Happy New Year!

I can't believe that is December 31st already! Where did 2010 go??? I guess the phrase, "time flies while you having fun," must apply to 2010! It is very warm here in northern Michigan, by warm I mean in the 40's... all our snow is sinking into the ground or evaporating into the air (it is very foggy). It is kind of yucky out!

This is the time of the year everyone takes a look back at the "highlights" or "low-lights" of the year past... but I am choosing just to glance at the year past.  My devotions was good this morning… it talked about looking in the rear-view mirror to see where you have been and what God brought you through… that is good.  I have always said that if you turn your head to look at what was behind, you will drive yourself off into the ditch, but the idea of glancing in the rear-view mirror... I like that.  You can see God in the rear-view mirror but you can also see Him through the windshield.  “He will never leave me nor forsake me. The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?” Hebrews 13:5-6 

Glance behind to remember, but I must be focused on what is ahead to keep moving and growing.  Looking ahead is far more productive.  What is that saying “yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, today is a gift that's why it’s called the present.”

I have one more picture to share of a gift I made for someone... the giant cup is from Pampered Chef and the decorations are from SU.

Off to do some errands... groceries, post office, and pay taxes (yuck).  Have a blessed New Year!

with a grateFUL HEART, carin

Peace through Christ...

Christmas Eve... I am set I think.  I am content in what I have gotten done and the rest doesn't matter. My devotions this morning was about peace… the peace that Christ came to give us. I was thinking about Mary and how on the night she was to give birth she had no warm, comfortable spot to be in. What would I have said if it were me? “what do you mean there is no room in the inn? Can’t they see that I am about to give birth here? How can they expect me to go to that dirty barn with all of its animal smells and have a baby? No tv and no running water? Do they realize who I am?” But no, she did not take offense. She knew that there were more important things for her to be concerned with. Why would she want to waste her precious moments with offense in her heart??? Why do we so many times let the simplest, mundane, silly things push us over the edge to being offended? I am sure Mary was not thrilled with the idea of giving birth in a stable, but she knew it was going to be alright. She had the Peace living inside her… she knew His peace that passes all understanding even before He was physically in this earth.

You often hear people say, “all I want is world peace.” What is each one of us doing to make that a reality? To be perfectly honest, none of us have any control over “world peace”… all we can control is the peace in our own heart. Don’t let minor things put the scars of offense on your heart. This world can be brutal, but even when the world is raging around us… we can have that peace in our hearts. Do you have IT? I like that little saying, “No God, no peace… know God, know peace.” “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7 … He is so precious to me.

Sharing some baked goodies with you today! My snowflake cutout cookies with edible glitter.

The second pic is cakeballs... my first attempt, but they turned out good and they are sooooo yummy!

Off to two services at church and then heading to my parents for a couple days.

with a grateFUL HEART, carin

In His Season...

Only 2 more days! Are you all ready for Christmas? I always like to reminisce a little this time of the year... I was always a sneak at Christmas-time… if I got the chance I peeked at gifts my parents had hidden in the house. Even went as far as opening a gift that was under the tree that had been wrapped at the store before Mom brought it home. Yes, it was jean gauchos… I must have been about 11 or 12 years old… gauchos were the rage then! Um, and I wasn’t alone in that one, my older sister, Renee, was also a part of that… we even tried them on before carefully wrapping them up again. I have always been a lil’ nosey, sorry to say, but it is true. I always wanted to know what was next… I am a “planner” so I would use the excuse that I need to prepare and knowing will help me with that… that is just a pile of bologna! The truth is that I wanted to know so I could be in control of the situation… and by doing that I missed so many great moments because I was not living in the moment.

I am finding this way of thinking doesn’t mesh well with my life as a follower of Christ. I am not in control of my life, but I have the choice of whether I am going to let God control it with me going through life kicking and screaming or go through life with peace and trust. Something is always going to control my life… will it be fear or will it be faith???... will it be grateFULness or will it be disappointment???... will it be love or will it be hate??? We all have the choice. And He said to them, “It is not for you (me) to know times or seasons which the Father has put in His own authority.” Acts 1:7   May you choose to fill your day with faith, grateFULness, peace, and love.

Wanted to share this paper and canvas project I did for a friend as a gift.  I luv, luv, luv the SU butterfly embosslit folder!  And of course, more SU rub ons from my stash. The saying is, "A small thing done in love is a great thing."

Have a blessed Christmas Eve Eve. with a grateFUL HEART, carin

Let It Be...

So are you all ready for Christmas? Has there ever been a Christmas when you felt totally prepared? I am finally getting my Christmas cards in the mail... yes, I let it go once again until the last minute, but at least I am sending some, unlike last year.

In reading about Mary, Jesus’ mother, when the angel appeared to tell her of her pregnancy… I was thinking of how her mind must have tried to play tricks on her… I realize she must have had incredible faith to begin with because she was chosen by God to carry His precious Son, but she was still human.  In verse 38 of Luke 1, Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.  The words, “let it be to me according to Your word”… am I willing to say that??? Will I humble myself and surrender all always to my Lord, no matter the cost?  This reminds me of the song, “Your Love Never Fails.” The part of that song that says, “You make all things work together for my good”.  His love has always been the same… unbelievable… unimaginable love.  It is so hard sometimes to just let it all go, but I know… I believe Papa has always brought things into my life that were only for my good, even when I couldn’t see it or didn’t want to see it! And I know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28  HIS PURPOSE! Surrender is a daily thing with me, just like I am sure it was with Mary too as she saw her belly getting bigger and bigger… and people talking about her, but His promise is the same today with me as it was back then with Mary... I have to surrender it all to allow Papa to make my life significant for Him.

I am sharing my very simple Christmas card with you... consider this my Merry Christmas greeting to you. I am only sending to family that is far away or shut-ins... hope it cheers up their day.

with a grateFUL HEART, carin

No Hustle and Bustle.

As I was reading Psalm 42, my heart was aching for friends/family. I can see that Satan is really working in places where families are doing good and causing him the most damage.  In verse 9, “I will say unto God my rock, Why have You forgotten me? Why do I mourn because of the oppression of the enemy?”  I can still remember the message I heard, how that Satan’s greatest weapon is discouragement… if he can discourage then he has got us where he wants us.  In those times we may feel so alone, like the verse says, “God, why have You forgotten me?” but it is in those dark times when we have to dig deeper to see His light shining in us.  It is kind of like discouragement pulls the blinds on our heart, those total light-blocking blinds, we need to find something or someone to help pull the blinds up.  When it gets so bad we may not even want to look to God’s Word for the encouragement we need… that is when having great, encouraging people in our lives is so important.  Do I see when someone is discouraged and needs a word of encouragement from me? Am I allowing myself to be led by Holy Spirit to see those moments when my encouragement is needed? Am I willing to do whatever God asks me to do, no matter how uncomfortable I may be?

Christmas prep is still in full motion... it is coming ready or not!!! Spending today with a friend shopping in Traverse City... praying for peace in my heart... no hustle and bustle! Thought I would share a pic of our Christmas tree... it has been up and decorated for almost a week!

with a grateFUL HEART, carin

I am Still Here...

Yes, I am still here... I just have been so busy since we got home from Thanksgiving at my parents'.  Last week I spent everyday getting our church decorated for Christmas and helping to get things ready for the servant/leader Christmas party that was on Friday.  It was a busy but very fun week. Here is a picture of me and my friend, Stacy hanging snowflakes from the atrium area at church... it is a long way up there.

Next Monday is our Night Out For Ladies Christmas event, so this week is spent in preparation for that.  We usually have anywhere from 300-500 women... so there is lots to do again this week.  However, when I woke up Saturday morning I had a scratchy throat which has now turned into a chest cold.  I have too much to do... I don't have time to be sick.

Our Christmas tree is up with lights, star and tree skirt, oh and 3 ornaments but that is it so far!  It will all get done and what doesn't I just have to let it go.

I was reading in II Corinthians 1:3-7 this morning and the thought came to me that my suffering will NEVER outweigh God's comfort... I am so thankful for that.

I just took some cough medicine and now I am gonna cozy in for the evening in my "snuggie".

with a grateFUL HEART, carin

30 Days of grateFULness (day 30)

Hope you all had a nice Thanksgiving!  We did... although I am very tired. I was awake before 5 a.m., and we were on the road to my parents' by 7:30 or so... long day by oh so good! 

So on day 30 I am so grateFUL for safe travels, the love of an incredible man of God, time spent with family, and all that of you that may be reading this.

I do realize that a day of thanksgiving should be a daily thing... and I really try to make that happen in my life, but I need to try harder... it is hard to stay in a bad mood if you are speaking what you are grateFUL for... don't you think?

"And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him." Colossians 3:17

Time to crawl into bed... with a grateFUL HEART, carin

30 Days of grateFULness (day 29)

We just got home from Testimony Night at church... I look forward to it every Thanksgiving Eve... it is so great to see how Papa God is restoring marriages and families.  So on day 29, I am grateFUL for being established in the faith.  I can't imagine how hopeless my life would be without Christ.

"As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving." Colossians 2:6-7

I am a big fan of Josh Groban and a couple of years ago I purchased his Christmas CD... on that CD was the song titled, "Thankful"... every time I hear it my heart overflows with gratitude.  Take a listen here.  Hope you are blessed by it.

Heading to my parents' in the morning for a long weekend... looking forward to family time. 

with a grateFUL HEART, carin

30 Days of grateFULness (day 28)

It seems “funny” that when I did my devotions this morning that this was the verse that jumped out at me… “For He (Christ) Himself is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of separation,” Ephesians 2:14. What I am grateFUL for today is for the peace I have through Christ.

Shortly after I wrote the above statement... the devil quickly leaped in there and tried to set me off track. Satan will not steal my peace!!!!  I went searching for scripture to set my mind back on heartfelt peace and I came up with, “Be still, and know that I am God” Psalm 46:10. It can be easy for me to shut out the external noise in my house, being most days I am the only one home, but it is the internal noise that is the tough one for me… yes, the voices in my head! The noise of worry, anxious thoughts, second-guessing… sometimes even after my quiet-time with God those things can start echoing in my mind again. What I need to be reminded of is that Papa has given me a way of “sound proofing” my mind which in turn brings peace once again to my heart.

First of all I need to remember that God understands my dilemma and He will always provide a way to calm my heart. Secondly, do I want to continue to carry my worries or am I willing to exchange them for His peace??? “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” Philippians 4:6-7. Lastly, I need to remember it is a choice on my part… who is more capable of handling anything in my life??? I already know that I find that peace, only Papa can provide, when I let go of the “noise.”  Just writing all this down has helped me and I hope it helped someone else too.

I have to share a picture of the "pie man" that lives in my house!  My hubby makes the best pecan pie around... I never make pies because he always makes them, including homemade crusts.  He is a keeper!

with a grateFUL HEART, carin

30 Days of grateFULness (day 27)

On day 27... I am grateFUL that God gave me the chance to help out a friend that had surgery last week.  Took goulash and pecan tarts to them for supper.  Stayed and visited for awhile... hope I was a help... hope they liked supper.

with a grateFUL HEART, carin

30 Days of grateFULness (day 23-26)

Once again I am sorry that I just didn't blog the last few days!  I had lots to be grateFUL for though.

Day 23 - I was grateFUL that I was part of a church-wide fast... we are in the midst of trying to choose a new lead pastor, so the fast was for prayer and guidance in this.  I fasted facebook and blogging, which many days takes up too much time! ;)  If you think of it, please pray for our church in this matter.

Day 24 - I was grateFUL for a trip to Arnie's Crafts with a good friend... a little craft supply retail therapy! Plus, we had dinner with some great couples that night too.

Day 25 - I was grateFUL for Christmas movies on the Hallmark Channel... okay... sappy, silly, maybe, but I luv them!

On day 26 I am grateFUL for child-like faith.  I accepted Jesus into my heart as a young child, which I am sure back then I didn't realize how blessed I was that I had the foundation set by my parents for that to happen.  Every person can come to Christ with child-like faith, but us adults can learn from the little ones!  "When the chief priests and scribes saw the wonderful things that He did, and the children crying out in the temple and saying, 'Hosanna to the Son of David!' they were indignant and said to Jesus, 'Do You hear what these are saying?' And Jesus said to them, 'Yes. Have you never read, Out of the mouth of babes and nursing infants You have perfected praise?'" Matthew 21:15-16  Don't let life or being "adult" stop you from having the faith of a child.

Sharing a Thanksgiving Day card today... I don't do many but I have this cute little turkey stamp from SU so I had to use it. *Ü* (sorry the lighting on this was so poor)

with a grateFUL HEART, carin

30 Days of grateFULness (day 22)

I am grateFUL for a hubby that warms my side of the bed for me!  Night all!

with a grateFUL HEART, carin

30 Days of grateFULness (day 21)

It has been a busy day, but I accomplished a lot... so that makes it a good day!  On day 21... I am grateFUL for the things I was able to accomplish today.  Not everything went favorably, but that is okay... I will deal with it and like the bookmark below says, "All the flowers of tomorrow are in the seeds of today."  There maybe "flowers" tomorrow. *Ü*

Okay, so here is the rest of my story from yesterday... the pilot made an alarming announcement that we would be landing at Detroit Metro Airport instead of Detroit City due to freezing rain, he said the City Airport had shorter runways and they were afraid the plane would slide off the end. Ok, now you have my total attention! I was a little shaken and started to silently pray, but I knew all would be okay. As the plane attempted to land… the closer we got to the ground the windier it was… it was like being on a rollercoaster… weaving and tipping and tossing back and forth. We got within a couple hundred feet of landing and all of a sudden we took off again with full throttle, or what seemed like full throttle. Again, the pilot made an announcement, saying we had to take off again because of massive wind shears… so we were to circle for awhile until the wind died down… we circled for what seemed to be forever… when the pilot’s voice once again came over the speaker… this time he said we were running short on fuel and we had to land no matter what. The flight staff prepared us as good as they could, but I was really scared… being all alone and so new at flying. The gentleman sitting next to me calmly folded his newspaper, and started to speak words of assurance to me. He reached over and held my hand, the whole time speaking words of comfort to me. It was a landing like I could never imagine and hope I never experience again, but this man, that I know God had set next to me, brought me such peace. As we unloaded the plane he said he would find me at baggage to help me and to keep an eye on me. I looked for him, but I never saw him again… it was like he vanished. I don’t know this man’s name… I probably would have a hard time even giving a description of him… what I do know and believe is that at that very moment, when I needed that human connection… he was my angel… an angel sent from God.

Since then I have thought many times about the verses, Hebrews 13:1-2 “Let brotherly love continue. Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels.” I like to believe this might have been my one time I actually saw my guardian angel. Farther in that same chapter is this verse, “So we may boldly say: ‘The LORD is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?’” Hebrews 13:6 The Lord helped me that day by giving me this man to help me on that specific day… whether he was really a celestial being or not… he was sent from my Heavenly Papa to comfort me in that moment.

with a grateFUL HEART, carin

30 Days of grateFULness (day 20)

It is opening deer season here in Michigan today, so my hubby has the day off... yes, there are businesses that close in this neck of the woods for opening day!  So today I am grateFUL for the extra time I get to spend with my hubby on this Monday!  That is one of my favorite past-times! *Ü*

I also am trying to get back into tatting... here is a little sample of my beginning again with tatting.

I have a story to share with you too.  This time of the year reminds me of Luke’s time stationed in Oklahoma in ’91 for officer’s school. He left the first part of September and was gone for 5 months. I had my hair salon open at the time so there was no way I could go with him. After 5 weeks, I flew down to see him (my first flight ever) for a long weekend. Then 6 weeks later I flew down again to spend Thanksgiving with him… that time I went on Wednesday and came home on Monday. It was a great Thanksgiving, filled with many “firsts” including… the first time I wasn’t with my family for Thanksgiving and the first time having Thanksgiving dinner in a restaurant. It didn’t matter where I was or what I ate… I was just so grateful to be with my hubby (we had only been married for 15 months at that time). The interesting part of that trip started on the flight home. I flew out of Oklahoma City to St. Louis with a 4 hour layover before flying onto Detroit. Four hours in an airport by myself… now remember this was before laptops and cell phones… 4 hours turned into 5 hours because of bad weather… finally after all that time I was on my way to Detroit City Airport. I was in the aisle seat and I was seated next to an older man in a suit who spent the flight reading a newspaper… I was very shy and didn’t speak much to strangers, plus I took Dramamine for air sickness so I was a little out of it. As we got close to Detroit, the pilot made an alarming announcement...

I didn't want today's post to be too long, so I will finish my story tomorrow... please "stay tuned".

with a grateFUL HEART, carin

30 Days of grateFULness (day 19)

It has been a very dreary day today... weather-wise, but really good otherwise.  Great morning at church... love to worship and a good message too.

On day 19 I am grateFUL for words of kindness.  I am the sort of person that will speak my mind, trying always to do it in a kind way.  I also use a lot of humor, in fact I really have trouble relating to people that don't have a very good sense of humor... they probably have a difficult time dealing with me too. *Ü* I try to speak only life giving words and not waste my breath on unnecessary words... trying to speak words of kindness and encouragement to others, and this morning I had so many people speak kind words to me.  When that happens it can turn a dreary day into a cheery day. I don't live my life by what others say about me, but it is nice to hear positive things and not negative.
"A wholesome tongue is a tree of life, but perverseness in it breaks the spirit." Psalm 15:4

Here is another little project I made for a gift.  I bought the picture frame a long time ago at a surplus type store, wish I would have bought more.

with a grateFUL HEART, carin

30 Days of grateFULness (day 18)

Getting an early jump-start this morning. Hubby is working and then I think we are heading to Traverse City for the afternoon... we have not been to TC since August!!!  Going for no particular reason, just sometimes you need a change in scenery.

On day 18, I am so grateFUL that I am significant... I may not feel like... I may not even think it, but Papa God told me so in His Word.  "Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed. And in Your book they all were written, the days fashioned for me, when as yet there were none of them. How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God! How great is the sum of them!" Psalm 139:16-17
 Growing up I always felt like I didn't belong and you know, especially as a teenager, you just want to fit in, but I never did really.  I accepted Christ into my life at a young age, so I always knew I was "not of this world" but that didn't make it easy to be different so many times.  I probably even resented it at times... that my values and moral/spiritual compass wouldn't let me go have "fun" that everyone else was having.  Not saying I was perfect... I got away with plenty, but I never stepped too far over the line before the Holy Spirit redirected.  When I read chapter 139 of Psalms and especially those verses above... I am just amazed!  Papa not only created me and loves me, but He sees me as significant... and He sees you as significant. Now, that is something to be grateFUL for... don't you think?

Here is a little birthday card I made... it is my sister, Renee, that taught me how to do the owl... I think it is a woot! (sorry couldn't resist!)

with a grateFUL HEART, carin

30 Days of grateFULness (day 17)

Can't believe Thanksgiving is less than 2 weeks away.  Looking forward to going "home" (to the Thumb where my parents live) for Thanksgiving... we haven't been there since the first part of August for a weekend... too long.

I asked my hubby to share what he is grateFUL for today, first he said me, and I told him that couldn't be his answer. LOL So then he said he is grateFUL for the beautiful Fall weather we have had and such a great harvest.

Here is a wall hanging I made for a friend's birthday.  I know I got this idea from someplace on SCS, but I am not really sure from who, sorry.

 with a grateFUL HEART, carin

30 Days of grateFULness (day 15 and 16)

I am so grateFUL today for the men and women that have given their lives, serving our country, protecting our freedom.  There are not enough words to express my thankfulness.

"Father God, please place Your mighty arm around those men and women who are sacrificing right now for us.  I pray for their families... God give them the peace and comfort that can only come from You.  I thank You that through You and Your Son we are able to know what true FREEDOM is. In Jesus Name, amen."

Remember, FREEDOM is never free!

Off to spend the day with some super duper ladies... 2 of which have birthdays today! Happy Birthday Ruth and Laurie!  Chatting, eating, laughing (for sure), and yes, even a lil' stamping... what more could you want in a day???  I might have something to share with you a little later, but it is a birthday surprise so don't want to ruin it.

with a grateFUL HEART, carin

30 Days of grateFULness (day 14)

Today was a much quieter day... went through a lot of piles and threw out a bunch of needless stuff.  Oh, that feels so good when I take the time to do it.  Clutter out of the house helps me keep the clutter out of my mind!  Anyone else like that?

We had a great Night Out For Ladies last night at church, which leads me to what I am grateFUL for today... I am grateFUL that Papa God has called me not only to be a wife, but to be Luke's wife... I have been so blessed with a hubby that is so much my opposite that we compliment each other perfectly, or as perfectly as we can... it just keeps getting better and better.  I am not bragging... I am just giving God the glory He deserves.

with a grateFUL HEART, carin

30 Days of grateFULness (day 13)

It was a busy, long day so this will be short and sweet. On day 13 on am grateFUL for a good report from my second mammogram and ultra sound, and having supportive friends that care for me.  Thank You Papa for bringing goodness in my life.

with a grateFUL HEART, cairn

30 Days of grateFULness (day 12)

It was a busy day today, but a good busy.  Starting with an extra hour of sleep with the time change, but you know I was still up very early.  I served in the information center at church this morning for first service then was able to worship at second service.  It was a great message... love a pastor that will get up... speak the truth... maybe even step on my toes... just be very genuine. My hubby and I were privileged to have lunch with 3 awesome men... that was good. Then we were off to a funeral home visit... not so good, but necessary.  I had mixed feelings about the passing of our friend... so sad to see her go, but rejoicing that her 8 year struggle with cancer is now over.  She is resting in the arms of Papa God.

So on day 12 I am grateFUL for time... the time Papa gives me to live this precious life and hopefully use it to reach out and touch others lives with His love.  Time to serve Him... time to worship Him... time to spend with my hubby and friends... time to just share a smile or a kind word with someone... even time to take a nap on a Sunday afternoon with my hubby.

Here is another of the cards I created... I luv the SU "In Colors" and they look so nice against Chocolate Chip.

I would love to hear what you are grateFUL for today... with a grateFUL HEART, carin

30 Days of grateFULness (day 11)

On day 11 - I am grateFUL that I got to spend the whole day with my hubby.  This time of the year he works every other Saturday (Spring and Summer it is every Saturday), so I so appreciate days like today.  I slept in a little longer than usual and he made breakfast for us... then we went grocery shopping in Cadillac... he doesn't mind shopping and that is so much help to me... I don't mind the self-checkout but it is so much easier with 2 people.  He even helped the lady ahead of us bag her groceries.

I also got to go to one of my favorite places today... Arnie's Craft Store in Houghton Lake... it is one of the best craft stores around here. We met my sister and her hubby there... they are in Houghton Lake for the weekend celebrating their anniversary.  We had a late lunch with them and spent some time chatting... the guys didn't chat so much but me and my sister kept the conversation going! *Ü*  I hadn't seen my sister for a couple months, so it was great to just spend some time together.  Happy Anniversary Renee and Frank!

Here is another one of the cards I created yesterday.  These are different colors for me to use, but it turned out okay... I think.  And I am "thinking of you" as I post this.

with a grateFUL HEART, carin

30 Days of grateFULness (days 9 and 10)

Sorry, I am posting 2 days together again today... I have been feeling under the weather most of the week and yesterday just got away from me without posting on my blog.

On day 4, I am grateFUL for peace... peace that even when I am not getting much sleep at night because of coughing... I know that Papa is there watching over me and giving me strength. ‎"The LORD will give strength to His people; the LORD will bless His people with peace." Psalm 29:11

On day 5, I am grateFUL that I was able to do some stamping.  I haven't done too much lately and I need to get back in the habit... it can be like therapy for me.  And here is one of the cards I made using Really Rust, Always Artichoke, So Saffron.  The trim I bought at Hobby Lobby... when I saw it I thought it would look pretty used on cards, especially with Fall colors.

Gonna go snuggle up on the couch with my hubby... with a grateFUL HEART, carin

30 Days of grateFULness (day 8)

Today I am grateFUL for LOVE... love from Papa God... love from my dear hubby... love from my family and love from great friends that are like family.  A kind word, a warm smile, a gentle touch, a big hug... I pray I will be known for my love.

with a grateFUL HEART, carin

30 Days of grateFULness (day 7)

I am grateFUL on day 7 to live in a country where I have the right to vote.  The process may not be perfect but it is the best we've got.

That is all I got for today... I am feeling a little under the weather... hope I feel better tomorrow.

with a grateFUL HEART, carin



30 Days of grateFULness (day 6)

I am grateFUL on day 6 for the Seasons… the Seasons of nature and the Seasons of life.  I love living in Michigan where we are able to enjoy the different Seasons… I will admit that some Seasons could be shorter than others, but Papa God’s creation is so unbelievably beautiful. 

Just like the Seasons of Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall… life has many Seasons.  I was reading in Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 - “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace.”  As I am looking back over some incredible things that took place in the last 10 months I am also reminded of some sad things as well… friends that have been in my life for only a short season, but through sad circumstances are no longer a part of my life.  I can remember a message our previous pastor gave about how friendships may not be friendships that we are meant to have forever.  Sometimes people are brought into our lives for a time to learn from in a mutual way.  I have had friendships where my friend took a wrong turn that was detrimental to my well-being… but like our pastor said, those are the times we just may have to vacate that relationship.  It doesn’t make the friendship any less than it was, but it does take strength to see the problem and to part ways for one’s own sake.  If you are going through something like that now… it is not fun, but it can be a learning experience… search God’s Word… pray for guidance.

with a grateFUL HEART, carin

30 Days of grateFULness (days 4 and 5)

Yesterday was such a busy day trying to get caught up on housework... with no electricity for over 24 hours and then once it did come back on, we had septic problems (yuck), so needless to say the dishes were stacked up and so was the laundry.  I can't stand to live in a messy house, if someone else has a messy house I don't mind being in it, because it isn't my mess!!! *Ü*

So my day 4 would have been that I was grateFUL I was able to get the dishes done and the laundry washed, even though it isn't folded or put away yet (I hate folding and putting away laundry!).

We also had a wedding to go to last night... it was a beautiful Fall wedding.  So here is the card I made for the young couple.

The words say, "There is no remedy for love but to love more."  The colors I used were Always Artichoke, Wild Wasabi, So Saffron... and of course had to add a touch of Diamond Stickles.

Now for Day 5... I am grateFUL for the sacrifice of Christ.  He died to redeem me once and for all. When I read about the sacrifices that people had to make in the Old Testament, under the law... I really don't know if I could have done it. I was reading in Hebrews 10 this morning... this passage really shows how the greatest Sacrifice of all actually took our sins away.  Verses 14 and 18 made this so clear... "For by one offering He has perfected forever those who are being sanctified...  Now where there is remission of these, there is no longer an offering for sin."  Thank You, Papa God.

with a grateFUL HEART, carin

30 Days of grateFULness (day 3)

It has been a long day, so I will make this quick. On this 3rd day of grateFULness I am grateFUL for love in my life... love from Papa God... love from my hubby... love from my family and friends... and the chance to be able to love all of them in return.  Love is an action it is not a thing.  Share a little love today.

Here is a wedding card I made for our oldest niece that got married this last summer. We have a wedding to attend tomorrow so I will have to take the time to do a little crafting in the morning... yay!

"As the Father loved Me, I also have loved you; abide in My love." John 15:9

with a grateFUL HEART, carin

30 Days of grateFULNESS (day 2)

Okay, yesterday I was finally gonna post something on my blog and before I could hit publish... we lost our electricity!  The area was having a severe wind storm and it took out our power.  All day yesterday from 11:30 a.m. on. So this morning, needless to say, it was a little chilly in our house.  I was able to go to our church and shower and wash my hair this morning!!!  You don't realize how much you rely on electricity until you don't have it.

So today I am grateFUL for my church and a warm shower.  Right now I am sitting at church writing this post... it is like a refuge for me... especially today when I am feeling a little like a refugee.

"The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold." Psalm 18:2

Just found out our electricity is back on!!!
with a grateFUL HEART, carin

30 Days of grateFULness

I am such an "all or nothing" kind of gal... sometimes that can be really annoying to me. Once again I have let my attention be on so many other things that I haven't blogged in weeks!  I really haven't hardly stamped in weeks!!! YIKES!  I really could use some stamping therapy in my life right now. I have "collected" some craft items... I got in on the SU closeout deals (yay) and then the other day I went with a couple friends to a grand opening of a Hobby Lobby an hour away from home! Yes, that is the closest Hobby Lobby to us.

Fall is going so fast... can you believe Thanksgiving is a month away???  So, to get myself back in the swing of blogging I am attempting to do "30 days of grateFULness"... the grateFULness is not the hard part for me... the sitting down and blogging everyday just might be the challenge, but lets take a stab at it.  I really hope some of you will participate in this as well and at the end of the 30 days I will have some blog candy to give away. So stay tuned!

On day 1 ... I am grateFUL for Papa God's provision. "Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?" Matthew 6:26  So many times I let myself focus on what I don't have rather than what I do... God is so faithful to supply all my needs... I don't understand how He works it all out, but I don't have to understand it... I just have to believe.

with a grateFUL HEART, carin

PS: In the middle of posting this we lost our power so it is being posted today.

with much love...

I am sorry it has been so long since I have blogged. I have missed it but I have also let other things stop me from doing it lately... poor utilization of my time. I wish I was better at that. I have been journaling plenty, just not putting my thoughts on here.

Here is a card I did using SU Wings of Friendship, SU border punches (luv those), and swirls embossing folder with the Cuttlebug. The words, "with much love" was stamped with a cheapy dollar stamp I picked up somewhere.

Do you read the Old Testament much? I must admit I have not always appreciated the Old Testament like I should... until recently.  I find the story of Hosea interesting… Hosea is a little book that I really never thought much about. To be totally honest there is much of the Old Testament I never thought much about, sorry to say. I always loved the stories that were told to me in Sunday School, but let’s face it I don’t recall ever learning about the story of Hosea. It really wasn’t until I was preparing a Bible Study schedule for our ladies' ministry at church that I really paid attention to it. Hosea loved and married a woman that couldn’t or wouldn’t be faithful to him. She ran off to the other side where she thought the “grass looked greener”… after many years of living a very unbecoming life, she was all “used up” and those people she thought were her friends really wanted no more to do with her. Her husband, Hosea, came and found her and was willing to take her back and love her unconditionally, no matter what she had done or what other people thought. It taught me that God is our loving Husband, we turn our backs on Him many times, but He is always ready and willing to take us back… all we have to do is turn back to Him.

I see this as a love story…I love love stories, but it breaks my heart when I think about the pain it causes to have someone turn their back on you... even through all that pain you can still give forgiveness to that one that hurt you… throw pain and pride to the side and just forgive! Now, look at the same story from the point of the one that needs forgiveness… how much does my Papa God love me? He will never give up on me even though I may give up on myself… what lovely assurance is that? “I will heal her faithlessness; I will love her freely, for My anger is turned away from her.” Hosea 14:4

See, a love story, like no other love story. Lord, let me walk in Your way, so I don’t have to fall in my own ways. (Hosea 14:9b)

with a grateFUL HEART, carin

Precious...

While reading my devotions this morning I was reminded about something from when I was a kid.  I remember when a bird had gotten in the house… it came in by accident and then it couldn’t find the way out. That bird kept flying to the windows thinking it looked like the way out, but all it was doing was batting itself against the window pane. It seemed like a good option of escape, but of course it wasn’t. We tried to push this poor, scared bird towards the opened door which would have led it to freedom, but in its panic it just didn’t understand that.

That made me think of how we as humans get ourselves into places or situations that we have no right being in and then we look for a way of escape. God’s Plan has given us all a way of escape but so many times we choose not to follow His plan. We think we can do it on our own and what we do is just bat ourselves against the “window pane” which in turn causes pain and anxiety. God has an open door for all to come to Him… He waits with open arms. All we have to do is run to Him and surrender our ideas to His divine Plan. It is in His arms we find true freedom.

"So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you." Luke 11:19

My hubby just got back from Quest, (it is the male equivalent of Heart Quest, which I attended in April). Five and a half days with Father God and no distractions... which means no phones, so I missed him so bad, but I knew God was doing awesome things in him while he was gone.  I made this card/mini album and sent it along with him as a surprise for while he was gone... I didn't want him to forget me *Ü*.

I love that picture labeled "Precious"... that is us taking communion together on the church property before the church was built... it means so much to me to have this picture. There are so many times those precious, intimate moments are never recorded in a picture.  I thank my friend, Vickie, for capturing this moment. Can you tell I adore my hubby? I am awestruck by God's goodness in my life.

Hope you have a blessed day and thank you for stopping.
with a grateFUL HEART, carin

Remembering the goodness...

Nine years ago today things changed in the world, as we knew it. People with hate as their agenda stepped over the threshold into pure evil. I give honor to those men and women whose lives were taken in such a horrible way.

I was reading this morning in Romans 12… about evil and goodness. Evil is never overcome with hate… evil can only be overcome with goodness. And truly pure goodness can only be found in God through His Son, Jesus Christ. I can hate what these people did, and I do, but I must ask Papa God for His goodness to work in me to forgive and actually love these people that hate us and what we stand for… not sure if I am there yet with that… but my awareness of it is a first step in the right direction. I do know that my focus can’t be on the evil… in has to be on God’s goodness… Christ died for ALL, sometimes that is a “hard pill” to swallow when evil has caused such personal devastation… I guess that is why we need God, because there is NO way to do that on our own.

"I will lift up my eyes to the hills— From whence comes my help? My help comes from the LORD, Who made heaven and earth." – Psalm 121:1-2
"Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." - Romans 12:21

“As light overcomes darkness, goodness can overcome evil.”

with a grateFUL HEART, carin

Smile... God Loves You...

I am feeling pretty good this morning... I have been having quite a bit of back pain, but after my chiropractor treatment the other day... it is so much better.  He gave me some core exercises to do and doing them has helped... who thought exercise is a good thing??? LOL

I really want God’s leading in me today… "Lord, help to go where You want me to go, say what You want me to say, do what You want me to do. Help me to stay focused on You."  That word, "focus" is still so important to me... it just keeps popping up and I know God is really working on me with my focus.

“These people draw near to Me with their mouth, and honor Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me. And in vain they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.” Matthew 15:8-9… I don’t want my words to be “lip service” to Papa God… I will not let my worship for my Lord be about me… only about Him. Once again it goes back to focus… where am I focusing???

I have a funny picture to share today... I had poured some orange juice for breakfast and when I looked into the glass this is what I saw "staring" back at me...

Isn't that too funny!  A smiley face looking up at me... I knew it was going to be a great day!

Here is a simple birthday card to share today.  My SU order came Monday so I am excited to finally get to play with some of it.

Blessings to you... with a grateFUL HEART, carin

Being Attractive...

I had a fun Stampin' Up party on Thursday... I think it went great! My parents are here visiting with us for a long weekend... it is good to have them here.

This is a birthday card I made for a lovely friend of mine that loves butterflies!

Philippians 1:9 says, “And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment,” or in the KJV the word is “judgment”… is this talking about discernment of how we choose to live our life… to know what is righteous… to know what is pleasing to God??? I like to look up verses in other translations, in verse 11 of this same chapter I read in the Message translation in verse 11 they used these words, “making Jesus Christ attractive to all”… that hits the nail on the head! I am to live my life in a way that makes being a Christ follower attractive!!! I shouldn’t be a whiny or bitter or complaining or Sunday-only Christian… I need to seek God out daily to give me what I need in my spirit to live a life that is attractive to others and draws people to Christ, not drives them away from Christ. That should be my focus always… not always how it turns out but that is to be my focus. I pray for the Word to be soaked up in me until I have enough to pour it out on those around me… let me be a "full sponge" for the Lord… let me be filled and rung out for God each day that I am blessed to walk this earth. This is the desire of my heart... to make Christ attractive by the actions of my life… I want to be a representative that draws all men to Him… He deserves the glory and praise of all creatures of the world.

Better get ready for church... have a blessed Sunday! with a grateFUL HEART, carin

True Love...

Sorry it has been so long again... summer has been fun-filled and busy... which is a good thing. My hubby and I went away for a few days last week to celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary.  We had such a nice relaxing time.  Here is the card I made for my sweet hubby:

I am so blessed with such a loving man of God... God is so good that He gave me a hubby that compliments my personality perfectly... and let me tell you that has to be an act of God. *Ü*

I also had the opportunity of created a card for a 70th anniversary... yes, 70 years! That is almost not heard of anymore.  A friend from church asked me to make this card for her in-laws.

I had bought this shiny metallic 12x12 paper not knowing what I would use it for and then this was perfect for it.  The words on the front say, "True Love Stories Never Have Endings."  I hope this couple has many more years to celebrate... maybe I will be asked to make their 75th???

I have lots to do today... I have family coming to stay for a few days, so I have a little cleaning to do. My sister, Renee, the SU demo, is coming to do a party for me and my friends on Thursday... so excited. If you are in the area... you are welcomed to come!

Thanks for sharing a little part of your day with me! with a grateFUL HEART, carin

God is Greater...

Some days I just feel like I am really hearing the voice of God in my life and then other days I am deafened by the silence… I know God stays the same, so I know it is me. Do any of you have that problem?… I would think any human being does. I know that some days I seek after God more than other days… I let myself get off track by circumstances and distractions around me... people just going on about stuff that is not important in the scheme of eternity.  I am not saying that in a condemning way, just speaking real life. The great thing is God knows my heart… He knows me way better than I know myself.

I love these verses in I John 3:17-21 “My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth. And hereby we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before Him. For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knows all things. Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence toward God.” I have TRUTH living in me… that does not waiver from feeling to feeling… that does not change as my emotions change. I am a fairly emotional person, so I am so amazed God gave me all these emotions as a very important part of me, but He also gave me His Truth to be able to control my emotions and not act or react based on my emotions. I don’t always find that very easy to do, so on the days when I “feel” off track I just need to hang on to the Truth I have living in me.

I have a journal to share with you today... I made this for my hubby. I used embossing folders with the Cuttlebug, heat embossing, and I cut the Fleur De Li's out on my Cricut.  He seemed to really like it.

Well, that is it for today... with a grateFUL HEART, carin

Just Worship Him...

I can’t believe only one week left in July! Time just seems to fly! What an incredible Summer we have been blessed with. We had a few storms last week but nothing big right where we live... some very nice rains.  It was a sunny day on Saturday, but in the late afternoon we got what I like to call a spontaneous shower... the sun was still shining and it produced this beautiful sight out our front door. All glory to You, Papa God!

I came across these verses in Acts….17:24-25…"God, who made the world and everything in it, since He is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made with hands. Nor is He worshiped with men’s hands, as though He needed anything, since He gives to all life, breath, and all things.” … when I read these verses my thoughts went to worship. I didn’t grow-up really knowing too much about worship… worshiping God was spoke of in the Bible times but I didn’t ever find myself grasping the “concept” of worship. I loved God and knew Jesus as my Savior at a very young age, but until the last few years I truly never knew what it meant to worship Him. It brings tears to my eyes just thinking of how I failed to worship my Lord for all those years… I know I can’t look back… when I learn to do better I do it and that is all that can be asked of me or any of us… right?

Okay, back to the verses… God is so magnificent that He created everything… He is all knowing… all powerful… self-sufficient. He doesn’t need anything from any of us. I don’t have to worship Him because He needs my worship… I have to worship Him because I NEED to worship Him. I need to come into His presence and recognize His greatness… I need to open up my heart to His mighty power… I need to surrender my will to His will… I need to show Him honor for giving me life and freedom from being a slave to sin… I need to love Him for Who He is and for what He has done for me… He is God and worthy of all honor, glory, and praise. And the great thing is, I can be sitting on my back porch looking out over a field of oats and I can worship Him… there is no special “equipment” required accept a grateFUL HEART.

with a grateFUL HEART, carin

because I CARE...

I am so sorry I have not been very on the ball with my posting this summer... maybe because our summer in northern Michigan has been such a nice one... what a difference from last year!

I went last week to my sister's SU openhouse in the Thumb with my friend, Ruth... we had a great time. Since my birthday was this month I received some SU gift certificates to use so I was able to order some of the new colors... so excited to get my new stuff... it will be like my birthday all over again (only I don't have to get a year older) *Ü* Here is a card I made as one of the projects at the openhouse... luv the colors... what do you think?

I have to share a praise with you today... as my regular blog peeps know my mom has been having health problems.  She is doing much better but still has a way to recovery... still praying and believing she will be restored to better than before.  Yesterday she actually ventured out on her own... she drove herself to the hair shop to get beautified.  She hasn't driven in months... it just thrills my heart to hear this progress... God is so good all the time!

"I will praise the LORD according to His righteousness, and will sing praise to the name of the LORD Most High." - Psalm 7:17

Thanks for stopping... with a grateFUL HEART, carin

Hear It... Do It...

“But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” - James 1:22  That verse was in my devotions for yesterday… I memorized that verse years ago, and even though I saw or heard the Word over the years, many times I didn’t do it. I was thinking how it is like sitting down at a beautifully set table to have a fabulous meal… you know where all the forks, spoons and knives are in their proper place… shiny, polished crystal glassware… heirloom quality china… oh yah, and cloth napkins, of course. You are seated in your chair ready to take that first bite of a scrumptious meal… you place that bite in your mouth and chew it and chew it and chew it, but then instead of swallowing it you spit it out. Do you ever get the nutrition you need from that food?

Our physical bodies need food as fuel to keep us going… just like our spiritual bodies need nourishment from God’s Word. We might open our Bible and read the precious words on the page… we can read it and read it and read it, but if we don’t ingest It and do It we never will receive the “nutrition” we need from It.

I have been challenging myself a lot for the last few months to be a doer and not just a hearer. I know I have lived so much of my life looking “good” on the outside, but my motives have not always been what they should have been… living and doing things in a prideful way. I have to daily check my motives… is it to honor and glorify God first and foremost??? Hear It and do It... let that be my passion!

Off to get ready for Night Out For Ladies, but wanted to share a quick card with you...

I saw this layout somewhere but can't remember where... sorry.  Hope you like it... those colors scream Summer to me.

Thanks for stopping... with a grateFUL HEART, carin

Birthday Wishes...

Today is my 45th birthday! I have had an incredible day. My PFFs made my day so good.  I was picked up at 9 a.m. by Ruth and Heather (aka PFFs) and taken out for breakfast, which included a little gift. (don't ya know) Then they took me to Ruth's house to spend the day "playing" in her craft room.  Every so often either Ruth or Heather would leave the room and come back in with a little gift for me. Must have ended up with 7 or 8 special little gifts... including 3 bottles of Stickles and a gift certificate from SU!!!  It was just a fun day of laughter and only a couple happy tears!  Thanks Ruth & Heather for being my PFFs! Love you girls!

I have received so many birthday wishes from my facebook friends... makes me feel so loved. One message really struck me... she asked me, "what do you think God was feeling when you were born?"  Wow, I have never thought of that... have you thought about that for your own birth? A few months ago I would have thought not too much about that, but now I know how much God loves me and how precious I am to Him.  He was happy the day I was born... He could see all He had in store for me... He could see all the good and the bad... and He still loved me so much.  I don't know about you, but that just blows my mind and makes my heart leap with joy.  Papa God is so precious to me! 

"I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works, And that my soul knows very well." - Psalm 139:14

I just had to share this with you all.  Thanks for stopping!

with a grateFUL HEART, carin