This is my desire

June 13, 2014

Dear God,

Good Morning, my favorite friend in the whole universe! Do you drink coffee or maybe tea? Somehow I don't think watered down wine would be good at this time of the morning. There isn't anything in the Bible that tells me much about you as God so I don't know if you eat or drink at all. I am sure us earthlings keep you mighty busy!

Today is Friday the 13th. Do-do-do-do-do-do... Superstition aside, I'm going to claim this as my "fun in the kitchen" day!

In the kitchen or out of the kitchen, it is my desire to honor You in all I am, in all I do, and all I say. I love this song and hope that as my Readers read through my blog today that they will listen and make the words a part of their day as well. Worship ... for me is an all day thing!

The past few months have been so stressful that my white hair is starting to turn dark in spots. Now that's stressful! I've kicked and screamed and done everything I know how to do to remedy the situation. Oh, it's going to be all right but, still... I'm sure my Readers have felt that way at some point in time. As much as we'd like to be positive, that dark cloud can hover longer than we'd like.

I am usually the rock of the family. Now, I am finding that I need my family to encourage and affirm me through this time. I need to  feel their presence and know that no matter what, I matter. It's been one of those weeks when I've whispered, "Mom, are you there?" "Mom, can you make this better?" A tear rolls down on to my cheek and I remember ~ she's gone. Sobering... It is sad, I never heard my mom say, "I love you" and we had so much unfinished business. Yet, just for that moment in time, I was reaching out just as many do and oh how I miss her.

Yep, today is "in the kitchen day." I will spend the day preparing for tomorrow's Farmer's Market. I will set aside my dark mood and don my apron. I will stir, smash, squish and knead. Yep, I am going to rebel and make my famous pumpkin roll dog treats and several kinds of cookies. I'm going to dance to some funky music and wave my wooden spoon in the air.  Just for Today, I am remembering Kenneth Holmes poem:

Just for today, I will try to live through this day only,

and not tackle my whole life problem

at once. I can do something for twelve hours

that would appall me if I felt that I had to

keep it up for a lifetime.

Just for today, I will be happy. This assumes to

be true what Abraham Lincoln said, that

"most folks are as happy as they make up

their minds to be."

Just for today, I will try to strengthen my mind.

I will study. I will learn something useful.

I will not be a mental loafer. I will read

something that requires effort, thought and

concentration.

Just for today, I will adjust myself to what is,

and not try to adjust everything to my own

desires. I will take my "luck" as it comes,

and fit myself to it.

Just for today, I will exercise my soul in three

ways: I will do somebody a good turn, and

not get found out. I will do at least two

things I don't want to--just for exercise.

I will not show anyone that my feelings are

hurt; they may be hurt, but today I will not

show it.

Just for today, I will be agreeable. I will look

as well as I can, dress becomingly, talk low,

act courteous, criticize not one bit, not

find fault with anything and not try to improve

or regulate anybody except myself.

Just for today, I will have a program. I may not

follow it exactly, but I will have it. I will

save myself from two pests: hurry and indecision.

Just for today, I will have a quiet half hour all

by myself, and relax. During this half hour,

sometime, I will try to get a better perspective

of my life.

Just for today, I will be unafraid. Especially I

will not be afraid to enjoy what is beautiful,

and to believe that as I give to the world, so

the world will give to me.

Father, for all those who are hurting right now, I pray that you would send your mightiest angels to minister, to heal, and to comfort. For Kelli going into surgery, I pray that you would go before her, calming her fears, and giving wisdom and steady hands to the doctor performing this procedure. For Todd, holy Father, minister to him and to his family placing just the right people in their lives at just the right time. He's been on my heart a lot today. I pray that as Christians we would uplift and support one another. This is my desire ... to honor you no matter what. Calm the storms as they rage about me tearing at my clothing and moving the ground out from under my feet. Help us all to move forward knowing that You are there. Jesus, precious Jesus, cover my Readers with a warm blanket of unity and love.

Amen!

Miss Dottie

NOTE TO READERS: "You can dance in the storm. Don't wait for the rain to be over before because it might take too long. You can do it now. Wherever you are, right now, you can start, right now, this very moment." ~Israelmore Ayivor

I thought about this quote a long time this morning, meditating on every words, every sentence. Tomorrow might be too late, I will dance today and so must you!!




  

Romancing Self

June 10, 2014

Tuesday Evening

Dear God,

Come on in and sit beside me. I want to feel your presence as we chat about my day and pray for Readers across the globe. I want to put my hands in yours and feel your healing grace. I want to look deep into your eyes and see the kindness that wells up from your heart. I just want to be with you!

As you well know, I decided to romance Self today. I'm such a sentimental, soft lady with a tendency to think of everyone else's needs except my own. I go and go until there's no more get up in my go! I can always tell when my romance barometer is low ... I start feeling really lethargic, depressed, and out of sorts. Time to refill my cup!

Can a tomboy girl from Minnesota enjoy the refinement of crystal, lace, bubble baths, and soft music? I would say so!! I love my long skirts, boots, and jeans as much as any Texan does; and, for sure, I love digging in the dirt and rough-housing with my furry kids. However, when the sun sets, it's time to smell those proverbial roses and soften my edges.

I've found that I am not the same woman I was at 25, 35, 45, 55 or even yesterday ... you get my drift! I need to take time to spend with the woman I am today and take a deep meaningful look at the reflection of "moi" in the mirror. As I looked at my reflection before I went to bed last night, Miss Dottie looked more tired than usual and sad. I hated that and began romancing Miss Dottie that moment!

First of all, I wrote "You are special" on the mirror. I filled the tub with my own bath salts creation, lit some candles, and soaked in the essence of flowers and flickering lights. After drying off, I slathered all this good lotion on, dug through my nightclothes, and found a very soft pretty gown to put on. I snuggled down into my bed of fresh linens and pulled the covers up beneath my chin. In my final awake moments, I spent some time with You then drifted off into slumber land. All this ritual may have seemed rather goofy to some; however, I slept soundly and dreams of beautiful meadows filled my head and I woke with a smile.

I called last night "setting the stage." Although I can't take an entire day very often to soothe and romance Self, I can take that hour or so each day to enrich my mind, body, and soul. I know that if I do this on a consistent basis I learn more about the intimate details within me and am able to radiate more love to others. Because You created me, groomed me, and shaped me, I am who I am and that I am is ever growing. The old tapes of "you aren't worthy" need to be erased on a regular basis to give room for Self to blossom. I am fortunate that I have my Woman Cave aka The Cottage as my own little bit of Eden. No arguing, negativity, or meanness allowed!!

Heavenly Father, as I come to the end of this beautiful day of romancing Miss Dottie, I thank you for your goodness and mercy. I pray that grace would be extended to my Readers as they find time to romance their own Selfs. You tell us that we are to love others as we love ourselves (Mark 12:31) and if we are depleted that's hard to do. The more we are filled, the more we have to share. For those who are struggling with self image, I pray that when they look in their own mirrors that they will see who You see ... a beautiful person created specifically for a purpose. I raise holy hands covering my Readers with love and prayer. Amen, dear Jesus, it is so!!

Miss Dottie

NOTE TO READERS: "Once you start recognizing the truth of your story, finish the story. It happened but you're still here, you're still capable, powerful, you're not your circumstance. It happened and you made it through. You're still fully equipped with every single tool you need to fulfill your purpose." ~Steve Maraboli 

Don't keep your Self waiting a moment longer ... Celebrate!!

Monday 's Freedom of Speech

June 9, 2014
9am

Dear God,

Miss Dottie in her 30's

Where do the days go? It seems like the faster I go the behinder I get. I wonder how (single, in my 30's) I used to manage holding down a full time job, raising a family, taking classes, and keeping a home going. One thing is for sure, I was a lot younger then and could live on 4-5 hours of sleep a night. Now, my body needs rest and my mind needs down time. I could fight it but I might as well embrace my season of living in the now. I am so grateful that You and I are best buds and that You are (and have always been) with me every step of the way.

How do I know this? I have experienced your love, compassion, and grace; AND, I have your word to stand on ... And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age (Matthew 28:20). Two of the things that I have been most grateful for has been the workings of my mind and heart. I'm a seeker of light and truth which has sometimes made those around me quite uncomfortable. I must say there was a long period of time in my life that I chose to keep quiet and allow the demons inside me to fester and erode my self-image to the point that I almost didn't exist. I could have passed on to Heaven and never have left any kind of legacy ... it is so easy to never make waves or stand up and be heard. Yep, that's the easy route to take. I didn't "become" overnight ~ what a painful, exhilarating, journey it's been to find my way to wholeness.

Some years ago, I attended a class on the book of Revelation in the Bible. The facilitator spoke and my mind feasted on Your Word: I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot; I wish that you were cold or hot. So because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of My mouth... ~Revelation 3:15

Oh my gosh, that was me. I had lived my life on the surface and was like Much-Afraid in the book, HINDS' FEET ON HIGH PLACES (a Christian classic). Yes, You know how painful it was for me to get out of my murky comfort zone. I think that is why I so value the freedom of speech and expression. I don't have to believe or accept what others say. I do give them the right to be heard. Many times we have to agree to disagree and leave it at that...

For many years of my life, I have lived in Texas. Wasn't my first choice but I got planted here and it is here that I have come to bloom. When I got here, I couldn't figure this place out ... these native Texans seemed over the top in friendliness, stores were closed on Sundays, and there was a church on every corner. Most children said, "No sir and no ma'am." Hugs here were common place and opportunities were plentiful. As a liberal, I questioned and rolled my eyes at (gulp) the Baptists. Little did I know, that I would do some mighty big growing in that (gulp) Baptist church. Texas embraced me and I embraced it as a flower blooming after a Spring rain. I am smiling Lord because You knew what I needed to "become."

Grandma Maggie

Am I now a conservative? Well, let's talk about that. I would rather say that I am an independent thinking woman of faith, grace, and love. I've seen what has happened to our country under the guise of tolerance and extreme liberalism and it hasn't been pretty. What we get on the 6 o'clock news is rarely the whole truth and it takes a lot of digging and research on my part to keep my head out of the sand. The older I get, and the more I study my family of origin, I realize that so many of the old ways of moral living were solid. My Grandmother Maggie read her Norwegian Bible every day at 3 pm ~ If I visited her at that time, my Kool-Aid and cookies would have to wait. She didn't preach to me from her Bible, she just lived her life as a Godly woman full of charm, modesty, humility, and grace. I noticed, and so did most folks in town. Okay, back to am I conservative? As I write, I am thinking that I am in many ways. I believe in truth and doing the next right thing even if I don't feel like it. I believe in following the rules yet I color outside the lines!! I don't know if that makes sense.

Do I still have a liberal side? Yes. I also look at the description of a conservative and that describes me too. I don't look at the color of a man's (or woman's) skin or sexual orientation; I look at what's inside. I like creative people who dare to be different. As I said, I often times color outside the lines of life remembering that choices do have consequences. I stand for free speech and the right to bear arms to protect myself and my home. I don't like the corruption of politicians no matter what party they belong to. I still want to get a tattoo and I love fun funky clothes.

As I chat with you, Lord, who I really am becomes quite clear because I want to be like You. I want to study your word and move in rhythm to your beat. I believe in the sanctity of marriage and am pro life. I have adopted 4 rescue dogs and believe in treating animals humanely. I'm a rather shy, quiet soul and words sometimes get trapped inside my head when I feel threatened or am in unfamiliar territory. Odd though because I am also a leader with strong convictions and a fearless demeanor. I truly live up to my personality falling in 1% of the population.

It is storming outside ... the tree limbs are swaying and my flowers are bent over to the ground. The Fabulous 5 gather close and are snoring. I need to start keeping some fruit, nuts, and drinks in the cottage. It's a good thing I got some coffee from the house at the break of day! I opened the door of to snap some photos. Zeke raised his sleepy head, checked out what I was doing and promptly zoned back out. He's such a funny little guy!

Jesus, take the wheel of my life and of the lives of my Readers. Your word is lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path (Psalm 119:105). I  pray for all Christians to light a candle after they read my blog today thinking about the darkness of our present world and how we can shine our lights into those corners where evil resides. Be with my Readers who are suffering and struggling moving them miraculously into a plane of wholeness and clarity. I pray that your storehouses would be opened and that your abundance would spill out to those with financial stresses. Let my blog have a ripple effect, Father, moving from Reader to Reader offering encouragement. My mind is flooded this morning with faces across the globe. Let us all be aware of the need of our brothers and sisters in Christ. Amen, dear Jesus.

Miss Dottie


NOTE TO READERS: "There comes a time when one must take a position that is neither safe, nor politic, nor popular, but he must take it because conscience tells him it is right" ~Martin Luther King, Jr.

In the arms of an angel...

June 8, 2014
"Son"day

Dear God,

It's coffee, 4 of the Fabulous 5, me, and You this morning. I woke up singing In the Arms of an Angel and just had to share it with you and my Readers. Such a beautiful song! Today is a day of reflection, prayer, and rest. We are supposed to get rain today ~ Yay! It's kind of eerie looking outside. Somehow, I can close my eyes and envision some hauntingly beautiful cottage by the sea just before a storm.

In the past 24 hours, I have received two of the most beautiful notes from Readers. Father, I want to thank you for allowing me to stand in the gap for those needing encouragement, hugs, and prayers. I know with all my heart that is my purpose in life and I embrace that honor. Somehow, that filling continues and flows from You to me outward.

Me thinks there are no coincidences in life ~ just your perfectly orchestrated plans that are often times years in the making. I am grateful for those who have found me worthy enough to plant seeds in me ~ times of ordinary visits that have produced bushels of fruit. Oh good golly Miss Molly, I am such a misty eyed sap this morning ... no, not tears of sadness but tears of complete awe and joy.

You know, I watch the "news" and there are stories of all these celebrities, government officials, and on and on. I'll tell you flat out, these are not the heroes in my world ~ my heroes are rich in their faith and aren't afraid to give abundantly of what they have ~ they make life easier (not harder) for those around them. They share pearls of wisdom and have arms of comforting compassion. They are the ones that look deep into my eyes and call me "friend."

Yesterday, I was feeling kinda deflated after a less than fruitful day at the Farmer's Market. Was sort of the icing on the cake after a wicked week. Then, I started realizing how blessed I had been to have met some pretty awesome folks, take photos, and share the love. Father, I know you placed me in a certain spot beside some wonderful people and I could go on and on... It would be nice to have some banner sales though to fill my pockets. What comes to mind is the old adage of sowing and reaping. Hmmm

Yes, in the arms of an angel flying high ... Can't you just picture that beautiful sight? Soaring ... swooping ... rising to new heights?! I think of my own ascension to heaven and the absolute joy within me. Who will I have passed the baton on to, Lord? Who will carry on what I began? It has always been my hope and prayer that my blog would span continents reaching others for You. Isn't that what your people do, Lord? The opportunities we have go beyond just self-living ~ it's leaving a legacy. As individuals, parents, grandparents, friends our real success and contentment comes from continually moving forward, doing the work you have commissioned us to do. I have wanted so badly to really know my family of origin members but there is little to go on. That being said, my own family will know me inside and out, my struggles and triumphs, and who I really am. My granddaughter tells me I am one of her role models. That gives me such a sense of ... well, in all my humanness, flops, and failures, that beauty of knowing something good has come from my earthly journey.

Holy God, this is your day and I come before you in humility and awe. One of my Readers posted a story about her pain in giving birth to a stillborn daughter. For her and for other parents who have experienced that aching that never goes away, I pray for comfort and peace. For those with family members who are ill, hold their hands. Move mightily dispensing your mightiest warriors to fight the battles they have no control over. Give us all serenity in knowing that You have our backs and are working behind the scenes. Let us all find shelter beneath your wings as we muddle our way through life. We know not your plans and purposes; yet, WE KNOW THAT ALL THINGS WORK TOGETHER FOR GOOD TO THEM THAT LOVE YOU, TO THEM WHO ARE CALLED ACCORDING TO YOUR PURPOSE (Romans 8:28). Father, may we make the lives a little easier using what you have blessed us with. You gave us your son, Jesus ... you gave your all that we might rise up in his name.

Amen!

Miss Dottie

NOTE TO READERS:  "A journey takes time. And the lessons we learn best, they come from the journey, not the destination." Well said, Jordan Dane. The skies are dark and rain is falling ... the sound of pitter pats on the roof of the cottage lull and woo me. My body, mind, and soul feel the refreshing coolness that comes from the beauty of the moment!

Sunrise ... Sunset

"The whole earth is filled with awe at your wonders; where morning dawns, where evening fades, you call forth songs of joy."

~Psalm 65:8 (NIV)

June 7, 2014

Dear God,

Dawn was barely beginning to break this morning when I rolled out of bed. My furry kids were excited that their pawrent was up before they had to wake her!! Kennedy, Zeke, Harmony, and Ruffy had to rouse Toby and they were off to the back of the yard to do a quick potty call. I stood in the doorway in the kitchen and laughed as they came running back in single file, Toby in the lead. Kennedy hit the wood floor in the kitchen and slid all the way to the back of the room. (At least he ended up in front of the refrigerator where his place is to eat!) Who needs an other entertainment when the Fabulous Five is around?? No one!!

Night comes to the garden...

Now, as evening is fading, I am taking time to reflect on the day and say a big thank you for unexpected gifts. It's been a really tough week and it's taken everything I have to keep putting one foot in front of the other. Believe me, I have been counting my blessings and putting feet to my faith. I figure I must be doing something right 'cause Satan has been causing me some heartburn. I am a very strong person but even strong people fall to their knees. If my Readers haven't, they will ~ their time will come, it happens to all of us.

"Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour..."

~1 Peter 5:8 (KJV)

Farmer's Market 6/7/2014

I worked really hard on getting things set for the Farmer's Market today. I took the Food Handler's Class online and got that completed. The things in my booth that sold well last week aren't supposed to be sold without other certifications; ie, the dog treats and plants. Go figure, I can make food for people but not dogs! Anyway, last week I did well, today, not as well. Trying to come up with some ideas for next week where my return on investment is better. I have faith that I will come up with something!

Kat & Jay AND
the M&M's

Aren't you curious about what my unexpected gift was? Heck no, You're in control and knew what I needed! However, for my Readers, let me explain. Some months ago now, I met a young lady through the dog rescue group that Kennedy, Zeke, Harmony, and Ruffy were adopted from. We've gradually become friends corresponding on instant message and Facebook. Anyway, she, her husband, and two Yorkies came to say hi and check out my booth at the Farmer's Market. She is a breath of fresh air ~ even more beautiful in person than in photos. Her heart shines for all to see and her energy comes rippling out in huge waves. We share a love for Zeke (she almost adopted him) and for You. We hugged, got teary eyed and hugged some more. Lord Jesus, sometimes you know exactly when to bless my socks off!! The craziness in my world hasn't changed but I am feeling like you put some extra-leaded gas in my tank!!

Too cute for words!

A friend with a ready smile
Beverly

Father, tonight I pray for those earthly angels who brighten the lives of others with their genuine smiles, ready hugs, and kind words. I am fortunate to have met some pretty awesome folks on the roads of life and it is my hope that my Readers can recognize their own angels who you've sent to encourage and comfort. I have a tendency to look down when I walk (especially when I am thinking about something heavy) ... today, I realized I should be looking up and out. If I'm looking down, I'm going to miss your best!! For those struggling with job losses, illnesses, financial challenges, or maybe even dealing with the meanness of those around them, I pray for an indwelling of the Holy Spirit and a joy that makes getting up (one more day) more than just a possibility. You are, You have been, You always will be ... my forever King! Even better than that, You're available 24/7 to anyone who invites You in!!

Amen!

Miss Dottie

NOTE TO READERS:

"Everything will be okay in the end. If it's not okay, then it's not the end."

Thanks Ed Sheeran, I needed to hear that tonight and maybe someone else does too!!

It's a Blueberry Kind of Day

June 5, 2014

Dear God,

Well hello there. We haven't talked in a couple days and I am feeling the need to sit at your feet, lay my head on your lap, and feel your hands touching my hair. You are my protector, my comfort.

My time with You is so precious to me and I find that when I don't make time for our chats, I get all out of sorts. I went to bed a couple nights ago as the Disgusted Grumpy Out of Sorts Gardner. Those darn rabbits, moles, and bugs are eating up my plants and flowers. Grrrrr! I just hate spraying my plants because the Fabulous 5 have been known sniff and check out the grass and flowers. No poisons here at Seidler Dogdom!!

I planted a couple blueberry bushes this Spring and I am seeing some little blueberries. I LOVE blueberries and am hoping that they grow nice and big and that I reap crops of many baskets of berries. For today, I bought some at the local grocery store and decided that I would make some Blueberry Crumb Bars to sell at the Farmer's Market Saturday. I can't wait to taste them. 

Thank you for creating the blueberry and it's anti-aging properties. I read that blueberries can prevent early aging and protect me against diseases like cancer and chronic heart disease. The antioxidants prevent cell damage by neutralizing the radicals and keeping diseases at bay. Those little round juicy berries also prevent inflammation that is a known cause of aging diseases like Alzheimer's disease and brain aging. With my arthritis, degenerative disk disease, and extreme tiredness, I need all the help I can get. That being said, I might as well enjoy this miracle fruit!!

From the time I was a little girl, I would beg my mother to make anything that would have blueberries in it. My favorite pie was blueberry and I'd gobble up the entire pie if she didn't put it up out of my reach. Come to think of it, that didn't do any good because we had a step stool that I learned to scale before I was a year old. Mom would tell me that there was nothing out of my reach!! Still am sort of an adventuresome sort... I became a very picky eater as a teenager but still had those cravings for those heavenly blueberries!!

What is a blueberry kind of day? It's a day filled with warm thoughts of yesterday and, as a foodie, remembrances of kitchens filled with the scent of blueberry, dough, and spices. There was a time when I was an embarrassment as a cook and baker. I am happy to report, that those days are long gone, and I've managed to put on an apron, chef's hat, and gone to town tossing this and that together to make some scrum-yummy meals and desserts. One of the requirements when I moved to N Central Texas was to gut the kitchen and make it a mini-wonderland filled with stainless-steel appliances, granite counter tops, and cabinets filled with goodies to choose from to create my masterpieces. Unfortunately, my husband is very limited as to what he will eat, so my cooking days have dwindled. The blessing of the Farmer's Market? I get to bring out those pots, pans, and flavorful ingredients ... Miss Dottie is enjoying making tasty morsels for others to munch on!!

Lord God in Heaven, thank you for this season of fresh fruits and vegetables. The opportunity to gather with others to share, trade, and sell, is ages old yet still a viable way to enjoy organic gardening, farming, and ranching. I pray for sun and rain so that our crops (albeit mine is a mini effort) will produce the best tasting products. Father, you are the creator and we sing your praises. Let there be a feasting Saturday of all things blueberry!! For my Readers, I pray for healthy eating habits. Instead of man-made vitamins, open our minds to the ideas of feasting on nuts, berries, colorful veggies, and lean meats. Me? I feast on the name of Jesus, filling up with parables, and words of wisdom. Amen!!

Miss Dottie

The farm my mother was raised on
RJ & Emma Jane Hall on the left
My grandfather, Harry Hall, in the middle of them

NOTE TO READERS: I used to help my mother and father as they planted their gardens, strawberry beds, rhubarb plants, and harvested their mini crops. Our storage room in the basement was filled to the brim by the end of September with all sorts of canned goods plus the freezer was filled in preparation of food for Winter. Both of my parents were raised on farms and knew full well the meaning of sowing and reaping. I learned from them and now am learning from the gardeners, farmers, and ranchers in North Central Texas. Yep, today has been a blueberry kind of day. Yum!!


  

June Monday

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God;

I will strengthen you, I will help you,

I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

~Isaiah 41:10

June 2, 2014

Dear God,

Wow! What a busy weekend. I was so tired by 5 yesterday afternoon that I fell asleep on the sofa, barely remember shuffling out to the cottage to crawl into bed, and didn't wake up until 6:30 this morning. I guess it took a long time for my body to refuel. I am still tired today but managed to get out by 7 to look at some boxes of stuff that an antique dealer was giving away. Thank you for her generosity and for my free finds!!

I must say that my first set-up at the local Farmer's Market went well. Almost everything that I had on my table sold plus I got some new ideas for the Grand Opening of the market next Saturday. It's such fun to meet new people! One lady stopped by and was looking at the Iris bulbs. She asked if I wanted some Cannas. Of course, I responded, "Yes!" Would you believe she went home, dug them up, and brought them back? Love people who join me in sharing the love!!

My son coached and grandsons, Zachary and Nicholas, played in the state baseball tournament on Saturday. I closed up my table a little early and headed for North Texas to cheer them on. As a pitcher, Nick was on fire ... it's so amazing how much natural talent he has. What's even more amazing is that he is 8 and playing with 10-11 year olds. Don't tell him that he can't 'cause he can and proves it!! Zachary also had some great plays being singled out for his prowess on the field and as catcher. I know I'm bragging Lord but I hear so many stories of kids who are trouble-makers that I think it's important to shine the light on some who are God-honoring and doing good things in this world. Rampage moved on to the tournament on Sunday as team 15 picked out of 41. Great end to a fabulous Spring Season of baseball!!!

A couple of my gal pals, Rica and Beverly, invited me to go with them to the Museum of Modern Art in Fort Worth yesterday. We had lunch at the museum (super good Mimosas and food) restaurant that overlooks the pond at the back of the museum then strolled through the different areas looking at the art and discussing the artists. There were several pieces that I really liked but when all was said and done, I think I prefer more traditional paintings. We decided that we would take in the Dallas Museum of Art towards the end of the month. These outings are good for my spirit ... besides we always end them with a big ice cream cone! Cheers!!

Father God in Heaven, thank you for the times of joy in our lives ... the trips with friends; the opportunities to serve our communities and make money doing it; the gathering of families across the globe to support and encourage one another; the miracles and healings that uplift and amaze us; and, most of all, thank you for your ever-presence. I boldly come before you as one crying out in the wilderness asking, in the name of Jesus, that you save our country from our own greed, immorality, and stupidity. Let us not be stubborn minded blinding ourselves to truth and light. Amen!

Miss Dottie

NOTE TO READERS: The story of the Widow's Oil continues to inspire me and enlarge my vision. God multiplies what we surrender to him, no matter how insignificant it seems. Remember to keep on doing that next right thing and leave the results to Him. Hebrews 11:1 says, "Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." I'll take that and run with it!!