Author: Sandie D

I always have a hard time explaining who am I. I resort to the I am a mother to 2 beautiful adult daughters I have the most handsome grandsons and the loveliest grand-daughters. I'm married to an amazing man since 1980. The most important thing about me is that I am a Born Again Christian. The Lord has gotten me through so much in my life. So, I want to give Him the credit for all of my blessings. I'm also a blogger and I enjoy writing. blogs about my faith, family, and food.

Blessings

Published on by Sandie DLeave a comment

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Life seems to come rushing at us full force. If you are like me, you are on the go and barely have time to breath and take in the goodness around you. Anymore, we barely have time to stop and look around us and smile at what we have. We shouldn’t think about our blessings just at Thanksgiving. We should all the time, because they are happening each and  every day. Sometimes, we just miss them because of all the bad things going on around us. Or those things we choose to focus on instead.

I want to do a little project this year for those around me. It will be a Random Acts of Kindness Scavenger Hut. You may be wondering what that is. Give me a moment to share my list of things I would like to do for this Scavenger Hunt of Kindness.

  1. Give a random person a flower
  2. Buy breakfast for an unsuspecting person
  3. Write a note and let someone I don’t know that they are special and that God loves them
  4. Go to the nursing home and pick a room and read to that person or let them share what ever memory they would like.
  5. Hold the door open for someone
  6. Smile- That can go along ways
  7. Invite someone to dinner that may be eating alone
  8. Buy a gift card at a store and give it to the person behind me
  9. Take my grand-kids out and let them do a Random Act of Kindness
  10. Do a video for a Facebook friend that may need a lift in his/her spirit

ImageThere are endless possibilities that I could do for others that doesn’t cost anything but a little bit of time. These acts of kindness isn’t only for them, but for myself. I think when we do for others, we also lift our spirits and helps us appreciate what we have.

When I think about all the blessings I have in my life, I would say I have a bounty of blessings. Here are just a few. I could write a book, but I won’t…

  1. The other day during the prayer over the city, I was given a picture from a dear friend. I shared a dream I had and she had a picture that represented that dream.
  2. My daughter Beckiah sent me a text message just to say she loved me and asked how my day was.
  3. JJ asks me out of the blue what he can do and if he could help with anything. I had to think hard on what he could do for me though. But I let him and he was so proud.
  4. I love to watch the birds outside and it is funny to see how they play together or hang out. The other day I was watching them on the power lines just sitting there. I know it’s weird. But they had me wondering why we can’t just be and sit and observe the world.
  5. I have many wonderful friends that pray for me. And I appreciate those prayers. Even when I don’t say I’m having a hard time, they know and take it upon themselves to be there.
  6. Health is a major thing. Yeah I have many health problems. At the same time, there are millions who have a lot more and young children dying every day from cancer and other diseases. There are countries who have no medical care and people are left to die. I’m very blessed to live in a country where there is medical care.
  7. How can I leave out God? Well, I can’t. I wouldn’t be blessed without Him. He tells me no when the answer needs to be no. He lets me throw my temper tantrums and loves me anyhow. He knows my weaknesses and doesn’t leave me. Wow, not too sure others would do that to the degree God does.
  8. I have the best kids and grandkids ever. Yeah, I may get mad or say stupid things. But that’s OK.
  9. Chocolate is a great blessing too… It has a way of calming my soul and shutting my mouth when I need to say nothing… So something sweet goes in, so nothing sour comes out… OH yeah…
  10. Notes in the mail. I kinda miss those because my mother in law would send a little thinking of you note and letting me know she is thinking about me. I still have some of those notes from her. When I get one out of nowhere I think of her and how nice that someone took the time to say hi and your in my prayers.
  11.  I get a kick out of this lady at church Evelyn. She always asks me how I’m doing and I start saying “I’m Fine”,  then she finishes before I can say it and tells me, I know your fine, but your lying, lol. I find that funny for some reason. She knows me for who I am… So many at church are that way. They give me that look and I know they know, but I try to convince them anyhow, lol… 
  12. There are many many things I’m blessed for. Even for doing dishes that I don’t like doing or laundry. At least I have dishes and food to go on them. I have cloths that need to be washed and a washer and dryer to do them in. Not everyone can say that.
  13. I don’t appreciate having to wash my car, but I have a car that runs and that needs washing.
  14. Computers can be a hassle and run slow, but I can’t complain much because I have a computer to use and blog about these things on.
  15. How can I leave out music. I love to listen to Casting Crowns, JJ Heller and most of the Christian singers and groups. I have heard many grumbles, myself included about music at church. I’m not into funeral music for church derives  So some time ago, I came to the conclusion that I’m going to church for the message and worshiping  And if I want to listen to my style of Christian music, I can turn on KLOVE (huge blessing for me) or go to a special at another church. Music is a gift and I appreciate those who get up and sing and lead at our church. Instead of complaining, I’m choosing to be blessed and enjoy the time I’m there.
  16. Pastor Dean at our church allows a time to offer praise reports and what a blessing it is to see how God is working in everyone’s life. They may not have everything, but they have God and so do I.

I would love to hear what you are blessed with. People can name alot to grumble about, but what taking a chance and saying the good things going on in your life.

Parents Confessionals

Published on by Sandie DLeave a comment

I was just reading a post on Facebook about a blogger that wrote about things she did as a parent. It is actually pretty funny. Then I got to thinking about all the stupid things I did as a parent and wonder how my daughters made it through their childhood, ha ha.

Here are just a few of my stupid mom moments:

  1. Lisa the Rabbit-

ImageMy daughter Jessica had this evil rabbit. For those of you who think they are sweet and fuzzy, that isn’t true always. This was a cute little black Mini Rex rabbit. She would growl and chase ya down. When my husband held her, she would start biting at his pants. I won’t mention where, I will keep this clean. But you get the idea.

I tell ya, she was possessed big time. So one Easter when Jessica was small, I came up with a plan. I got rid of that rabbit and told Jessica that the rabbit was out delivering Easter Eggs and goodies and that she decided to go live somewhere else. I know, I’m bad, but you can’t have an evil rabbit on Easter Sunday. That doesn’t work! I did tell her the truth eventually, but only after I got her a new nice sweet rabbit.

2. Forgetting Them At School

ImageYeah, I know our memories as parents should be great. But not mine. There have been times when I would get a call from the girls and making sure to remind me that I needed to pick them up. I would answer with a quick “I Know”. As if I would ever forget one of my kids, yeah right!

Well, on that day when she called, I forgot to pick her up because I was in a half sleep and an hour after it was time to get her, I get another call. Guess what I had to do? Yep! I had to go over to the school and pick them up. Blastedness of a bad memory, lol.

3. Forgetting the Niece-

407241_10150542955545927_1911582406_nMy niece Bridgette had been living with us for a couple of years already. My daughters were out of the house. Bridgette was working at McDonalds at the time. I headed into St. George to pick her up. Yeah, I got there and with time to spare. BUT! I waited for her and then on the way home after we are all buckled up, I get a call. Yeah! That blasted phone call telling me I forgot something. Since I was just at McDonald’s  I thought it would be my hubby telling me to pick him up something. But it wasn’t. It was my daughter Beckiah asking me if I forgot something. I told her no and then she told me to look at the seat next to me. It was empty and I had to go back to get Bridgette who never got into the van after work. WOW! That was one of those moments, lol.

4. Grounded For Eating the Donut–

ImageIn all fairness I had to say that I over reacted a bit on this one. I bought some donuts for the family and only had one simple request. That little request was for them to eat any of the donuts but the Bavarian Cream one. I didn’t care about the rest. But nobody shared that information with Jessica. Jessica seen the donuts and guess which one she ate? YEP! The Bavarian Cream one. The one and only one of those. And that was destined for my mouth and tummy.

I woke up and have been thinking about a special donut and coffee and it was gone. I asked who ate it. Jessica didn’t think it was a big deal and told me it was her. Well, my first instinct was to get upset and ground her for life. But I only did for two weeks, lol. I was a bit over dramatic on that one I would say. If I remember right, I canceled the grounding too, it was the heat of the moment. 🙂

5. Sex Education

ImagePoor Jessica seems to be at the receiving end of my moments. This was during her Sophomore year at her high school. You see, at the end of her Freshman year they could choose the classes for the next year. She had to take Life Skills, but to get the Sex Ed part, parents had to give permission. Which I did. I think the more educated they are in those matters the smarter they might be.

During orientation night, Jessica got her schedule for that year and she had Life Skills without Sex Ed. I was confused since I gave her permission to take that class. So the following day, I head to the counselors office and without thinking about my words, I belted out “My daughter can have sex in school if she wants to.” Jessica was mortified and a tad bit embarrassed  After a minute, I realized what I said, lol and had to apologize for that one.

I tried to fix that by saying sorry, she was allowed Sex Ed in School any other sex would be outside of the school. Man, did I have to reword that again, lol. We live in Utah and I’m, sure the principal was thinking I was nuts, lol. After a few flub ups and such, they got the idea that she is good to go in Sex Ed and no I won’t let her have sex at home, haha.

6. Sitting on My Daughter

ImageMy daughter Beckiah and I would have some pretty good yelling matches as she got older. She thought she was right and I knew I was right. I am the mom, right? So one day she was slamming doors as we were arguing about whatever it was. Probably how I wasn’t fair, but can’t remember. But the doors are slamming, so I take the door off of her bedroom. She still continued yelling and each flare up, I would add a week to her grounding. I was getting nowhere and by now Beckiah was grounded for life I’m sure.

In the heat of the moment, I decided to shut her up and to make her stop screaming bloody murder I was going to sit on her butt. So until she shut up, I was sitting on her, lol. I’m not the skinniest of people, so I’m pretty sure she wasn’t happy. A few minutes after sitting on her hinney, a knock comes to the door. It is Beckiah s friend Jessica and her dad. I never met them before so I’m, sure this was a good scene for them. My daughter Jessica answers the door I think and they go upstairs and there I am sitting on Beckiah, lol. Beckiah did calm down and all was well. She didn’t get her door back for a week though.

This is only a few of what I’m sure was a lot of stupid moments that they lived through and can tell their children about, lol. Now they have children that they can make mistakes with and love them as I did.

7. Bumping Poor Jessica’s Nose

Cry_Baby_by_buttonnoseJessica was just a tiny baby. I had Jessica’s crib to low and I went to put her in her bed and he poor little nose got bumped on the bed. I felt so bad about that even to this day. She whimpered and I felt so guilty.

I would like to add one thing on a serious note. That parents make mistakes and do dumb things. But never ever put your child in harms way and intentionally do stupid things. Mistakes and goof ups are one thing, but stupidity is another. I was looking up images for this blog post and was shocked at how parents and individuals will put their children at risk… Oh and do NOT Google sex ed for a image. Another oops moment of mine. I have to clean my eyes out.

Nothing But Complaints

Published on by Sandie DLeave a comment

ImageThere are some people who like to complain about everything under the sun. I know I have my moments when I like to complain and whine to. I’m thinking more about those people and I know at least a couple that have nothing good to say at all. No matter what, it is bad or it is somebody else’s fault for them being in the situation they are in.

This is different to the every day complaining most people do. We all complain sometimes, about little things that happen to us, like being stuck in a traffic jam or being turned down for a job. However, because most of us are not truly unhappy we do not have the need to complain all the time.

It’s only natural that some people tend to complain more than others do. However, complaining is not always related to how pessimistic or unhappy a person is.

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When I ask a constant complainer if there is anything that could make their situation better or that there are answers to their problems. They well comment something like this, ” Yeah, I know, but…” complain complain complain, etc. When I’m in my complaining mood and feel like I was treated unjustly, I have said this too. Eventually I come around and realize I was petty though.

I’ve tried to think about some of the reason why people have nothing better to do than complain all the time. I have thought about this for sometime now. Here is my list of what I think leads to constant complaining.

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I so need one of these so I can hand it out to complainers…

Realizing that they must complain because they are unhappy. They’re not satisfied with life. They are not getting what they need or want to be happy, so they complain. I know this sounds like a no brainier to some. They feel like they have to express their displeasure by complaining to others about their bad fortune. When people are that unhappy it does not really matter what happens in their lives, because they will always find something to complain about.

People who complain excessively are miserable and they take their misery out on EVERYONE. Some people complain a lot because it makes them feel better. These people are not always unhappy people, but by complaining about every little thing that bothers them, they actually feel better. In other words, they burden other people with all their problems and worries, making those people feel bad, while they in turn end up feeling great.

When I complain, I try to think about how it makes me feel when someone is constantly complaining and try to put myself in a better frame of mind. Now if someone wakes me up before my time has come, that is a risk factor on their part, lol.

ImageSo what does a person do if they are around a constant complainer since you can’t shoot them, lol. At-least you should never threaten anyone with bodily harm even if you would like to. I guarantee you will have others complaining or praising you even more.

I came across a website called Justgriping.com.

When I think about the times I have complained, I have found that it isn’t received well by others. Many times they have enough stuff going on than to listen to my grumbles. Now, don’t get me wrong, there are times when idiot drivers will get me very ticked off. Or when people say or do something offensive and I want to act in a not so Christian way.

I try not to go into very much of my problems because I know that there are so many others that have it much worse than I ever could or do. Plus, I noticed that when I start off my day in a bad mood, it continues all day long and that isn’t right for me to bring others down around me. Those who I trust alot may hear more of my complaints, but I try to keep that at a minimum.

With my husband, he gets to hear many of my complaints and vise versa. I think everyone needs to have someone that it is safe to vent too just for the sake of getting something off your chest. Like when he gets stuck in California, he is upset. There isn’t anything I can do, but he needs to blow off steam and I try not to take it personal.

Everyone needs someone to talk to that is safe and trusted. But for those who always complain and nothing is ever good, it can be taxing and downright depressing to hear day in and day out.

There are a lot of solutions on how to handle complainers and they all seem a more nice than the way I handle them. The way I handle them is by listening and trying to give solutions. If they can’t or refuse to see past their problem and I can tell they don’t want answers or solutions, I just step back and remove myself from the situation. Even though I do keep them in my life, because I know that I may not be the right person to help them. But the constant complaining can drive a huge wedge in a friendship or relationship.

Just last night I was watching a video about heath-care in Ghana. What they have offered to them is minimal to say the least. But still here in St. George or the good old USA, people complain about having to wait 15 minutes to see a Dr that is free to them since they go to the Free Clinic. On the video they were showing how only the well to do and the government officials receive care and if a person is lucky someone will have mercy on them.

ImageThere was a guy that was in a motorcycle accident that had to wait two weeks for treatment. And then once he got to a facility, they only had room for him in the hall way. Someone would check on him, but that was it.

It drives me nuts that people complain about the care they get here. When I look at what others get in other places in the world, I feel blessed. We are a very pampered country in many ways. Yet, we complain when get don’t get what we want right then and there. Or if we have been wronged. I have wronged many people in the past and thankfully they have forgiven. We all have hurt others and yet when people focus only on themselves and what they don’t have, it actually makes me sick.

There are some I want to and have told them to look at all they have and that they are lucky. But , then I hear, “Yeah, but…”

Watch for my next post that will be on Blessings. I have a lot more to feel blessed about than to ever complain about.

Deacons and Elder Roles

Published on by Sandie D2 Comments

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I think I’m missing something or not understanding something. I have many friends that are members of the LDS (Mormon Church). I don’t get how Elders, Deacons, Priests and Bishops works with them. I don’t want to be disrespectful, but I don’t get it. The reason why is because of what the Bible says. Well, I do with the Bishops. But I don’t understand how kids can be Deacons and Priests.

I have many wonderful friends that are LDS but that doesn’t help my mind and how it is confused on this topic. Just wait till I start in on my Trinity post, lol. Then there will be mass confusion on my part. That’s a whole other topic though.

Below is some verses and what my thoughts are on why I’m confused. I don’t want this to be a debate topic, it’s Sandie (Me) is clueless on the whys and hows 🙂

(Deacons are 12 yrs old in LDS Church) 1 Timothy 3:8-13

The responsibilities of a deacon are not clearly listed or outlined; they are assumed to be everything that does not include the duties of an elder or pastor, which is to preach, teach, and exhort. But qualifications for a deacon’s character are clearly outlined in Scripture. They are to be blameless, the husband of one wife, a good household manager, respectable, honest, not addicted to alcohol and not greedy (1 Timothy 3:8-12). According to the Word, the office of deacon is an honor and a blessing. “For those who serve well as deacons gain a good standing for themselves and also great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus” (1 Timothy 3:13).

(Elders- 18 yrs Old in LDS Church) 1 Timothy 5:17-19

Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching. For the Scripture says, “You shall not muzzle an ox when it treads out the grain,” and, “The laborer deserves his wages.” Do not admit a charge against an elder except on the evidence of two or three witnesses.

According to the LDS Church- In the LDS Church the proper title given to holders of the Melchizedek Priesthood. The title is used for members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, the First Quorum of the Seventy and for full time missionaries. To serve a mission, a man must become an Elder and receive the Melchizedek Priesthood.

To become an elder or church leader in my church you must earn such high respect be of such authority I think with the LDS Church you have to be 18 before you can be an Elder of the Church.

ImageThe elders should be peacemakers, prayer warriors, teachers, leaders by example, and decision makers. They are the preaching and teaching leaders of the church. It is a position to be sought but not taken lightly—read this warning: “Let not many of you become teachers, my brethren, for you know that we who teach shall be judged with greater strictness” (James 3:1). The role of elder is not a position to be taken lightly.

Today, for the biblical church, these roles are essentially the same. Elders and pastors are to “preach the word…reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching” (2 Timothy 4:2), and deacons are to be appointed to take care of everything else. In a modern church, this might include taking on administrative or organizational tasks, ushering, being responsible for building maintenance, or volunteering to be the church treasurer. It depends on the need and the gifts of the available men.

(PRIESTS- 16 yrs Old in LDS Church)

At my church, we don’t have a priest. Instead we have either a Pastor or Reverend. In my thoughts I always thought that the priest is supposed to be spiritually educated. As a result, such a person is authorized by the local bishop to hear confessions and otherwise offer spiritual counsel. Priests, however, through their work through the sacrament of penance, served as the most important person to give counsel against committing any further sin.

I found this on EHOW- It is a term very often used in the Bible. The servants of the Old Testament were called priests. In the New Testament priests are called all those who believed wholeheartedly in the Lord Jesus Christ, receiving forgiveness of sins. A priest is specially trained to offer sacrifice. Among Christian groups, only the Orthodox, Anglican and Roman Catholics have priests. These are the only three groups that hold to the ancient teaching that the merits of Christ, offered on the cross, are to be applied to the faithful through the Mass, conceived as a sacrifice. This is the primary role of the priest.

I didn’t do this post to start an argument, but my mind is confused about how children can hold these positions in a church. I guess I don’t understand how young kids can carry out some of the duties that are described in the Bible. Maybe it’s just me.

 

 

Dying for a Prize- Is it Worth It?

Published on by Sandie DLeave a comment

ImageI was just reading on yahoo about the guy who decided to eat 28 raw eggs in a dare. First off I want to say that is totally nuts and who would do such a thing just to prove he/she could do it in the first place. Second, I want to say that he died from this stupid act. I would never want to wish someone harm, but what in the world was going through this guys mind? Yes, he proved he could eat 28, but then he died in the process. I don’t get it!

Salmonella likely killed the man due to the possibility that the eggs were not pasteurized or consumed in a raw state. In some cases, sickness from exposure can come on suddenly and is potentially deadly.

ImageWhile I was reading this article, I couldn’t help but think back to the guy who ate a buttload of cockroaches so he could win a free snake for his friend. They said his cause of death was chocking on roach body parts. WOW! I wonder how they came to that conclusion?

Oh and let me not forget Kobayashi. he is the record holder for eating the most hotdogs and he tops his record for cow brains. Picture human brains, but smaller and cooked a bit. Mmmm…makes you hungry, Imageright? He ate  57 (17.7 pounds) cow brains in 15 minutes. That is nasty when I think about that. Yuck and double yuck.

OH! Here is another one and you wouldn’t think that drinking water could kill you, but it can. A woman in Sacramento California who competed in a radio station’s contest to see how much water she could drink without going to the bathroom died of water intoxication. The contest was titled, “Hold Your Wee for a Wii” contest in which KDND 107.9 promised a Nintendo Wii video game system for the winner.

Once I think the human race may be smartening up, they do stupid things like this. And they do it all for money or notoriety. All of these that I mentioned died in the process of trying to win money, fame or a material object. I can’t see where these stupid acts was worth their lives. I would hope that people would think about what the consequences are before doing such stupid and life threatening contests. They should ask themselves, “Is It Worth It? “

Our Christmas

Published on by Sandie DLeave a comment
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JJ and his friend

Christmas Eve is the beginning of Christmas for me. We do all the prep work, but the night before is when we begin things. We went to my daughter Jessica’s church for the Christmas Eve service. JJ was in the Christmas program so of course we had to go there. Even though my car was heading to my church. I was ready to turn into the parking lot when I noticed I was at my church. I had JJ in my car and he was asking if I was taking a short cut to his church. My answer to him was “Yeah, sure I’m taking a short cut”, hahha.  He almost didn’t make it. But he did a good job as did Jessica and Uriah who put together the Christmas play in a day.

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Bridgette and her present from Beckiah

Our Christmas was pretty good. We had 19 people show up here at the house. It was more stressful the night before than the day of. I like to have everything ready so there is no last minute flying off the handle for me. I almost accomplished that Christmas Eve. On Christmas Day it went like it should. Everyone showed up for the gift exchange and we opened the gifts. Bridgette had a heck of a time with hers, lol. Beckiah had her name and Beckiah did the box in a box thing with duck tape around each box.

The kids liked what they got and I think everyone was happy with what they had. We didn’t go over the top this year. Which was kinda nice. We ended the evening with the dogs opening their gifts and playing with their new toys. My dogs loved them. I will write more about them on my Petter Pets Blog.

Christmas is over for another year and the New Year festivities are about to begin. For me those festivities means staying home where is is warm. It seems like there are so many nut jobs out there on New Years and this is a much safer place to be. My thoughts on is that if it is a CALM News Years day and Eve, then it just might be a CALM year. So far it hasn’t worked out that way, but that is my hopes.

When it comes to resolutions, I don’t do those. The reason why is that I kick myself in the hinney when I fail to follow through. So my resolution is to have no resolution.

I hope that each and everyone of you had a wonderful Christmas and have a Blessed Hew Year…

Jesus as a Child?

Published on by Sandie D4 Comments

ImageWhat would Jesus have been like as a Child? There isn’t too much that is mentioned about him as a child other than when he was born and when he went to the Temple at 12 yrs old. I’m left to my imagination of what it would have been like to be Jesus.

Jesus didn’t live a life that was for the wealthy, he would have lived in a modest home since Joseph was a carpenter. He would have to go out and work with his earthly father, and help bring food home for the family. Jesus would rather go out and play with his friends, but he knew he had to obey his parents and they needed his help. One of the many chores Jesus had was feeding the little lambs. It was his job to make sure they were fed and watered.

When Jesus was done with his chores, He would have gone out to play with the other children during the day. Children love games and Jesus would have not been the exception. I can see him out there in the playground playing their version of tag your it or kick the can. I’m pretty sure it would have been like a hacky sack. Children from Jesus’s time would fill a little sack with seeds and play with that. His favorite game though might have been where the children get on each others back and they try to knock down the other person or Romans and Countrymen. I guess that would be something like Cowboys and Indians ancient days style, lol. If girls were there playing, they would have asked Jesus to hold the end of the jump rope and he would have been happy to do that even when his friends would laugh at him. But Jesus was OK with that.

ImageSince Jesus had such a kind heart, he would see someone hurting because they fell down and he would be there to hold their hand and help them up and dust them off. He would be that little boy who would knock on the neighbors door to see if they needed any help. All the other parents knew that if Jesus was with their children or around that everything was OK and they were safe. He wouldn’t let anyone bully or put anyone down. He would be ready to defend them and stick up for the underdog.

I would think that he loved to study nature and watch the birds fly. If there was a little bird that fell and needed to be nurtured, he would come to his aid. Jesus would have had a favorite little lamb that would be trying to keep up with him and wait for him to come home. Boys love to fish and Jesus would have loved that too. He would go out with his friends and catch fish and bring them home for his mom to cook up. His eyes would light up over how pleased his mom was over his kindness and willingness to help feed the family. Since they had so little and was poor, all the help was appreciated.

ImageWhen the family would go on their travels each year, Jesus would stay by them until he was about twelve and thats when they went to the Temple. His mom and dad were ready to leave and they were missing Jesus. I think about my fear when my kids aren’t where they are suppose to be and they could be lost. I’m pretty sure they were pretty stressed out. They head back to find Jesus and he is found talking to others about his Father. I’m pretty sure Joseph and Mary must have been more than a little upset. They found him and asked him what he was doing and he looked at them puzzled like any child would. Well, a very smart child, lol. But he told them that He was doing His Fathers business in Luke 2:48, 49.

Jesus would have had a childhood like all the other children and would have shared those experiences. He was tempted and had to learn and mature. He was never gave into sin though, he was the perfect child and person.

Now, I would love to hear what others think Jesus’s childhood would have been like.

Christmas is Just around the Corner

Published on by Sandie DLeave a comment

I can’t believe that Christmas is just a few days away. This year Christmas was pretty easy since we exchanged names and I got the grand-kids only a couple gifts each. Normally they get all kinds of gifts, but I wanted them to have quality over quantity. We will see what they think on that.

I can’t help but think about all those parents who have lost children this year and what their Christmas is going to be like. My deepest prayers go out to them. This year my church family has had more than it’s share of deaths and people returning to be with the Lord. I would like to also remember our troops and their families who are still away or who have lost someone they love.  I hope 2013 is a much better year.

I don’t want this post to be negative, so I’m going to focus on all the good things about Christmas and what it means to me.

ImageChristmas isn’t just a day, but it is a feeling that is embedded in my heart. Without the birth of Christ, there would be no reason to celebrate or to be here. Life would be pointless. Even though Christ wasn’t born on December 25th, we still celebrate. I think Christmas can be everyday because we need to remember that He gave us the greatest gift of all. I’m not talking about keeping the Christmas tree up or the lights up all year. I’m talking about how we need to be thankful and celebrate that we can have eternal life because of Christ. That is so much more to celebrate than what we prepare for on December 25th.

I would love to one year celebrate Christmas at Easter. Wouldn’t that be awesome to be able to celebrate the birth and remember how He died for us all at once? I don’t think my family would go for that, but I would like to do that. To me Christmas and Easter are the two most important observances and holidays. The rest I can do without.

One of the things about Christmas and Easter that seems to confuse my mind and that isn’t hard at all is why some choose to celebrate these days. I guess as a Christian I feel that we need to remember these days are about Christ. But then I know many who aren’t Christian and they celebrate the day. Is it just a day for family and gift giving to them or ? I guess I won’t understand that because I come from a different place. Like with Halloween when people that believe that is the day that is for darkness and such and everyone celebrates it. Well our family doesn’t, but many do. I guess its all depends on the condition of the hearts.

I want to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and I hope that Jesus is a part of your Christmas whenever that would be.

ImageI came across someone asking a question about December 25th not being the real birthday of Christ and I liked how a couple people answered her question about where in the Bible does it say to celebrate the Birth of Christ and the date. I copied and pasted a couple of those answers.

1. The Bible does not record the dates of the birth and resurrection, but historians have a pretty good idea.

There was a astronomical event within a 4 year period of the date we state as the beginning of A.D. time (year 0) that would have looked like what was recorded in the Gospels about the star appearing, the one the wise men followed. The birth of Jesus was likely actually in April.
His death coincides with the Jewish Passover observance, so we know that was in early-late spring.

2. We are told to remember what Jesus did in His death and Resurrection; we do this when we meet as a Christian body at the breaking of Bread.

The Bible doesn’t mention that we are to celebrate Christ’s birthday. Interestingly, the only person in the Bible to celebrate their Birthday, was Herod!…Concordingly, ‘Easter’ is not a festival that Christians are told to follow either. Again as with the ‘Birthdays’, funnily enough, only Herod is recorded in the Bible celebrating Easter (Istar).
Having said that, there is nothing, in itself, wrong or sinful in regarding Christmas and Easter with great joy: not marking the day itself, but remembering and rejoicing in the event it commemorates—the miracle of Christ’s birth and resurrection. As Christians we are free to celebrate these occasions if we wish. if we do so for the right reasons.

Children Fighting Cancer

Published on by Sandie DLeave a comment

This has been one of those weeks that is hard to put into words. There has been some horrible things going on around the world. The shootings in Connecticut  the stabbings in China, Father carving pentagram into his songs back on 12/12/12, and the sad thing is these all involved innocent children. The Mayans said the world is suppose to end. I guess in some way it did for all these innocent lives. They are no longer in this world.

Then yesterday I open up Facebook and see the sweet faces of the children who have lost their battles because of cancer. The latest one that past away that I pray for is little 3 yr old Cole. I can’t begin to understand why all these horrible things are happening in our world. The one thing I can rely on is that one day Christ will come back again.

Anymore it is not cool turning on the TV or Facebook… It’s very sad when you join a Facebook page to pray for a child’s family. Then they send request to pray for other children that are fighting cancer and their families. Now I have 30 or more kids that are dying from childhood cancer. In the last 30 days about 10 of those children have earned their wings. I’m going to post the pictures of some that are needing prayers and those that have earned their wings. I want to warn you that this may break your heart. I feel so bad for all of them and their parents.

For those who haven’t been to the Jessie Rees Foundation- Never Ever Give Up, you should go and join it. They are needing people to join their page so they can raise more friends to help them raise money. Click here to watch her video and the reason they do what they do.

On a more positive note I would like to offer a ray of hope to those who are reading this. I know that there is a place much better and that Jesus died for our sins that that one day all the tears will be wiped from our eyes. When I think of the end times and since I’m a Christian, I know that things will be perfect. Even though I know that there is a heaven and that these children are with Jesus, for some reason that doesn’t make it easier to handle. And if I’m thinking or feeling this way I can’t even begin to understand how the parents are feeling.

These children are in my thoughts and there are so many others that I didn’t mention here… All of these children and their families could use your prayers.

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Better To Say Nothing At All!

Published on by Sandie DLeave a comment

ImageI was thinking about this the other day when a friend asked me about how I was feeling. I haven’t seen her in a very long time. I think atleast a couple of years or longer.

Since she has known me a long time she knows I will usually only answer, ‘I’m Fine”. Many who knows me probably knows how I respond and answer anyhow.

My friend then asked me why I always say that and I told her it is pretty simple.

This is the purpose behind my answer and it is as simple as things are complicated and most times when people ask how another is doing, they want a short answer. They don’t want the strings attached to knowing what is really going on. This is something that I’m guilty of myself.

There have been some friends or acquaintances that have had a lot of problems and I knew if I asked them how they were doing, they would tell me. An hour or two later, I was able to move on and continue on my way. Also I think sometimes when people know too much, they feel a sort of responsibility to help out or be the one to save the day. It’s easier and better sometimes to just leave it alone and let people know you are OK.

I think some time ago, I came to the conclusion that people and friends only need to know so much. My friend I was talking to told me that it wasn’t right to not share with friends what is going on since they want to help. And I explained to her that there have been many times in the past when I would share what was going on or my thoughts about something and now those friends are no longer in my life. Now, is that good or bad? To that question I don’t know.

There have also been friends from a the past when they would call me, I would wonder if I should answer the phone or return the call. And honestly the reason why is because I knew they had too much going on and it was draining to be around them or to get involved. I know that isn’t right. But in the back of my mind, this is the purpose of my “I’m Fine” answer.

I think sometimes the don’t ask don’t tell rule should be a part of friendships and relationships. I know a friend should be able to share anything with their friend. But I don’t think that is always the case. I say this because of one of my friends and how I dreaded her call or everything was doom and gloom. What is sad is that about 6 yrs ago that person did die and I no longer wait for her call. I think of her often and remember many of our conversations. I tried to help her and I think I did that to make myself feel better. I was thinking I was doing what needed to be done, when really she just needed to talk. She is no longer here and a part of me wishes she would call one more time.

Then I think about those people you open your entire life up to and then you find out all of it meant nothing. It may have to them or to me, but it is at a point where the damage was done. I know so many people who have opened themselves up and nothing good came of it but hurt and distrust. This is sounding like a pretty negative post I know and I’m sorry about that. Sometimes conversations I have with others brings about topics for this blog.

Then I think about one friend that moved out of state and by opening up to her, it caused all kinds of problems. No longer will trust happen with that person. Things have happened that are not repairable. But then at the same time, all should be forgiven, but not sure that things could ever be forgotten.

One of the things that came about in this conversation with my friend is when she told me that she would always be there for her friend, all she had to do is call if she needed anything. Something in me didn’t set right with that conversation. I told her that friends isn’t there only when needed, but there just to be there. I know with myself if a friend is only a person I call when I’m in trouble, that isn’t a true friend. I explained to her that it is like our friendship with Christ. I don’t want to call on him when I’m in trouble only. I want to have him there in good times too. I want to be able to share the moments of joy or a cup of coffee if that would be possible.

It drives me crazy when someone calls me only when they are in trouble or need to borrow money or whatever. To me that isn’t a friend. A friend knows when I need to talk, vent or rationalize something. It may not make sense to anyone else, but sometimes a friend just needs to be there. I’m not really talking about any one person, just in general. Kinda funny how a conversation about what a friend and a seemingly simple question can bring about.

ImageBasically I think that it is best not too say too much about what is really going on in your life or how you are feeling because it can be too much for others to deal with and they may not know what they are getting into when they ask how someone is doing. There was a person I knew that no matter how much you shared or talked to them, if it was personal and they could gain from your pain they would use it against you. So, this is alot of the reason why I think the best answer is no answer at all. When a person opens up once they trust a person and thinks it is safe or they are safe to talk to and it bites them or they loose friends because of it, it’s time to shut up and say nothing at all.

She then told me that everyone has to trust someone. And that is true. But I think the only one that is truly trustworthy that I can tell all my secrets, hurts and whatever else is Jesus Christ. sorry this is a negative post, I didn’t mean for it to be. But it is, what it is. There are somethings that you never tell anyone about and you keep it to yourself. It is better than hurting others and sometimes the past needs to be left in the past so it doesn’t spill into your future. My friend didn’t like that. I guess this was one of those conversations where it was heading into me hurting her feelings because I told her there was things that would never or people should never say to others because people leave or like what I did with my friend, they dread the call because it is too much to deal with that person at the time.