Every Day Thanksgiving

"Acknowledging the good that you already have in your life is the foundation for all abundance." ~Eckhart Tolle

November 25, 2013

Dear Readers,

Thanksgiving is late in November so, one month from today we will be celebrating the birth of Christ ... Christmas. Hard to believe that 2013 is coming to an end. Time seems to be zooming by and my thought this morning was to make my days count as long as I had breath.

My neighbor come over this morning and poked her head in the cottage door.  She wanted to finalize plans for Thanksgiving. Actually, it was kind of a fun get-together. We decided that we would forgo the usual trips to the grocery store and arrange a meal thanking God for what he had already provided for us.  She asked if I minded chicken instead of turkey ~ she was going to bake the chicken on top of her cornbread stuffing. My first thoughts were, "What no turkey?" and "Cornbread dressing?"  Then, I erased those thoughts and blurted out, "Sounds great to me."  Who knows, I just might enjoy her cornbread dressing and her creative way of fixing the chicken. I had rolls in the refrigerator, plenty of veggies, and yams. She had a pumpkin pie and, I think we are set! We will not be hungry!!

For years, I would spend bookoos of money at the grocery store and hours in the kitchen preparing a turkey, gravy, dressing, 2 kinds of potatoes, several kinds of vegetables, a big relish dish, jello salads, fruit salads, rolls, and on and on. We would sit at the table that was perfectly coiffed with china, silver, stemware, and, of course cloth napkins. I loved every moment of the preparations and watching my family dig in at the table. Are those days gone? I pray not because it was a way of giving tradition to my family and friends Miss Dottie style! This year will just be a little different.

Since I moved here to small town America, I have had my eyes opened to another way of living. When I lived in the Dallas area, my surroundings were different ~ I was insulated from poverty and how many people were in need. What I thought were necessities weren't needs, they were wants. (Shock) Here, there are huge fancy homes mixed in with tiny bungalows and real needs are so obvious ~ things like heat, air conditioning, food, clothing, medical and dental care ... the list goes on and on. When I had garage sales I think I gave away as much stuff as I sold.  What were my biggest sellers?  Shoes, towels, bedding. No frills...

When Michael resigned from his position at the bookstore, it was a shock because it was something we hadn't talked about. I understood where he was coming from and have supported his decision but it's still been hard to digest.  My usual way of coping has always been to withdraw then figure out a way to rise above. I am an emotional female but also very logical in my thinking.  I have always been an overcomer ... a survivor! Thank you Lord for making me who I am.

A few days ago, I pulled out my Christmas tubs and began to create vinyettes in each room. I sat down on the chair in the master bedroom and looked at the undecorated tree in the corner. The Blessing Tree came to me and I began to use Thanksgiving decorator items and pieces from my past that had given me encouragement. Wasn't Christmas a time of being grateful for what I had?  I just love getting lost in the tree, the lights, and the promise of hope.

Every day is Thanksgiving in my world. It's not just about the traditional fare and festivities, it's much much more. It's living with a heart of gratitude. It's about freedom and sharing with others. It's easy to celebrate in times of plenty ... more difficult in times of trial. To walk in someone else's less fortunate shoes is humbling yet, in a strange way, a comfort. To rise above adversity and be grateful for the journey ... my prayer for today.

Always remember you are loved and prayed for ... YA YOU!!

Miss Dottie

PS  Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents. Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, "Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the other. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything ~ all she had to live on." ~Mark 12:41-44  NIV

I love this story as it reminds me of my grandmother. All year she would work to make gifts for her children and grandchildren ... mittens, socks, crocheted tablecloths, tea towels, slippers. She gave more than she had to the sick, the needy, the church ... she gave of her time, her talents, and her faith.  Her legacy of Every Day Thanksgiving lives on and on and, I for one, will be so excited to sit at her table in Heaven. 

On my honor I will try...

November 24, 2013

Dear Readers,

Thanksgiving is just around the corner. If I close my eyes, I can remember being 10 years old and waking up to the aroma of turkey roasting. It's still my favorite dinner of the entire year!! I don't overeat but do sample every dish AND savor every bite of homemade pumpkin pie!! It's a time of being thankful for family and friends and all the blessings God has bestowed upon me.

My daughter and her family were coming for Thanksgiving this year. I had plans of having my family together for the first time since they all were ... omg, I can't even remember the last time. I wanted to get a family photo taken and for us to just enjoy each other. I had envisioned a time of magical laughter and love being shared at a time when being thankful is heightened.

All too often life happens and well meant plans go by the wayside as was the case this year. My neighbor, Beverly, came over and asked if we would join them for Thanksgiving and since we had no plans, I accepted.  She was so excited and has begun shopping and planning. Yesterday, she asked if I minded if she invited a lady in the community who would be alone and I said, "Absolutely!"  She also asked if we could eat at our house since my table was bigger and I agreed to that too. I am smiling wondering what else God has in mind for that day. Whatever it is, I know it will be wonderful and I'm just along for the ride.

Many years ago, I made a decision that has haunted me to this day.  I had made a commitment. Then, when a better offer came along, I jumped ship.  I am in hopes that one day I can apologize in person. Why am I telling you this? Well, a few days after I made the commitment for Thanksgiving this year, my son sent me an email inviting us to Thanksgiving at their house. I got this big lump in my throat and wanted to make that trip to join my son and his family for a special day of turkey and togetherness. You know how much I value family!!!  I already knew what the right thing to do was but I prayed asking God to give me a peace. The words, "On my honor I will try..." came to me loud and clear.  "On my honor, I will do my best to keep my commitments and not change my mind when a different offer comes in ~ especially when it involves one that might be more appealing."

Growing up, I joined the Brownies then became a Girl Scout. I liked earning badges, the camping trips, and being a part of something bigger than myself. I still remember my mother using wave set to fix my hair and dressing up in a new dress before walking to the local hospital to visit the sick. It was summer and the air felt so good on my wet head. So many times, I said the Girl Scout Promise: On my honor, I will try to do my duty to God and my country, to help other people at all times, to obey the Girl Scout Laws." Between Girl Scouts and my involvement in church, I was bathed in good stuff and I will be forever grateful.

Because of all the surgeries I've had since 2004, Fibromyalgia moved into my world and has made life so darn unpredictable. My friend and I have talked openly about her extension of grace when I am unable to get out of bed. I thanked her for being so honest when she told me, "Sometimes, I get so upset with you when we plan things and you are in too much pain to go." I totally understand and I try my darnedest to keep my promises. I used to tell my children, "Let your yes be yes and your no, no." How can I tell someone to do that if I am not willing to do the same. 

So often it's hard doing that next right thing and leaving the outcome in God's hands. If you're like me, you struggle when doing that right thing means not doing what you'd rather be doing. Right now, I am remembering the times when my sweet friend has helped me when I've been ill; remembering the times she's so carefully watched over my furry kids when I've needed to go into the city for the day; remembering the times she picked up the pieces of my heart when it's been broken; and, most of all, I'm remembering the grace extended to me when I've fallen short. I am blessed!

Yes, the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays will soon be upon us. It's the most wonderful time of the year filled with love, joy, and the togetherness of family. It's also a time of heartache and loneliness for some. All I know is that if I count my blessings, I don't have room to count my woes!!

God bless you and always remember you are loved and prayed for ... YA YOU!!

Miss Dottie

PS  The moment we become grateful, we actually begin to ascend spiritually into the presence of God. The psalmist wrote,

"Serve the Lord with gladness; come before Him with joyful singing. . . . Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him, bless His name. For the Lord is good; His loving kindness is everlasting and His faithfulness to all generations" (Psalm 100:2, 4-5).

It does not matter what your circumstances are; the instant you begin to thank God, even though your situation has not changed, you begin to change. The key that unlocks the gates of heaven is a thankful heart. Entrance into the courts of God comes as you simply begin to praise the Lord.” ~Francis Frangipane

What?

The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him,

and he delivers them.

~Psalm 34:17

November 19, 2013

Dear Readers,

I was working outside Friday afternoon and my husband drove up the driveway.  The bookstore closes early on Fridays so I didn't think much about it.  He handed me a paper, I read it, and nearly lost my breath.  He was no longer the bookstore manager. I can't tell you how many different things ran through my mind in a matter of seconds. All I could say is, "What?"  The rest of the day was kind of a blur. In fact, the entire weekend was kind of a blur.

Have you ever had the wind knocked out of you? All I have to do is open my Facebook account and I can read post after post of folks going through trials, others who are getting on their feet, and yet others who are living the dream. Logically I know that life is full of peaks and valleys but, golly gee, even though I've grown most during the down times, I find that it's taking me longer these days to regroup.  I am plain flat out worn out. The only prayer I would muster was, "Jesus, please."

He will cover you with his feathers. He will shelter you with his wings. His faithful promises are your armor and protection. Do not be afraid of the terrors of the night, nor the arrow that flies in the day. Do not dread the disease that stalks in darkness, nor the disaster that strikes at midday. Though a thousand fall at your side, though ten thousand are dying around you, these evils will not touch you.

~Psalm 91:4-8 (NLT)

I must tell you a story. Yesterday, the UPS brought me a package and Michael opened the front door. Zoom!  Toby and Ruffles were out in a flash. Toby allowed Michael to pick him up but Ruffy got scared and started running. Michael summoned our neighbor to keep Ruffy in her sight while he took Toby home and got me.  Soon Michael, Beverly, and I were after Ruffy.  Would you believe that little rascal ran about a mile non-stop?? Michael was huffing and puffing, Beverly was trying her best to keep Ruffy within eyesight and I was on a dead run to get my precious baby.  Beverly said that as soon as Ruffles heard me calling, she stopped and her ears perked up. I was frantic hoping that she would dodge the cars on the road. FINALLY, I was close enough for her to not only hear my voice but see me. She turned around, zoomed past Beverly, and jumped into my arms. OMG, I hugged her, kissed her, and my tears fell on her red fur. The lost was found. Beverly said, "She knew she was safe with her mama."

Why am I telling you this story? Well, there are times in life when circumstances get the best of us. We get scared just like Ruffy did. The good news is that if we listen, we will hear the voice of The Master ~ calling, leading, guiding, comforting. It's then that we can turn around and jump into his arms knowing we are safe. It was yesterday that I realized that come what may, God is in control and I don't need to be afraid. Now I just need to conquer my weariness!

"My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me; 

and I give eternal life to them, and they will never perish; 

and no one will snatch them out of My hand.…" 

~John 10:27

It was such a warm beautiful day today. I sat outside with the Sensational Six gathered about me. I tossed leaves at them and they would roll in the piles returning for some pats and loving. Life is so simple for them. When I coo'd at Harmony, she laid down on her side and stuck her back leg straight up in the air so that I could scratch her belly. Ruffy had her tail waving like a plume and when I called her she did her "Ruffy Dance." Not to be outdone, Zeke stood on his hind legs turning in circles, "Pick me up, mom!" Kennedy whined and whimpered until I found a spot for him on my lap. Sadie watched patiently and Toby circled waiting for an opportune time to weasel his way through the pack. As long as they are loved, fed on time, have a nice cushy bed to rest in, dental bones to munch, and grass to do their business on, they are happy campers. They live in the moment and just know they will be taken care of. I'm reminded that one day at a time, this too shall pass.

Always remember you are loved and prayed for ... YA YOU!! And, if you don't mind, please pray for me and my family too!

Miss Dottie

PS I read this not too long ago, and used it in a prayer. I hope you will enjoy the quote as much as I did.

 “I will not die an unlived life. I will not live in fear of falling or catching fire. I choose to inhabit my days, to allow my living to open me, to make me less afraid, more accessible, to loosen my heart until it becomes a wing, a torch, a promise. I choose to risk my significance; to live so that which comes to me as seed goes to the next as blossom and that which comes to me as blossom, goes on as fruit.”

— Dawna Markova

If Tomorrow Never Comes

November 11, 2013

I woke up thinking about family members and friends who have served our country and said a prayer of gratitude. I don't know about you, but I am so grateful for our armed services and all they do to protect us from harm. It's always an honor to walk up to a man or woman in uniform, shake their hand, and say, "Thank You."  Yesterday, I saw a man in cammo wear and thanked him.  His response? "Ma'am, I'm just a hunter." Oops!

Sgt Ernest T Pederson
US Army

As I have mentioned before, I have the letters my father wrote to my mother during WWII. I love reading them because through them they become real people to me. Two people caught in a war and hoping and praying that they would be able to built a life together. For so many, tomorrow never came ... lives were lost ~ permanently, emotionally, physically, and, yes, even spiritually. The throes of war have a way of raping and maiming the human soul.

I like hearing about my father and mother before the war. They were both such lively, happy people. They danced, they sang, and they fell in love. Then, the day came when my father left for the war and he was changed forever. There were times when I would watch him as he stared off into space ~ or, times when he would sit on a chair next to the kitchen counter and smoke one cigarette after another, snuffing them out in his pants cuff. The coffee pot was always going and I remember asking, "Dad, why don't you ever wash the coffee pot?" His reply, "The coffee pot is just getting broken in ~ with each new pot, the coffee tastes better." I never understood that. Funny the things the mind stores...

There was a day when my father was so excited.  He found a house near the lake that he wanted to purchase. The house was surrounded by trees and had a garage he could work in. It was one of the few times I ever heard him joyful and filled with what I think of as kid-like glee. My mother squelched his plans saying that she preferred to live in town close to work. He never mentioned the house by the lake ever again. My father passed away when he was 55 years old. His tomorrows were cut short and I wonder if he regretted not going ahead with his dreams. He was the visionary; my mother was the saver, the cautious one. My father looked forward to retiring and had so many plans. In the blink of an eye, his life was snuffed out. His dreams of retirement never came.

If tomorrow never comes, will I have done more than just take up space on the planet? I think about that a lot. Each time I write a blog, I pray that it will encourage and touch hearts. Each time I say a prayer, I know that the Lord hears. Each time I plant a tree or a bush or a flower, I beautify my environment. If I am led, then I must act. I follow my gut instincts and the passions of my heart and hope that you do too for today is the time to be filled with the energy of life.

One thing is for sure ... if tomorrow never comes, you know you are loved and prayed for TODAY!!

Miss Dottie

PS  Worry does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow. It empties today of its strength. ~Corrie Ten Boom 

To Cave or Overcome, That is the Question!

Ruffy loves the warmth of the fire!

"Use what you've been through as fuel, believe in yourself and be unstoppable!” ~Yvonne Pierre, The Day My Sould Cried: A Memoir
November 10, 2013

Oh the weather outside is frightful, the fire is so delightful...  Hello Readers!  I hope you've had a wonderful relaxing day.  The dogren got me up at their usual time; however, after stuffing their little tummies with grub, we all climbed back into bed for a two hour snooze.  I slept like a log last night with visions of baseballs dancing in my head ~ no kidding! My body was reeling from the long day on the baseball fields in North Texas yesterday so I've needed to get in a siesta.  Actually, it was really nice ~ the wind was blowing and it made for a sweet lullaby.

Zachary & Nicholas 11/9/2013

My grandsons played in the Fall Season Baseball Tournament yesterday.  Lucky for us, they played at the same complex which made getting to games pretty easy.  It was kind of a bitter sweet day as my oldest grandson's team kicked ass, took names, and rose to the top taking 1st place in the championship game.  My younger grandson's team didn't fare as well.  They entered the competition as "the team to beat" and, unfortunately they lost and ended up in 4th place.

It was a honor to be there and watch them both excel at the sport they love.  I prayed with them on the field before their games and felt that deep bond with them as we hugged and they went to do battle those last games of the season.  Both suffered adversity, both learned valuable lessons in life, and both rebounded with the promise of getting stronger (and playing on the same team, I might add, next Spring).

Zachary took his turn at bat and CRACK!! he dropped to the ground and the ump cried out ball hit bat. Zachary winced in pain, grabbed his left hand and dropped his bat. OMG, the crowd went nuts at the crazy call.  The back of Zachary's hand was red and swelling ... the ump knew he had made a big mistake BUT couldn't reverse the call. What??? All of a sudden, Zachary picked up his bat and CRACK!! ~ this time he hit a home run.  This young man pitched, played shortstop, and finished up the season playing catcher.  He didn't cave.  He kept moving his hand, put ice and heat on it, and kept on going.

Nicholas suffered frustration of a different kind. His brother was rising to the top with his team while Prodigy was ... well, just not playing their best.  Nerves were getting the best of these little guys and plays that had been so easy all season were difficult at best.  Nicholas got hit by a baseball as well but the sting of defeat was worse and almost more than he could take.  His little heart was broken and tears began to flow. Somehow the promise of "next Spring" seemed so far away. Nicholas isn't a quitter and I was so happy to see his earthly father come alongside of him to wipe the tears and offer a hand to lift him up. I know the Lord was with Nicholas but sometimes we need that encouragement, that hug, that love to keep on keepin' on.

We had left home at 6:30 yesterday morning and didn't get home until late last night. I was so content knowing that I was able to be there in person rather than just getting the play by play via text from my son.  I was one proud grandma sitting in those stands cheering and drinking in the beauty of the day. Contentment at it's best!!

I said the same prayer with each of my grandsons. Why did God allow one grandson to win a championship and the other to suffer defeat? I don't know the answer to that question except that there are lessons to be learned in victory and in defeat. To develop a healthy self-esteem, we must experience both.  The tough experiences either make us bitter or make us better.  The cream always rises to the top. In my eyes, my grandsons were both champions going into the games ... win, lose, or draw, they remain champions!

Always remember that you are loved and prayed for ... YA YOU!!

Miss Dottie

The Guys who play ball..
Son/Dad Tommy & Grandsons Zachary & Nicholas

PS "..but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance ; perseverance, character; and, character hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us." ~ Romans 5:3-5

I may not understand why some win and why some lose but I'll choose to praise the Lord in all circumstances trusting that he had a plan and that plan is perfect!

Highway to Heaven

Highway to Heaven

“It's funny how, in this journey of life, even though we may begin at different times and places, our paths cross with others so that we may share our love, compassion, observations, and hope. This is a design of God that I appreciate and cherish.” ~Steve Maraboli

November 8, 2013

Dear Readers,

Shortly after I purchased my camera, we were driving back from Waxahachie and I snapped this photo. It's rather an eerie picture ~ the road sign seems to be floating in mid air.  I have named the photo Highway to Heaven.

Beautiful Lake Minnewaska

We're all on this road of life (but not all of us are on the highway to heaven). Sometimes we're creeping along at a snail's pace and, at other times, we're speeding either away from (challenges?) or towards something (perhaps a destination?). There were times when I was growing up that my father would get us all in the car and tell us, "We're going for a joy ride." We weren't sure where that meant but we did know that we would end up at the Dairy Queen or at my grandmothers for some fresh baked treats. Our joy rides were always fun times. After my father passed away, I would visit my mother and we always had to take a joy ride around the lake.  I cherish those times.

As I look at the photo of Highway to Heaven, it reminds me of when I totally gave myself to Christ.  My decision to enter the highway to heaven was the most important decision I've ever made ... and, I might add, the best one! Rather than just ambling along aimlessly, I edged my way on to the main road never looking back. You'll notice the arrow points up to my destination. I like that.

What do you choose to take with you on your travels through life? Reliable transportation is a must.  Graycie, beautiful Graycie, helps me to travel in comfort and style.  Oh I know, people have asked, "Why do you keep buying VW bugs?"  My answer, "Why not." They are cute, safe, and reliable ~ perfect fit for my personality and size.  My personal vehicle, faith also helps me to travel without worry.  Like Graycie, my faith in Christ, is my constant, my rock.

The Bible is my road map ... it is the place where I go to ask the Lord for directions. It keeps me on the highway to heaven with a clear sense of direction and moral compass.  I am warned of detours and to be wary of hitchhikers!  Think about that statement for a moment.  I always hold out my hand for travelers wanting to join me on my journey.  I am very wary of strangers wanting to climb on my back dragging me down, sucking the life out of me. I was made to soar, to run, to not be weary ... to have purpose and direction.

Yet those who wait for the LORD Will gain new strength; They will mount up with wings like eagles, They will run and not get tired, They will walk and not become weary. ~ Isaiah 40:31

My highway to heaven has offered me such an amazing journey.  Oh my goodness, the people I've met and the places I've been. Sometimes I forget the beautiful scenery BUT I never forget the hearts of those I loved or who have loved me.

Yesterday, I had physical therapy and my therapist was asking me what I did before I retired to this little town.  I hit some of the high spots and he was most intrigued by my career as a relationship coach and matchmaker. I told him about a flirting safari I took a group of shy singles on and before long, he was laughing. I am hoping that God used me to encourage and bless those "looking for love" on the highway of life.

The highway to heaven can be a lonely dark road OR, it can offer an amazing journey from birth to an afterlife in heaven.  We choose.  We decide.  We grow and live with the consequences.  The cool part is that while you still have breath, it's not too late to get out of the alleys and on to the adventure of a lifetime.  Don't be scared if you don't know exactly where you are going ... God knows and He won't steer you wrong!!

Always remember you are loved and prayed for ... YA YOU!!!

Miss Dottie

I will watch over you ...

PS  So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the Lord your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you. ~Deuteronomy 31:6

When the road ahead of you seems bumpy and full of obstacles, you can go forward knowing that God has prepared the way. He will walk with you and give you the strength to keep moving ahead. The command here is to be strong and courageous because of who God is. The promise is that He will never leave you or forsake you. This verse will encourage you when you need it the most.

I love this photo of what looks like an angel hovering over my home. Such a peaceful thought!  God is good!!