An Evening Under the Stars....

Just a fun night of bunko with the women from church.

Good friends. Good food. Good fun.

Lots and lots of laughter, and enough breeze to keep the humidity and bugs at bay!

Thank You God for the fellowship with these women.

My plans, God's plans.... still praying....

My intention was to make today a day of five minute jobs. Partially, the list has grown to epic proportions, and partially, I thought it would help me be continually in prayer. My intention was to take a moment to pray between each task.

But, I think God had other plans for my day. It has turned out to be a day of service. A day of reaching out and lending a hand to others in my life. I'm good with that!

The other thing that is interesting to me. My day of "praying without ceasing" began with one group of people I intended to pray for today. I drafted this blog entry days ago, anticipating their need - everything to this point has been re-written. Since writing the draft, there have been several other prayer needs brought to my attention. Curiously enough....

The prayer, remains the same:

I pray for you peace and strength. Wisdom, discernment and hope. Most of all, I pray for unyielding faith that He knows all and will continue to reign eternal.

As you walk forward today, know that you are covered in prayer, and held very close to Him.

Returning Home and Returning Home

The day was spent with my children and my mother - touring the town where I grew up. My mother still lives there, but traditionally, we stay with my younger sister when we head up north.

It was very clear early on in the trip that my daughter shared some interest, but my son was WAY more interested in finding out what happened next on National Treasure. As we drove through my old stomping grounds, I'd holler out to them: "This is where I taught Uncle George to catch frogs!", "This is where I went to elementary school", "This is where MY best friend when I was your age lived..."

We drove past my childhood home, each of the schools I attended and visited my father's grave site. I was amazed at how much remained the same - and how much had changed! Names I recognized, houses I recognized....

I have been gone nearly as long as I lived there, so there is a certain 'detached' feeling in the process. Yet, as I turned down street after street, there was a certain familiarity. "I like this street, it's 'cozy' ", my daughter says. Yes. It is.

I was truly blessed to have been raised where I was.... and I am blessed to be where I am now.

I returned to my hometown, and now I return to my home. Middle Tennessee. My home. My neighborhood. My church. My village.

It has been a wonderful visit, but I am happy to be home.

A Full Summer Day

Ah, the fun-filled days of summer! We certainly had a fun one this week! The day started at the pool. We ran into several friends there and stayed several hours.

The kids love to swim and play and do hand-stands and collect things underwater. For me, this has been the summer I've been waiting for.

For the past several years, as I have taken non-swimming infants, toddlers and preschoolers to the pool, I have reminded myself that ONE DAY, my kids would be able to swim well enough that I didn't have to have a constant eye on them. My friend and I still do the frequent 'eyeball' to be sure they're all playing well and above water. I have never believed it is the lifeguard's responsibility to keep my children safe in the pool.

But this year - they both passed their swimming tests, and have full privileges for pool use. This year, I get to balance my time between playing with my kids and talking with my friends. It is delightful!

From there, we went to Wal*mart to pick up a side for the church cookout, and drinks and snacks for the gathering of friends they're having early next week.

Just enough time for a quick shower and change before we headed to church for an evening of family fun. Burgers, hotdogs, pot-luck sides and desserts. The adults sat and talked or watched the excitement on the hillside.

Our church sits at the top of a hill. The immediate surroundings are grassy, with an edge of trees and shrubbery. Down the grassy hillside it was unrolled: A thick, wide, LONG slip n slide. A sprinkler and baby shampoo assist the youth in their journey down to the bottom.

Laughter and cheering, and the sound of comfortable conversation. Certainly, a wonderful day!

Thank You God!!

And the Blessings Continue...

It was one of the longest days ever. I'd woken up in a foul mood, and nothing seemed to be going right. Had I been able to just SIT, and do nothing, and others need nothing, it would have been much easier. But, to complicate matters, there were things that needed doing, and it seemed like the kids were especially needy that day. "Mom!" "Mom!" "Mom!" I tried to inhale before each reply, but know that it didn't always succeed in lessening the frustration in my voice.

We'd been to the store, had lunch, and now we were beginning our walk. Delay after delay - one wanted a sweatshirt, the other wanted to take hers off. I just sat and waited. Bike, scooter and dog prepared, we were finally off.

After the first turn, we saw some neighbors coming up the road in their red truck. As they approached, they slowed and rolled down the window. A son, sitting in the back near an extension ladder nodded and waived. "Have you called anyone about your roof yet?" I shook my head, "not yet..."

You gotta know when you live at the top of a hill, in the middle of a treeless field, on a street that has the word "Wind" in it, there's gonna be a breeze. Sometimes it gets a little carried away and so do my shingles.

"Mind if we take care of it for you?" I just stared for a minute before I could reply, "Not at all." In my head the mantra began: "don't cry now, don't cry now, don't cry now..." He nodded and drove away.... Just in time! As his truck turned up the hill, the tears spilled down my face.

Even - or especially - in the midst of a difficult day, God provides. He has surrounded me with people who love and support me.... again, and again, and again....

As we completed our walk, his wife and eldest son pulled into our driveway. Apparently one of my shingles was completely missing, and they had just returned with one from their house. "So, now you have one a different color" he said. "...To remind myself of your kindness", I thought to myself. I could only nod...

"Don't cry now... don't cry now.... don't cry now...."

Thank you God for the blessings that continue to flow into my life.

Beyond my wildest imaginings, I am blessed.

It's Nice to be Loved

I woke up on Palm Sunday, remembering that I'd forgotten to fill the crock pot with soup mix-ins. We were having a lunch meeting following our church service. I jumped out of bed and ran into the kitchen.

My eyes were still bleary and I hadn't put in my contacts, but as I passed the kitchen window, something caught my eye. At first, all I saw were the bits of white scattered throughout my yard. "oh MAN!" I said, wondering what dog had gotten into whose trash. And then I squinted, and... I recognized the fox.

I put in my contacts, and the "bits of white" turned out to be Styrofoam plates with Easter greetings on them. And there in the middle of my front yard, staring back at me through the window, was the fox.

He's really just an ordinary piece of yard art - perhaps not even that, as he was left by a previous home owner at a house one of my friends bought. When one of our mutual friends saw it for the first time (and second, and I think third as well), she (sarcastically) said "NICE fox..."

Well.... a few weeks ago, when the sarcastic friend was in Florida, the fox switched neighborhoods. Upon her arrival back in TN, there was Mr. Fox - in her "weed bed", as she likes to call it.

This past weekend, the middle and high school youth had a "Discipleship Now" weekend - the boys and the girls, separately studying scriptural aspects of relationships and the benefits of "waiting" (wink, wink, nudge, nudge, know-what-I-mean, know-what-I-mean...).

And, as tradition would have it, they find a little midnight mischief. I was blessed with the plates, some candy filled eggs and The Fox - AND, a few flowers and mulch for my "Friendship Garden" (YES!)

I smiled to myself, and realized how grateful I am to have such a wonderful church family.... mischief and all.

The Biggest Loser....

Well, it's official.... As of this morning, I will join the ranks of more than 20 women within my church trying to become "The Biggest Loser" of our congregation.

The encouragement and support - and healthy competition - will be wonderful. I need that...

Focusing on eating right and staying active is something that needs to happen... it's time. I've known for a long, long time.... but putting the knowledge into action is another story entirely. With each others help, we'll move forward.

For the next 15 weeks, I'll focus on a healthy diet and making exercise a priority in my life again. I'll "weigh in" weekly, and we'll see how it goes.

I am excited and apprehensive. What if it doesn't work....

What if it does....?

From Those Who Are Given Much...

I had been thinking of service this past summer, and speaking with a friend about it. "I don't know what I'd do", she said. "Just ask that He show you", I replied. Silently, I asked. "Show me."

The next day, my phone rang. It was a woman who had been visiting my church. She shared a story with me about a young friend of hers who was living in a nursing home. She had experienced a stroke several years ago, and that had left her unable to care for herself at home. Her family was several states away - opposite ends of the country, if you must know. She wanted to bring her friend to TN for a visit. She had called the church office asking for names of nurses in the congregation - and then called me. I nodded as I spoke on the phone and thought... "Just ask..."

I agreed to help, and she began to work on the details. I met her face to face for the first time the next Sunday. We set up a day - with another nurse as well - to do a home assessment. We came up with a list of things that would make the visit do-able and more easily successful. (We also had some wonderful fellowship.)

The pieces began to fall into place - equipment was donated - air miles were donated. Not long afterwards, we received more good news. Her family had heard she was coming and would like to join the reunion. And so it was. Three days in early September, she'd be in TN.

Some people said, "Wow. That's a big committment - for someone you don't even know". "I have been given much - by many I don't even know", I replied. Much is expected - and I'm OK with that.

Finally, the day arrived. My children and I met them at the house, and got them settled for the night. Medication reviewed, they were off, chatting and reminiscing. I came in daily to assist with personal care, and be sure all was well. I'd stay to visit for a little while, and let her know how very brave I thought she was for making the journey.

It was a wonderful opportunity to serve, to witness her faith and her courage. I got to witness the softening of her face, and the joy increasing in her spirit visiting her friend here. Peripherally, I heard stories of a family reconnected.

Now, we wait to see if and when she musters the courage to move in with her family. They're all waiting for her to agree.

And to whomsoever much is given, of him shall much be required

Luke 12:48 (ERV)

Confirmations

It is always greatly encouraging to me when I am given confirmations about some of my thoughts and plans.... especially in the times when I am trying to discern if it's a "Linda Original" (God help us!) or if it's me really hearing His will for me. It's as if I am hearing God say "Yes. That is what I mean."

There have been several that come to mind this past year, but I'll just share one or two.

The first one took me a few days to realize - thank God, or I would have fallen out of my seat or ran very fast from the room. I had agreed to meet with the interpreter at church for the first time. I was nervous. She was nice enough, but I'm not a big 'stranger' person, and definitely not a big up-there-in-front-of-people person, and if I were going to interpret, there I would be. She walked in to the room, and the first sign she showed me was "Up until now". I didn't think anything of it then. At home, a few days later, it hit me. "Up until now", in English, also translates "Thus far". My key phrase which always reminds me - I have no idea where we are going from here, but Thus Far, God has been with me.

The next example came shortly before my return to the State Park. I was at an event of Priscilla Shirer's. It was the worship portion of the program. There was a song I didn't know. But it had a phrase in it that I needed to hear - over and over again. And then she said these words:

"I'm here to declare to You that my past is over"

After that there was no NOT going. I definitely needed to. Whatever would happen would happen. I just needed to show up.

And most recently at church. It happens frequently, actually. The pastor will speak about something I've just blogged about (I mean JUST blogged about - that morning or the night before) - or something that I've been thinking about.

This week was the end of the year summary, look forward to the new year sermon. Many, many of the plans for the church - including some of the words and phrases that he chose to speak - are plans that I have decided for myself personally.... even in situations where the phrases have somewhat different meanings for a person, than for a church, hearing the words back, provided confirmation.

And as I was sitting there, listening - with my eyes and my ears - it occurred to me, how supremely blessed I am to be in a place where the corporate goals are so similar to my personal goals. It was again the "Yes. That is what I mean" that encourages me to continue to focus on the growth and continue on the path that I am on.

Thank You, God.

God Bless Them, Every One...

As I sit here and think about Christmas, I have many thoughts competing for attention in my brain. I have no idea how to put all the thoughts and feelings into words.

I think of our Christmas Eve candlelight service: of the incredible experience of signing some of my favorite Christmas Songs. Then, standing with my children, all of us holding lit candles in the darkened sanctuary, singing Silent Night.

I think of the moments during the service that I was reminded of how much I love my church family - for loving and caring for my children, and thus loving and caring for me - allowing me to participate in the deaf ministry in a way that so moves me.

I think of the excitement of my children as they try to settle down and fall asleep so that Santa can visit them. I envision the looks on their faces when they wake in the morning (and to quote the Grinch: "...and the noise, noise, noise, NOISE"). Unlike the Grinch, however, I recognize it as Joyful noise, and look forward to its presence in my home.

I reminisce on my mother's recent visit. It was certainly the busiest and most "memorable" in many ways...Toward the end, we finally had a little 'down time' to just visit, which is what I will remember most.

I look forward the possibility of a visit with one of my "teachers" Christmas afternoon.

And I do look forward to my "long winter's rest" which, quiet possibly, may start in just a few days... (YES!)

But, the feeling I keep returning to is Gratitude. I have so much to be grateful for. And, tonight, as I sit here, thinking about Christmas, I am most grateful for the love that surrounds, supports and sustains my life.



Merry, Merry Christmas to you all.

And, as Tiny Tim would have said: "God bless them, every one!"




"For God so loved the world that He gave his one and only son" John 3:16

"For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6

The Real 12 Days of Christmas

Sunday morning was the Children's Christmas Program at church.

They did a rendition of the 12 days of Christmas. It was, of course, cute and wonderful, and all things kid-like (including my son doing his sign-wiggling dance to "FIVE books of Grace")

It was a story of "The REAL 12 Days of Christmas", explaining the meaning behind the song. Historically accurate or not, it gave me a new perspective on the song.

The story goes that some Christians who weren't allowed to openly study the Bible, created a song that helped explain and remind them of it's teachings.

For me, it was the eighth day that really struck me. Not only do I love the girl holding the sign, but it again reminded me how truly blessed I am.

All of the swirling insanity of the past week - OK, weeks - has blown away. I am minus a printer, but otherwise no worse for the wear. And, I am again restored in the faith that "pressing into God" in the midst of the storm is the right action. "Thus Far, God has been with me"... Again and again. Amen.

During the closing song - "Angels We Have Heard on High" - I found myself, sitting, with one child on my lap, the other beside me, my voice cracking with gratitude... "Gloria, In excelsis deo".

"Glory to God in the highest"... and peace on Earth to men.

Thank You, God for Your steadfast love, your faithfulness, and all the gifts that You continually bless me with.



On the twelfth day of Christmas,
my true love sent to me
Twelve points of doctrine,
Faithful Apostles
God’s Ten Commandments,
Fruit of the Spirit,
Eight “Blessed are they”,
Gifts of the Spirit,
Days of Creation,
Five books of grace,
Four Gospels true,
Faith, Hope and Love,
Two Testaments,
And God’s Son born to set us all free!

Ooh Tidings of Comfort and Joy....

Today has been one of those sweet, sweet days where God comes and meets me in the midst of my mess. I've been learning (again) about walls - in myself and in others - and my frustration on both sides.

When I'm in "learning mode", I don't much like being with groups of people - even groups of women I love dearly. But, I had made special arrangements to be able to attend the Women's Brunch for church, so I went.

On the way, I was listening to the songs for Sunday's worship service - getting them "into my body", so that they will more easily come off my hands as I interpret. Our first Christmas song arrives this week: "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen". As I drove and sang, and watched the signs that appeared somewhere deep behind my eyes, I thought "I sure could use some 'tidings of comfort and joy' "

Not too long after I'd arrived, one woman pulled me aside. "I have something for you," she said, "It's for your tree." I opened the box and unwrapped the bubble wrap. As the layers peeled away, I could see the shape - a hummingbird. "Because you've brought me so much joy". Oh yes, if you know me, you know the tears came. (*I* have brought *her* joy? I see the reverse...)

I thought back to the summer when I'd posted about, and she and I had talked about, hummingbirds. The tears didn't surprise me - it's another reason I avoid groups in "learning mode" - I cry *really* easily. The trembling, however, caught me unprepared. I hugged her and thanked her, and excused myself to the bathroom.

"Oh, God..." It's one of those weird prayers of mine that encompasses "meet me here" and "you ARE here". It comes out during those times when I want to say *something*, but there is nothing to say that is remotely adequate for the situation.

I tried to compose myself, wipe my eyes, and re-enter society. It worked pretty well until the music started and I got to see "Mary Did You Know" and "Breath of Heaven" in American Sign Language, off the hands of my friend and mentor.

After the speaker, we exchanged Christmas ornaments, by number. I received one that said "Believe" on one side and contained Luke 2:30 - 32 on the other. There could not have been a more perfect ornament for me. In my home, year round, the word "Believe" is portrayed again and again.

I spent the afternoon out in the world, running errands - and meeting Him again and again.

As I walked through the neighborhood with my dog, (ipod in and blaring!) I signed (GREAT BIG) "Tidings of comfort and joy"

Thank You for meeting me in the midst of my mess.. with comfort and with joy.

Visitation Realizations

There was a death in my family recently.... my church family, that is. A young man that I didn't know very well - I know and love the women in his life: His wife, sister-in-law, mother-in-law. We all shared a meal together on Sunday after church - though he and I didn't speak. Had I know it was the last time I'd see him here on Earth, I'd have chosen differently... but I digress...

The night of visitation had come. As I parked the car, I thought back to my father's funeral, where I was reminded "Love never ends". I took a deep breath, gathered my things, and headed inside.

I'm sort of a newbie to funerals and visitations and all. I can count my experiences on, oh, two fingers. I soon learned how different visitations are when you actually know the family.

I looked around. Quite a group - a wonderful, wonderful group. Family, friends. Hugs. Tears. Laughter. It brought tears to my eyes. The palpable love of these people for one another. My heart runneth over. (And, yes, I think I may get elected the designated "church crier" :) ) Again, I digress...

Pictures of Todd scrolled through on the big screen. I got introduced to a side of him that I hadn't known. I'm fairly new in the church, and he'd been chronically ill the whole time I'd known him.

I looked around again, at the people gathered - talking to his wife, mother, extended family - talking with each other. Providing support, encouragement, love. I focused on the people I'd come to know in the past year. I smiled to myself as I remembered meeting each of them. Many I had prayed with, or studied with. Laughed with, cried with.

I shook my head as I left. The evening had nothing to do with me, but I left there with a realization of how much I love my church family - more and more every day - and that I, too, am well loved and cared for within the group.

Be well, Todd. Know that you are loved. Your wife, too, is loved, and will be well cared-for.

Reside in our hearts...

Walk with God...