Friday, July 31, 2015

Trip Diary ~ Day 1

Keeper of the Stars

Wednesday, July 22, 2015

Dear Readers,


I started my journey to Minnesota this morning a little after 4 am.  I was afraid that it was going to be a long drawn-out day but it really wasn't. Graycie got a pair of new shoes and she wanted to fly on down the road ~ I let her!! I arrived in Cameron, MO about 4:30 pm and it was so good to get out of the car and stretch my legs. I was beginning to feel like a pretzel.

I had my Open Range Band CD with me and played that through about 6 times ... then, I ran the radio on scan and found some classic country stations. I heard songs that I hadn't heard in years. One of my favorite songs was Keeper of the Stars and I heard it a couple times, once in Oklahoma and once in Missouri. Made me want to get out and do a little dancing!


As the evening draws nigh, I am really missing my Sensational 6. When I started packing, they knew something was going on!! Finn jumped into my suitcase and promptly peed on my clothes. I screached and he looked at me like he'd done something to be proud of. Crazy baby! Had to do some last minute laundry!

Michael took off work to watch our pups ~ I feel more comfortable knowing they are being cared for. Because of losing two of our precious furry kids to accidents (in one year) we are being VERY protective of our pack.


Many people have asked why I wanted to drive the distance from Texas to Minnesota. Well, first of all, I really wanted to go and connect with family and friends. The second reason (and, I must admit the biggest reason) was that since my surgery in March, my brain has not been functioning as it should. I have an appointment with a neurologist in September to diagnose what is causing my symptoms BUT... I figured if I could drive to Minnesota without getting lost and challenging myself not only mentally but physically, I could rest a little easier.

For me, it's good to stretch myself and have projects and goals in the works. I have miles to go before I come to the end of the road of life.


I am in a familiar place. I've been staying at the Acorn Inn every time I have made my way northward and again southward. Management has changed and the motel is aging. My room is clean, my bed comfy ... that's what's important! They serve breakfast at six bells which means I can have a fresh glazed donut/coffee and take fruit for my snacks during the day. Tomorrow, I will drive another nine hours and be rolling in to my destination. Excitement is welling up inside me. My body is tired, sleep will refresh me!!


Father God in Heaven, thank you for going before me and making this day an enjoyable one. Thank you for clarity of mind and the ability to maneuver through some new territory without panic. I pray for the other travelers on the road ~ that You would bring them safely to their destinations. I pray for those at home ~ for Michael as he takes off work to watch the Sensational Six, for those on vacation, for those suffering from the dreaded disease of cancer, heart attacks, illnesses, addictions, and spiritual roadblocks. Bring us all safely into a new day tomorrow resting and renewing our bodies and spirits in You. In Jesus name I bring my petitions before You. Amen, it is so! Oh, another thing ... thank you to the Gideons who still put Bibles in motel rooms!

Miss Dottie

PS  "When the traveler goes alone he gets acquainted with himself." ~Liberty Hyde Bailey

Monday, July 20, 2015

I am my suitcase...

Monday
July 20, 2015

Dear Readers,


It's early, the sun's not out yet and I am up and going. I made my bed and was drawn to my laptop. It's time to stop and reflect before I begin my adventurous journey northward to Minnesota. I was thinking about what I wanted to take with me and I realized that the most important things weren't things at all.

I am my suitcase and I like to travel light! 



Have you ever thought about the baggage you take with you day in and day out, wherever you go? Ever since I dumped ALL my old stuff out, I've had plenty of room for the most lovely of lovelies!!

First of all, I put my Lord and Savior in my bag. He carries me and makes my load light. He is my protector and provider and will go before me on my trip making everything perfect!

Secondly, I will put in my church. Yesterday, I was so excited to head down the country roads to church (actually, I'm like that every Sunday!). Homer had double knee surgery and it had been weeks since I'd seen him and Carolyn. Francie and I discussed the class we are going to take to get our CHL and other "gal stuff." Susan ~ hugs to take care on her own journey this week. Susie, thank you for the veggies. Yum! Oh, there are countless others including Miss Kitty, Pastor Rick, and Pastor Dudley who wise words make me think and enrich my soul. Amanda, Chris, and Elizabeth, I know you have a calling somewhere else but it sure was wonderful to see you. Their hugs, kisses, and smiles fill my heart with all things beautiful. I took 10 jars of Muscadine Grape Jelly with me and I should have taken 20. As we give, so the world gives to us! Oh, and how could I forget the ORCC Band ~ OMG, you guys outdid yourselves today. William, I have packed Redeemed as my song of travel.



Thirdly, I will put my family. My children and grandchildren are scattered ~ no matter, they are always in my thoughts and heart. Michael and my precious pups will be holding down the fort. My time in Minnesota will be so short and I hope to see as many family and friends as possible. I will bring back memories in my suitcase!

Fourthly, I will put in all things near and dear to my heart. You know, it's important to take out the not so good but I think it's important for me to realize how far I've come and the lessons that life has taught me.

Maybe I should toss in some clothes, too?? Last year when I went to Florida to visit my daughter and family, I needed dressy clothes to go see El Divo (front and center). It was a high heels and dressy dress kind of trip as well as casual. Oh the memories of elegance and walks on the beach! This trip is a home town, casual dress kind of trip. Don't need much except t-shirts and shorts. All school reunion and Waterama here I come!

What's in your suitcase? Is it full of worry, woes, and misery? Jesus says in Matthew 11:29-30:  "Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light." Jesus carries my suitcase for me and eases all my burdens. I am free to spread my wings and fly releasing all worries to the one who loves me enough that He died for me! Now, that's love!!

Holy Father, I thank You for who You are and who I am in You! My heart and suitcase is so full of grace, mercy, and goodness. Oh there are times when I crash and burn but those times get fewer and fewer. I pray for those across the globe who read my blog ~ it is my hope and prayer that they will see You through me and know that You are the hope for the world! I pray for those on my prayer list ~ those who are undergoing medical tests and surgeries for cancer; those who are mending after falls, illnesses, and surgeries; those who have complete chaos in their lives of every kind; and, for those who are lost trying to find the way to heaven on their own. My heart is burdened for my country and I ask forgiveness for our wicked ways, our selfishness, our greed, our fallen moral compass. Rise up a strong leader of good character ~ a man or woman with a love for YOU and this country. Thank you for sending your only son ~ I call him Dr Jesus because without him we are lost and sick. You are and I am so glad...  Amen, it is so!

Miss Dottie

PS The whisper of summer breezes off the lake beckons me northward. To sit beside the graves of my family gone to heaven and talk to them gives me a sense of belonging to an amazing heritage.  My suitcase is ready to go....   


Friday, July 17, 2015

It's a "Love"ly Day

In the Garden ~ Elvis Presley

Friday
July 17, 2015

Dear Readers,

A rousing Good Morning to you! Baby Finn slept in until 6 this morning so we are making progress. Had a wonderful cup of coffee, did some reading, and am about to head out with my neighbor to El Taco Jalisco for an early lunch. My belly is rumbling and I can taste those wonderful Tacos El Carbon. Hmmm... Now if they only had margaritas ... guess, it's too early for a margarita but they sure taste good with Mexican food.

 
Another gorgeous summer's day in North Central Texas. I spent from 7am to 4pm yesterday watering and working in my lower garden. I was whistling and humming the song, In the Garden (one of my favorite songs that the Open Range Band at church plays). I was in Happy Gardener's Heaven!

Who was that nutty gardener lady who planted that invasive lirope in 2012? Gulp, I guess that would be me. I had set down some stones for a little patio for my Adirondack chairs a couple years ago and that lirope had nearly covered it all up. I had my shovel going, my garden fork going, and my garden cart full (many times) of green! I need to relevel the stones but that will need to wait until I get back from Minnesota.

Believe me, I am being much more careful about what I plant in my garden. I am learning that there are many different kind of bushes that bloom without getting huge AND, of course, the antique and Earthkind roses are the best!! 

It was three years ago about this time, that the cottage was finished. I look back and laugh ... who would have thought I could find a contractor as crazy as me to help me create my own little adult playhouse from a dilapidated old garage. Lupe stopped by the other day and he was smiling from ear to ear as he wandered through the cottage and gardens. Love that guy!

The cottage is a living example of taking a dream no matter how silly it seems and just doing it!!

You know what? Life is good these days. I am able to work outside digging, planting, and pruning; I have my own little Woman Cave where I write, read, and enjoy my Sensational Six; I have a wonderful church that I attend and have made the most wonderful friends there; my faith is stronger than ever and I am able to share that with others; and, most of all, I see God's miracles in my own life and in the lives of others. I truly believe that life is what you make of it and even the stinkiest poop makes the most beautiful roses!


In just a few days, I will be getting in Graycie and taking off for one more trip northward. I wasn't able to attend my high school class reunion last year but this year, Central Square is hosting an all school reunion. My growing up years from kindergarten to graduation were some of the happiest of my life and I cherish the friends that I still keep in touch with. I just know I'm in for one heck of a good time! How does that song go? Make new friends, but keep the old, one is silver and the other gold... (Sigh) I am blessed to have beautiful deep relationships that have lasted a lifetime. Plus, my new found friends here are sooo special!

Father God in Heaven, You are in control and I rest in that. As our country has gone bonkers, I know you must be shaking your head just as you did with Sodom and Gomorrah and with the Israelites when they were crossing the desert to the Promised Land. Forgive us, enlighten us with truth and light AND take the basted blinders off those who just can't see the forest for the trees!! I have so many people on my prayer list and I lift those up to you: some need the miracle of healing from cancer, others need healing from addictions, surgeries, broken bones, migraines, and the loss of loved ones. Raise up strong men and women of faith to build up our people and take back our nation. I thank you in advance for all You are and what You are about to do in your son, Jesus, name. Amen, it is so!!

Miss Dottie

PS "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away." ~I Corinthians 13:4-8 NIV

Love is so special ~ words said and taken seriously. I am meditating on these verses today and opening my heart to seeing those with needs and reaching out.

Always remember that you, my Readers, are loved and prayed for ... YA YOU BETCHA as my Norwegian Grandmother Maggie would say... Until next time...



Saturday, July 11, 2015

When God gives a special gift!

July 11, 2015
Saturday

Dear Readers,

Terry & Justin take
a ride on the ranch
What an amazing day I've had. My friend, Susie, invited me out to the "Misfit" Ranch this morning to pick grapes on her next door neighbor's ranch. Believe me, I never turn down an invitation to spend time with this spunky young lady. We picked grapes from the "Grape Tree" and tooled around in the Mule. What fun to explore, visit Mr King's garden and check out the different areas of the ranches.




Not only did I come away with a couple gallons of grapes, I also got some cucumbers, a tomato, and squash. Talk about ripe for the picking! I can't wait to make some Muscadine Grape Jelly!


Fun on the Misfit Ranch!
Susie you've grown horns!



Ready to do the
Muscadine Grape Dance! Ole'




The hood ornament!
Great find today.





















Wild Mustang
Can you see the government brand on her neck?



I really could have spent the entire day out there but had miles to go before I tuck myself into bed tonight. Besides, I was curious about something.


This is the photo that was posted of Puppy#1
A few days ago, I clicked on Craigslist to look at the dogs. I clicked on an ad because it said "two Malshi boys left." I did a double take. The puppies looked so much like Finn. I saved the photo of puppy #1 and sent it to Michael. I sent a text to Sandra asking about the puppy. I didn't hear back and 10 minutes after I saw the ad, it was gone. I was puzzled but just figured they changed their mind.

Lo and behold, I finally received a text. I asked if they had taken their ad down and she said, "Yes, we had too many texts for only two puppies. The ad had only been up for 18 minutes total. I asked her to send more photos of puppy #1 and asked if we could see the puppy. She said, "of course." To make a long story short, I had several things on my calendar and couldn't see the pup before this afternoon. I also told her that I would understand if they wanted to sell the puppy. She said, "No, you seem like such a nice lady ~ I want you to have him." I thought that was odd and then began to worry about getting robbed at gunpoint if we went to look at the pup.

Sandra gave me her address so I did a Map Quest search and thought that the address sounded vaguely familiar. About noonish, Michael and I got in the car and headed north. As we neared Fort Worth, both of us looked at each other and said, "These are the same directions we followed when we got Finn."

When we got to the address Sandra gave us, we were totally in shock. It was the same house that we got Finn early last December. Finn was $35 and this dog was $35. I texted Sandra that we had arrived and she brought this little sweet fella out for us to look at. It was the same lady who brought out Finn. We had Toby with us to check him out and Toby gave us the "paw's up."

Now, what are the chances of me looking at an ad on Craigslist that was up for less than a half hour. What were the chances of a puppy looking identical to Finn? What were the chances that we would go to the same house and lay our eyes on this little guy?


Finnegan Ezekiel
Christmas 2014
Michael and I mourned the loss of Zeke last November when he got hit by a speeding truck AND we were devastated when Finn got his tags caught in his crate and hung himself. We've been so sad and talked about him so much and what we "should have" done to protect him (no collar with tags attached when putting a dog in a crate). In fact, the crate went out and I haven't looked at it since that Sunday when I found Finn.

There are times in life when God gives a gift and it's made so blatantly obvious that He was in control of a situation that I couldn't put together in a million years. The funny thing is that I had texted them after Finn died asking if they had any more Malshi puppies. Never ever heard from them so I put that idea out of my mind. Book closed.

Michael and I have talked about 5 furry kids being "enough" to care for and handle. I love to look at dogs and scroll through the Poms for adoption on Recycled Poms and also in Petfinder. Craigslist scares the heck out of me so that wasn't a place I normally went to look for cute dogs. In 2013 we had 2 dogs and adopted 4 rescues so we had 6. After our Scottie, Sadie, died we thought about getting another Scottie but knew they typically wouldn't be good around our tiny furry kids.


Michael and I shook our heads all the way home from Fort Worth. We were thanking the Lord for another chance to enjoy Finn's bloodline (yep ~ our new puppy and Finn had the same dad and mom). We patted Sophie (mom) on the head and told her she had done a great job with her pups. She was healthy, half-Maltese half-Shihtzu ~ a beautiful dog. The dad was a full blooded Maltese. We didn't see him. I think when we pulled up to that little house, we were half in shock ... kinda still am.

Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for one of the most fun days ever. It felt so good this morning to blaze paths in the Mule and enjoy the company of some really cool folks. I need your help in leading me to a wonderful recipe for Muscadine Grape Jelly. Father thank you for the opportunity to raise Finn's little brother from this year's litter. How you managed that is a beautiful mystery to me. I lift up my brothers and sisters who are ill, broken, and discouraged. Let them rise up giving testimony to your miracles and goodness. Help us all to remember that we are just passing through on this earth and that the circle of life will bring us to You. You just keep me in "AWE" ~ every day is sooo special. Amen, it is so!

Miss Dottie

PS What a wonder to see my Lord in action. I've witnessed so many miracles that He has orchestrated ~ no wonder I am in awe of God who came to earth to save us all. I believe!!! How about you? 

Tuesday, July 7, 2015

Meltdown on Franklin Street

Tuesday
July 7, 2015

Dear Readers,

Good Morning! It's another beautiful summer's day in North Central Texas. I'm not sure why but all the squirrels that lived in my backyard have seemed to disappear. To tell you the truth, I don't miss them. Since they've left, I have more birds and I love to hear them singing in the morning. They let me know that it's going to be a zip-a-dee do dah day!! Remember Uncle Remus and Song of the South? Probably will be gone before too long too. (Sigh)

Every morning, I wake up and think about my day. I say some prayers, do a little reading, and feed my furry kids. I've always enjoyed waking up slowly ... one eye at a time! Anyone relate? (smile) It's that first cup of coffee that gets my engine started and today is no different.

Last night, I had a meltdown. For days now, my Facebook page has been inundated with posts from the ruling of the Supreme Court on the right for gay couples to marry. I am a Conservative through and through AND I have my own convictions about this. I believe that marriage was ordained by God between a man and a woman. In the Bible, that never changes. For me, that's the crux of the matter end of subject.


Now, that being said, you may believe something different ~ I respect your beliefs and don't love you any less. Our liberal nation is cramming their opinions and beliefs down our throats wanting us to follow them because they think they know what is right for our country. Any beliefs contrary to that are done away with, history erased, and freedoms eliminated.  Our government has become a one way highway to rioting, law suits, and moral decay. What is good about that?

Yesterday, as I was scrolling down my Facebook posts, I noticed a post by a lady that I had considered to be a lovely Christian woman. Gradually, her posts have gotten more and more pointed; and, in my opinion, not in a good way. I read her post and saw the sign St. Mary Magdalene Episcopal Church had outside their church. Hot tears fell from my eyes and my heart started beating faster and fasteruntil  my tears gave way to child-like sobs ... I hadn't had a PTSD episode in a long while and, I guess, that was the straw that broke the camel's back.

You see, I strongly believe in the sanctity of marriage; yet, I have been married five (yes five) times. I have never been a promiscuous person and, to be honest, I didn't understand why I was marrying men that were abusive. I kept trying harder and harder to be a good wife and couldn't figure out why it wasn't working.  (It had to be my fault because I was flawed) I taught classes on The Power of a Praying Wife, I became depressed, and began to unravel. I was the woman Jesus met at the well and that story made all the difference in my own recovery. I had absolutely no idea of the tapes running in my subconscious and how important they were in how I lived my life. I did not deserve good ... I was unworthy. I kept fighting saying, "I am good, I am worthy." What a vicious struggle I was dealing with.

I am one of the lucky ones. I accepted the "fact" that I was choosing based on a lie and I began my journey to wellness. And, I will add, that God has blessed that journey, placing people in my life to walk beside me and pray with and for me. I have come to understand the triggers that can push me over the edge and I am very careful not to go there. It is okay to protect myself and, I do.

Our human tendency is to judge others because of stereotypes, customs or prejudices. Jesus treats people as individuals, accepting them with love and compassion. Are people to be dismissed as lost causes, or do you see them as valuable in their own right, worthy of knowing about the gospel of Jesus Christ? Because of where I've been, I love with compassion. I know you've heard this over and over in the past couple of weeks but it's true, Christ loves the sinner, yet hates the sin. When we accept Jesus into our hearts, we want to turn from our sin and walk "in the newness of life." I sin every day and, because I do, I need to keep my slates clean. Believe me, I am aware each time I blow it!

There is a song that the Open Range Band sings that goes something like this: Mama said don't you make that man cry... I don't want my Lord and Savior to shed tears over what I am doing. I scour the Bible when making decisions knowing that if I follow God's ways it's gonna be okay. Some have said I traded my "old tapes" for my Jesus crutch. By golly, that's true!

Heavenly Father, I thank you for the loving kindness that you show towards your people. You must be sitting in heaven grieved at what the people you created are accepting as good when it is evil. You are such a patient God ~ Forgive our country as it crumbles into moral decay.  I pray that your people would rise up declaring You as our deliverer. Let the freedom to follow You reign!! Protect our history because it's a reminder of our journey. I pray for those on my prayer list: for those who have lost loved ones and are despondent; for those struggling with financial, relationship, and addictions of all kinds; for those who are undergoing biopsies and treatment for illnesses especially chronic diseases and cancer; and, for those who are childless, those thinking about abortion, and those waiting the birth of their babies whether naturally or through adoption. You are Mighty, the Great Physician, the Healer and I call upon You this morning to bless your own. As Christians, forgive our blatant disregard for what is true and good replacing that with ugliness and barbs. In Jesus holy name I expectantly await miracles!!!  Praising you, I say: Amen, it is so.

Miss Dottie

PS  "Jesus of Nazareth always comes asking disciples to follow him ~ not merely "accept him," not merely "believe in him,"  not merely "worship him," but to follow him: one either follows Christ, or one does not. There is no compartmentalization of the faith, no realm, no sphere, no business, no politic in which the lordship of Christ will be excluded. We either make him Lord of all lords, or we deny him as Lord of any." ~Lee Camp, Mere Discipleship: Radical Christianity in a Rebellious World   

Monday, July 6, 2015

Thoughts from a Summer's Day in TX

God Bless the USA ~ Lee Greenwood

Monday
July 6, 2015

Dear Readers,

Well, hello there. What are you up to today? It's sure a beautiful day in North Central Texas. Figured I'd write awhile before putting more mulch down on my gardens. It's Summer clean-up time.

I've really been lazy this year ~ since we had so much rain, I haven't had to water much. I had used all the shredded mulch from having the big old tree pruned in early Spring and learned a very valuable lesson. The mulch was great BUT now I have little trees growing everywhere I put the mulch. Who would have thought...

A few weeks ago, I read that July 4 was a good time to cut roses back by 1/3 and pinch back the Mums to prepare for a spectacular show in the Fall. Come to think of it, my gardens are at their prettiest in the Spring and in the Fall after trimming. Hmmm Now, I'm dealing with the Summer uglies and just trying to keep plants alive!!

Had a busy morning. I was up early with the pups, fed them, got dressed, then, Michael and I took off for Dallas to have a growth taken off my back. The dermatologist deadened the area, cauterized the spot, then, scraped it for a biopsy. Ouch & ugh, the smell of burning flesh ~ nasty. Took about 5 minutes and Michael and I were headed back home. It's hurting like the dickens right now. Guess the deadening stuff is wearing off... We were home by 1 pm so it was one of those hurry up trips. Personally, I would have liked to shopped awhile but since Michael has to go to work, he wanted to get home for a nap. I just appreciated him driving me.

Hope everyone had a wonderful 4th of July weekend. We were fortunate to be invited over to our friends, Susan and John R's home to watch the Late Bloomer's Parade. Now, that was my kind of parade. There were young and old alike walking, riding, throwing candy, and waving flags; wagons, golf carts, trucks, tractors, vintage cars, police cars, fire trucks, a race car; and, how can I forget the dogs and horses!! I am a city girl, but, you know, I've gotten acclimated to the slower pace of small town living and appreciate the simpler things of life. All good, all good...

John and Susan live in a wonderful three story home built in the late 1800's. I was blessed by a tour of the first floor ~ talk about imperfectness made perfect! I was in Wabi Sabi heaven! Susan's parents owned the home, now she and John live there ... one day, one of their children will inherit this magnificent home. There is the aura of love, laughter, and a family coming together evident in every room. Everything has a story which is right up my alley. I have always wanted to live in a grand old house so by the time we left, I was drooling! I could have spent hours walking the grounds and savoring the deliciousness of the house itself.

Yesterday, the patriotic spirit at the Open Range Cowboy Church was on high. We had the Sawyer Family entertain and WOW were they ever good. Their 13 year old daughter plays a mean fiddle for sure ~ I think we'll see more of her on stage as she grows older. I got/gave hugs and visited with friends who have become as dear as family. Why is it, I always (yes, ALWAYS!) come away feeling happy, energized, and taping my toes?? I think it's because William, Miss Kitty, Pastor Rick, and Pastor Dudley all talk about love for one another, and truth from the Bible. I am reminded every Sunday of how fortunate I am to be in a place where there is light, goodness, and the spirit of giving.

Olive & Ernest Pederson
Wedding Day 1 month
after my father returned
from the war
The past few weeks have been quite stressful. I've seen and read about so much darkness going on in our world and it was giving me the dooby dooby down downs. Today, news travels from coast to coast, country to country in seconds. My mother and father lived through losing their fathers at very young ages and having to work to help support their families, the depression, World Wars, and making do. They knew what went on in Germany and were so happy to be living in our wonderful country. My dad never said a whole lot about WWII but every Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day he flew his flag and would remark about how America was the best place ever compared to some European countries.

Gradually, our generations have forgotten about the great depression, the Civil War, the World Wars, Viet Nam, and Korea ... even the war in Iraq and Afghanistan has been remote. Sex sells and we now live in a world with compromised morals and selfishness. Most of our children don't know what it would be like to sacrifice to help their families. Babies are brutally torn from the wombs of mothers and riots take place just because (what justifies looting and meanness to satisfy the wounds of the hurt someone is angry?). I heard of two men who wanted to get a license to marry in the Denton area. The clerk said that licenses wouldn't be given until they had the proper paperwork. The men received their license BUT they are suing because the clerk put them off. Craziness! A man wants to marry his 2nd woman demanding equal rights with gays. Craziness! Where is this all going to end?

I am realizing that I am only one voice and until others are convicted in their own hearts nothing will change and get worse. The free speech we have known no longer exists. Shocked? Well, if you say what's in your own heart and it doesn't match with the majority, you are sued. A cafe can post a sign saying no shirts, no shoes, no service; however, if a bakery declines baking a wedding cake for a gay couple, they are sued.

I've seen these signs too.



Grandmother Maggie Pederson
What a patriot!
Am I the only one who is thoroughly pissed off at the state of our country? It was only a few generations ago that my paternal grandparents immigrated from Norway. They were so happy to be here. My grandmother, told her children, "You go to school and learn good English ... we live in America now." My maternal ancestors came from Great Britain to escape the tyranny of religious persecution of the Church of England. They wanted a separation of church and state BUT NOT God and state. Why do you think we sing, "God Bless America?" Hmmm

Holy God, forgive us for mocking you. We've thumbed our noses at you for decades now and look where it has gotten us. In Romans 1, You were fed up and gave those people over to their sin. You said, "Have your own way."  I pray for peace, unity, free speech, for religious freedom. Oh Jesus, I pray for our children and grandchildren ~ what have they won if they lose their eternal life? We're in our temporary home!! Father God I lift up those on my prayer list ~ those dealing with breaks, sprains, cancer, surgery, hardship, sadness, and an overwhelming feeling of being worn down. Thank you for what you are about to do in these people's lives. Amen and amen, it is so...

Miss Dottie

PS "It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too often that this great nation was founded, not by religionists, but by Christians; not on religions, but on the gospel of Jesus Christ. For this very reason peoples of other faiths have been afforded asylum, prosperity, and freedom of worship here." ~Patrick Henry ~ Ratifier of the US Constitution. The Trumpet Voice of Freedom: Patrick Henry of Virginia, piii

PSS I guess I dragged on a bit today. My fingers were clacking across the keyboard as fast as I could type. I am a mere messenger and have the honor of serving my Lord.