Renewal

As I sit here on Easter morning, I can't help but feel blessed. I have made more than my share of mistakes, and have not always been careful of the feelings of those around me. I've been frustrated and angry and lonely and scared. But I've also shown kindness, given support and tried to do my very best. But whatever I've done or haven't done, I know that the only thing that matters is that God's grace uses all things for good. On this blessed Easter morning I am made new and I will step forward boldly to share light and love in any way I can!

An ageless tale

"[Romeo and Juliet]...is all about rules that we set for ourselves as well as others. Breaking those rules makes you an outsider. But once you've tasted that fruit - that freedom - even death is infinitely preferable to being stuck in the ritual of an ordinary life."

Dale Gutzman, Off the Wall Theater

Ways to make retirement fulfilling

1. Pursue hobbies or passions

2. Volunteer

3. Travel - spend time and get to know the people

4. Try a new type of job

5. Start a business

6. Explore your creative side

7. Study something that interests you

From USA Weekend

Today's Kitchen Creation: Chicken Newburg

Finding inspiration in the midst of chaos

According to astrologer Susan Miller, the beginning of August has been significantly influenced by a rare planetary alignment that has the potential to create confusion and disarray. I'm not certain whether that is indeed the cause, but I certainly have felt as if I've suddenly been tossed in the center of a whirlpool in a cocktail dress and high heels.

While I'm managing to keep my head above water and my skirt from swirling up around my neck, it is, too say the least, a little overwhelming.

But somehow, in the midst of everything, I feel like God is telling me it's time to learn how to swim against the tide. It does no good to waste my energy flailing against the current wishing the waters were calm. Instead, I hear a voice telling me to remain centered and focused..to set my course and concentrate on just taking one stroke after another.

Who knows when the currents will subside or how far i must go untill I find a place to rest, but I do know that God will give me the strength I need to make it safely through the journey. And when I eventually make it to shore, I believe that what I will find there will be more than ample reward for my effort.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Be Ready for the Unexpected Gift

Over the New Year holiday, I read LuAnne Rice's book "What Matters Most". Near the end, one of the characters says that what got him through was living in a way that he was always ready to receive an unexpected gift. That gift can take many forms...the call you receive just when you need to talk to someone, a smiling face, an unexpected favor. There are so many gifts out there waiting for us, but we need to be willing to look for them and receive them. Be willing to ask for what you need. When asked what you would like, be sure to say it. It may not come to you in the way you expect it. But if you're open to the possibility, you'll find what you desire will come your way.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Location:Winchester,United States

The Lure of a Full Moon

Tonight there is a big bright full moon. There's something so compelling about a full moon. I always feel like something magical can begin when you will on a full moon. "Full moon, so big and bright, grant the wish I wish tonight." Whether there's any truth to it, who knows. But how can something so beautiful not have the power to make dreams come true?

The Fraternity of the Dog Walk

One of the best things about having a dog is taking walks and greeting the other dog walkers along the way. Large breeds, small breeds, pure breds or mutts, their owners are all a part of their own unique club. A community of people who hope that their canines greet people and other dogs with a sense of decorum...who pray that there aren't any puddles or dead things along the path...and who willingly scoop up their pals' deposits in plastic bags and pretend that it's not disgusting. We smile and nod, offer a quick greeting, and scratch the heads of the passing pooches. Night after night, morning after morning, the ritual repeats. It's our way of thanking these beloved creatures for their boundless love and affection. A fair exchange to be sure.