Community Chat

[SelahG]

So very true, snappy ... We never know what will be asked of us, or when. How might our faith be tested? Could be that we will need others to pray according to HiLo's valuable list for ourselves and nearest and dearest. I know that number 6 is a stumbling block for me, even on others'---strangers'---behalf. Injustices, though fully expected in this wikked world, infuriate me above all else. And when helpless children are made to deliberately suffer??? If I were in charge, I'd have them all (Christians, Jews, Muslims, Atheists, etc.) rescued at any cost---then round up the enemy hordes opposing Free Will and nuke them back to the Stone Age. They will rise again from the ashes and I would wash, rinse, repeat until Christ returns. Need to pray about and work on that, if it is against God's will to hate His enemies as much as I love Him. Is it cheating? Making the tests too easy? If so, none could succeed in the quest, or win those wars. We know Justice will come---the martyrs under the altar do NOT wait in vain. Thank you, HiLo! I will be sure to use this and pass it forward to all who pray.

I had never heard that saying, snappy, but I recognize the truth of it. The blood of the martyrs IS indeed the seeds of the church---as surely as Christ's own blood was shed for our sins. Amen and amen! I claim that blood over everyone I pray for. Now adding HiLo's family as Mike's father is Homeward bound. May his journey be a good and easy one, with little suffering. May the family and all who love him feel the comforting embrace of our Savior, as they recall His promises to all who believe in Him. Still my heart grieves with them ... It is never an easy thing, being parted from our parents, siblings and spouses. Human love is selfish that way, at least for me. Thankful that the mother is appreciated and wanted in her childrens' homes. There is no greater human comfort in such times.

Thankful you continue toward wellness, HiLo! May God bless your efforts to assist others in their like sufferings. We'll keep praising the Lord on your behalf, along with snappy and all our sisters here.

Moving mountains, even if by one pebble at a time.

Thank you, friends for caring about and praying for me. The trip yesterday was a wasted one that did more harm than good. Hated it for Luke, too ... I had to reschedule my next appt until the 6th. That is one "Martha's" 54th birthday, if memory serves. But I ain't telling! Just hoping her special day will be a LOT more fun for her than me. Love you, kiddo!

The snow and sleet continues. I'm sure you're right, Agnes and this healing and recovery would be greatly helped along in warmer climes. Wish I could have waited until Spring for the surgeries, but they thought it unwise to postpone longer. We're all keeping warm up here, as best we can.

Since you love the snow, I hope you got it. Loved the pic of Vail! Have never traveled there, but have enjoyed every place we've been in CO. I pray the way is made open for you and Jacob to return permanently. I saw the many helpful posts containing resources and suggestions on your Delphi thread. Very encouraging, it seems to me! Love that community over there. Truly FEELS like a real community. You will soon find posts from my CO daughter there. She has many professional and personal contacts. Look for them over the weekend, or after---once her registration is approved.

Hello to Lurky, Anu, DeLaney, Joy, Rowan and all who drop in! Wishing everyone a healthy and happy 2015!

Hope this will not ring true for me, as usual ...

Be blessed, friends---and keep being a blessing. Always!

[snappyfrappy]

Hi Selah, I was bummed for you...not being able to get through to the doc, but grateful the Lord kept you safe. Hope the weather is much better on the 6th, so you can go. It sounds like PT is very helpful for you. We are getting our winter. I see we've had rain, but it's so soft that I can't hear it. Just looked out the window and can see that everything is wet. DD#2 is out for coffee with her BFF. I just turned on the fireplace. Slept way late this morning. Being a night owl means I like to sleep in.

Once you finish PT, do you face any other surgeries? What can they do for the stenosis? Not being nosy, just concerned for you and ignorant about what you've been through.

So our Martha is 54? A year younger than DD#2. That means I'm MOM. Am sure she is being kept quite busy with family plus all the usual chores and church work. One sweet, stunning, witty lady, for sure.

All those who wreak havoc for believers in Jesus are blinded by the god of this world, and are to be pitied and prayed for that the Holy Spirit will take away the scales from their eyes and they may see the truth. They walk in darkness even though the Light of the world has come. Men loved darkness more than light because their deeds are evil, says the Word. Sometimes I wish that I were as on fire for the Truth as they are for error. The closer they are to their god, the more hate consumes them, but the closer we are to the Lord, the more love shines through our lives. I'm reading through Matthew and yesterday's reading included Jesus saying that we don't put a lamp under a bushel, but rather we let it shine to give light to all in the house. The more our light shines, the more the things that live in darkness will hate us.

Time to move on, dear friend. Hope you enjoy a happy new year celebration and that the year 2015 sees you in much improved health with MUCH less pain, if any. Take care.

Happy new year to all,

snappy

[agnesann]

HiLo, thanks! It's a great list, for sure. Like you, I will read each verse before praying accordingly. I will look forward to your email, whenever that is convenient for you. Miss our chats, but I do understand, you need to focus on your family right now, as well as your health, and that of your new friend. Heaven's blessings to you all! Jacob and I are doing well, and still loving the new Baptist church. Meeting a few friends there in great fellowship. The both of us! He is even enjoying weekly play dates. I am though thinking of and hoping to move back home to CO when possible. Take care, I love you!

Selah, there is probably not one human being on earth that wouldn't be greatly challenged with #6, among others. Greatest test of all is to forgive and love God's enemies. I wonder if the same test would be so hard if those enemies didn't also hate us? That is a kind of test in itself. Yes, we are selfish to the core! In both our love and hatred. Goes to show how none of us are worthy but the Lamb of God. But we must keep trying and praying for one another, and as Snappy so wisely states... They are to be pitied for their blindness. I do pray it's temporary, for their own sakes as well as those they persecute.

We didn't get more snow, just some tinkling ice through the night. Sorry it's so bad up there. I'm praying you soon get a break from the severe winter weather. I can't wait to meet your CO daughter!!! She is the one who has served in the USAF, right? Be sure to PM me with her name. I'll want to welcome her, and especially thank her for joining up! I am researching every bit of info that others there kindly provide. All that seems might apply to me. My skill set is somewhat limited, but for now it's the schools and specialists for Jacob that demands full on attention. Nothing can proceed without those. Thank you!!! And for reminding me of Joy's birthday, too. Want to get a card out to her in time. Love the kitty snuggled in the boot!

Snappy, I'm sorry those couple of pounds flew from my lap to yours! Oh my gosh, caramels! Get thee behind me, but have you tried the Starbucks hot cocoa mix with lightly salted caramel? A friend gifted me with a beautiful mug and a big box of that mix. I've been enjoying a cup each evening, so I'm sure the weight will fly back to me in no time if I don't stick to my exercise routine! I'm familiar with Mt. Baldy ski resort. Was there once with my ex-husband when Jacob was no more than 3. Rode the tube with the both of them, and was just recently looking at those old photos in Mom's album. It's a gorgeous area! Hope they got the snow so needed. Good luck to your sister. I pray the escrow process and move goes smoothly, since what does these days? The thought of moving both terrifies and excites me. Is your daughter feeling any improvement with her eyes since the treatment? Still praying for her, and your upcoming tests. Love your thoughts from Matthew!!! Come what may, we must shine on, as Joy is always reminding us to do. (Hello, Joy! Hope you are well and just busy as usual!)

Rowan, those winter scene CT pics are just gorgeous! Is that Victorian house the B&B you mentioned to me in an email? Either way, I would love to live there!!! People tell me all the time that I was born into the wrong era... We're discussing the various "ages" in Bible Study from Adam onward, and it takes little insight to see how human history keeps repeating itself. So romanticizing the past is just folly, I know, but for some reason... most all eras previous to this one seems much more interesting to me. I'll read up on the people and places you've posted about. An actual castle in CT! I'll tour it some day. Thanks for sharing the sights from home! I'll post more soon. Only have family pics on my phone.

Have a good evening, friends! Happy New Year's Eve-Eve! I love you all!!!

[DoubleJ]

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!

May God give all of us a healthy, and prosper one.

It's been awhile since I have posted. I am keeping all of you in my prayers. And yes Agnesann, I have Jacob in my prayers to.

Until next time...

Take care, stay safe, and God bless.

[DeLaney]

Happy New Year's Eve, friends!

(And Hump Day--hah-ha, Selah! Got it in here.)

I'm at work, so will have to read back through your posts later. My parents are still at my house and we've had lots of visits from kin and friends alike. I tell you, it is wearing me out. So much socializing, all the time. I love them all, but this is one of my many weaknesses. I'm introverted by nature, you know. This is a small thing, tho--really a blessing--compared to the problems of so many. I'll be taking my parents home this weekend. Must seriously resume my studies.

We'll be having a dinner party after work, here in town. Glad it will end early enough to get home long before midnight. This is very nice of the doctors here to treat us. We usually just bring in special treats to share during the work day. Most of us have to work tomorrow, too, so can't be out all night--or shouldn't be. I know a couple who will be. Shhh. . .

Mom is making her traditional Irish bread today. One loaf to leave outside tonight. . . She knows about the BEARS and other wildlife, but won't break with traditions. At least she's not nailing it to the side of my house, as they did in the days of old! (You have to wonder what blockhead thought that wise!) She'll take 3 bites (representing the Trinity) from it and leave it on the porch. I asked her, "why not make bread crumbs to scatter for the birds?" Not tradition. . . Chances are it will just freeze into a solid block o' fun for Dexter tomorrow. Dad may join him on the porch since he hates even the scent of cabbage cooking. Again, tradition!

Hope all of your plans (if any) and special dishes go well. Most of all, I wish you each a wonderful year to come. . . Followed by many, many more!

My prayers are always with each of you and your loved ones. May we rise in Christ to whatever the future holds, while also staying humble in ourselves. May your every effort in His name be blessed.

Sláinte!

[SelahG]

Gah! DeLaney, I would be shocked---S H O C K E D!!!---if that lumpy rascal didn't make an appearance today. In fact, he's already been by here:

Woke me up at the crack of dawn!

Have a word with him on the time zones, will ya?

And stop your grumbling about the cabbage---you and Pops. At least it's not HAGGIS! So grateful Luke has no time to make it this year.

Enjoy your dinner party, then your quiet weekend. I'm going to make a brief showing at the bonfire by the lake, IF I can stay awake that long. Want to time it so we get there about 11:30, then leave just after the fireworks. Have my thermals and parka ready. I'll be the stiff moving woman looking like an Eskimo, choking down a hot dog CLOSE to the fire, if you can make it. I have your transportation all ready for you ...

Hello, and thanks for dropping by, DoubleJ! Christ's blessings to you and yours in the coming year, and always, friend! That's my prayer for you.

Yes, that's the daughter, Agnes! I can take no credit, since she is my step-daughter, actually, though I love her as my own. I'll let you know the name she chooses, though she typically uses her own, or initials and you know by email pics what that is. Good question, you ask ... And I think we know the answer, since we humans tend to make things and take things much too personally. It's not about us, but the sovereignty of the Lord of Lords, the King of Kings ... I am taking Snappy's words to heart and meditating over them carefully. Thank you, snappy for your encouragement through the Word. I know in my heart that even evil itself is allowed to exist (for now)---outside the grace of God---for a PURPOSE that will reveal the glory of Jesus Christ. Could we truly know and honor righteousness, mercy and love without the sharp contrasts? Doubtful. When it has served its purpose it will be no more---hallelujah!

I'm sorry I confused you, my sister ... I have not even begun the actual PT yet, just a little rehabilitation as instructed following both surgeries. Light exercise that begins in bed when I awake. Bends and stretches, then I walk around and add more. After my exam and tests on Martha2's birthday, they will hopefully say I am ready for the PT. Then we'll see how much it helps me. This will include water therapy, then weight bearing exercise to strengthen my core. Many seem to enjoy great results---more flexibility and less pain. The very best available surgery is only performed in parts of Europe for now. I have had what I can and hope I'll need no more, but if further disks collapse in the future, I will have to have those replaced like these two. Prayerfully, the PT and better care of myself (including weight control) can help to decrease those odds of further narrowing of my spine. If it would help prevent further surgeries, I would be willing to sleep like a bat---hanging upside down from the rafters!

Nothing to forgive, snappy. You can ask me anything. I am an open book type. Thank you for your interest, your care and most of all your prayers. Mine are with you for hopeful results in your tests.

To all our friends here, including those kind neighbors we've yet to meet---and the Q-Team for helping us stay connected, even through the holidays. Thank you and may God continually bless you!

Aa'eEmona'e! (Happy New Year! in Cheyenne)

[snappyfrappy]

agnesann, so glad you and Jacob are enjoying your new church and that he is doing well with the play dates. That's encouraging, isn't it? I know your heart is in CO, so will ask the Lord to guide you in the all important search for the very best educational opportunities for your DS, and of course a job for you.

COCOA MIX WITH SALTED CARAMEL? OH, be still my heart! No, I've not had that. Yet. I did get one of the salted caramel fraps. I've never been to Mt. Baldy. We can see it well from our area as it's so high, and the snow lasts longer up there than on the lower hills. But, I've never been skiing or sledding, or snowboarding. Too late for that now. Glad you got to enjoy it.

The appraisal on the place my sis is buying came in at the sale price, so it's full steam ahead. She is busily packing and trying to figure out what to do with her 3 dogs during the move. I suggested boarding them, but don't know what she will do. She's going to close her 7 cats in the bathroom while the movers are there. This weekend, her SIL will make all the necessary repairs on her present home.

DD#1 has very poor vision, and unless the Lord works a miracle, which He could by just willing it, there is nothing the doctors can do. She has no real sight in the right one other than light and some peripheral vision. Her left eye is VERY bad, but at this point can still be corrected so she can read and drive, etc. We just pray that the Lord will allow her to retain that sight as long as she lives. Thank you for your thoughtfulness.

DoubleJ, happy new year to you also.

DeLaney, having company is always tiring, but especially for those of us who are introverted by nature. Hope you soon get through this time and back into your more normal and manageable routine, and yes, studying. You will do great at that. I find your Irish traditions to be very interesting. I'm sure the bread is tasty, but can't figure out why nailing it to the house was ever thought necessary. I mean, a thief could steal it anyway, so preventing theft can't be the reason, but there had to be one in the beginning. Your dad can research that on line. Happy new year to you and yours.

Happy new year to one and all, and may this be a productive year in the spiritual sense for each of us. Maranatha!

snappy

[snappyfrappy]

Selah, we were posting at the same time. I appreciate your kind words. Thank you.

I knew you hadn't begun PT, but didn't know what it would involve. Water therapy is wonderful for lots of people DD#1 with her knee problems, finds it very helpful to just swim laps. Of course you will have a routine just tailor-made for you, and I hope it works well. Also hope you get down to the bonfire tonight. Sounds like you are well prepared for the weather. Love your transportation! Especially the chauffeur. Bow wow.

Happy new year to you, dear friend.

snappy

[WaJa61]

Hello, dear friends on this beautiful New Year's eve! We'll be leaving on Friday for Cleveland for a short visit with my brother and his wife, KQ, who you've all been kind enough to remember in your prayers. Will give you an update on her condition when I return, but for now... It's almost here -- the countdown, so I had to take a moment to tell you all how very much I appreciate each of you, and your friendship. Seems like just weeks ago, at most, that I first stumbled upon this forum and was lucky enough to meet up with some of the nicest of all posters. Daily I give thanks above as I now count you each among my most treasured blessings in life. I feel honored to sincerely call you my friends! In the rocking words of Tina Turner: you're simply the best!!

May the coming year reveal only health and happiness for each of you and all you hold dear.

The first of 2015 -- and each one to follow, all year long!

Love and tender blessings in Christ.

[LurkyLoo]

Happy New Year's Day, good friends!

Hoping yours is off to a nice start. Nothing too exciting here. Will go downstairs to dinner that's sure to include black-eyed peas and cooked greens of some type with pork. Last night we had the big buffet. Way too much food for me, and like some of you here.. I need to get back to my diet in a serious way. Portion control and lay off the sweets. Have never, to my knowledge had Irish bread, DeLaney. Bread is my greatest weakness at the table, though. Am sure I would like it. How many loaves did your mother make? My guess is, the tradition of leaving one outdoors started to feed the poor- an offering, but the nailing it to the house? You've got me! Maybe so animals couldn't swipe it so easily and scamper off. Sorry you don't get the day off, but the weekend is almost here. And just think.. Before this year ends, your studies will be behind you, and then.. a whole new world of opportunities will open up before you!

Oh, Joy, I take it that KQ has been released from the hospital then. Our prayers go with you as you visit with her and your brother. Maybe you will see some snow there, too. Just not too much, I hope. Odd you've yet to have any, and by the weather maps maybe our Snappy has! Take care and I hope you and hubby can get some rest soon. Will you be traveling for your birthday this year? Love and blessings to you, too!

So good to read a message from you, HiLo and to hear first hand that you're doing much better. Praise the Lord! Sorry though to hear Donna and Mike are losing, or have lost his father by now. Christ's peace be with you all, and especially the mother. Beginning this year as a widow, bless her. That's a wonderful prayer list you've shared. I have made a copy to go by and share. I thank you and am thankful your computer is working again. I only use this tablet now and it's wonderful everywhere but here where I must use the formatting tags or my font would be tiny and no paragraphs. Too hard for anyone to read. Haven't figured out yet how to save those to my shortcuts, though Joy sent me the directions by email. Don't post here much anyway and don't need tags elsewhere.. No, dear, there is no point in worrying about your sons martial status. It would nice if they could both meet someone, but we never know if it will last anyway and I'm sure they lead full and happy lives. How are the grandchildren? Well and thriving, I pray.

Any big plans today, Snappy? I bet you're cooking something good- and healthy. I so admire your willpower! Exciting news for your brave sister- things are moving right along and she'll soon be settled with all those pets in the new place. Is it out in the country? Or nearer to you? That would be nice and make visiting easier. Best wishes with the testing- I'm sure it will all be fine. You are blessed with such good health yet in our age group. I'm so sorry about your daughter's eyesight and join you in prayer that the damage doesn't progress further. Hope she enjoyed her time in the desert- sounds like such a nice, serene place to go unwind.

Hope you enjoyed the bonfire and fireworks, Selah! How cold did it get there last night? I had haggis once- tasted it before I realized what it was.. then I was foolish enough to ask, and oh my. Good luck on the 6th, dear- and with the PT. I'm sure you'll reap more benefits with it than I have. My RA is just too advanced, but you are young and otherwise so healthy. There's a man who lives a few doors down from me with spinal stenosis and degenerative disk disease. His problems began further up in the neck and just below, and has now worked its way down. He's had several disks replaced and now must have the spinal fusion. He is 82, and was telling me he will have to spend several weeks in rehab after his surgery- will have to stay there, poor soul. He's put it off as long as he can. The pain is just unbearable for him. I am praying this fusion works, but admit I know nothing of what it involves. I know you will do what they tell you- stay determined and stick with it. Just make it a part of your daily routine, like brushing your teeth.

Agnes, dear, it does seem to me, based on reading of your thread over there, that you and Jacob's needs will be met in CO. I'm very hopeful that you'll make that move home at the right time and I'm sure your lovely home will sell. You've taken such good care of it and the neighborhood is so nice. I'll keep praying and you keep researching!

Hello and blessings to you, DoubleJ! Did you have any plans for New Year's Day? It's a busy time of year for most, and some have to work, too. We are always happy to see a post from you and thankful for your prayers! My own go with you, too.

Thank you for the photos, Rowan. I especially love the old school- we have many such tiny school "houses" here, too, reminding us of simpler times. Love the covered bridges, too. Had a calendar once picturing those across the county. Still so much beauty to enjoy for those of you who can travel. Keep the pics coming, please for those of us who can't! Hope you found some time in your art studio since school will be resuming now. Good luck to your son, and his girlfriend with the cooking school. He may be the next Tyler Florence!

Anu, I hope you and hubby managed to enjoy the fancy party last night. Sometimes these things surprise us. Fun to dress up formally, once in a while, too. Did you hear anymore from your sister in Utah? Hope she is doing okay in her pregnancy and I pray she will be able to get together with the family soon.

My love and appreciation to each of you dear ladies. I thank you for your faithful friendship, your prayers and support. Couldn't want for better friends, so I'm thankful to this site for the opportunity, too. God's blessings go with you all!