Happy New Year Sisters.....
It has been a long while since I have been over here to post anything. I have been reading and keeping each of you in my thoughts and prayers.
I have been posting more regularly on my poetry blog Click Here and also posted an end-of-year on my By His Grace Alone blog.
I pray all of you are well. May we continue to stand in the gap for each other as as God brings forth yet another year. I am blessed beyond measure to walk with you . Love to all.
Friday, December 31, 2010
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
A December Birthday
For Scarf Sister Rebecca. She's got a travel bug and has been all over God's green earth this past year. Just popping in to wish her the best birthday .. how cool is it to have your special day so close to Christmas? So, dear Rebecca, the sisters have spoken: HAPPY BIRTHDAY, hope your day was a good one.
Mrs. Mac & the Gang
vintage birthday greeting used with permission from here
update on dad golden
dear sisters..thank you so much for your prayers..
dad golden was at the hospital about four hours and while there, they cleaned his bloody nose, gave him blood tests and found out that his kidneys are very bad and the doctor told him to stop the fluid pills he has been taking and told him to drink lots of water and to use a walker ...while bernie and i went to get the walker, by the time we returned, the ambulance was at the apartment and it was for dad golden.
he refused to go to the hospital again and so he is still here...i will stay here the night....thanks...love terry
mom golden is doing fine..
dad golden was at the hospital about four hours and while there, they cleaned his bloody nose, gave him blood tests and found out that his kidneys are very bad and the doctor told him to stop the fluid pills he has been taking and told him to drink lots of water and to use a walker ...while bernie and i went to get the walker, by the time we returned, the ambulance was at the apartment and it was for dad golden.
he refused to go to the hospital again and so he is still here...i will stay here the night....thanks...love terry
mom golden is doing fine..
dad golden
dad golden fell and they are taking him by ambulance to hosiptal..pleas pray...love terry
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Christmas Wishes
Well, here it is, the day after Christmas and I am now finding time to send Christmas wishes to all my Sisters in our Sisterhood of the Traveling Scarf/Apron/Bible/?... It's not that I haven't had time previous to this...it's just that as is typical of my life, I'm always several days behind the rest of the world!
I would love to share with you dozens of photos of how lavishly decorated our home is for the holidays, however, there are none. It's difficult to take photos of things that don't exist! I will, however, be happy to show you our "Charlie Brown Tree" (Note how proud Brillo Man is of the star which he placed (albeit very crooked) on the top!
Somewhere along the way, I've lost the desire to decorate. BUT...If I were ever to regain that desire, THIS is how our home would look for the holidays:
So...you can all close your eyes and imagine that our home looks like the above photo. Works for me!
Seriously....I have said it before and I will say it again...I consider myself blessed to be a part of this internet "family" of "sisters." I pray that you all are blessed beyond belief as you continue to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior...for without Him...we would not be we...would we?
Sending hugs to you all...and looking forward to that day when we'll all gather together....either here...or perhaps on the golden streets of that great city...Oh, what a glorious day that will be!
Merry Christmas everyone!
I would love to share with you dozens of photos of how lavishly decorated our home is for the holidays, however, there are none. It's difficult to take photos of things that don't exist! I will, however, be happy to show you our "Charlie Brown Tree" (Note how proud Brillo Man is of the star which he placed (albeit very crooked) on the top!
Somewhere along the way, I've lost the desire to decorate. BUT...If I were ever to regain that desire, THIS is how our home would look for the holidays:
So...you can all close your eyes and imagine that our home looks like the above photo. Works for me!
Seriously....I have said it before and I will say it again...I consider myself blessed to be a part of this internet "family" of "sisters." I pray that you all are blessed beyond belief as you continue to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior...for without Him...we would not be we...would we?
Sending hugs to you all...and looking forward to that day when we'll all gather together....either here...or perhaps on the golden streets of that great city...Oh, what a glorious day that will be!
Merry Christmas everyone!
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Angel From Philippines
four days ago i received a package in my mail box.
it travelled all the way from our precious sister, crown of beauty who lives in
philippines.
i wanted to post right away but because of being with dad golden so much, bernie and i were not home a lot!
anyways, better late than never!
inside the envelope was a wrapping and it was a shopping bag from "pan de manila".
a treasure for bernie and me!
...and inside several layers of bubble paper was wrapped this special angel that crown of beauty had purchased for us...so sweet and with the prettiest ceramic face and little hands. and tiny feet peeking out from her lovely purple gown.
but the story doesn't end here...
i hung crown of beauty's little angel right between the sweet angels that my felisol had sent to us from norway and so here the three are together!
for sure and how fitting this was because you see... it was felisol that introduced me to crown of beauty!
yes how fitting...
thank you dear sister....love terry
Friday, December 24, 2010
Merry Christmas
Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, a virgin will be with child and bear a son, and she will call His name Immanuel.
Isaiah 7:14
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6
vintage image used with permission from here
Thursday, December 23, 2010
PRAYING FOR TRICIA
Asking for prayer for this sweet family please. Her husband suddenly died and they have 2 small boys. I am sure that this is heart-breaking for all of them! Here is her blog link.
Monday, December 20, 2010
Update On Dad Golden
dad golden has been very ill for the last two weeks and we just didn't know what we were going to do.
two visits to the emergency room at the hospital just made matters worse.
the first time he had a bad reaction to a pill they had given to him and the next visit he was put on intravenous to rid himself of the medication....his face and lips were very swelled and hurting.
now in the last week he has been feeling dizzy and sleepy all the time and very very depressed he was.
he has been scheduled for a doctor appointment for january 3, but he has been so sick..and so weak that on friday night he fell in the middle of the night. bernie and i were called for by mom golden and so we went and picked him up and put him to bed.
we looked after him saturday and sunday and this morning, i was praying for the miracle that the doctor could give him an appointment if there were any cancellations.
when i called today at 9:30 i was so surprised and thankful that the secretary said, "can you bring him in at 1:45?"
oh COULD i?
and so armed with the questions i had written on a sheet for the doctor...[this had been my felisol's suggestion], bernie and i took dad golden to the doctors and dad golden allowed me to go in with him to see the doctor...
on saturday when we returned to mom and dads, mom golden showed me a wonderful verse that the lord had given her...
Psalm 34:6
This poor man cried, and the LORD heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles.
i showed dad golden what she had found and he read it silently and he had a sweet smile....
i took the sisterhood bible with me this afternoon along with the scarf and the red mittens that saija had sent me...now not that i am making them more than ordinary but because, as i looked at them i pictured each of my dear sisters that so faithfully have been praying for dad golden and i could feel their prayers..
now here are the results of dad golden's visit to the doctors.
first of all as dad golden has not been drinking beer for over two weeks because he was so shaken up knowing that he shouldn't of been drinking any alcohol because of the medication he is on....the doctor says that he is suffering from withdrawal.
his blood pressure was fine..he had no temperature.
when the doctor checked his ears, he found that they were plugged ad this could be causing some of the dizziness.
he checked dad golden's chest and decided that he should go back on puffers.
...and when i asked the doctor for a handicap sticker for dad golden's car, he strongly agreed and said he would sign it for him.
and so....hopefully dad golden will improve in the next while and maybe he will be able to chit chat with mom golden again...seeing that the ear drops the doctor prescribed will clear his deafness!
we are praying for his health but most of all we are praying for his salvation!
i can't thank my dearest sisters enough for all of the prayers that have been going up for my dear dad....god bless you all.....love terry
Saturday, December 18, 2010
My Testimony
I've been reading along here and enjoying each post very much! Since I'm new here in the sisterhood I thought I'd share my testimony as a way of further introducing myself.
I was born and baptized a Lutheran. I remember mom taking us to church and Sunday school when we were children. I learned Bible stories and came to a "head-knowledge" of Jesus.
But, like so many, it was not until years later that I actually gave my heart to Him and called Him Savior.
Growing up was rough. Mom was bi-polar and was not diagnosed until I married and left home. Without going into too much detail and shaming my family in public-all I can say was that life in our home was many times a living nightmare. My father tried to keep the family partly sane but because of mom's (undiagnosed) illness-it was nearly impossible.
I had few friends in high school. The ones I did have never came to my house and I only saw them in school. I was a very lonely young girl. One friend understood my situation. I confided in her. She had become a Christian and took me to youth Bible studies. Honestly, they became my haven. I learned about the love of Christ. I felt loved there and ...free. I began to open my heart to Jesus and I began to crave knowledge of the Lord. But I still had a ways to go.....
Because of the situation at home I married at a very young age-18. I married a man from a far-away place, Saipan. I knew virtually nothing about him. The lure of being "taken-away" from all my family troubles was overpowering. It turned into an even greater hell than what I came from. He drank continuously, used drugs, beat me often and had many, many extramarital relationships. I was in a foreign country, half-way around the world from home. I had no money, no phone, he took my passport. I had a difficult time making friends as he wouldn't allow me to socialize much.
During this time I prayed....but....I was so isolated and beaten down that I grew depressed and suicidal. I saw only darkness.
But, the Lord had mercy and He sent help.
I met a group of missionaries from YWAM. They befriended me. They took me to Bible studies and church. I began to grow in the Lord and I began to feel "safe" in Him. My trials were not over...in fact I was married to this man for fifteen years. Fifteen years of pure hell that I survived only by the grace of God.
This may sound strange, but looking back, I realize that these years were a time of tremendous personal growth for me. I became strong-rock solid. Even though I had many terrible experiences I also had many miracles. I saw first hand the mighty power of our Lord. I mean...ladies, I saw real honest to goodness miracles.
I remember one night, after a particularly horrible day of beatings. My husband took a shower and went out-to meet his girlfriend. As I lay alone in our bed sobbing....and really at the end of my life, I cried out to the Lord. I cried aloud through sobbing that literally choked me. I remember what I said, I said LORD! LORD JESUS!! I need to know-right now-this MINUTE if you are near me, if you hear my cries, if you care, if you are really really REAL...because if I don't know that this minute. I do not want to live anymore. I can't take this life anymore. I can't. I can't bear it Lord.
I was prepared to commit suicide that night.
Immediately...after crying out..I felt- I mean I FELT the Lord embrace me with Love. I have NEVER felt so completely loved before in my entire life. My anguished heart was immediately stilled. And I remember I felt as if I was being cradled in the arms of a loving father...and that I was safe.
I fell asleep. I slept all night, peacefully. Something I had not done in years. I will never forget that. Ever.
God Bless you ,ladies!
I was born and baptized a Lutheran. I remember mom taking us to church and Sunday school when we were children. I learned Bible stories and came to a "head-knowledge" of Jesus.
But, like so many, it was not until years later that I actually gave my heart to Him and called Him Savior.
Growing up was rough. Mom was bi-polar and was not diagnosed until I married and left home. Without going into too much detail and shaming my family in public-all I can say was that life in our home was many times a living nightmare. My father tried to keep the family partly sane but because of mom's (undiagnosed) illness-it was nearly impossible.
I had few friends in high school. The ones I did have never came to my house and I only saw them in school. I was a very lonely young girl. One friend understood my situation. I confided in her. She had become a Christian and took me to youth Bible studies. Honestly, they became my haven. I learned about the love of Christ. I felt loved there and ...free. I began to open my heart to Jesus and I began to crave knowledge of the Lord. But I still had a ways to go.....
Because of the situation at home I married at a very young age-18. I married a man from a far-away place, Saipan. I knew virtually nothing about him. The lure of being "taken-away" from all my family troubles was overpowering. It turned into an even greater hell than what I came from. He drank continuously, used drugs, beat me often and had many, many extramarital relationships. I was in a foreign country, half-way around the world from home. I had no money, no phone, he took my passport. I had a difficult time making friends as he wouldn't allow me to socialize much.
During this time I prayed....but....I was so isolated and beaten down that I grew depressed and suicidal. I saw only darkness.
But, the Lord had mercy and He sent help.
I met a group of missionaries from YWAM. They befriended me. They took me to Bible studies and church. I began to grow in the Lord and I began to feel "safe" in Him. My trials were not over...in fact I was married to this man for fifteen years. Fifteen years of pure hell that I survived only by the grace of God.
This may sound strange, but looking back, I realize that these years were a time of tremendous personal growth for me. I became strong-rock solid. Even though I had many terrible experiences I also had many miracles. I saw first hand the mighty power of our Lord. I mean...ladies, I saw real honest to goodness miracles.
I remember one night, after a particularly horrible day of beatings. My husband took a shower and went out-to meet his girlfriend. As I lay alone in our bed sobbing....and really at the end of my life, I cried out to the Lord. I cried aloud through sobbing that literally choked me. I remember what I said, I said LORD! LORD JESUS!! I need to know-right now-this MINUTE if you are near me, if you hear my cries, if you care, if you are really really REAL...because if I don't know that this minute. I do not want to live anymore. I can't take this life anymore. I can't. I can't bear it Lord.
I was prepared to commit suicide that night.
Immediately...after crying out..I felt- I mean I FELT the Lord embrace me with Love. I have NEVER felt so completely loved before in my entire life. My anguished heart was immediately stilled. And I remember I felt as if I was being cradled in the arms of a loving father...and that I was safe.
I fell asleep. I slept all night, peacefully. Something I had not done in years. I will never forget that. Ever.
God Bless you ,ladies!
Friday, December 17, 2010
Out Of the Mouths of Babes
several years ago when i was teaching a sunday school class of three and four year old boys and girls, i learned something that i had never seen before.
mrs. mac has encouraged us to highlight our favourite verses and this verse is one that i have chosen.
Matthew 1:23
Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.
now here is why i love this verse....it was one christmas that i had my class and so i read them the "christmas story"...as i read down the chapter and came to matthew 1:23, one of the little girls suddenly exclaimed...[from the words "shall call his name emmanuel, which being interpreted is, GOD with us."]...."oh terry, oh!" she said with a surprised voice,"JESUS is GOD, and GOD is JESUS!"
in her simple child like faith tiny three year old maryanne saw the truth of the trinity right there and then!
now of course i had always knew that god, jesus and the holy spirit are ONE person but never had i seen it this way before...at his birth the baby jesus surely was GOD!
i treasure that day when the real truth of this flooded my heart!
i remember it all of the time.
so amazing that this almost the same verse is in the old testament;
Isaiah 9:6
For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
what a god is ours and what a god we have the great privilege to serve!
god bless you all sweet sisters of mine!...love terry
ps...by the time the bible has made its visit to each sister, it will indeed look like a rainbow, with all the little coloured tags it will have and of all the highlighted scriptures!
good thinking mrs. mac!
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Prayer request
Dear Sisters,I know how everybody has much to do these days, and also much bigger pains and sorrows than I have. Nevertheless I have the courage to ask for some co-praying during the next 16hours or so.
Daughter Serina and her fellow student from our neighbor village are going to drive home from her college. They'll start in 5 hours from now, and the ride, if normal, will take 12 hours. Now they have to pass 2 mountain ridges on icy roads and also two mile-long under water tunnels. Please pray for their safety, and that their guardian angel may work double shifts.
Thank you in advance.
Yours Felisol
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Only A Sinner Saved By Grace
i thought i would tell the sisters how i met the lord...and alas it IS a rather long story and so i took it from my own blog...after all the story is the same and it hasn't changed!
about a year and a half ago, i was so encouraged by our connie's story of salvation that i decided to write mine out too and so here it is!
may 2009
"this week when i read connies' story of her conversion, it made me realize that i have never even written out my own story.
i mean i was just too shy of doing so i guess...well just too cowardly.
now constance has given me the courage to just tell it!".........
"mom and dad golden were married in 1947.
at that time they never went to church anywhere.
betty was born in april/48 and by the year 1952, there were four little golden children.
dad golden joined the air force and with the move to trenton, mom golden was invited out to gospel meetings at the lorne avenue gospel hall and that is when the christians started to pick us children up for sunday school every week where we heard all about the love of god for sinners.
1n the early 60's we moved to my beloved manitoba and there we attended the wheatland baptist church where we continued to hear the good word and where i continued NOT to hear it..too young,..lots of time to decide later. ...one of the devil's biggest lie to keep people from coming to the lord!
a year later, the christians from brandon took upon themselves the responsibly of taking the family to brandon gospel hall
this was a 66 mile round trip twice on a sunday.
by now there was 8 little goldens!
I heard the good gospel again for several years.
in high school there, i was in contact too every day with chrisitan kids that attended the pentecostal church,
and although i thought i was pretty smart that i went to so many gospel meetings and was a good girl[ha!..NOT!], i saw that these kids had a peace and happiness that i sure didn't!
when we moved to ottawa in 1967, life went on as usual for mom and her by then nine kids.
sunday school, prayer meeting and gospel meetings....still none of us saved.
well in june 1967 there came special gospel meetings and every night we were driven by the christians to these meetings.
one night when the preacher was speaking, he was telling us that we were all born sinners. i had heard this before of course..he said that we all had a rebellious nature and i thought to myself..that's me for sure.... seventeen i was and wanting my own way and giving mom golden a hard time already....here i thought i was a christian and i was not!
i stayed behind that night to talk to the preacher and when i left i was still as blind as a bat.
for a couple of days at home, i tried and tried to believe but oh it was too hard.
i said to god...."you are just too far away and i can't find you. i will just have to go to hell because THAT is where i deserve to be"!
i got up from my knees and started to read luke 15 about the prodigal son and there as i read luke 15:20, i saw it.
Luke 15:20
And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.
just like a bright light, it shined on my heart....here is how i saw this verse........"And he arose and came to his father, But when HE was yet a great way off......god wasn't the one that was far off at all. he was near all the time just waiting...it was ME who was afar off. I was the lost one and that is who exactly that jesus died for!
oh my sins were all gone, the wall of sins that separated me from god was smashed down by jesus, the precious son of god who died for me.
Ephesians 2:14
For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us;
finally i had the peace that i saw in those high school christian friends that i had.
as i lay on my bed just feeling so happy and relieved, i noticed all of the moths and june bugs at my window,
it was a hot summer night and already dark...my light was on and as i heard the thumps of those insects bouncing on the window, trying their hardest to get at the inside light, it dawned on my mind....and i said to those bugs...."oh you silly guys....don't you realize the glass wall that is separating you from the light.... you are just helpless to get to it...SOMEONE has to smash down that wall before you can enter!"....oh! that is just like me....i was helpless....only jesus could break that wall of sin between god and me to let me in.....
i am sorry that i was so long winded but you must remember...this is the very first time that i have written this down and it is all because of connie that i was encouraged to do so".....
ps..mom golden and betty were saved about a week later.... "
about a year and a half ago, i was so encouraged by our connie's story of salvation that i decided to write mine out too and so here it is!
may 2009
"this week when i read connies' story of her conversion, it made me realize that i have never even written out my own story.
i mean i was just too shy of doing so i guess...well just too cowardly.
now constance has given me the courage to just tell it!".........
"mom and dad golden were married in 1947.
at that time they never went to church anywhere.
betty was born in april/48 and by the year 1952, there were four little golden children.
dad golden joined the air force and with the move to trenton, mom golden was invited out to gospel meetings at the lorne avenue gospel hall and that is when the christians started to pick us children up for sunday school every week where we heard all about the love of god for sinners.
1n the early 60's we moved to my beloved manitoba and there we attended the wheatland baptist church where we continued to hear the good word and where i continued NOT to hear it..too young,..lots of time to decide later. ...one of the devil's biggest lie to keep people from coming to the lord!
a year later, the christians from brandon took upon themselves the responsibly of taking the family to brandon gospel hall
this was a 66 mile round trip twice on a sunday.
by now there was 8 little goldens!
I heard the good gospel again for several years.
in high school there, i was in contact too every day with chrisitan kids that attended the pentecostal church,
and although i thought i was pretty smart that i went to so many gospel meetings and was a good girl[ha!..NOT!], i saw that these kids had a peace and happiness that i sure didn't!
when we moved to ottawa in 1967, life went on as usual for mom and her by then nine kids.
sunday school, prayer meeting and gospel meetings....still none of us saved.
well in june 1967 there came special gospel meetings and every night we were driven by the christians to these meetings.
one night when the preacher was speaking, he was telling us that we were all born sinners. i had heard this before of course..he said that we all had a rebellious nature and i thought to myself..that's me for sure.... seventeen i was and wanting my own way and giving mom golden a hard time already....here i thought i was a christian and i was not!
i stayed behind that night to talk to the preacher and when i left i was still as blind as a bat.
for a couple of days at home, i tried and tried to believe but oh it was too hard.
i said to god...."you are just too far away and i can't find you. i will just have to go to hell because THAT is where i deserve to be"!
i got up from my knees and started to read luke 15 about the prodigal son and there as i read luke 15:20, i saw it.
Luke 15:20
And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.
just like a bright light, it shined on my heart....here is how i saw this verse........"And he arose and came to his father, But when HE was yet a great way off......god wasn't the one that was far off at all. he was near all the time just waiting...it was ME who was afar off. I was the lost one and that is who exactly that jesus died for!
oh my sins were all gone, the wall of sins that separated me from god was smashed down by jesus, the precious son of god who died for me.
Ephesians 2:14
For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us;
finally i had the peace that i saw in those high school christian friends that i had.
as i lay on my bed just feeling so happy and relieved, i noticed all of the moths and june bugs at my window,
it was a hot summer night and already dark...my light was on and as i heard the thumps of those insects bouncing on the window, trying their hardest to get at the inside light, it dawned on my mind....and i said to those bugs...."oh you silly guys....don't you realize the glass wall that is separating you from the light.... you are just helpless to get to it...SOMEONE has to smash down that wall before you can enter!"....oh! that is just like me....i was helpless....only jesus could break that wall of sin between god and me to let me in.....
i am sorry that i was so long winded but you must remember...this is the very first time that i have written this down and it is all because of connie that i was encouraged to do so".....
ps..mom golden and betty were saved about a week later.... "
well there is how a lost sinner was found on june 27th 1967!
god bless you all my precious sisters.....love terry
The Bible HAS Surely Landed!
i just received the precious sisterhood bible and i must get busy and write a post but in the meantime, here is the bible...it is not a red and white scarf around my neck but a pair of i am sure, hand knitted red and white mittens and i don't even know who to thank for these!
they will really come in handy because although the snow queen promised to "tweak the jet stream and send it up the pineapple express" and give us some rain, she, instead of that, dumped even more snow on welland than we already had!!!
i will get busy and write a post dear sisters![seeing as that bernie guy and i are snowed in!]....love terry
postscript.....i had a telephone call from saija today...she told me that the red and white mittens were made by her dear mom and how blessed and privileged i am to have them!...thank you so much saija!....love terry
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
A Gift from the Great White North
Hi All!
Sorry I have not been posting much. I do come in and read occasionally. I sit at a computer all day at work, so I hardly ever get on one at home. I work for the US government, so I can't check blogs at work - they are blocked!!! Enough excuses, I hope that everyone is having a wonderful season of celebrating our Savior's birth.
I received the most wonderful package from Sister Terry:
It was decorated as any patriotic Canadian would have done, and it contained a beautiful Christmas box with a note in the lid. It was a thrill for me to get a box with all those Canadian stamps and stickers - I don't see that stuff very often!
It started out with a beautiful note explaining that Sister Terry sent me Mr & Mrs Snowman [below] since I probably don't get much snow where I live! There were three beautiful Scripture plaques and a Canadian coin commemorating Terry Fox's heroic walk across Canada. The Scriptures are: John 3:16; John 14:6; and Romans 10:9,10.
How wonderful it was to receive this gift, packed in love and mailed across the miles. Thank you Terry!!!
Merry Christmas, fellow Scarf Sisters and families!!!!!!
Sorry I have not been posting much. I do come in and read occasionally. I sit at a computer all day at work, so I hardly ever get on one at home. I work for the US government, so I can't check blogs at work - they are blocked!!! Enough excuses, I hope that everyone is having a wonderful season of celebrating our Savior's birth.
I received the most wonderful package from Sister Terry:
It was decorated as any patriotic Canadian would have done, and it contained a beautiful Christmas box with a note in the lid. It was a thrill for me to get a box with all those Canadian stamps and stickers - I don't see that stuff very often!
It started out with a beautiful note explaining that Sister Terry sent me Mr & Mrs Snowman [below] since I probably don't get much snow where I live! There were three beautiful Scripture plaques and a Canadian coin commemorating Terry Fox's heroic walk across Canada. The Scriptures are: John 3:16; John 14:6; and Romans 10:9,10.
How wonderful it was to receive this gift, packed in love and mailed across the miles. Thank you Terry!!!
Merry Christmas, fellow Scarf Sisters and families!!!!!!
Monday, December 13, 2010
TOO FUNNY NOT TO SHARE!!
This is our Senior Pastor (Toby Slough) along with 2 of the other Campus Pastors and Worship leaders sharing some Christmas merriment!!
Friday, December 10, 2010
Get to know me, Yaya Yarns
I always start the same way when I introduce myself so here goes!
My faith is very strong. I have seen what God has taken me through, from dead deep in sin, He took away my heart of stone and gave me a heart of flesh, making me a new creation in HIM. I would not be where I am today without HIM, He saved me, changed me, grew me and is using me ... I am blessed, not that He has kept me from trials, but that HE allowes me to go through them that I might see HIM even more.
I was born and raised in Texas! We presently live in Louisiana and have for almost 15 years. I am 42 years old, the wife of a wonderful husband named Danny who is 60 years old. We have been married a little over 18 years and between the two of us we have three sons.
Danny's son is in his late 30's and is serving in the Navy. He recently return from a tour in Afghanistan. He also has two sons, unfortunately none of them are a part of our lives.
I have two boys, 21 and 22 years old and both married to wonderful young ladies. My boys were 2 and 3 years old when Danny and I married so he raised them like they were his own. I am very blessed for that! Our youngest has been married almost 3 years, has a 2 year old little girl is is expecting a little boy in January. Our oldest has been married a little over a year and does not have any children yet. Both of the boys are currently working in the law enforcement area.
I am and have been a stay at home wife and mom for all but two of our 18 year marriage, and that itself is a prayer and dream come true. God has blessed my life in so many ways, and being blessed to spend my days at home is amazing. Through those years I homeschooled the boys for several years and was extremely active in our church as a Childrens Ministry Leader and Sunday School Teacher.
Today I am still very active in my church in many ways from teaching Girls in Action, to WMU missions co-coordinator for our church and the 4th 5th 6th grade girls discipleship training teacher.
For a little over a year now I have been volunteering at our area donation center that provides food, clothing and housewares to those in need. The LORD has recently blessed and called for an expansion of that ministry to include a pregnancy center which is an area that is very near and dear to my heart. I will be announced as the director of that ministry next week and look forward to all the LORD is about to do as HE begins this ministry and brings the plans into action.
Lastly, but not at all least of all, I have have been in online ministry through varied avenues since 1995. I have found that there are many ways to reach and minister to the needs of others through a keyboard!
Oh, I almost forgot! I also love to crochet and therefore have a crochet ministry. Whether I am making prayer shawls or gifts, I crochet with prayer for all those whom receive or purchase my handmade items.
That is a little about me, if you have have questions just ask!
It is a blessing to be joining all you sisters here and I look forward to all that God is doing!
My faith is very strong. I have seen what God has taken me through, from dead deep in sin, He took away my heart of stone and gave me a heart of flesh, making me a new creation in HIM. I would not be where I am today without HIM, He saved me, changed me, grew me and is using me ... I am blessed, not that He has kept me from trials, but that HE allowes me to go through them that I might see HIM even more.
I was born and raised in Texas! We presently live in Louisiana and have for almost 15 years. I am 42 years old, the wife of a wonderful husband named Danny who is 60 years old. We have been married a little over 18 years and between the two of us we have three sons.
Danny's son is in his late 30's and is serving in the Navy. He recently return from a tour in Afghanistan. He also has two sons, unfortunately none of them are a part of our lives.
I have two boys, 21 and 22 years old and both married to wonderful young ladies. My boys were 2 and 3 years old when Danny and I married so he raised them like they were his own. I am very blessed for that! Our youngest has been married almost 3 years, has a 2 year old little girl is is expecting a little boy in January. Our oldest has been married a little over a year and does not have any children yet. Both of the boys are currently working in the law enforcement area.
I am and have been a stay at home wife and mom for all but two of our 18 year marriage, and that itself is a prayer and dream come true. God has blessed my life in so many ways, and being blessed to spend my days at home is amazing. Through those years I homeschooled the boys for several years and was extremely active in our church as a Childrens Ministry Leader and Sunday School Teacher.
Today I am still very active in my church in many ways from teaching Girls in Action, to WMU missions co-coordinator for our church and the 4th 5th 6th grade girls discipleship training teacher.
For a little over a year now I have been volunteering at our area donation center that provides food, clothing and housewares to those in need. The LORD has recently blessed and called for an expansion of that ministry to include a pregnancy center which is an area that is very near and dear to my heart. I will be announced as the director of that ministry next week and look forward to all the LORD is about to do as HE begins this ministry and brings the plans into action.
Lastly, but not at all least of all, I have have been in online ministry through varied avenues since 1995. I have found that there are many ways to reach and minister to the needs of others through a keyboard!
Oh, I almost forgot! I also love to crochet and therefore have a crochet ministry. Whether I am making prayer shawls or gifts, I crochet with prayer for all those whom receive or purchase my handmade items.
That is a little about me, if you have have questions just ask!
It is a blessing to be joining all you sisters here and I look forward to all that God is doing!
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Trying to get it together..
I wanted to post a few pics from the Christmas preparations at our house....
Here are J and Poppi decorating our extra perfect tree for this year...it really is symmetrical!
This is one of my favorite ornaments...a turtle with 2 turtledoves on its back...my hubby and I collect turtles so we couldn't pass this one up.
This is an angel crocheted by my mother and starched to stand upright...she also makes snowflakes for me to hang in my inside windows...in the background is our Advent Calendar...a magnetized board surrounded by the days leading up to Christmas with magnetic pieces of the nativity behind each little door...and usually a little treat for J too.
One of my very favorite Christmas decorations...a beautiful Nativity set with pieces about 18 ins tall. I set this up in my foyer so it is the first thing we see when we come in. It has taken me 30 yrs to get one I like.
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This is the living room all decked out...it usually looks different each year but i am quite pleased with how it turned out this year...all it needs is a fire in the fireplace. There are currently 8 stockings hung...each one different and unique. My mom has also crocheted those..well the ones for my children, their spouses and my granddaughter anyway. We have one more to add this year for our new son in law but I still need a hanger for his. These all stay at our house and the kids have to get their own for their own houses...Don't know where I will hang all the future grands...but I'll think of somewhere!
Merry Christmas Scarf Sisters!
Here are J and Poppi decorating our extra perfect tree for this year...it really is symmetrical!
This is one of my favorite ornaments...a turtle with 2 turtledoves on its back...my hubby and I collect turtles so we couldn't pass this one up.
This is an angel crocheted by my mother and starched to stand upright...she also makes snowflakes for me to hang in my inside windows...in the background is our Advent Calendar...a magnetized board surrounded by the days leading up to Christmas with magnetic pieces of the nativity behind each little door...and usually a little treat for J too.
One of my very favorite Christmas decorations...a beautiful Nativity set with pieces about 18 ins tall. I set this up in my foyer so it is the first thing we see when we come in. It has taken me 30 yrs to get one I like.
...
This is the living room all decked out...it usually looks different each year but i am quite pleased with how it turned out this year...all it needs is a fire in the fireplace. There are currently 8 stockings hung...each one different and unique. My mom has also crocheted those..well the ones for my children, their spouses and my granddaughter anyway. We have one more to add this year for our new son in law but I still need a hanger for his. These all stay at our house and the kids have to get their own for their own houses...Don't know where I will hang all the future grands...but I'll think of somewhere!
Merry Christmas Scarf Sisters!
My New Favorite....
I do believe it's about time that I post a photo of my new favorite ornament! I received this gem from my precious Sister friend, Pat...it was SO PERFECT! I got all teary-eyed when I opened the box! (And it was received quite some time ago as she managed to play by the rules and mail her package by the deadline... others (ME) didn't quite make the cut!! But then again, if you know me, you know I often don't play by the rules OR make deadlines...but, I digress...)
Pat has nicknamed our property "The State Park" (you may understand why if you check out today's post on my blog)
And in fact, if I were to take a photo from the left side of our home looking toward the pond in the background, this could very well be a perfect artist's rendition of our property!
Thank you Pat!! We all absolutely LOVE our new ornament! Olivia has placed it high in a place of honor on our tree...just slightly below the crooked star! (Stay tuned to my blog for a future post on the story of the crooked star!)
Have I told you all lately how BLESSED BLESSED BLESSED I am to be a part of this Sisterhood?!
Pat has nicknamed our property "The State Park" (you may understand why if you check out today's post on my blog)
And in fact, if I were to take a photo from the left side of our home looking toward the pond in the background, this could very well be a perfect artist's rendition of our property!
Thank you Pat!! We all absolutely LOVE our new ornament! Olivia has placed it high in a place of honor on our tree...just slightly below the crooked star! (Stay tuned to my blog for a future post on the story of the crooked star!)
Have I told you all lately how BLESSED BLESSED BLESSED I am to be a part of this Sisterhood?!
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Happy Birthday Felisol
Dear Felisol,
We wish you a very Happy, Joyous and Blessed birthday and the New Year to come.
Your life is "being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ ,unto the glory and praise of God". Philippians 1 ;11
Here are some roses from our garden
Here is a short movement from Tchaikovsky 's Swan Lake ballet for Felisol who is very fond of music , art, cuklture and all thinhgs beautiful and elegant
"For God So Loved The World"
Today I received my ornament, I was so excited, I could not wait to open it.
Just as I expected I was so blessed.
It is a beautiful "peace" and reminder of the ONE "Who So Loved The World.
It is a solid bronze handmade ornament that was forged by the craftsmen at Wendell August in western PA.
This metal smith was established in 1923 designing ornate items for banks, churches and private homes. Their tradition of handmade forging still go on today. Each piece is initialed by the master engraver who hammered out each piece.
Here is the picture of the ornament I received today. It is engraved with the words, "For God So Loved The World"
Thank you DEB I am blessed!!!
Just as I expected I was so blessed.
It is a beautiful "peace" and reminder of the ONE "Who So Loved The World.
It is a solid bronze handmade ornament that was forged by the craftsmen at Wendell August in western PA.
This metal smith was established in 1923 designing ornate items for banks, churches and private homes. Their tradition of handmade forging still go on today. Each piece is initialed by the master engraver who hammered out each piece.
Here is the picture of the ornament I received today. It is engraved with the words, "For God So Loved The World"
Thank you DEB I am blessed!!!
I am just thrilled!
Hello Sisters!
I am just thrilled to be a part of this sisterhood!
I came across the group on a blog that I frequent. And then I noticed links on other blogs...and so..I followed the trail and here I am!
Actually, after reading several sister's blogs and learning about what this sisterhood was, I felt led to ask to join. We shall see what God had in mind!
Please allow me to introduce myself. My "birth" name is Cornelia but everyone calls me Connie. Originally from Wisconsin, I've been living on the remote and isolated island of Saipan in the Northern Mariana Islands for the past 30 years. I was married for 15 years to a local man. It was a difficult and abusive marriage. After some years of single-motherhood I remarried the most wonderful man ever, my darling "Japanese" husband, Masaaki. He is truly a blessing from the Lord and I honestly could not ask for more in a husband, partner and friend.
We each have three adult children, all girls. Masaaki also has two step-daughters, their father having passed away while they were little. Masaaki was also previously married to a local woman for about fifteen years. Together we have 23 grandchildren! Most of our children live here on Saipan except for Masaaki's youngest who lives in Oregon and my eldest who is a soldier in the US army-Black-hawk engineer.
Masaaki and I have planned for several years to move to Japan when he retires in March of 2011. That day is almost upon us. We are currently in transition and anxiously awaiting our move in March!
It's wonderful to be here. I pray that I have something of value to contribute to the Sisterhood!
God Bless and see you on the blog!
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Christmas Cheer
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| Sunrise from Mrs. Mac's front porch 12/4/10 |
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| Early morning .. I've turned on the lights just for your visit :) |
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| Wreath = God's eternal love |
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| Little heart to be filled with treats |
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| Welcome to my home! |
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| A small reminder why we celebrate His birth |
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| Stockings are hung! |
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| Sunrise .. ripples and glitter :) |
How do you keep the clutter of the world from spoiling your Christmas celebrations? Do you have a favorite family tradition? Traditions are good ways for building memories over the years and at the same time instilling the Love God has for each of us. I am daily reminded of His greatest Gift presented to us as a babe wrapped in swaddling cloth .. asleep on a manger.
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| A reminder of His Light and Love |
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
I Know
... you sisters are just waiting for an invite to show off your Christmas decor .. so, while we are waiting for the Scarf Sister's Bible AND a few more ornaments to show up in the mail .. have at it. Post several pictures of your tree trimming activity ... and while you're at it .. share a favorite Bible scripture of this special season.
Love,
Mrs. Mac
Love,
Mrs. Mac
Sunday, November 28, 2010
DRAINED & EXHAUSTED
First of all, I appreciate all of the prayers lifted up on our behalf while we were home in St. Louis over Thanksgiving week. To say that it was pretty rough would be an understatement. We stayed at my In-Law's home for the majority of our visit. We were both mellancholy walking through that empty home filled with so many memories. I did my fair share of crying, Dave photographed the entire house and we spent a lot of time talking and sharing our feelings. It became a little easier by the end of our visit.
We DID get to spend time with our oldest daughter Jennifer and her family and I got to enjoy my grand-babies too! We spent time with Dave's youngest brother Perry and his wife Peggy (one of my best friends) as well as 2 other families that we consider best friends/family. That part brought some sunshine into our bleak visit.
My mother is not well. I was the only one that she wanted to visit with her so Dave and the children did their own thing. I admit that she looked much better than I expected. She was wearing a turban as to hide her bald head and her skin color was better than I expected. She is however weak. I spent a good portion of Saturday (20th) with her and on Monday when I spoke to them they said they were supposed to go in on Tuesday to get the results of her latest scan. I spent Tuesday with them and she was having quite a bit of pain, they have upped her pain medication to 2 every 4 hours. We went in to see the Oncologist and it was bad news.
When she was diagnosed back in June with Colon Cancer, the plan was to remove the tumor and perform a temporary Colostomy. They would treat her with chemo and radiation and then hopefully reattach her in *6-8 months. When they got in there, the tumor was much more invasive and they decided to perform the temporary colostomy, shrink the tumor and THEN remove it. What we had no way of knowing is that this cancer is VERY aggressive and VERY resistant to treatment. In the time that she was healing from her surgery and before chemo began, the cancer had spread rapidly, into the lymph nodes and liver. She began chemo in August, their strongest line of defense and had some positive results. Suddenly though, it quit working. They began her on their next best option and she responded well initially but then the cancer became resistant again. essentially the news this past Tuesday is that there is a third treatment but they are expecting the same result. It's like sending in the 3rd string quarterback in the Super Bowl to accomplish what the best and 2nd best couldn't! Then he mentioned hospice. He was sincere and sympathetic but that didn't keep my world from crashing apart.
On Thursday, Mom didn't even want to see me and I had to respect that.
I did get to spend most of Saturday with them and it was pretty emotional. Neither of THEM is ready to give up and I saw a spark in my Mom that has been missing since June. In the midst of all of this, God gave me a precious gift. My Mom was lying on the couch the entire visit and she was feeling comfortable enough with me that she didn't bother with wearing her turban. As the 3 of us conversed, every time Pop spoke and I would look at Mom, she was hanging on his every word. Her love for him was all over her face and it brought me to tears.
Please lift us up before the throne of mercy and grace. I don't know how I will bear it to lose my Mom as well as seeing what it'll do to Pop. I am thankful for God's constant presence and peace but I am am really hurting.
We DID get to spend time with our oldest daughter Jennifer and her family and I got to enjoy my grand-babies too! We spent time with Dave's youngest brother Perry and his wife Peggy (one of my best friends) as well as 2 other families that we consider best friends/family. That part brought some sunshine into our bleak visit.
My mother is not well. I was the only one that she wanted to visit with her so Dave and the children did their own thing. I admit that she looked much better than I expected. She was wearing a turban as to hide her bald head and her skin color was better than I expected. She is however weak. I spent a good portion of Saturday (20th) with her and on Monday when I spoke to them they said they were supposed to go in on Tuesday to get the results of her latest scan. I spent Tuesday with them and she was having quite a bit of pain, they have upped her pain medication to 2 every 4 hours. We went in to see the Oncologist and it was bad news.
When she was diagnosed back in June with Colon Cancer, the plan was to remove the tumor and perform a temporary Colostomy. They would treat her with chemo and radiation and then hopefully reattach her in *6-8 months. When they got in there, the tumor was much more invasive and they decided to perform the temporary colostomy, shrink the tumor and THEN remove it. What we had no way of knowing is that this cancer is VERY aggressive and VERY resistant to treatment. In the time that she was healing from her surgery and before chemo began, the cancer had spread rapidly, into the lymph nodes and liver. She began chemo in August, their strongest line of defense and had some positive results. Suddenly though, it quit working. They began her on their next best option and she responded well initially but then the cancer became resistant again. essentially the news this past Tuesday is that there is a third treatment but they are expecting the same result. It's like sending in the 3rd string quarterback in the Super Bowl to accomplish what the best and 2nd best couldn't! Then he mentioned hospice. He was sincere and sympathetic but that didn't keep my world from crashing apart.
On Thursday, Mom didn't even want to see me and I had to respect that.
I did get to spend most of Saturday with them and it was pretty emotional. Neither of THEM is ready to give up and I saw a spark in my Mom that has been missing since June. In the midst of all of this, God gave me a precious gift. My Mom was lying on the couch the entire visit and she was feeling comfortable enough with me that she didn't bother with wearing her turban. As the 3 of us conversed, every time Pop spoke and I would look at Mom, she was hanging on his every word. Her love for him was all over her face and it brought me to tears.
Please lift us up before the throne of mercy and grace. I don't know how I will bear it to lose my Mom as well as seeing what it'll do to Pop. I am thankful for God's constant presence and peace but I am am really hurting.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
God's Blessing To You All This Thanksgiving Day
happy thanksgiving to all of our american sisters, from your philippine sister, crown of beauty, your norweigian sister, felisol. your sister from india, amrita and your canadian sisters julie, saija, rebecca and terry...
god bless you all and may you have a joyful time as you give thanks to the lord for all of your blessings!
god bless america and your brave troops this thanksgiving!........
Sunday, November 21, 2010
November 22..It Is Our Sweet Sister Diane's Birthday!
diane is a very quiet sister and even though we haven't seen her around lately, she is never forgotten! the day that our dear connie introduced us to her was a happy day indeed.
we find that she is always willing to pray for any of our requests and when she sends in HER requests[mostly for her dear family], it is always a great privilege to hold her hands and pray along with her...and oh! how many prayers have been answered!
as i mentioned diane is a quiet little lady..i found this verse on her blog and you can see what she stands for and who she considers who her strength is!
bless you dear sister and we hope that you have a very lovely birthday celebration with your whole family....love from your extended family...your scarf sisters
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Star Struck
My special delivery package came from Linda in England. She expressed her great love of God and His Word. The star symbol reminds her of the Word of God which guides us today! I gladly accept her token reminder of Christ and this precious symbol of Him. Thank you so much for your thoughtfulness .. and for partaking in this exchange.
Much love .. and many hugs,
Cathy/Mrs. Mac
A Gift From Afar
My ornament from a far off land arrived yesterday ... I'll try and do a post later tonight ...
Hopefully the Bible will make an appearance soon and we can continue our journey.
Hopefully the Bible will make an appearance soon and we can continue our journey.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
HOLIDAY MAGIC!!
I was tickled to receive my Christmas ornament from Scarf Sister Margie in the mail! It came from the great North to the warm and sunny South! I love how it reminds me of the wooden butter molds from days gone by! Now I have to decide which tree to hang it from since I decorate 3 trees for Christmas!
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Full of Hope
photo source
As the heavens are higher than the earth,
so are my ways higher than your ways
and my thoughts than your thoughts.
As the rain and the snow
come down from heaven,
and do not return to it
without watering the earth
and making it bud and flourish,
so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater,
so is my word that goes out from my mouth:
It will not return to me empty,
but will accomplish what I desire
and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.
You will go out in joy
and be led forth in peace;
the mountains and hills
will burst into song before you,
and all the trees of the field
will clap their hands.
-Isaiah 55:9-12
Chosen One gave birth by Caesarian section last night.
The doctor decided to perform the operation after hours of dry labor, as the baby showed signs of distress.
We welcomed Andre Elijah, my second grandson, into this world at exactly 7:31 p.m. on November 13, 2010.
He had to be resuscitated, and was immediately placed in an incubator and given oxygen.
Early this morning, at about 1:30 a.m., the baby's pediatrician informed us that the baby's respiratory rate was very fast. Pneumonia is suspected. A chest x-ray will be done if rate doesn't improve. Signs of infection was seen in the blood test, so the baby is also being given anti-biotics.
I have named this baby Full of Hope, and my hope is built on nothing less than the solid rock on which I stand!
Last night as my friend Trudi and I prayed for this baby, this word was impressed upon my heart, I do all things well.
My faith declaration:
Yes... faith arises in my heart my dear Father. My heart is full of hope...for You are the God who does all things well.
Dear friends, please stand and pray with us as we believe for a mighty and glorious display of God's glory.
Full of Hope
taken at 7:43 p.m. last night, 12 minutes after he was born
taken at 7:43 p.m. last night, 12 minutes after he was born
Update:
A chest x-ray was taken and it is confirmed that the baby has pneumonia. Three kinds of antibiotics are being administered through an IV drip. In addition to his pediatrician, we have also availed of the services of a neonatal specialist to help in the medical management of his condition. As of 4 p.m. today, the baby's respiratory rate has dropped from 90 to 70 per minute, which is a marked improvement. He was also taken out of the incubator, although he is still in the natal Intensive Care unit.
Beginning tomorrow, Chosen One will be strong enough to be wheeled to the Nursery where she will be able to hold her baby and begin breastfeeding him. I agree with Dr. Diane Nandwani, our very sweet pediatrician, this is the healing touch and human connection that will speed up the healing process. Chosen One will also speak words of affirmation over her son. Please continue to pray for Full of Hope's speedy recovery and complete healing.
A chest x-ray was taken and it is confirmed that the baby has pneumonia. Three kinds of antibiotics are being administered through an IV drip. In addition to his pediatrician, we have also availed of the services of a neonatal specialist to help in the medical management of his condition. As of 4 p.m. today, the baby's respiratory rate has dropped from 90 to 70 per minute, which is a marked improvement. He was also taken out of the incubator, although he is still in the natal Intensive Care unit.
Beginning tomorrow, Chosen One will be strong enough to be wheeled to the Nursery where she will be able to hold her baby and begin breastfeeding him. I agree with Dr. Diane Nandwani, our very sweet pediatrician, this is the healing touch and human connection that will speed up the healing process. Chosen One will also speak words of affirmation over her son. Please continue to pray for Full of Hope's speedy recovery and complete healing.
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