electric washing machine - front loading, no less. Monday I had a meltdown of neediness at God's Girls, realized my poor dog had ear trouble so got to experience the trauma of a vet visit (HER trauma, not mine) and by 8 pm I couldn't walk and had to get back into the wheelchair. Bumps in the road driving prayer - more prayer, not less. This is life . . .

Work in Progress

I have had so many things happen to me directly or observed in the lives of others since I got revved up at the Holy Spirit conference. A roller coaster with so many moments of refocusing. The conclusion is definite -- it doesn't matter how long we have lived in a faith-filled relationship with Jesus, we are a work in progress. God continues to direct me to "declutter" every aspect of my life. Thankfully, He knows what that means.

Post-Holy Spirit Conference

One week ago we were enjoying final session of 2008 conference. I went asking God to give me some specific direction. He spoke generously to me through a young prayer partner named Luis, a bass drum, three simple words of sad glad mad, and a funny lovable hunched over man named Mahesh. I've had the opportunity to share some fruit with several friends already. I have to say I thoroughly enjoy feeling so clear and focused. Some things just happen more readily when we leave our "normal" environment. I am thanking Jesus for leaving His Spirit here.

Faith Circle

I keep thinking about yesterday morning's small group at Beth Moore study. I sat with six other women in a little circle for a half-hour+ and I heard so many statements of faith. From a few minutes spent in a circle, my faith remains boosted by each and every woman speaking of insights, challenges, and moments with Jesus. Everything said made it obvious we can and do trust Him. It was a good day - thank you, my friends.

God looks on the heart of our desire more than the desire of our heart. What really is behind my desire for today? Since it focuses on preparing for Sophie's birthday celebration tomorrow, I'd like to think the food and gifts are unselfish and all about her enjoyment. Going to make a chocolate cake with coca cola for first time . . . what possible difference could one cup of coke make? Blessings to you and yours.

Wow, I can't believe I'm blogging! Daughter Manda, bless you for coming over and helping old mom out with this. This is either serendipitous or just crazy 'cuz I've been feeling bottled up with thoughts lately. Consider yourself warned.
Today I've enjoyed leaving a love you message to birthday girl Sophie, checked up on a special friend Sara, and had a meaningful conversation with Manda. I must prepare myself now to go out in 90 degree weather on a date with Charlie this evening. Batman movie. . . lightly buttered large popcorn, holding hands.