I Found Another GREAT Song By The Katinas, "10,000 Reasons"

Thanks To The Katinas For This Version Of Silent Night (with an island flair to the beat of the music.)

I Like This Song by The Katinas. Great Spin On the Holiday Classic Song "The Little Drummer Boy"

Let Me Share This With You To Comfort You If You Recently Experienced The Death Of Someone Close To You...

A few days ago I found out that a dear friend of mine died and went to be with the Lord. I remember crying at the news and it made my heart sad in one respect but then it was softened a bit with knowing that they knew Jesus and I will see them in heaven one day for all eternity. This was a person that loved the Lord and read their bible. A person that when I would be around them the love of Jesus flowed between the two of us. Sometimes God places people in our lives for a season and we grow in that experience.That is exactly what happened to me. A portion of me still feels sadness at knowing I cannot pick up the phone and converse with them today. The other portion of me takes comfort in knowing there will be all eternity to converse with them in heaven.
Many, many years ago a dear friend of mine sent this to me and I would like to share it with you today. It brought a bit of comfort to me when I read it back then and as I share it with you now.

"A PARABLE OF IMMORTALITY" by Henry Van Dyke

"I am standing upon the seashore. A ship at my side spreads her white sails to the morning breeze and starts for the blue ocean. She is an object of beauty and strength, and I stand and watch until at last she hangs like a speck of white cloud just where the sea and sky come down to mingle with each other. Then someone at my side says, 'There she goes!'
"Gone where? Gone from my sight...that is all. She is just as large in mast and hull and spar as she was when she left my side and just as able to bear her load of living freight to the place of destination. Her diminished size is in me, not in her. And just at the moment when someone at my side says, 'There she goes!' there are other eyes watching her coming and other voices ready to take up the glad shout, 'Here she comes!.'"

Now some of you reading this may say to yourself, "How is this biblical?" It does not come from the bible. The point is that we that are left here on earth to grieve for family, friends, etc. and you can take comfort in this. We say goodbye for now but there are others in heaven with great accolades/shouts greeting our loved one and welcoming them. I take great comfort in knowing this and it softens the sadness in my heart. May it soften your grief also.

Lexus, My Personal Experience Allows Me To Say That Your Vehicles Have The Most Comfortable Ride...

Well, I shared with you that I thought Lexus was a very nice car. I was impressed with their billboard advertisement (and at times not so impressed with certain campaign ads.) I had the opportunity to sit in the passenger seat of several different Lexus vehicles and by far I rate them, mind you this is my own personal opinion, as the most comfortable seat/riding experience. I had the opportunity to sit in the passenger seat of many various vehicles for the past few months and this is how I came to this conclusion.
Being in a position to ride in vehicles of many varieties, sizes, shapes and car model/years I can say that no matter what car model/year of a Lexus I could always count on a consistent great ride performance. There were many different vehicles that I rode in on an almost daily basis. There were a couple vehicles that I would rank after the smooth, comfortable ride of the Lexus. Some other favorites would be the Volkswagen Beetle (the new version not the old time version. Not the cloth seat interior but the leather or vinyl whichever one they offer) I also liked the ride of the Cadillac Escalade (SUV not the truck type of version.) I did drive in a Mini Cooper a few times and what I did like about that vehicle is that it offers two areas in the car that allows you to see how fast you are driving (MPH.) With the one panel so large in size in the center console area it would be hard for me to imagine why anyone would get a speeding ticket for going too fast or not knowing the speed you were travelling at since it is right there in front of you in a very big way. I must admit to you that I did not find the car ride/passenger seat as comfortable of the Mercedes or even the BMW. Now, mind you, I write of my own personal experience and this is what I believe are my own personal opinions.
To date, no one can touch the comfort level in the passenger seat of the Lexus. I even had on one occasion the opportunity to sit in the passenger back seat of a Lexus and that was a very comfortable ride also. I guess my big thing when searching for a vehicle is the comfort offered in the driver seat. All other seats that are comfortable beyond that are extra perks to me. Why should the driver be the only one to experience comfort in a car?
I base these findings on personal experience and being allowed the opportunity to drive in the passenger seat of many different cars for a several month period. I am most grateful that I had this opportunity and in my wildest dreams I would have never imagined that I did not have to go to a dealership to test drive a Lexus. They actually came to me to experience the ride. God sure is good all the time and all the time God is good. He knew all along how I wanted to experience the performance of a Lexus vehicle and not only think in my own mind of the comfort and luxury of the vehicle but to actually be able to experience it also. I am able to write this today because I was able to experience Lexus. Thank you Lexus and keep up the great work. A word of encouragement to other car makers out there, watch Lexus and develop the comfortable ride. I was once told that competition is good. It is good for both sides. It keeps one sharp and always looking for ways of improvement. In reference to the other side, to allow them to sharpen their skills and constantly look for ways of improvement. The highest compliment would be to emulate someone or something that achieves success. Now a word of caution to the one on top that is already experiencing success, do not get so confident in yourself or your past laurels that you slip in being innovative and continuing to improve on excellence.
Please note that there were other comfortable riding/passenger vehicles out there also, I apologize for not listing them too but for this writing these are the vehicles that stood out to me the most in my experience.

Quaker Oats Has The Best Recipe For Oatmeal Cookies, "Vanishing Oatmeal Raisin Cookies"

I enjoy making oatmeal raisin cookies. I have tried several different recipes throughout the years and I have found this one to be the best by far. I will share this recipe with you. If you happen to have a container of their oatmeal there is a great chance that if you take off the lid of the container it just may be printed on the inside of the lid. I have learned that if I bake with raisins I choose to use golden raisins. They just taste better to me when baking instead of using the dark raisins. I like to take the raisins and steep them in some hot water to plump them up before using them in the recipe. I also like adding the golden raisins when I make rice pudding too.
VANISHING OATMEAL RAISIN COOKIES (recipe created by Quaker Oats)
1/2 pound (2 sticks) margarine or butter, softened
1 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)
3 cups Quaker Oats (quick or old fashioned, uncooked)
1 cup raisins

Heat oven to 350 degrees.
Beat together margarine/butter and sugars until creamy.
Add eggs and vanilla, beat well.
Add combined flour, baking soda, cinnamon and salt, mix well.
Drop by rounded tablespoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheet.
Bake 10 to 12 minutes or until golden brown.
Cool 1 minute on cookie sheet, remove to wire rack.
yields 4 dozen
BAR COOKIES: bake 30 to 35 minutes in ungreased 13 x 9 inch metal baking pan.

I prefer using butter, I do not use margarine or even consume it or cook with it. When I use flour I like to use unbleached flour. I also like using parchment paper when baking cookies. I think it keeps them from burning and I find they bake more even. I also like using the cookie scoop when placing the cookie dough onto the baking sheet. I find it is even distribution  in the amount being placed on the cookie sheet and it is rounded also so it makes an even, uniform cookie.

Correction, Not All Burger Kings Do Not Serve Decaf Coffee. I Found One That Still Does Brew Decaf Coffee.

Well, I was traveling yesterday and stopped at a Burger King and was pleasantly surprised that they brewed a fresh cup of decaf coffee for me. It was a bit strong tasting for me so I asked if I could add some hot water to it to weaken the taste/strength of the cup of coffee. They obliged me in this and I enjoyed my cup of decaf coffee while driving on the road trip I took.
If life could be as simple as placing an order at a restaurant and then getting what you ordered and then you are about your journey. Life can throw you a curve ball or two or three or more. What will you do with it? You can either choose to let it knock you down or you can reach out for the curve ball and catch it and then run to make a home run for the team. What will you do today? Walk with certainty that everything you planned out for your life will happen just like you want it to happen on your timeline OR will you trust in God to continue to direct your path and lead you to where you are suppose to be? That is the question I present to you today to think about and ponder.

Burger King, "Have It Your Way!" I Think Not When It Comes To Ordering Decaf Coffee. This Is My Experience...

So sorry to report this to you, it is something I recently discovered. On occasion I like to order a decaf coffee in the morning. Until recently, that is what I thought I was getting when I would place the order. I was in another state recently and ordered the decaf coffee and I was told that that particular Burger King no longer sold decaf coffee on the menu. It did not do well on the menu so they no longer served it. I then ordered another decaf at another location the other day in a different state. Thank you to the person that took the order for me when they shared with me they no longer serve decaf coffee. Well, just a few weeks ago I ordered it from that location and I was never told that they do not sell decaf coffee (let me be fair in this for maybe they did sell decaf coffee up until a few weeks ago.) This person gave me a warning for future ordering of decaf coffee. They told me to be cautious when ordering decaf for it may just be regular coffee with water added to it to weaken it. That is not acceptable when one thinks they are getting decaf and it really is not decaf but watered down caffeinated coffee, what is the deal with that? The Burger King slogan use to be "Have it your way" if my memory serves me correct.
I tried the regular coffee and it was strong so back I went through the drive-through to return the coffee. I am on the one hand disappointed that I may have been dealt with in a not so honest way in the past when ordering decaf coffee and on the other hand I am thankful to the person that waited on me with honesty. Has our society grown so dependent on caffeine so to speak that the one who is not dependent on caffeine has to suffer for that? Just my thoughts...Burger King please bring back decaf coffee for the people that enjoy a cup of coffee just not with caffeine in it.

Thanks To A Dear Friend Of Mine, I Found Another Great Tasting Wheat Thin Flavor.

Well, at least I know there is someone out there that reads my blog. Over the weekend I was with a friend of mine and guess what surprise gift I got? They read my blog and knew how I enjoyed the Dill Pickle Wheat Thins. They were on a mission to find them but could not find them so I was blessed with a new discovery, Sun Dried Tomato Basil Wheat Thins. They were very good, they almost reminded me of a pizza flavor, yes, like taking a bite of a piece if pizza.  Try them you just may enjoy them.
If you are blessed to have a friend in your life that has been a friend for many years then you should treasure that friendship. Do you know what I am talking about? That friend that you have, it may have been years when you have seen each other but if you pick up the phone and have a conversation it is as though there was not time that lapsed. The same is so when you get together in person, I hope there is a lot of laughter that wafts in the air when you are together. Life is good, it is very good.

Where Do I Go When I Want To Hear True Worship?

I have found myself for many months now seeking out Sonlife Broadcasting Network. This is Jimmy Swaggart's ministry television network. I can turn it on and anytime they play their music from the sanctuary it blesses me. It is like I remember worship/praise use to be years ago. When the song coupled with the anointing hits they have the freedom to sing a verse over and over again via leading of Holy Spirit. I have also viewed a few of their teen/young people preaching programs. What I love about that is they do not give in to the current trend of taking the praise/worship arena and turning it into a night club setting. What do I mean by that? How many churches now are making the inside of the sanctuary to reflect a night club setting. Including flashing lights, smoke machines, dark painted walls and lack of tried and true hymns being sung and learned also by the youth.
Maybe it is my time in life or season God is directing me to go back to the simple church. What does that mean? A church that preaches the true word of God in a smaller setting. I must admit to you that a few years ago I was in a position that allowed me to visit many churches in a region. What I loved most about that job was being able to view some of the most beautiful stained glass windows in these churches. If I was there on a visit and the stained glass windows looked beautiful from the outside of the church I would then ask to see the inside of their sanctuary before leaving that church to experience the beautiful craft/design of the stained glass windows. Sometimes I would be at the right location just at the right time to catch the light streaming through the very windows and it magnified the beauty of that window. In those moments I felt the presence of God strong.
If one is going to do business with a church it is important to see their sanctuary to see what their church is all about. You can get a good idea of their church just by entering their sanctuary sometimes. At one point I began to jot down some of these church locations that the stained glass windows captured my attention. Unfortunately, I gave those notes to another person and now those precious memories are captured in my heart only. If you are in a church that preaches the true word of God; the worship is in spirit and in truth; there is true fellowship and ministry amongst the people; and you happen to have beautiful stained glass windows in the church then consider yourself blessed.

Well, Mint Brownies Are Yummy

In a blog writing a few days ago I mentioned I was going to try making brownies with Andes chopped mints incorporated into the mix. I made them and they were good. I did not measure the amount of chopped brownies I added to the brownie mix I just guess at what looks like a good amount and I just go with it. When they came out of the oven while still warm I sprinkled a good amount on top of them. I gave it a few minutes and then they were melted enough to spread the topping all over the brownies. The once solid form of simple chopped Andes mints now transformed to a simple frosting for the brownies. I then let them cool and I topped them off with more chopped mints to decorate the brownie. Now, if I had more time I just may have loaded them up with a cocoa butter cream frosting. Maybe the next time I just may do that. If one is going to indulge in a sweet treat with that cup of coffee or tea or even a glass of cold milk why not take the plunge and indulge in a very decadent brownie right? Now mind you, not to eat the whole pan of brownies but in moderation have a brownie here and there. I am not talking huge pieces either. When I took them to work I cut them in sizes big enough to fit into a mini muffin size cupcake liner. It makes a nice presentation. I had a cute square shaped floral paper plate (you can pick up cute plates like this at Dollar Tree) and filled up the plate with the brownies. I actually had cupcake liners that happened to coordinate with the colors in the plate. You see, presentation is important. One already knows if they will like what you present to them with the way it is presented. Your eyes already detect something that may be a winner just from sight. Further explanation...You could have a plate of spinach or an item you just do not like at all but you may consider trying it just by the way it is presented on the plate. Does that make sense to you? Now, there may be something that you just detest and there will be no changing of your mind not matter how beautiful it appears. For me that would be lamb. I cannot eat or even smell the scent of cooked, roasted lamb for it does make my stomach not feel well. For some reason I cannot eat or even smell lamb cooking without feeling like I am about to get sick. That is one of those quirky things I guess.

"Speak In Ways That Can Be Understood."

I was reading my bible today and I came upon 1 Corinthians 14: 10-25 and let me share with you what it states.

"No matter how many different languages there are in the world, not one of them is without meaning. If I don't know what a language means, I will be a foreigner to the person who speaks it and that person will be a foreigner to me. In the same way, since you're eager to have spiritual gifts, try to excel in them so that you help the church grow. So the person who speaks in another language should pray for an interpretation of what he says. If I pray in another language, my spirit prays, but my mind is not productive. So what does this mean? It means that I will pray with my spirit, and I will pray with my mind. I will sing psalms with my spirit, and I will sing psalms with my mind. Otherwise, if you praise God only with your spirit, how can outsiders say "Amen!" to your prayer of thanksgiving? They don't know what you're saying. Your prayer of thanksgiving may be very good, but it doesn't help other people grow. I thank God that I speak in other languages more than any of you. Yet, in order to teach others in the church, I would rather say five words that can be understood that ten thousand words in another language. Brothers and sisters, don't think like children. When it comes to evil, be like babies, but think like mature people. God's word says, "Through people who speak foreign languages and through the mouths of foreigners I will speak to these people, but even then they will not listen to me, says the Lord." So the gift of speaking in other languages is a sign for unbelievers, not for believers. The gift of speaking what God has revealed is a sign for believers, not for unbelievers. Suppose the whole congregation gathers in the same place and you speak in other languages. When outsiders or unbelievers come in, won't they say that you're out of your mind? Now suppose you speak what God has revealed. When unbelievers or outsiders come in you will show them where they are wrong and convince them that they are sinners. The secrets in their hearts will become known, and in this way they will quickly bow with their faces touching the ground, worship God, and confess that God is truly among you."

I hope this helps you.

Caramel Sea Salt Brownies

I was watching television the other day and this recipe caught my attention. It was a recipe for caramel sea salt brownies. I thought about it and then I adapted the recipe a bit to create this. The recipe I saw explained to take a brownie mix and follow the directions for preparing the mix. Then you swirled caramel sauce on top of them before you baked them in the oven. After they were baked and you take them out of the oven you then sprinkle sea salt on top of them.
I went to the store in search of my items for this recipe. The first store did not have caramel sauce so I began to improvise with an ingredient. I thought I could chop up Ghirardelli milk & caramel filled squares into the batter. I thought to myself, go to another store for the caramel sauce. I did and I was most glad that I went there for it was in the search that I found the Smucker's caramel sauce and then also Ghirardelli dark & sea salt caramel squares. Now, my mind was already creating what to do with this updated creation before I ever even started to create. I prepared the Pillsbury brownie mix.  I then decided to place half of the mix in the pan, I took the two different caramel squares and laid them into the mix and covered them with the remaining mix. Baked them in the oven and when I took them out of the oven the caramel was just oozing from inside to the top and bubbly too. I then had fresh sea salt I ground on top of them. I hope the people at work like them for that is where their final demise will be.
Did I let you know that I love to create and share my creativity if it is a "hit" with you. I am trusting that it will be a hit with my fellow employees so that is why I am sharing it with you today. Have an enjoyable day today and why not be creative in the kitchen today. It is not only yummy but it is good to create.
Let me share this side note with you...I already had Ghirardelli brownie mix at home but I did not want to waste it in case the recipe did not turn out. That is why I purchased the $1.00 size Pillsbury brownie mix to experiment with this recipe. I must admit to you that lately when using this brand for making brownies (if I need to make a small batch and have it be economical) this brand has proved to be fine. I usually add items to the mix like chocolate chips.
Hum, I am already thinking of another brownie idea as I am writing this. I have some Andes chopped mints in the pantry. Why not create something with them? Just a thought...what about this? Add the chopped mints to the brownie mix and bake them. After taking them out of the oven while still warm why not place the chopped mints on top of the brownies and let them melt and once cooled you will then have a slight frosting on top of them. Now, this would be a recipe for those that like the taste of mint for I am imagining that it would be "minty" with chopped mints in the mix and then coating the top too. See what I am trying to share with you. When one is creating that allows the creativity to flow even more.

Unfolding Majesty with Dean & Mary Brown

You should find and watch this program, "Unfolding Majesty" with Dean & Mary Brown. If you want to embrace true worship this is the program I would seek out. Years ago when TBN was experiencing revival not only were they led in worship by Bill & Renee, they were also blessed to have the praises and worship sung by Dean & Mary Brown. Mary has a beautiful anointing for playing the piano also.

Joan Hunter and Lana Vawser: 'Step Into September' and 'September: A Month to Remember - Setback Has Risen Because of the Next Step'

Joan Hunter and Lana Vawser: 'Step Into September' and 'September: A Month to Remember - Setback Has Risen Because of the Next Step'

PBS Thank You For Airing "The Paradise" On Television Again.

I was most pleased when I was going through channels the other day and something caught my attention. I saw a preview that PBS was going to run last year's season of "The Paradise." What do you think I did? I watched it of course. I was so pleased to see them air this again even though they chose to not air the sequel that was aired in another country. Such a shame since we were able to have the privilege of viewing this mini series and then not able to view the sequel. Please re-consider this PBS so we can see how the sequel not only started but the ending also. Just a thought of mine, but I must admit that it is a good idea/suggestion.

I Must Share With You The Worst Peanut Butter I Ever Tried.

I am sorry to even have to write this. I purchased a peanut butter that I tried to consume and honestly I will throw it in the garbage today. The brand is Sprouts Farmers Market Creamy Peanut Butter (no salt added) With natural types of peanut butter there's usually a layer of oil on the top and one mixes it through before consuming it. I did that with this brand and it is a peanut butter that is not smooth and creamy it actually has a grainy texture. I do not expect a creamy peanut butter to have a texture like that. It also seems to have no substance. What I mean about that is even after being refrigerated it still has a soupy like consistency. I did not enjoy trying this peanut butter. I did go out and purchase Kroger's natural peanut butter that is creamy. I know that brand and trust the quality. I know what to expect when I open that jar of peanut butter. In all fairness, maybe I did purchase a bad batch of peanut butter. I do not think I will try it again though.

Great Update

Well, I am very pleased to announce that a large ministry got it right. They got it right when I made a donation the other day. Thank you very much. Not only did they repeat back to me the correct amount of the donation but the correct amount was then followed through with. I love that I truly do. No hassle, God's direction was followed through with not only on my part but also on the part of the ministry. Do you have any idea what a pleasure that is to me? I will not have to make any phone calls to correct it, etc. It is taken care of and if you have not had to experience the opposite of this then you will not understand what I am talking about. If you ever had to deal with a large ministry that did not get your donation amount correct then you do know what I am talking about.

I Have An Update, Thank You To The Big Time Ministry For Applying The Credit.

I wanted to give an update in regard to the ministry that did not apply the correct amount of money I wanted to make a donation for. It took about a month of contacting this ministry to get someone to respond and it did happen. Thank you. I do realize that people make mistakes but there should be a more efficient manner in making corrections when dealing with a very large ministry. Thank you. I trust that the most recent donation amount I placed with another large ministry will come through correctly. I will keep you posted. Oddly enough, when you are speaking with these organizations they seem to repeat the dollar amount back to you correctly while speaking with them. It is the follow through that seems to get confused. Please pray that the correct amount that was verified by the person that answered the phone will go through exactly as I requested it. Reason being, that is what Holy Spirit placed upon my heart to give.

WARNING, WARNING, WARNING. Be Very Cautious When Dealing With Television Shopping Networks. This Is What Happened To Me...

I come to you with caution today in regard to what recently happened to me. I will not name the shopping network on television but this is what happened to me. I saw something on TV and thought maybe I will order it and have it for a gift or two. I called the number and answered the questions of how many, etc. It was apparently based on the phone number I called from that brings up an account if you shopped with them in the past. Before I ever had the opportunity to state how I wanted to pay for the items it prompted if you wanted a gift receipt. I responded yes and a customer service rep came on the line. I then inquired of a credit or certificate that was given to me months ago by the company and I wanted to use it. I was then told there was no such thing and I had to be transferred to customer service to find out about that. At that point I said forget it I did not want to go ahead with this purchase it was too much of a hassle. The rep said she cancelled the order.
Later I notice two emails from this organization. One stating the order confirmation and then one following that stating the order was cancelled. Why did I receive either one of them for I never placed the finalization of this order and never even stated or gave info/approval on how I was going to pay for the order??? Something inside of me was telling me to check further. I did and was shocked to see funds being held in my account for a purchase I never gave authorization to. I called customer service and said I needed to speak with a manager I had great concerns that an order was charged for something I never gave authorization to charge. I was told they had a previous purchase on file and the method of payment was also on file and that is how they used that particular information to take the funds out of.
In my opinion that is unethical, not moral at all and I told the manager that was stealing. I could not walk into an establishment and charge something to someone without their consent for that would be stealing and someone had to be held accountable for this. I was told the manager had to research who the employee was that did this and then their supervisor would be notified to coach this person. Come on now, are you going to tell me that they did not know who the employee was that authorized this sale and then cancelled it. Currently, most organizations assign an employee ID number or something to that effect to employees to be able to track their performance, etc. How hard was it to look up the transaction and see the pertinent information. Unless they have phantom employees working for them, I doubt that is the case.
As this manager was reviewing my situation/concern I was then told that the one purchase was actually two even though you ordered the same item but 2 quantities of it and there was not just one hold on my account for the transaction amount but they were able to see another one also. Instead of a grand total amount due they split it up as two transactions? I got online right then and there and said only half of the amount of the purchase was placed on hold for my account and she assured me she would catch it so another one would not be added. I was also assured as we were speaking that the hold would be removed and I would not have to wait the 3 days that they require when a purchase was made. Guess what? When I checked the hold was still there.
I further voiced my concern as to what if I did go through with the purchase and wanted to use another form of payment why did this default to a former method of payment without my authorization. They had no definitive answer for me other than mistakes happen and they were going to correct it. I think they missed the whole point of this misfortune. I never gave authorization to go forward with this purchase and I most certainly did not even tell them to authorize using any sort of payment method. Why do not big organizations have to be held accountable for this using and tying up of my own money when I did not authorize it to begin with?
I understand people making errors, I really do. We are human and humans do make mistakes. My concern is how did this get out of hand when it should not have even been a concern of mine when I decided to not complete the order in the first place?

"Word for the Moment" August 2014 with Bobby Conner & Paul Keith Davis

What Is The Plan For Your Life? Is It God's Plan For Your Life Or Is It Your Plan? Your Plan May Lead You To Hell For All Eternity, Do You Really Want To Chose That Plan?

I was sleeping and then woke up very early. I read my bible and then I started to flip through the Christian television stations and something caught my attention. It was a Classic "Praise The Lord" program on TBN, I believe it was a program that was on the air 12/8/1982. Dr. Eby was one of the guests. As I listened to him share his testimony it reminded me what I have been called to do with my life, to share the good news that Jesus Christ is coming soon to come and claim His people. Are you ready should you meet Him this very day? If not let me share with you how you can have the assurance that should today be your last day here on earth that you will know Him and be with Him for all eternity in heaven.
As I was watching this program my heart became thankful. It was the faith and belief of Christians making monetary donations throughout the years prior to me ever experiencing TBN in my very life. It was the simple/growing time of TBN building up the network and the beautiful faith of Jan and Paul Crouch reaching out to God's people, both believers and those that will become believers. Thank you TBN partners for planting seeds of faith to allow TBN to grow and be there for me when it was time in my very life to be introduced to TBN. I remember in the 90's when I stumbled upon this network and they were experiencing revival when I would tune into the "Praise The Lord" programming. Bill and Renee led worship and at the time they had the choir in their choir robes and I still remember that as being the most glorious worship.
Thank you once again for planting seeds of faith, monetary gifts and for praying for folks just like me that one day would experience TBN. It is truly appreciated and let me share with you that I gleaned much wisdom and knowledge by tuning into the programs. I have such a heart for God's people that only can be placed within my heart by Jesus coming into my life and sharing a love so rich and powerful that I do not want to see others going from this life they know here on earth to eternal damnation in hell forever. It does not have to be like that. I have previously shared with you my experience I had one day in prayer. I was praying and the only way I can describe this to you is that it was as if the carpeting and floor was opened up in the room I was in. Not in a physical manner but in a spiritual manner that was. I then heard such awful screaming and screams of many people that were experiencing tortures and pain so bad that it caused me to always remember that noise/sound of those horrible screams of pain and torture. At the time Holy Spirit spoke to me that those were the screams of hell. Hell is real and people are going there daily and once there, there is no coming back and asking Jesus into your heart to allow you to be with Him forever in heaven.

Join me in this simple but powerful prayer if your heart is moved at this time to do so. "Lord Jesus I am a sinner. Forgive me for my sins and cleanse me of them and remove them from me. Cleanse me with the blood you shed for me on Calvary, take that filth from me and make me white as snow. So pristine clean that when you look at me through the blood you shed for me You will no longer see those sins. Thank you for that Jesus. I believe that you were born of the virgin birth, you lived on this earth and died for me on the cross. You did not remain dead but rose from the dead three days later. Come into my heart and life and be the Lord of my life. Teach me your ways, show me the direction to take for my very life. Tell me of the wonderful things you have planned for my very life. Bring good, strong Christian's into my life. Show me a bible teaching church were I can learn the word of God. Direct me Holy Spirit as to the bible I should start reading. It is through reading the word of God that I will become acquainted with Jesus and know who He is and how to conduct my life and live my life. I yield my thoughts and plans for my life and give them to you so I can do what I was born and created to do with my life so when we meet in heaven You will say to me "Enter into heaven good and faithful friend, you have fulfilled what I called you do with your very life." Those are the sweetest and most endearing words I long to hear. Thank you Jesus for doing what You did just for me. I love You and trust You with all my heart, speak to me and show me the plans You have for my life. In Jesus name I pray this, Amen."
Now, wait with anticipation to see what He will do in your life. Living a life in God's plan for your life truly is an exciting life to live. Remember, He created you so let Him direct you with what He created you to do with your very life. Holy Spirit I ask you to seal the very words they spoke to you in their heart, let them always remember the time they chose to give their heart/life to Jesus. Did you know that the moment you said that prayer that all the angels in heaven rejoiced. Isn't that amazing? They rejoiced over your prayer.

A Word Of Caution To Those That Plant Monetary Gifts/Offerings Into Christian Broadcasting Stations Or Large Ministries Also. This Is What Happened To Me...

There have been many times in which Holy Spirit moved upon my heart to place a monetary gift into a certain ministry, Christian broadcasting television network, Christian radio station, etc. Many numerous times it was done without a hitch so to speak. Then...there were the times (recently I may add) when the ministry did not follow the amount of money to be donated and they changed it. The problem is this, when Holy Spirit speaks to your heart about making a donation and He specifically speaks a certain monetary amount and even adds to it what it is to be planted in faith towards in your very life, the problem comes into play when the ministry does not get it right.
Now, mind you, we are not dealing with secular organizations but faith believing ministries. Ministries that we are told operate in faith and the faith walk. When one calls in to make a donation or a pledge and takes the time to explain what Holy Spirit is speaking to your heart. They want to be assured the correct amount of money will be received. When one even shares with the ministry that another organization did not get it right and the hassle it was to make it right, then surely you would expect that ministry to take caution in filling out the necessary paperwork to make sure it is the correct amount of money being given. Wrong, not so.
This is my recent experience. The reason I share this with you is because I do not want you to go through the same experiences I had. Holy Spirit spoke to my heart to plant a certain amount of money as a seed offering for a specific purpose in my life. When Holy Spirit gives you a prophetic dream and shows you specific numbers in a dream you need to pay attention to that for He is speaking to your heart and life and wants you to pay attention. So, now you had the dream and He speaks to your heart to place a seed offering specific to the dollar amount that is connected to the dream He gave to you. You then move in action while Holy Spirit is speaking to your heart as to where to plant that seed. Great, you place the phone call and you are now on your way to following Holy Spirit instruction. You briefly explain that the dollar amount is something Holy Spirit spoke to your heart and it is connected to a prophetic dream. You take the time to make sure they get the amount you speak to them correct and then the transaction/obedience to Holy Spirit is complete.
You then check your account to see the incorrect amount of money was given and not the specific amount of money you requested. Here is when the hassle begins. I contacted a Christian television network and left a voice mail or two explaining my concern that the blessing will not come forth until this is corrected. No response form them. I finally speak with someone and they assure me it will be corrected. This is what actually happened to me. I received in the mail a card with a dime taped to the inside of the card. Let me show you that all along they were not listening to my heart. Let me give you an example, say the amount of money was 00.01 (this is not the actual amount of money I gave) but follow where it gets messed up OK. Why would you send back to a person a dime when the cent amount was not correct. You state it will be one cent and they deduct ten cents. So, the difference to be refunded to the person making a donation would be nine cents not ten cents correct? They missed the whole point of Holy Spirit speaking to your heart what to give to that ministry. If He wanted me to give ten cents that is what would have been spoken to begin with. This is what I did, I sent the ministry a card with an explanation that they missed the whole point of planting that faith seed offering and I trusted that they walk in faith and would understand where I was coming from. In the card I returned the ten cents and then added the penny that I would have been robbed of my blessing for not getting it right. I never heard anything further from them.
You may be thinking she really is a stickler for this and what is a difference of a few pennies? It is not the dollar amount it is the following of Holy Spirit speaking to your heart and then the accuracy of the ministry to make sure they are placing people on the phone lines following through correctly. It becomes very frustrating to one when they take the time to speak to the operator and have them repeat back to you the dollar amount you are giving to find out that they really did not listen to begin with. I understand people make mistakes and I do not fault them for that for we are human and not perfect. I get that. It is the manner in which they try to get the mistake corrected. Again, I state we are not dealing with secular organizations but organizations that preach and walk the faith life so why is the refund process so complicated?

This is so goofy isn't it? They have plenty of help on the phones to take your pledge/offering amount but when you need to speak with someone that will take care of this they do not seem to have the same amount of people there correcting problems. Again, I state it is not the dollar amount as much as it is the following Holy Spirit instruction. You are being faithful to hearing the voice of Holy Spirit and following through with what He spoke to your heart to do and it is in the following through that others stopped your blessing. God is a God of order and excellence. Maybe it is a coincidence but then again maybe it is not that this happened within a few short weeks of each other. I have found that the best way to handle this is to go online and fill in the information yourself then you know for sure it is taken care of.
These organizations I share with you are not small ministries they are very large. Looking back on this, if donations/pledge amounts are not entered in correctly and the error is against the one making the monetary gift then think of how much money (sometimes it can be penny by penny) they are receiving above and beyond the actual donation/pledge amount from God's people. Be very mindful and watch your statements to make sure the accounting is accurate. People always talk about how the secular world runs things and how much better of an example that Christian organizations should be in comparison. I make mistakes in my life I am not perfect and I thank God for his mercy that is new everyday. I am most thankful that other people also extend grace to me when a mistake is made. I get it that we are not perfect and we are to extend to others grace or forgiveness when they do wrong to us or when we do wrong to them. The whole reason I write today is not about a few pennies here or there it is the follow through and making the error correction so one can simply do what one was called to do in the first place, follow instruction of Holy Spirit done in faith.

Bonnie Jones: A Vision: The Lord is Refueling the Over 50s Quickly - Placing Them On the Fast Track

Bonnie Jones: A Vision: The Lord is Refueling the Over 50s Quickly - Placing Them On the Fast Track

Kroger, Thank You For Placing Your Weekly Ad Back Into The Sunday Newspaper. Ingles Will You Be Following In This Also?

I happened to purchase a Sunday newspaper today and I was pleasantly surprised when I saw the weekly advertisement for Kroger in the newspaper. Maybe it is coincidence but I did inquire of this in my blog. Maybe someone does read this blog and responded in an indirect way. Maybe not, but greatly appreciated Kroger in this simple act of placing your weekly ad in the Sunday newspaper. It is truly appreciated.

What Does One Do When Family Does Not Accept Who You Are In Christ Jesus?

This may be a hard subject to approach but lets give it a try OK. You love Jesus, ministry is bursting forth inside of you waiting for the exact time to come forth. You attend family functions and the whole time you become very quiet and reserved for everyone around you chit chats about their lives. Everything inside of you is wanting to scream forth, wake up people do you not know what time it is? People go on with their lives and do they really see the times all around them. Jesus may come in the next few moments, hours, days, weeks, or even years. Have you thought about your final destination for all eternity? Will it be heaven or hell? The choice is really yours. Have you accepted Jesus into your heart and asked Him to be the Lord of your life? When was the last time you showed Jesus to a stranger.
Did you know that there are people out there that may have not had someone show them kindness in a week or so or even longer? Take that great smile of yours and share it with strangers. Why do I say strangers as opposed to family members? How would you feel if you have an incredible talent and the only one to recognize it is a total stranger. Part of you would feel sad for a brief moment or two and then you would accept it and move on. There are others that would keep coming back to the same old situation and sit with those that do not allow you to be who God created you to be. It could become very frustrating to sit among people that treat you as Jesus was treated. Remember when He could do no great works in the city/region where he was from. They referred to Him as that is Joseph's son, the carpenter. Do not quote me on the exact verse I may be a little off. The point being taken, they knew Jesus as the young child/man they grew up with and did not see the greatness of God inside of Him. He could do no great miracles in their presence for their lack of faith. I can imagine that on some level that made His heart a bit sad. To have the flowing of miracles in His life and the very people He grew up with would not receive their miracle because they did not see Him as God created Him to be.
Do you ever feel like that? I am sure there is a group of God's remnant that have either felt this or are experiencing this right now. God spoke to your heart of the plan He has for your life and you are being groomed this very moment in hidden places. He teaches, for Holy Spirit is the greatest teacher I have ever sat under, He truly is. When Holy Spirit gives you divine revelation and insight I stand back in amazement at what He shows me and teaches me. Let me encourage you for God has you strategically tucked away, learning and growing in strength and character. When the timing is right He will bring you forth and you will fulfill what He has called you to do in your life. Do not give up hope or become discouraged in the waiting process. Trust Him for He is your defender, protector, provider, and the one that nurtures His children. That is the safest place to be. Take that moment or two to tell Him you love Him and if it were not for Him stepping into your heart and life you would be walking down some gloomy path in life lost and confused. He will bring joy to your heart if you let Him into your heart and let Him direct your steps.
It is so much easier to take the gospel message to the world and strangers than those that you sit down to a meal with, why is that? They feel they can push you into a corner and cause you to act as they would like you to act. It should be the other way around. They should let you express who God created you to be. When was the last time you had liberty and freedom gathered around the dinner table at a family function? You know, to have a free and open conversation about what Jesus has shared with you lately. What about that prophetic dream He gave to you the other night. Oh to have the freedom to converse with others at a family function about what the Lord is doing in your life. The sad part is that the very dream you had from God could have been a key in a family members life to an answer to something they are currently struggling with in their very life. A key to unlock freedom in their life.
You need to start standing up for yourself and get a back bone so to speak. Sometimes it is OK to say NO, I do not want to do that today. People should really respect your wishes and not force their wants and desires upon you. It is as though you are treated as a child when you do not fit into their box and conform to their ways/ideas. That will not work for some of you for God did not create you to fit into their preconceived (notion) box. How can a rectangular object fit into a circular container? It cannot unless you cut the pieces up to make them fit into the container. God just may have not created you to fit into another persons container and they should just accept that for what it is.
Do you ever feel like you are sitting at the dinner table and listening to the conversation and just feel disconnected to the small talk? What do you think would happen if they gave you a moment to interrupt the conversation and ask those at the table when was the last time they heard from God? What did He say to you? When was the last time He gave you a dream in regard to direction in your life? Questions of that nature. They may patronize you for a moment or two but I can guarantee you that you would receive very little prolonged time to further discuss/inquire. Onto another subject is what I would guess would then direct the conversation. What advice was given in the bible about leaving a town and shaking the dust off of your feet if they did not receive you there. There is a reason behind that. You can share, share and share some more and there comes a point that Holy Spirit will redirect your foot steps elsewhere. To a place where the word of God will be received and not hushed away.
Be encouraged for God truly has a plan for your very life and do not feel abandoned if your family just does not get you. Maybe that is part of the plan for your life. To break away and have freedom and liberty to take the testimony that is genuine to your very life to others. In your life was there not a story or testimony of someone that crossed your path that touched your heart? Did the testimony of another bear witness to your spirit? I am sure if you thought about it and looked back on your life you would find that to be true. It is through the sharing of your testimony that it will build up others and bring encouragement to their very life. How can you share if there is no testimony in your life to share. Do you see why I share via this blog? It is there to encourage you. Many, many numerous times I have experienced this very thing. The shared testimony of a person that lifted me up and brought hope and encouragement to my life. There will even be times when that testimony will be a confirmation to your life. Better yet, their shared testimony will encourage you to see that others walked in very similar situations and they came out of it bringing glory to God. God is so very smart, He knows exactly the very people around you and the right timing to hear the very testimony of another at the very time you need to hear it. God is love and that causes my heart to sing. Be encouraged and know this, if family and friends are beginning to cause you to be irritated, it may not be from the enemy. It just may be that it is time to move on and the season in your life is about to change.

York Minis Unwrapped Mini Dark Chocolate Covered Peppermint Patties (in the small pouch size you can get at the check out counter) Great Idea. Kroger's You Really Have To Work On Your Pricing Problems, Another Complimentary Item I Received.

Well folks, I write about a positive and a negative experience today. Let's start off with the negative so we can get it out of the way first and then conclude with the positive so we can end on a happy note. I went to a Kroger store the other day and guess what happened? If you have read my blog recently you can surely guess it had to do with getting a free item from them. This was due to lack of poor pricing in their system. I only had a few items and I checked my receipt before I left the store. Sure enough, wrong price charged to the customer. I cannot stress it strongly enough for you to really watch when you are at the check out counter that you are being charged correctly. Down an aisle there was a sale sign showing 4/$5.00 so what does that mean? Each item is at $1.25. Sure enough it rang up on my receipt and I paid that amount also, $1.49. Thank goodness a manager just happened to be there and I showed him the error. We walked to the area where the item was located. He brought me to the register and refunded the total amount of money. I think I verbally said to him does not the store lose money with the refunds they give to people. I must commend them on this, they do not give the customer a hassle when this occurs and they are courteous also. I cannot say this strong enough, people today work very hard for the money they earn and may live on fixed incomes also. Why are there stores out there that do not have their pricing correct in their systems and we, as the consumer, get overcharged. This is obviously becoming a problem if I am experiencing it more frequent than not. This needs to be looked into and corrected. Have you noticed the price of buying groceries keeps going up and up, I know the economy plays a part in this but did you consider the miss marked items being refunded to us are also playing a hand in all of this? Just a thought of mine, I may be way off base but then again it may have a bit of truth behind this thought.
Let's go onto happy thoughts OK. I think it is very clever what The Hershey Company created. They are called King Size which is written on the pouch but in reality the term is misleading. They remind me of a travel version size pouch one can eat a few pieces of candy and not over consume candy. I like this idea. Another thing I really like is there is an "actual size" picture of the item on the packaging. This allows one to not be surprised when they open the package, for you already know the size just by looking at it. A taste of candy but not being tempted to eat a lot of it. I think the first time I saw this it was at a Wal-Mart store. They are the unwrapped version of the candy but in mini size. I like this concept. I have purchased the mini Reese Peanut Butter Cups for baking and they worked out really well when I baked mini brownies. Just the right size when taking them out of the oven, you place one of the minis on each brownie and they look so cute too. See, there really are companies out there trying to create products for the consumer and not making them purchase big size/jumbo bags of product. Is $1.25 a steep amount to pay for a 2.5 ounce bag? Some may say yes, it depends on what you will be using them for. Paying $1.49 for this product, probably way too steep. Kroger I do believe that Wal-Mart sells them at the lower price point not $1.49. Consider taking down your price and not just giving a sale price to it for it has been out there in the market being sold prior to your store selling it. The consumer really does shop around for the best value especially in the economy we live in right now. Not everyone out there wants jumbo size this and that when purchasing items. Please keep that in mind.

Publix I Think You Are Slipping A Bit When It Comes To Offering New Products On The Market. Great Job Ingles For Offering New Products. Be Cautious That You Are Being Charged The Correct Amount At The Checkout Counter.

I have noticed a few times now that I find a new product that is out there in the market at Ingles. When I go in search for that very product if I am at Publix  they do not carry it. This has happened on a few items, that is not good. If one tries something and one wants to purchase it again what an inconvenience it is to the customer that is at a store ready to buy and you do not carry it. That just happened to me the other day, in search of the Wheat Thins Dill Pickle snack crackers. I went to the snack cracker aisle and did not see it. I then got a manager and inquired about it. As I was talking with him it dawned on me that Publix didn't even carry that and I got it at Ingles. I also mentioned about the great competition out there with the new Sprouts Farmers Market that has joined the grocery store competition in the area. Why would I purchase fresh cherries for $1.99 per pound when Sprouts offers them for $0.98 a pound in their weekly advertisement. The manager response to me was"Were they as large in size as ours?"
I was told once that competition is good, it is good for you and it is also good for your competition out there. Competition keeps the grocery stores out there on their toes so to speak. When they realize that their revenue dollars are down they will adjust pricing, etc. to bring back or bring in that business that may have started branching out and shopping else where. Ingles, I have found is very good in the market when it comes to introducing the latest in products that are out there for the consumer to try.
The other day I was able to get two items at no charge from two different grocery stores (Ingles & Kroger.) Do you want to know why/how that happened? At each store the store policy is, the item is given to you free (there are parameters of the dollar amount at each store, you need to check with the store in regard to their policy.) if it is scanned and the wrong price shows. In one instance I had the check out clerk go to the aisle where the product is located and verify that the sign read correctly and sure enough it did. I then reminded them of the store policy and free item to me. Sometimes you have to be on your toes to catch it. They may not always say the item is free. Do not feel bad reminding them of their store policy. In the end it will make them stronger as an organization. I would trust they are keeping track of these free items given to customers. I would  hope this will help them either get them into the system correct or if signs should be taken down they should not be displayed if the sale is over. I do not know what the circumstance was in this instance. The other item was at another store. Self checkout was used and I keyed in the proper item number on the sticker on the item from produce. On the screen came up a different dollar amount, not what they were on sale for. Right away the clerk was most helpful and agreed that the item came up under the item number listed on the item I was purchasing. When advertised 4 for $5.00 is a big difference compared to the other similar item they sell at the other price point.
In one day I was given two free items from two different stores. Imagine how much this happens (and if it occurs frequently) that has to be costing the store money. What happens then? I would imagine that that free item is either written off for the year or it is tucked into price increases the consumer then absorbs. I might be wrong but then again I just might be right. Someone, somewhere, somehow has to absorb this cost. Moral to this story, always check as they are checking out your items at the register to make sure the right dollar amount is charged to you. Also, grocery store chains make sure the price amounts are properly entered into your system to ring up the right amount along with checking that sale signs are tagged correctly. Remove the sale signs when the item is no longer on sale for the sale amount advertised on the shelf by that particular item.
One more moral to the story...there is definitely a grocery store tug-of-war going on out there. With more and more options out there for the consumer, offer to them the latest and greatest new items out there. It is frustrating to the consumer that wants to purchase an item and they are already at a store, to find that they have to leave that store and go elsewhere. I actually had cherries in my hand and would have paid $1.99 a pound since I was there, but I left with nothing to purchase and went elsewhere. People work too hard for the money they earn and they are cautious on how they spend it also. I hope this insight helps you today. If so, it can become a win-win for all of us right?
One more thing and then I will be done with this today. A lot of grocery stores are now changing their weekly advertisement to a week day as opposed to a weekend day. I must commend Publix and Aldi on this one, they still continue to place their weekly advertisement in the Sunday newspaper. Kroger and Ingles please go back to placing your advertisement in the Sunday newspaper. Not everyone wants to go online to view the advertisement. Some like to have a hard copy in their possession to view it and circle what they need from that store.

Worship Song, "You Are Awesome In This Place" By David Billington & "Eileen Fisher: Are You Ready to Graduate to a New Level of Glory?

Eileen Fisher: Are You Ready to Graduate to a New Level of Glory?

God Will Use A Total Stranger To Get A Message To You...This Is What Happened To Me.

Well, when you least expect it God will get a message of encouragement to you. In my case, I received the message where one would not necessarily expect to hear the bible being read out loud. I was at a government facility and the person reading the bible was not there when I entered the building. I was leaving the building and a heard a man talking out loud and the closer I got to the person speaking I then recognize exactly what he was reading. He was reading scripture by a tree and the people leaving the facility were able to hear him as they walked by. I recognized the scripture and ever so naturally as I approached him to walk past I completed the rest of the scripture to him as I walked by. We were actually saying the scripture together. I kept on walking and got to my car. As I was in my car heading away from the facility I thought to myself was that an angel for I could not hear or see him anywhere in the vicinity of where he was as I was leaving.
I pulled out and then I think I recognized him and motioned to him in his car as we were at a stop sign. He rolled down his window and I briefly shared that was the scripture I needed to hear today and I thanked him and asked him what scripture verse he read. He told me and then he said God Bless you and off I was on the rest of my journey. The portion I spoke out as I walked by was, "Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things will be added unto you."
Mind you that I did not shout this I simply spoke it for it leaped within me. I did not stop to chit chat or talk, it just so naturally came forth from me. Maybe I was to experience this today to share it with you so you can be encouraged also. Do not give up and hang in there for God is faithful and He will fulfill your dreams, mainly the dreams He gave to you. So as to not lose hope but encourage you that His divine will will be completed in your life. Look up for He will bring it to pass even if it does not look like it in the natural today, Remember, He is God and all it takes is a moment in His presence that will change everything. So, do not toil and worry about it and rest in His presence and let Him bring it to fruition. He is God and He knows what is best and the timing to fulfill it. Remember, seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and let Him add all other things unto you.

Found Another Hidden Treasure Of A Product Today, Nabisco's Limited Edition Dill Pickle Wheat Thins.

Well, I went to the store today and as I was heading down an aisle this Limited Edition product caught my attention. Now, what exactly caught my attention and caused me to inquire and pick up the product? The snack cracker aisle is like looking into a sea of products so if one is clever in regard to marketing they will use things that catch the attention of the shopper. What caught my attention was the green background on the upper portion of the package and then the big picture of the dill pickle cut in half. I also liked the fact that they showed a broken piece of a cracker that you would find inside the box. Great eye catching appeal. It caused me to pick up the box and said to myself OK I will try it. Part of the deciding factor was that it was at a great price point also. Another deciding factor for me was on the list of ingredients there was no yeast used to make this product. So, I purchased it and enjoyed sampling it with co-jack cheese and sharp white cheddar cheese tidbits and a few tomato chunks also. You know you just have to take a chance here and there to see if the new product is a hit or miss. How will one know if they do not try it. Sometimes trying a  new item lets you know that you just do not like it and you may even feel like you wasted time, money or even calories with the trying of the item. That is OK at least you were adventurous and when you see it in the future you will know to not get it again.
Marketing truly interests me for their job is to do exactly what I experienced today. Catch my attention, pick up the product and then take personal ownership of the product when I choose to place it in my shopping cart and purchase it.

Well, I Must Tell You That I Found 2 Products I Like Better Than Other Items I Use To Enjoy. I Stumbled Upon These Products And I Am Glad That I Did.

I have enjoyed Smucker's Apricot Preserves for many years. I have tried other brands of apricot preserves and I would say there is no comparison, until I recently tried Laura Lynn Apricot Preserves. Laura Lynn brand is at Ingles Markets. The reason I never cared for other brands is because they always had such a sweet taste to them, too sweet and I do not like that when it comes to apricot preserves. I found this one had like qualities to the Smucker's brand without being sugary sweet in taste.

My second discovery is the Cinnamon Waffle. I thought I liked Kroger's brand of Cinnamon waffles better than Eggo Limited Edition, Pumpkin Spice waffle until I tried Great Value which you can get at Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. The difference being,  believe it or not, the Wal-Mart waffle was much more fluffy than the Kroger waffle which was more flat if that makes sense. I guess the lesson learned in all of this is one must be willing to try new things for it is in the trying that one just may discover a hidden prize out there at a better price point then one is accustomed to paying for the items one enjoys.

Happy product testing and tasting to you. You just may surprise yourself and find a gem. The other plus may be that in the testing it may cause you to stick with what you already like for no one can possibly make it better or improve on making it better out there. You will no ever know if you do not get adventurous and at least try.

Coca-Cola I Was Able To View Your Billboard Ads And I Like Them. Of Course, They Put A Smile On My Face, Thank You.

I Heard This Song Today And I Just Love It, "Good To Me" by Audrey Assad.

I Have An Idea...Why Not Revive The Choir Robe.

I was watching Brother Dave from Canton, Ohio and noticed their choir wears choir robes. I think we should go back to using them, let me share with you my reason why OK. We have gone away from choirs as we use to know them as that, now the" in" thing is praise teams on the platform with maybe a choir off to the side somewhere. I find it a bit distracting at times when the praise team wears regular street clothes. When they use to wear choir robes there was no distraction for everyone looked the same. We were dressed the same to a certain extent except for the rules of what you were to wear under the robes and the type of shoes to be worn also. When I was in a choir I do not think we were allowed to wear jeans under the choir robe, there is nothing wrong with that at all. We come to church so casual at times that I find the respect for God as a side note and our comfort takes front and center. Why has it become a state of mind all about "everything is about me?"
Another reason for wearing choir robes is no one's ego stands out for we all look alike. When you take away the choir robes then pride and arrogance comes front and center. I guess I notice this more while watching a church service via television. It causes one to wonder things so simple as this, that is a cute outfit I wonder where they got that, etc. Not only things like that but what about a person who does not have the wardrobe to keep up with the colors one is to wear on that particular day of worship on the platform. We had to abide by color schemes when the choir robes were packed up and not used anymore. It can make one feel uncomfortable if they do not have anything to wear to go along with the color scheme for the week. What if they are not in a position to run out and purchase clothing to be able to sing in the choir that Sunday? You are limiting people in the congregation that truly have a heart for the Lord and the anointing is with them but they will not step out to try out for the choir for the fact that clothing would prevent them from singing. I hope this makes sense to you.
Do you see where I am coming from? When we are all in like clothing or our clothing is covered up by a choir robe then we all become equal so to speak and then there is no one distracted and the anointing pours forth in greater demand. People are not then self conscious of what they are wearing or how they look and they concentrate on praising the Lord. These are simple thoughts that should be considered. Are we not there to worship and praise the Lord or are we there to see the latest fashion styles or fashion flubs depending on how you dress? Take pride out of this equation and the anointing will fall forth in a greater way.
I know the choir robe is a thing of the past but there is nothing wrong with the reasoning behind it. We all become one as a choir when there are not other things of distraction.

Here Is A Word Just For You Today

Do You Know Anyone That Surfs On A Surf Board? This Card May Be Just Right For Them.

I was in the card making mode yesterday and this is what I crafted. I was pondering about it today and as I was this came to me:

Selecting
Unwise
Routes
Forward

Isn't that interesting? I never surfed before but what I have seen causes me to wonder about this further. When you are surfing on a surf board and you catch a wave it can either be a sweet experience or it can be a wave that causes you to get hurt. I would guess it has to do with talent, experience and your gut instinct. What does one do when they catch that wave that is far more advanced than their experience? I guess you cannot do anything but accept the challenge and ride that wave. I would guess that your stomach is probably churning inside of you because you do not know where it will lead you as the final outcome.
Once I was in the Carolina's and saw what happened to a person that was caught in a strong under current, they had black eyes, that current sort of beat them up.
If you choose to not make wise decisions in your life and just jump out without putting thought into it, it can cause turmoil in your life. Have you been there before?. One good thing though, God will see you through it and when you come out the other side of the situation you will be able to see it was the hand of God guiding you all along. He did not leave you. You may not have been able to feel that sturdy, strong hand guiding you through. Why is it that we do not see it as we travel that road but it is in hindsight that we really see His hand directing us? Amazes me, it truly does. I have seen the hand of God many times in my life directing my path and shielding me from the enemy and coming out smelling like the fragrance of the most beautiful flower in the world.
That is the God that I serve, a loving, just God that not only loves His children but corrects them when it is needed. The correction is used to make one stronger and less dependent on their self and more dependent on God.
Take time to not just run into your next experience but take that  moment or two of thought. It may just save you from having regret. I hope you like this handcrafted card by me.

I also handcrafted greeting cards for one that is welcoming a new child into their life.

I Created A New Panda Thank You Card, I Hope You Like It

This  is my Panda thank you card, isn't it cute?

Inside of the card.

Coca-Cola I Saw Your Current Billboard Ad, I Like It.

"I Bowed On My Knees And Cried Holy" Was The Song That Touched Me Immensely Today

Oh Happy Day

This is the song that somewhere in the middle of our church service the other night that broke in the spirit realm and then Holy Spirit had a great time with us ministering. It was not a planned part of the sermon I do not believe, it was a Holy Spirit inspired interruption. I love attending a church that has freedom to follow the lead of Holy Spirit and not the agenda of man. That is what is referred to as flowing or walking in the Holy Spirit. You know that He leads a pastor or a church that has this freedom to walk and operate in the house of God.
It seems to be that the plans of man that quench the movement of God in current churches this very day will cause the people to become frozen so to speak. What do I mean by that choice of words? Where the spirit of the Lord is there is liberty (freedom). That is biblical. What about the pastor or even more so the leadership within the church that puts strongholds on the pastor to only preach a certain way, demands them to stay away from doing this, this, and that so to speak when they are at the pulpit to preach the word of God? Did they not leave out an important person from their man made equation, God's word and direction being led by Holy Spirit? Life is but a vapor, you are here one day and the next day you could be done with your life. Why waste your time sitting under leadership that quenches the spirit of God? Seek out a church that the pastor has liberty to preach the unadulterated word of God. That is what the youth is hungering for, true moves of God and not that fabricated, phony, planned out to the very minute church service. Pentecost did not happen that way. Holy Spirit had His way that day in their lives. Look what happened many were saved and it was demonstrated in a mighty powerful way, a way that only God Himself orchestrated and not at the hands of a man made plan of action.
Do you know who you are in Christ? Do you know that the works Jesus performed here on earth, greater works we shall do? People this is all biblical stuff you need to start reading your bible to know who you are in Christ, you really do.
"Thank you Jesus," those were the very words used to minister to a woman that night in church. Pastor had anyone that was ill/sick to stand up for prayer. He then asked believers to stand and pray with them, those that are around you. I sought out Holy Spirit as to who I was to pray for, they happened to be right next to me. I am going through something right now in my very life and it is in the waiting that satan wants one to doubt what God has already performed in their life and tries to bring moments of doubt in. Do not let Him. If God spoke something to your heart and it was confirmed or bears witness and it is biblical do not let go of it OK. I am in the waiting stage right now but something just rose up inside of me to share my witness/faith with boldness of what He already has done for me. Especially if you are praying for one to be healed, it is hearing testimony and the faith of the one believing for healing of another. After praying I then let this person know to keep thanking Jesus for your healing. Even if you should feel some of the symptoms after prayer keep saying "Thank you Jesus." I then again shared that same reminder as the service ended. It is Jesus who heals and has healed in the past, He will heal in the future and that means He will heal today. Do not give up hope TRUST in Jesus and you are in a safe place if you attend a church that preaches the word of God, not that garbage false word of God that some choose to teach out there. It is just as important that the place you attend for church also flows in Holy Spirit. What would have happened if Pastor chose to not flow in Holy Spirit the other night? It would have been a nice service and the word of God was preached but it was in the movement of Holy Spirit that many were ministered to in a mighty way. They broke their pitchers and let the light and spirit/fire of God shine forth. I wish he had an actual pitcher on the platform to break it and see it in action. Oh Happy Days, that is what happens when Jesus washes your sins away. May you have many happy days in your lifetime with Jesus in your heart and life.

How Do You Like This Graduation Card & Scarf I Made? I Also Created A Few More Scarves Too.

I added to the handcrafted card by personalizing the diploma with their name.

This Is What I Made For Easter, People Told Me They Liked It A Lot.

I only made the lemon cheesecake the rest of the desserts I cannot take credit for. It is a lemon cheesecake with a homemade lemon curd that tops it. It is a Philadelphia Cream Cheese recipe and you can make it too. It may be hard to see it but I decorated the top with lemon pieces and a few fresh mint pieces also.

Here is a picture of a wonderful cake my cousin made from scratch. It was a lime coconut cake. Now, I am not much of a cheesecake person per say but I did enjoy a piece of the lime coconut cake. Did you bake anything for Easter?

Coca Cola You Captured My Attention Once Again. This Time Not Via Billboard But At The Grocery Store. Yep, That Is Right, The Grocery Store. Very Clever.

Well, I do enjoy Coca Cola billboard advertisement but I must admit they kicked it up a notch with their new advertisement campaign. Of all places, the grocery store. Very ingenious to use the advertisement right there as one shops. Advertising via the grocery cart, I did not notice it when I secured a grocery cart. It was after I shopped and had the grocery bags in the cart that it caught my attention. When I read the classic phrase, "Open Happiness" that is when it put a smile on my face. I then looked at the outer portion of the shopping cart to see if that also had Coca Cola advertisement too. Yes it did. I just had to capture pictures of the advertisement and share it with you. Great job in taking something that is functional and bringing a bit of happiness to the shopping experience. Kudos to your advertising firm with this campaign.

This faces you on the inside of the cart.

This was placed on the outside of the cart.

I Heard This Song This Morning, May Jesus "Break Every Chain" In Your Life This Very Day!

Guess What I Have Been Up To?

I am in a creative mode and I love to create when I am in this place. I have made bracelets, scarves and a cake. I saw recently, Duncan Hines makes a Pink Velvet cake mix so of course I wanted to try it out. I baked it this morning and then I was in search of a good cream cheese butter cream frosting so it would hold its shape when I decorate the cake. I actually found a professional cream cheese butter cream frosting that not only decorates nicely but the frosting holds it shape also. I just do not like when you make a butter cream frosting and it does not hold its shape once you frost the cake. Do you know what I am referring to? The kind of frosting that once you frost the cake you have to refrigerate it right away so it holds its shape and doesn't get gooey.

Lexus I Am Greatly Disappointed In Your Current TV Ad Running For The Lexus RC F. Why Would You Lower Your Reputation To Bring The Lexus Brand To The Level Of The Gutter Or Close To That?

I have shared with you several times how I enjoy billboard advertisement for Lexus. They seem to draw the consumer in with their advertisement. I cannot applaud your recent television commercial for the Lexus RC F. I was going to post the video clip from You Tube on my blog today but with further examination of the ad I cannot support the things you reference in this advertisement. Why did you drastically change your ad campaign? Do you really think that bringing garbage talk into your campaign will draw the consumer? If you do think this then our world is in much more serious trouble than I ever thought. Is that what people are drawn to? In reviewing your commercial, these are some of the key catch phrase words you are using, "Lust, Wrath, Envy, and Pride." Why would anyone want to purchase a car that would cause one to think that is the image in their mind of what they can operate in while driving this vehicle? I still believe that America is good. I choose to believe that America is loving; slow to anger; content, kind & trusting; and humble/humility. All descriptions of the exact opposite used in your words in the campaign.
I once received while writing one day an inspiration from Holy Spirit talking about pride. Pride can be a major downfall in a person's life. Pride can cause the downward spiral in your life. Pride is not a blessing in life but it is something that one should refrain from and not cultivate in your life. This is what I was shown the word pride stands for:
Prancing
Right
Into
Destructive
Exile
I must also admit that I do not particularly care for the design/look of this vehicle either. So sorry to share this with you but I guess I have a sentimental heart and things that touch the heart may tend to draw me into the advertisement. With that type of approach it may cause me to at least consider looking at the product from the time and care that went into the advertisement. I have to let you know that this current advertisement is strong and almost looks like there is a dark side to it, was that your intention? If that was your intention then you must be changing things at Lexus. On the flip side, one of my all time favorite advertisements of Lexus is (when you were innovative way back when and started advertising) the big bow on the vehicles. To me that advertisement campaign is endearing.