Moody Monday's: Time to say good-bye to 2014

tlpoague

Wow, where did the year go?

It seems like only yesterday I sat at my computer to post my first blog. Now, here I am posting the last one for the year. Time is flying by, and yet, I don't feel that much older.

This year has been a challenging one for me, both physically and mentally. All day I have contemplated what to write about. (If this was a short story, I would be done by now.) So, after much thought, and many re-writes, I will focus instead on twelve things that have impacted me this year. 

12. Kicking fear to the curb and taking the chance to start something new. I have sat with this blog being stagnant for a couple of years because I didn't know what I was doing. I'm not very tech savvy so this was a big step for me to learn something new. I am glad I did it. I have met many people that have become friends and learned quite a bit.

11. Learning how to develop myself as a writer. I have found that when I write online vs. my off-line creative writing, I tend to be pretty shallow with my writing online. (Unless it dealt with family drama.) I don't know why that is but it is something I have picked up on. In the future I will have to find a way to remedy that if I continue to write online.

10. March was a month of challenges. My faith in God, family, writing, and supportive husband helped me to keep my sanity in March with the birth of our grandson, death of my mother-in-law days later, and writing challenges. (The family was still recovering from the previous year with similar events when these happened.) I seen myself grow in many ways during this time. 

9. Selling our business and taking a vacation. (I had forgotten what it was like to sit back and relax.) I love the time I spent visiting with my son and family.

8. How faith, scripture, prayer, and a bucket of humor helps to deal with life's little box of craziness. (Of course...don't forget the family...or a loving supportive hubby.)

7. Learning to cope with someone that has cancer. I have found strength where I didn't think I had it when I found out my mother has cancer. That same strength has helped me to deal with my dad and husband's health issues. (I have seen the power of prayer working many times during this year.)
6. Planting a garden and going back to my roots. So many memories as a child involved harvesting our own food, whether it was fishing, hunting, or gardening. This year my hubby and I planted a garden and enjoyed canning it. We also enjoyed making snack sticks to munch on this winter.
5. Sometimes it is okay to take a break. With so much going on in my family, I had to step away from writing online for a bit. I felt guilty about it, but at the same time, I knew my writing would suffer if I felt I wasn't giving 100% to it. I also took this time to begin editing my novel I wrote six years ago.
4. Letting your light shine will help others to shine their's. This year I wanted to focus on my crafts as much as my writing. Along the way I was able to help others learn a craft or get back into the crafts they use to do. This has created a closer bond between us. I feel that I have learned a lot from them while helping them.
3. The friends and acquaintances I have made during this writing journey. I have wrote off and on online for five years now. I have come to know many writers during that time. This year showed me a group of writers that went the extra distance to show how much they care. From simple personal messages online, midnight chats, to taking a moment to send a card...I have developed a special bond with these people I have never met. Thank you! You will never be far from my mind and have a special place in my heart.
2. Life is crazy. Things happen. It is how we deal with it that develops our character. It has taken me a long time to see past the negativity of things that happen and look for the positive. As warped as my humor can be sometimes, it has helped me to get through some dark moments. (I am very grateful the Lord blessed me with bucketfuls of humor.) I also feel blessed beyond the worth of material possessions with the family I have. (I love spoiling my grandsons!)
1. Growing with Christ. I had my eyes opened this year to new literature I had come across. Things that I thought I knew had been erased. Things I never understood before now have a new meaning. I am excited to explore more of  these amazing avenues. For once in my life things make sense and my questions are getting answered. In this excitement, I see my writing developing into something more. Into the direction I knew I wanted to go but didn't know how to get there. If you have never heard of LA Marzulli, Rob Skiba, Steve Quayle, or Tom Horn, be sure to take the time to check them out. Amazing stuff there!
And that wraps up this year's last Moody Monday.
Due to family health issues, I will be taking a break again for awhile. I will never truly give up writing online (since it is so addictive) but it will be less consistent than my goals were this year. I have enjoyed this year of learning, growing, and developing deeper friendships. I will always appreciate the fans, readers, and writers that have been a part of this journey.
Take care, stay warm, and enjoy the new year!

Moody Monday's: Feeling Blessed

tlpoague

I woke up this morning feeling under the weather. This put a damper on my mood to write...a long with any topics I had thought to write about. All day, while trying to over-come the stomach bug, I tossed ideas about. Nothing sounded up to par.
So...I sit here, sipping a cup of coffee, and thinking about how blessed I have been this last year.
My writing hasn't gone in the direction I had planned when I made my New Year's resolution. Instead, my research for my stories have led me down a different path with different views. I think this will help to enrich some of my stories I have been working on. (This also began the process of un-learning a few things.)
I have been blessed with another grandson earlier this year. It is amazing to see how fast time flies as I watch this young man blossom. Between him and his brother, my days have been full keeping up. (Hence the reason why my online writing has slowed down.)

Photo by tlpoague
It seems like just yesterday my children were babies.

Photo by tlpoague
Now I have two grandchildren. They are such a blessing.

 The reality of how short life is hit hard again this year. I won't go into details about it because I wrote about some of those experiences in my earlier blogs. It also impressed upon me how God works in our lives and in answering prayer. I know some of these experiences deepened my faith in the Lord.

This year we sold our business due to health issues. It is so weird to say we are retired now because I feel like I am working harder now, than when we ran our business.
In its place, I have taken up crafting again to go with my writing. I have never seen myself as being that talented. Just the average Jane learning something new.

Photo by tlpoague
This is a hat that I made with matching earrings
and necklace.

Photo by tlpoague
Here is a toddler bed Mr. P. and I
made. I didn't realize how easy it was
to make a quilt with matching crib sheet.

Photo by tlpoague
This could be used as a child head band
or a choker. 

Photo by tlpoague
This is one of many blankets
with matching caps.

Photo by tlpoague
This is one of the scarves I made
for my mother whom is
battling cancer.

Photo by tlpoague
Since I couldn't stop with just one,
I made a second one to go with it.

Because I didn't think I had enough to do with all of that, I talked my hubby into trying our hand at canning again. Something we haven't done since we were kids. 

Photo by tlpoague
A batch of chili for those cold,
snowy days.

Photo by tlpoague
Our first try at jelly.
It should come with its own
warning label.
Very addictive!

Saving the best for last, to wrap up this rambling, I am blessed not just with my family...but the friends I have met online through the social networks and writing websites. You guys mean more to me than you will ever know. I wouldn't be here trying this online writing thing if it wasn't for all of you. Thank you for your support, prayers, and encouragement. 

To me, this Christmas is more than just the over-rated commercials, last minute gifts, and hoopla. It has been a moment to take a breath, relax, reflect on the times gone by, and enjoy this moment...here and now. People will forget about the gifts five minutes or five years from now. But, they won't forget about the people who touched their lives in so many ways. 

I would like to invite you to join me on TSU. It is a new social website where I am sharing my writings and others. It is by invite only, so I would like to extend this invite to you...https://www.tsu.co/TLPoague

Moody Monday's: Atonement

tlpoague

Have you ever been in a situation where you regret saying some of the things you did to someone you don't know? Have you caught yourself scratching a spot bald and asking...
“Why in the world did I say that?”
“Where did that come from?”
Or, a moment where you realized the foundation you build your beliefs on were distorted?
Suddenly you see yourself as a fool, looking for a means of escape.

photo by tlpoague

(Before I continue, I just want to state that these are only my thoughts and views on this, so I understand that not everyone will agree or believe the same.)

The topic for last week's Moody Monday was about the fall and the Feast of the Lord that we as Christians are to celebrate. To add to that subject is the Day of Atonement.
The Day of Atonement is a day that follows ten days after the Feast of the Trumpets...aka...Yom Teruah. That day we are to cease from working. Neither eating or drinking from sun down of the ninth day to sun down of the tenth day. It is a time to pray, honor the Lord, and atone for our sins.
(Since I am new to understanding the rituals of these celebrations of the Lord, I have found myself stumbling around trying to understand it all.)
The thing is, I have been led to believe that as a Christian, we don't need to honor or celebrate the same rituals as the Jewish Nation. It is only in my research lately that I have come to realize that we are indeed suppose to be following these rituals and celebrations the way God wants.
I have known that as a Christian it is important to adhere to the Ten Commandments, to love the Lord, and to love your neighbor. I was taught that Salvation is only achieved through Jesus. You go to church on Sunday, if you can make it, instead of Saturday. The main holidays of the Lord were Easter and Christmas.
But...how does one accept the thought that everything they have been taught could possibly be wrong?
I know it was a difficult pill for me to swallow.
It is like a puzzle that I am slowly putting together. All the pieces are there but the picture isn't finished.
So...I began to question what I had been taught. That began with Matthew 24.
I also started to understand that as a Christian, if you don't know God's laws, you don't know what sin is. Or how you could be sinning towards God. This was clear in the books of Deuteronomy and Leviticus. But...again I say but...if you don't understand the roles the fallen angels, nephilim, and their descendant had then or now, understanding any of the Old Testament is difficult. (I will try to place links to the videos that have helped me in my research. I would love to hear your thoughts and views if you watch them.)
So...one may ask... “what does this have with atonement?”
We know it is wrong to steal, lie, or cheat. To do so leaves a mark on your reputation. When you have been busted for any of these, no matter how small the crime, an apology is forthcoming.
Let's say just for a moment, you have realized that all these years (for those that do believe) you have been worshiping the Lord the way man taught and not Yeshua's way. How does one atone for that?
This is a question I will leave you with, for each of us is different. We have different ideas, beliefs, and views about what is right and what is wrong. In the future though...ask yourself...is this man's traditions...or God's will? The answer may surprise you.
*Note* Since I can't get it to load a video, here are the links of the YouTube videos mentioned above.
Rob Skiba's Archon Invasion Part 1
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E8dUQOaSmSE
Arthur Bailey's Introductions to the Fall Feasts
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hTz2aSsgnc8

Moody Monday's: Falling for Fall

tlpoague

Today is the first day of fall. A season I love...and not just because my birthday is coming up soon. It holds so many special memories of hard work, family coming together, and joyous moments.

I love to get up early to watch the sun rise over a background of changing colors. Smelling the harvest upon the shifting cool breeze, I imagine tasting my favorite holiday dishes. I can feel the change of the season deep within my bones. Eyes closed, I listen to the migration of the birds. Their sounds can be heard for miles. Words can't describe the feeling of enjoyment in those few precious moments as I sit there, sipping my coffee, praising God for his canvas of artwork.

photo by tlpoague

This last weekend was a celebration of sorts. It was a non-stop garage sale for three days along Hwy 36. I glanced at a few but mostly hung out with my sisters. We talked of nothing important, chatted with the customers, and soaked up the last bits of summer sun, before the cold of winter sets upon us.

I decided with the changes in the air it was time to do some of my own. Yesterday, I took the time to do some cleaning, decorating, and re-organizing. (It was pretty hard not to do it the Redneck way.)

photo by tlpoague

It reminded me of the times, as a child, we would scurry around to clean before company came. Company meant a time of hard work celebrated with food, fun, and long cherished stories. It was a time when the women would gather around the table, and stove, canning precious food for the winter ahead. The men would gather their guns and head out for some hunting. The children annoyed by the thoughts of school and missing out in the fun, would dash home, eager to be a part of the activities.

photo by tlpoague

I remember my grandmothers, aunts, and mother, teaching me the trades of being a homemaker. There were sewing and crocheting lessons, canning fruit, veggies, and jams, and prepping the meat harvest the men brought home. I still remember the stories that were told, legends that were created, and the laughter.

This weekend is another celebration. It is called the Feast of Trumpets.

It is a time to purge the old, both physically and spiritually, to make room for the new. It is also a time to come before the Lord to give thanks for his blessing. To praise and worship him. A time when we should be watching for Jesus's return to gather his harvest.

I can't wait for the celebrations to start.

What are you plans to celebrate the first day of Fall?  

Moody Monday's: God Answers Prayer

Moody Monday's : God Answers Prayers

tlpoague

Welcome again to Moody Monday. 

We are living in a world that no longer wants-or sees a reason-to believe in God, or the teachings and salvation of Jesus Christ. Even Christians I have come in contact with are drifting away from their belief as they are daily tempted and tested by worldly thoughts and views. (These are only my thoughts, I don't expect everyone to believe the same as I.)

I found myself walking this line. I was in a haze believing in God, knowing Jesus is my Savior, but filled with questions and doubt. I started to see myself struggling in my faith. So, one day, I stopped for a moment to pray for answers to my questions and those others had asked me about God and the bible.

I felt a lingering doubt about God answering my prayer as I plowed my way through the Old Testament. I couldn't for the life of me figure out what any of it meant, or had to do with today's living. I can't explain why I had this doubt, only that some questions seemed impossible to find the answers too. To be honest, I was about to give up reading that part of the bible and move on.

A day or two later, I was bored out of my skull, so I decided to browse through some YouTube videos for crafts to create for our upcoming winter bazaars. Upon opening the webpage, there sat a single video completely irrelevant to the ones surrounding it. It was called “The Watchers” by LA Marzulli. Curious, I clicked on it.

My world was suddenly rocked. Things I thought I knew about the bible were cast aside as my eyes were opened to other possibilities and explanations. My questions and many more were answered. Hungry for more, I watched every video I could by LA. This led me to Rob Skiba's “Return of the Nephilim”. Suddenly things began to make sense once you added in the fallen angels, nephilim, and the descendants of the nephilim. God didn't seem like such a heartless soul out for a massive genocide on innocent people. Immediately I went back to re-read parts of the Old Testament I had previously skimmed through.

God's answered prayer didn't stop there. As I have mentioned in a previous post, my mother found out she has cancer. Since she struggles with taking prescription medicines, fears arose and questions were asked. She wanted to find other alternative forms of treatment but many doctors don't/won't accept it. We believed that it was through the power of prayer that she was able to find one that not only accepted it, but also encouraged it. It was also through prayer that she was able to take her chemo treatments with little side effects. What a blessing it is to see God at work, even as others continue to doubt.

So today, I leave you with a simple request. If you haven't heard of LA Marzulli, or Rob Skiba, please take a moment to check out their videos. If you believe in aliens, ancient mysteries, and secrete societies, I think these videos will open your mind to a new understanding of our world in which we live in.

Have a great Monday! 

         

Moody Monday's: Having Faith

tlpoague

It's Monday again! That day of the week that is often dreaded. A time to shake of the weekend slumber/fun and head back to the work place.

It is a day that often starts out on the wrong foot. A day where nothing seems to go right. A day that finds most in a slump of negativity. 

So, how does one get past that slump?

I could list a series of ideas but I can't speak for anyone but myself. Each of us deal with life differently. For myself, I seek the Lord. 

It may not be the answer for everyone..but it works for me.

I have been in a slump these last few weeks. I feel the clutches of negativity and stress digging its claws in.  I have tried to face it with humor. I have tried to overcome it with projects. I have tried writing about it. I have been tempted a time or two to post about it. But in the end, none of these methods have worked...until I prayed about it.

God has helped me along the way.

With God:

I have been able to face my fears of success/failure. 

I have set goals and felt the exhilaration of making them. 

I have learned that procrastinating only gets you so far before you have to do something.  

I have learned the path is much easier when trusting God to guide the way.

I have been flipping a coin as to continuing my writing online. I have many irons in the fire that make it difficult to find the time to mingle with everyone I have meet. I love the writing family that has surrounded me and supported me. I am grateful to be a part of it. I don't want to give it up...but, in the same sense...I'm not sure this is the direction I should go. I will continue to pray about. For now, this will be my last post.

I will continue to keep in contact as time allows. 

I will think of you all often. 

I will cherish the time we had together swapping stories, laughs, and support. 

I will always be grateful for the friendships.

I feel blessed with the opportunity to meet and correspond with all of you. 

If in the future you want to chat, just drop me a line on FB or email.

I thank you all for everything you have done to help me to grow as a writer. I wish you all well in your adventures.

Hugs,

tlpoague    

Wordless Wednesday: Being Still

Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth. (Psalms 46:10 KJV)

Photo by tlpoague

Cascia  Talbert

Moody Monday's: God Only Gives Us As Much As We Can Handle

Have you ever heard the saying, “God only gives you as much as you can handle?” Do you believe it is true?

For myself, I would have to say yes. I think God only gives me as much as I can handle. 

photo by tlpoague

I often joke that I never have a boring life. There is always some kind of drama going on whether it is in my siblings families or my own. Last week I had a very good topic I was wanting to write about. Then it happened. That little thing that often derails the best of writer's intentions.

Mine was a washing machine. It was one of those shinning moments where you have a houseful of company and things begin to go sour. My son had been washing his laundry when he noticed that the washer wasn't draining. Instead of intruding on his visit, we decided to post-pone the fix till after the kids left. This just happened to be the day I needed to post a Moody Monday. What timing!                            

tlpoague

“Well, no problem,” I told myself as I handed the tools to my hubby. “It should be a quick fix.”

Boy, was I wrong.

The filter of the water pump was full of garbage. Guess where the built up water went? Yup, all over the floor, despite the best efforts to drain it in a bucket. The smell was awful! I still gag thinking about it.

So, after cleaning out the pump and replacing it, I cleaned up a filthy mess. While cleaning this mess, I noticed that the drum of the washing machine wasn't spinning. It took awhile to analyze the problem and then find a solution. (There is a sensor inside the door of the front-end loading washing machine that becomes weak. When this happens, it won't spin properly.) This meant that we (the hubby) has to take apart the door and adjust the sensor to get by till we could order a new one. In the meantime, I was still trying to move things and clean up the smelly water mess.

By the time we had made a few more adjustments, finished the week's worth of laundry, and mopped the floors a dozen times, I was pretty pooped, but we still needed to plant our garden. I know, I know, it seems a bit late, but with all the weird weather we had been having, I wanted to make sure that the last frost was over so I didn't loose any of our precious plants. So, I figured...there is always tomorrow to write.

Never tell yourself that when making plans for the next day. For in my case, planning often doesn't go as planned.

Tuesday found me doing more housecleaning and helping the hubby finish a bed for our grandson Julius. I thought it turned out amazing. Of course this led to having the grand kids over for a bit. 

The grandson and his new bed.
photo by tlpoague

Wednesday was a surprise fishing trip. I had a great time trying to out fish Mr. P.. Naturally he caught the most fish while I managed to catch a lot of sun. To add to the excitement of fishing, we seen the largest snapping turtle of our lives.

I couldn't pass this opportunity up so I dug out my camera to snap a few photos. Just as I zoomed in to take a shot of the turtle, movement caught my eye. It was a water snake swimming towards my feet. For those that know me...I hate snakes! They freak me out!

I forgot about the turtle as I focused on the snake just inches from my feet. Mr. P. was doing his best to find a stick to scoot it away. (Have you ever had a moment where you have a deadly creature on the end of the stick and the stick breaks? Well...I did. Not once, but twice!) 

Mr. P. did his best to fling the snake back into the lake a bit further from where we were. This little critter wasn't impressed and proceeded to swim right back for my feet. The second time, Mr. P. poked at him till he moved on by. Of course, I think it may have been more productive if the sticks didn't keep breaking. By the time the excitement was over, the turtle had moved on, and I was done fishing. 

I am really not fond of snakes, no matter the size.
photo by tlpoague

We decided to head back home but first wanted to stop by my dad's, Big Nam, to see how he was recovering. (He had been really sick over Easter.) I was glad to see he was doing better. It was an enchanting moment of enjoyment to see the look on his face when we gave him a load of fish we caught. I was one happy french fry! By the time we arrived home, I hit the sack and slept like a rock. 

The stringer full of fish we gave my dad.
photo by tlpoague

Thursday we took off on a four hour drive to the doctor's for an over-night test. Along the way we had a lovely conversation about our week and future plans. (Our daughter had mentioned that she has a new job. This means that she will be moving a few hours away. I planed to get in as much time with the grand babies as I could before they move.) As for the tests... they seemed to have gone well.

Friday as we headed back home for a much needed rest, I received a phone call from our daughter. Our youngest grandson was admitted in the hospital for an over-night observation and more tests. He had been breathing too fast and had wheezing on his chest. As a grandmother, it was difficult to not want to control the situation. By the time I had arrived at the hospital, the doctor has determined that the little guy had viral pneumonia. They were keeping him under watch and administering medication.

Saturday, our little guy was doing much better. He was sent home. Needless to say, I think I have earned a few more gray hairs from all the worry. I am grateful that God answered our prayers. 

Our little grandson feeling much better.
photo by tlpoague

It was sitting here at my computer on Sunday, brushing off my keyboard, contemplating my next topic, and reading a few blogs, hubs, and bubbles, that I realized something very important.

No matter how busy I am, I need to find the time to write. This is important because to keep this talent in tuned, I need to use it. Not just talk about it...but take action and do it. The ironic part of it was that as I was catching up on some reading, I read an article from a fellow writer talking about how as writers we have a responsibility to write. This article really hit home. Sometimes it easier to get caught up in excuses than to just take that moment and...well...just write.

I look forward to seeing you all again next Monday for Moody Monday's.  

Moody Mondays: Are You So Busy You Can Make Crazy Look Good?

tlpoague

Are you one of those people that have such a busy schedule you don't know if you are coming or going? You know, the kind that takes a disorganized, chaotic schedule and breaks it down to run smooth as silk?

Not me! But I have figured out a way to make going crazy look good.

My children use to ask me, “Where ya going?”

My answer, “Crazy, wanna come?”

At first this was met with a "yes" before they realized what I was talking about. Then over time it was met with their own comical responses. This trick became so popular in my family that everyone has used it at least once.

So, I had to change it up a bit.

“I'm so busy I make crazy look good.”

I can hear it now...how does one make crazy look good? Crazy is just crazy.

Don't laugh...I know to some they may mock the idea...but I call it the power of prayer, handful of scripture, and a load of faith. In my day to day life, I have noticed that if any one of these things are missing, my schedule begins to have a meltdown. It took me awhile to analyzed this.

My children and grandchildren
photo by tlpoague

On days that I don't have much to worry about, except for a bit of writing, it was easy to stick to my early morning ritual. But on days when my schedule is more demanding, or family drops by, and I don't follow my morning ritual, it is a guarantee that at some point during that day I will become too busy to spend a few moments with God. Most of the time I didn't realize it until I went to bed.

I have a friend that enjoys stenciling sayings onto wooden plaques. She has a few that are her favorite but I have two that sick in my mind when I think of her.

photo by tlpoague

“What if today you woke up with only the things you thanked God for yesterday?”

“Sometimes God calms the storm, sometimes he lets the storm rage and calms his children.”

I don't know the author of these sayings but I am grateful the I came across them. Because before now, I hadn't given it much thought about how thankful I was or how I handled life's storms unless asked. Could you imagine what life would be like if God said, “Sorry, I'm too busy today to answer your prayer or give you a hand.”?

I know I would be having a meltdown.

In those moments when I feel a meltdown beginning, I think of two of my favorite scriptures:

“I can do all thing through Christ which strengtheneth me.” Philippians 4:13 

This is a plaque that
can be found in
Hobby Lobby.
photo by tlpoague

“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6

I never have a dull moment in my life with working out a writing schedule, day to day tasks, and being around my children and family. That is why in those unexpected quiet moments, I try to slip away and thank God for my many blessings and talents. And...for helping me to overcome my little box of craziness.

Does Your Mood Swing Like The Mad Hatter?

tlpoague

I can hardly believe it has been six weeks since starting Moody Mondays. (Wow, time flies when you're having fun.) I haven't exactly gone in the direction I had planned on but have enjoyed reading and hearing the comments from others. I think it has allowed me to follow a wondering path in exploring different types of writing. Like my life, it is often chaotic and full of surprises. The only thing I can seem to be consistent on is looking forward to what I can write about the next week.
I want to thank the ladies that have joined in sharing their links and comments. It has been a privilege to have you here, sharing your stories, and comments. Thank you for taking the time to join me.
I want to thank my family for the stories, ideas, and pictures, they have shared. I never thought about writing a children's book in the fashion of Rusty Rooster until you mentioned it. I think it will be a great addition to my Big Nam series.

photo by DigitizedSolutions

I want to thank my little bro for allowing me access to his photo website and for helping me with this blog. I will be posting photos, along with a few of his, in the upcoming weeks. These can be purchased for a small price for those that are interested in a variety of scenic views. He is an amazing up and coming photographer.
As I began to post in yesterday's blog, I have never seen myself as being talented. I have always viewed myself as having a wide range of interests. I think this helps when going through the stages of being a writer. I have often dreamed of what it would be like to live as a pioneer when I sat upon the knee of my great-grandmother, as she told me her childhood stories.
It is a whole other world when learning to be self-sufficient. The process of growing and butchering your own meat is definitely not for the faint-hearted, but it can be a fascinating addition for a story.
To have the knowledge of sewing, crocheting, knitting, needlepoint, and cross-stitching may not seem as important now, but in those days it was a part of one's personality. Much could be learned about a person by the projects they created.
I have now realized takes a certain amount of skill to be able to create a meal over an open fire or on a cast iron stove. (I learned how to cook on a cast iron stove one winter when living in a cabin in the mountains.) So, imagine my surprise when my daughter came home one day from school to share her experiences in her home-economics class. None of the students knew how to hand wash dishes, let alone whip up a meal. (Some of these stories I will share in upcoming blogs.)
Being a writer takes a great deal of creativity and imagination. I feel truly blessed by God for the wealth of both I have been given. I thank my parents for giving me the opportunity to developed them. I remember being taught that the luxuries of certain technology were a privilege that shouldn't be taken for granted. This outlook created a childhood filled with exploration, imagination, and simplicity. These were traits my husband and I tried to pass along to our children. I am now seeing the fruits of that labor as my daughter is passing along what she has learned to her children. Every day that I watch my grandsons grow is an adventure.

My grandson
photo by tlpoague

Trying to be a Godly woman in this day and age presents its own challenges. All to often it is easy to become distracted and tempted. I haven't written about my Christian living as much as I first thought I would. It isn't because I am ashamed, it's more like I am not sure what to say. I think to have a fruitful life, one needs God at the core. I have seen both sides of the boat to show me that my path lies with following Jesus and acknowledging him as my Savior. Some of the miracles I have witness I shared on HubPages. In time I will try to share more across the websites I write on.
As I wrap up another edition of Moody Monday, I would have to say my mood today is gratitude. My mother once told me, it is okay to try and be superwoman, but don't forget to find time for God and yourself.
I look forward to seeing you again next week if not before.

photo by tlpoague

A Vacation on a Whim

tlpoague

It is amazing to see how God can work in our lives when we pause for a moment and reflect back to an answered prayer, a miracle, or what some would refer to as a God-wink. I had that moment when a prayer was answered a few weeks ago.

It had been a year since I seen my son. He was taking a huge step on his own moving to a different state to start a new job. My hubby and I didn't have many opportunities to drop everything and take a trip since we were tied down to running our business. My son had to wait till he had enough vacation time to fly out. Time passed as both parties waited.

Then one day, out of the blue, an opportunity presented itself. Easter weekend was just beginning to wrap up. I was discouraged, stressed, and feeling confined to my house. Even though I had an enjoyable time celebrating Easter with my daughter and grandchildren, I felt a big chunk of myself was missing. Apparently, my hubby felt the same way.

That night he asked how I would feel to take a trip to see our son.

I said, “Sure, when do you want to go?”

Hubby, “How about tomorrow after the grandson's leave?”

I think I broke my record prepping for a trip.

We mapped out our route and took off as soon as the sun rose. It was the longest 16 hour trip of my life, but well worth it. It felt amazing to unplug, unwind, and just let my woes fade with each passing mile while reconnecting with Mr. P..

I did manage to give myself a panic attach when I realized I had left my camera on my bed. I had one of those DUH moments where I had packed it. Left it in my bag for the night. Then unpacked it to use during our drive. Unfortunately in the chaos to get on the road, I forgot to grab it. Man, did I want to kick myself at that moment for taking it out of my bag. (My son's girlfriend was kind enough to let me borrow her's, but many of the pictures came out blurry. Still, I was grateful to have the chance to take some.)

This is a view of the copper mine my son works at.
photo by tlpoague

I had the time of my life touring my son's work place, rock hunting for hidden gems, bonding with my brother, my son, and the women in their lives, and seeing what life is like in the desert, with a splash of mountains. It was amazing to see a small town with traffic backed up for miles. (Again, I kicked myself for leaving my camera.)

I tried to suppress my fear of snakes, scorpions, and spiders. (Have you ever heard of a rock spider? I didn't but I guess they can grow to the size of a fist.) I felt fortunate enough not to encounter any of the above. I listened to enough stories around the table to last me a life time. That night I had visions of being terrorized by creepy crawlies and poisonous snakes bigger than a man's leg. I can guarantee that camping in that state is a no go in my book.

This is one of the few creepy crawlies I don't mind running into.
photo by tlpoague

I still remember my brother telling me his experience when he thought he was seeing worms on the road after a good rain. Upon closer inspection, it was a migration of tarantulas. I had goosebumps and shivers running down my back thinking of that. My imagination was so creative, when I felt a long strand of hair on my arm I attacked it as if it were a creepy crawly. This created a good laugh with Mr. P..

For eleven days we laughed, played, traveled to see sights, and helped my brother with his greenhouse and aqua-pond garden. I can't wait to go again.

It was fun helping my little bro as he added sky lights to his shed for his aqua-pond greenhouse.
photo by tlpoague

This is one of three containers to his aqua-pond. This one will hold his plants as the water flows from the fish tank, through this plant tank, to the holding tank.
photo by tlpoague 

I give thanks to the Lord for this wonderful and unexpected moment. I have realized that even though there are moments when I feel miles from his presence, he is always there...waiting to bless us.

What Are You Thankful For This Week?

Photo by tlpoague

It is time again to reflect on this weeks things of thankfulness. What are you thankful for this week? For myself, it was a week of dropping the ball again. I have been late meeting my writing goals but I am thankful that I didn't give up. It guess in this case it was “better late than never”. Why would I be so grateful?

  In the past, when I became discouraged because I couldn't complete a project, I would give up. That one inch of giving up would turn to two, and two to three, until before I knew it weeks had passed before I gave it a shot again. This week I told myself I couldn't give up. Not yet. Not before I found my limits.

I also did something that in the past I wouldn't dream of doing. I began to connect with a group of writers that I have been following for years on HubPages. I am thankful for a chance to get to know them better. I am also thankful for the encouragement I received on my own writing.

  I am thankful that I was bless by God with a sense of humor and a gift to tell a story. For when the time came, I was thankful that I could help a friend with a dose of laughter. It didn't seem like much for me but I know it made a difference to them. (Anytime you need another laugh...look me up. I had a blast.)

My newest grandson
Photo by tlpoague

I am thankful that my grandson was given a clean bill of health on his checkup. It is amazing to see how fast these little tykes grow. I am still questioning where the time went. It doesn't seem possible that he is three weeks old now.

  I am thankful for the patient and loving husband I have. He has done a lot to keep me grounded this week. He gave me encouragement when I needed it. He reminded me why I had chosen a path I did, when I began to revert to my old ways. I may have made his life miserable this week, so I am extremely grateful he loves me and all my flaws.

  Most of all I am grateful for my faith. I know I mention it quite often. It is something that fills my heart to share. I realize not everyone may want to hear it, or believe the same as I do, and that is okay. To be true to myself is to acknowledge that God has worked wonders in my life. I have received many answered prayers again this week. One of them came in the form of a friend that feels the same as myself. If it hadn't of been for that conversation, I may never had taken the time to read my first writings on sharing that faith. I am thankful for that chat.

  If you have something your are thankful for and want to share. Please feel free to do so. Come and join the group TToT sponsored by Considerings. I will see you all again, hopefully before Silly Sunday. If not, come join in the fun with Everything Susan's Silly On Sunday and RealHousewife.

Considerings

Take care and be well my friends and readers.  

tlpoague 2014

Is A Housewife Unworthy Because She Doesn't Hold a Job?

This is what I want to look like most days.
Photo by tlpoague

What does a housewife mean to you? Are you one or know of one? Do you think that because a housewife doesn't hold a job, she is unworthy?

I was having a chat the other day with a friend. Some of you may know her as RealHousewife. We were talking about how some people view housewives. Did you know that there are people that think being a housewife is unworthy? They see them as having no status, no self worth, just a free-loader off their spouse or partner.

  Let me tell ya, unless you have been a housewife, you will have know clue how much work it takes to be one. Sure anyone can take out the trash, do some laundry, and pay some bills. The question is...have you ever tried to accomplish those tasks while having a crying baby attached to your hip, a phone plugged in your ear, and wiping up the dog package on the floor? Sound easy? Let's add a time-line to this scenario. Let's say you have important company coming—or a TV guy to install your dish-- you have only thirty minutes to take out the trash, wash the sticky Kool-aid on the tile, change a blown out diaper, bath the other child covered in sugar, finish your conversation with your doctor on the phone, while your hubby just walks in the door early for lunch. Do you still think a housewife is worthless?

This is how I look most days.
Photo by tlpoague

I have been a housewife for years. I remember days of little-to-no sleep because my children slept in shifts, despite trying to keep them on a schedule. I remember days of finding a balance between being a chauffeur, secretary, doctor, and maid. It is not an easy task when a household depends on you to remember everything.

  During the few years I did work, I seen work as a vacation. A brief moment to get away and recharge. It didn't take long for me to realize I didn't like working. I was filled with guilt that I wasn't there for my children and husband as they needed me. I was wasting finances working to pay a sitter. I disliked how the house felt detached and unorganized. Family bonding hour meant a lot, and still does, even now that my children are grown and moved into their own homes.

  I have a faith in the Lord that helps me in my struggles of being a homemaker. On those days when I am feeling unworthy, I seek the guidance of God. It may take simple prayer or only a verse to remind me how blessed I am with the gifts I have been given.

Proverbs 31:10-31 gives a description of a good wife (homemaker/housewife). It is a woman that her husband trusts with all his heart. She is a craftsman (craftswoman) that takes pleasure fulfilling the needs of her family. She is the seamstress, crafter, designer. She is a chef and baker. She is a gardener. She is a giver to those in need. She is a woman filled with strength and honor in herself, and her family.

I will always take pride in being a housewife.   

To read more on our chat of what a housewife is click on ...RealHousewife 

tlpoague 2014

What Are You Thankful For On This First Day Of Spring?

It is the first day of Spring! 

photo by tlpoague

Once again I am pressed for time. I never have a dull moment in this busy life of mine. Someone always seems to need something. A bill needs to be paid, or an appointment to attend. I, this week, have let tasks pile up in my excitement to write. (Isn't it awful when we neglect our family to fulfill our addiction of writing.)

So...in no random order...are this weeks ten things of thankful.

I am thankful to see the signs of Spring. (We had a small sneeze of snow that it turned to rain in one afternoon.)

I am thankful for my group of friends that helped me this week. Many times I have wanted to throw away my hard work because of excuses; not having time, always interrupted, never knowing what to write, etc..

I am thankful for my son that gave me a good laugh this week.

I am thankful for my wonderful grandsons. Every visit brightens my day. (Along with an exercise regiment I didn't realize I needed.) 

My grandsons
photo by tlpoague

I am thankful for my brother that helped me figure out my web page. It is no where close to where I want it, but he was still very helpful.

I am thankful for the quite time I have had this week to recharge.

I believe that Jesus is Lord and Savior. I am thankful for the literature and people I found this week,on the net, to help me with questions.

I am thankful for answered prayer. I have seen my prayers answered this week in unexpected ways.

It isn't much, but there it is. My week of thanks. I look forward to next week. If by chance you want to join in the fun of sharing your many thanks, link up with Considerings.  

Considerings

tlpoague 2014

Silly Sunday March 16, 2014

photo by tlpoague

“Dig deep and look for the humor”, I have been telling myself, as I deal with the family drama this week. Sometimes it is pretty easy. I can find things to laugh about. Other days...I have a dark cloud that just hovers and won't go away. It is on those days that I dig deep in my faith.

If you believe in God, you know that there will be times in your life when you are faced with a trial. How you handle that trial will determine how you grow as a Christian. You may stand, shaking your fist, and crying “Why, why me?”, or, “why now?”. There may be times when you drop to your knees and plead for strength...or a way to cope. If you think about it, how can you grow as a person if you live in a bubble that is always safe? If you are always safe...how can your experiences help others?

Not too long ago, I was listening to a Christian comedian, Patsy Clairmont. I had stumbled across her while channel surfing, in my car, on a trip, out of town. My attention was captured when she started to talk about how God had worked in her life. It prompted me to look at my life and how I handle some of my trials. Especially after the last few weeks I had.

I caught myself, this last week, saying something along the lines of, “okay, Lord, I can handle this...”. 

God must have thought so too, because before I knew it, I had another situation on my plate. 

So, then I caught myself asking, “Lord, could I have a dose of humor to go with it?”

I was visiting with a friend the other day. She was dealing with some difficulties of her own. I couldn't help but ask...how have you been handling it?

Her answer, “I just call your daughter and borrow her son.”

I couldn't help but chuckle. How can a dark cloud compete with the contagious laughter and antics of a 14 month old?

God had answered my prayer. 

photo by tlpoague

It came in a whirlwind of a bundle, complete with an angelic face, dimples, dark eyes, and a mischievous grin. I knew when he would be gearing up for something. That mischievous grin would widened, causing those little dimples to pop. His dark eyes would sparkled as he stuck his tiny tongue out in concentration. Once those black eyebrows began to rise, it was time to get up off my lazy bum and be ready for some action.

So, I caught myself saying, “Thank you, Lord, for this wonderful blessing. I needed that today.”

I find I don't have time to be depressed or negative, IF, I remember to lift it to the Lord. My day is instead filled with joy. A cup full of happiness that runneth over. It isn't always easy. Some days it will take more work than others. But, for the most part, I try to look for the rainbow after the storm and remind myself to...trust in the Lord. 

I have recently joined the SOS group, (Silly on Sunday's) with Everything Susan and RealHousewife. If you are interested in sharing your silly stories, you can link up here... Silly on Sunday's with Everything Susan.

Everything Susan

tlpoague 2014