Well, I did say that I have some news to share … ‘some good’ … and unfortunately, ‘some not so good’!

First the ‘not so good’ … Please keep Ian in your prayers!

He called me late (our time) last night, which I thought was a bit unusual since we just talked by phone the night before.  We usually talk every few days by phone, so I kind of felt something might be wrong … you know those mother’s intuitions!!  Well, he had a bit of a ‘freak’ accident … he was walking along between a car and some trees on the edge of a sidewalk.  He lost his balance, and being the big guy that he is, slipped off the edge, and fell very hard on his shoulder, his ‘bad’ shoulder … knocking his arm out of the socket!  He said it was very painful, so he had Tim ‘pull’ on his arm and he felt it go back into place, but it is still very painful!  This has happened to him before, and he’s managed to ‘get it back in place’ by having the chiropractor, or a friend pulling on it, depending where he was at the time … but this time he said it just felt different when he fell!  He can’t lift his arm above his head without major pain.  Now, I”m not so sure that what Tim did was a such good idea!  I’m afraid he may have torn some ligaments in his shoulder! 

Thankfully, the owner of the ranch, where they are currently staying, is a doctor, who also goes to the church that Ian and Tim are going to … Ian was on his way back there when he called me to tell me what happened.  He told me he would have ’Doc’ take a look at it as soon as he got there … and get an ice pack on it right away.
 
A bit of relief for mom here! 

We would immediately take him to the chiropractor when it would happen here at home but, I’m just so thankful he is there for Ian now … his name is ‘Doc’ Morrison … and a great guy, according to the boys.  A little fact about ‘Doc’ … Ian told me that he started a business where a group of Christian physicians travel to the different movie sets to treat anyone who needs their services.  They share the Word as well as their medical services.  Never know how many hearts are touched from that!  Hearts that need hope, lives that need changing! 

I also ask that you please pray that Ian can sleep … when this has happened to him before, the pain has kept him awake, and with the busy schedule he has now, he absolutely needs that rest!  Also pray, that it doesn’t cost him an arm … and a ‘shoulder’ for the ‘Doc’ to treat him!!!  I’ll keep you posted on how he’s doing.  And thank you so much for all your thoughts and prayers for him!

Okay…now do you think we could use some good news here?!!  Some grand great good news?!  I’m ready!

Ian and Tim were supposed to go to the San Antonio Christian Film Festival in October together.  Well, with the change in his schedule, Ian didn’t get registered in time, so he is unable to go this year.  Tim’s family will be driving to meet him in San Antonio to attend the film festival with him, then they are bringing him home for a week.  What to do with Ian for those two weeks???  Hmmm, I wonder! )  It’s hard for him to work without Tim since they are a ‘team’ … so we will very likely be getting our son for those 2 weeks!!  They are ready for a vacation with all the hard work they’ve been doing!  

No, do you mind if I pause for a moment here and do a Happy Dance, a hop, and a skip, or two…
I brought the gang here to join in … and you’re welcome to rejoice with me too!!

                   

It’s been almost 3 months since I’ve seen him …. I just had to do that …. I sure hope you don’t mind!! )
I like Spiderman and the Chicken Man myself!  Can we tell that I’m tired here??!! Lol!!

Moving on … we have to get busy making plans to fill the time he’s here with lots of memories!!  He would be here for our 25th Wedding Anniversary, and for his Dad’s birthday!  We are hoping that it all works out … and that he does make it home … in the event that it doesn’t … well, I sure needed that ^ exercise anyway!!  We are going to stay hopeful about it all!!  Pray that everything works out and we make a little extra financial blessing from our craft shows for a round trip airline ticket for him!

Okay, now onto the business at hand … I’m getting ready for the Annual Scottish Highlander Festival, at the Apple Works Orchard tomorrow, and Sunday.  I have to finish counting soap bars and candle tins, get clothes ironed, get the van and car packed and ready to go by 6:00a.m. in the morning … and I’m already tired!  I haven’t been feeling too well,
this week, so I’m hoping my energy level will be a little better tomorrow after a good night’s sleep! 

I’m also excited about tomorrow … I’m meeting a Xanga friend and her son at the festival!  A sweet friend, Deanna at believe_dream_imagine!  I’m sure we’ll both be posting pictures sometime next week!  There are a few of us ‘Hoosier Xangans’ here, (not as many as y’all have there in Texas), and it will be good to meet her in person!  I’d love to meet you all someday, as well, so if you’re ever in Indiana…..!
 
Well, I’ve got to run and get things finished up so I can get a good night’s sleep!  I’ll try to get a few more visits in later tonight, and answer those messages, but I’ll definitely be back around tomorrow and Sunday night to answer you, when I’m home and kickin’ my feet up!  Say a prayer for me … I’m beginning to feel a little worse than earlier!  Lewis was sick this week, and I’ve been praying that I didn’t get it knowing I had the show coming up!  I really do appreciate your prayers!  You all have a beautiful night, and enjoy your weekend, those fall colors, the harvest festivals, and most of all be blessed in Him!!

 Hugs,
~ Deborah <><

God walks with us.  He scoops us up in His arms or simply sits
with us in silent strength until we cannot avoid the awesome recognition
that yes, even now, He is there.

 Square Puzzle Pieces, Borderless Life
- By Leann Guzman -
 

Have you ever tried to put together one of those 1,000-piece jigsaw puzzles?  When you first open the box, all the pieces are there, thrown in the box in a chaotic mess.  At first you can’t tell which pieces go where.  Yet you know that if you work at it long enough and get all the pieces in the right place, they will fit together perfectly, and it will look just like the picture on the front of the box.

After a little work and sorting of the pieces, you usually have at least the border of the puzzle put together because, as we all know from kindergarten, it’s easiest to start with the straight-edged pieces.  Keep working, and you can begin to see what the finished product will look like.  But, even though you can kind of tell what the picture is supposed to be, there are still pieces of the puzzle missing, so that the whole picture just isn’t there yet.

With a little determination and perseverance and a lot of patience, you can finish the puzzle and enjoy the picture for a while, hardly believing that it started out as a jumbled mess in the box.

Of course, your life is like a puzzle that God is putting together.  So many times during your walk with God, maybe even now, you feel that the puzzle of your life isn’t coming together right or isn’t being finished fast enough.

The good news is that the puzzle of your life is not a square with borders, like most traditional puzzles.  There are not a limited number of pieces to your life.  Your puzzle is infinite, growing, and borderless.  God starts at the center, putting the pieces where they are supposed to go to make the best outcome for you and to fulfill His purpose for your life.  If you will submit to God and allow Him to have His way in your life, your puzzle will come together and will depict the beautiful picture God intends for the world and others to see.

And He doesn’t stop for any borders.  God will continue to move outward in layers, as far as you want to go or will allow Him to go.  There is never any end to your puzzle.  There is always more of the picture that God can add, more beauty, more victory, more blessings to your life.  This is the life of a submitted Apostolic—a puzzle with an infinite number of pieces that continues to become more magnificent and pleasing to God over time.

It may seem like God is taking too much time putting together the pieces of your life.  It may feel like the one piece that you are positive will complete you and make you happy just isn’t happening soon enough, or maybe it didn’t happen at all.  But remember, God is the One in control.  He puts the pieces of the puzzle of your life in the right place at the right time.  He is never late, He is never wrong, and He never gives up. As Solomon revealed, “He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end” (Ecclesiastes 3:11).

Could you imagine how much harder it would be and how much longer it would take to put together that 1,000 piece puzzle if the pieces fought you every time you tried to put them together?  If you submit to God and allow Him to do things in His timing and according to His plan, then the picture your puzzle projects will be more amazing than you ever thought it could be.  You will never regret submitting to His will.  As Solomon said, He will make your puzzle beautiful “in His time.”

You do not know what is best for you; only God knows that.  Yet you can rest in the assurance that He loves you more than you can comprehend, and He is always working toward adding more beauty, more victory, and more blessings to your borderless life.  And after a while of submitting to Him and trusting Him completely, you will step back in disbelief, seeing what a wonderful picture God has made with what was the jumbled mess of your life.

Funny Foto Friday 



I’ll be back in a little while to share some news…
some good….some not so good.
I pray you all have a wonderful Friday!
Hugs and blessings,
Deborah <><

Be sure to check out those cute little ‘pets’
over at BetsaflyGallery!

 The Touch of the Master’s Hand
by Myra Brooks Welch

‘Twas battered and scarred, and the old auctioneer
Thought it scarcely worth his while
to waste much time on the old violin,
But he still held it up with a smile:
“What am I bidden, good folks,” he cried,
“Who’ll start the bidding for me?”
“A dollar, a dollar”; then, “Two!” “Only two?
Two dollars, and who’ll make it three?
Three dollars, once; three dollars, twice;
going for three …” but no.
From the room far back, a gray-haired man
Came forward and picked up the bow;
Then, wiping the dust from the old violin,
And tightening the loose strings,
He played a melody pure and sweet
As a caroling angel sings.

The music ceased, and the auctioneer,
With a voice that was quiet and low,
Said; “What am I bidden for the old violin?”
And he held it up with the bow.
“A thousand! And who’ll make it two?
Two thousand! And who’ll make it three?
Three thousand, once, three thousand, twice,
And going, and gone,” said he.
The people cheered, but some of them cried,
“We do not quite understand
What changed it’s worth.” Swift came the reply:
“The touch of the master’s hand.”

And many a man with life out of tune,
And battered and scarred with sun,
Is auctioned cheep to the thoughtless crowd,
Much like this old violin.
A “mess of pottage,” a glass of wine;
A game; and he travels on.
He is “going” once, “going” twice,
He’s “going” and almost “gone.”
But the Master comes, and the foolish crowd
Never can quite understand
The worth of a soul and the change that’s wrought
By the touch of the Master’s hand.


“For I know the plans I have for you
declares the lord ….
plans to give you a hope
and a future ….
You will seek me and find me,
when you seek me with all your heart.

- Jeremiah 29:11,13 -

From your love and wisdom have I come
To this place and time.
To me you have given talent and life and blessings.
To me you have given tasks given to no others.

With joy and gratitude
I celebrate my much-honored existence.
From ages past to eternity,
I have been included in your divine plan.

Thank you, God, for creating ME!
- unknown -
 


Each one of you is fearfully and wonderfully made,
created by Him and for Him … 
every one unique and special in your own way.
Take time today to thank Him for creating ’you’ ….
I’m thanking Him for the blessing of ’you’ in my life today!
 Have a beautiful Thankful Thursday in Him. 
Hugs, 
Deborah <><

… something I read earlier …

“everything that exists, exists to make the
greatness of Christ more fully known”
 

~ Overcoming Obstacles ~ 

Have you ever seen the sea flee?

Have you ever seen the mountains skip like rams, or the hills run like lambs?

That’s the vivid description the psalmist gives of the Exodus of Israel from Egypt.

“The sea saw it and fled; Jordan turned back. 
The mountains skipped like rams, the little hills like lambs….
Tremble, O earth, at the presence of the Lord, at the presence of the God of Jacob,
who turned the rock into a pool of water, the flint into a fountain of waters”  -Psalm 114:1-8.

The psalmist mentions the time God opened the Red Sea and the Israelites walked across on dry land.  He talks about when the nation entered the Promised Land over the dry bed of the Jordan River.  Then he refers to their experience in the wilderness, when they were thirsty and God turned the rock into a pool of water.  What are we to learn from all of these experiences?  God helps us in the obstacles of life.  When you turn your obstacles over to the Lord, He acts.

What will He do?

Sometimes He overcomes the obstacles. 
God is with us in the hopeless places. 
How hopeless the Israelites were at the Red Sea! 
The enemy soldiers were behind them;
the wilderness was around them;
the sea was in front of them. 
But God opened a way to escape.

Sometimes God removes the obstacles — the “hills” and the “mountains.” 
He just makes them skip and run away like animals.

Sometimes He makes the mountains a way for us to escape.
“I will make each of My mountains a road,
And My highways shall be elevated”.  – Isaiah 49:11

Sometimes He also can turn the obstacles into blessings.
He “turned the rock into a pool of water, the flint into a fountain of waters.” (v. 8).
If God doesn’t overcome or remove your obstacle, let Him turn it into a blessing.
Trust God with your obstacles.  He can help you in …

… the hopeless places,
… the high places
… and the hard places.

 Dear Lord,
When all is darkness and we feel our weakness and helplessness,
give us the sense of Your presence, Your love, and Your strength.
Help us to have perfect trust in Your protecting love and strengthening power,
so that nothing may frighten or worry us, for, living close to You, we shall see Your hand,
Your purpose, Your will through all things, in Jesus Precious Name, - Amen

The light of God surrounds me;
The love of God enfolds me;
The power of God protects me;
The presence of God watches over me;
Where ever I am God is.

   


~ Hidden Treasures ~
By Lucy A. Cain

“I will give you the treasures of darkness, riches stored in secret places,
so that you may know that I am the LORD, the God of Israel,
who summons you by name.” {Isaiah 45:3 NIV}

“Let’s go!”  The captain of the small boat grinned ear to ear as he stood with one foot in the boat, and one foot on the dock.  My stomach was churning with both uncertainty and excitement as our mission team headed out to a tiny island several miles away.

I don’t swim.  I am afraid of water over my head!  I thought about staying behind and faking a stomach ache or something, which wouldn’t have been a lie, but I gathered my courage and went with everyone else on that boat.  The team leader hired a local Belizean to take us to the island for a day excursion as our “reward” for a hard week of work in the heat.  The sun was shining brightly and no threat of a storm was visible.  I checked….

The wind blew in our faces as we headed out to sea.  We stopped at a little tiny island where a coast guard station was positioned and got off to explore the pretty shoreline and visit the little museum.

On to our destination!  The captain of the boat had his son with him that day.  He was about 10, and a complete joy to be with!  You could tell he thoroughly enjoyed being with his dad on the boat.  Once to the island, we all set up in different little sections of shade under gently swaying palm trees.  It was a perfect day, and a perfect place!  I remember standing in the center of the island, doing some exploring, and thinking how remarkable it was to stand there and see shoreline in all directions!  

That’s how small the island was.  There might have been two other couples on the island besides our mission team.  The captain of the boat fished with his son, hoping to take some home for their supper.  It was cute to watch from my little “lookout” in the middle of the island.  He came back to get us and took us out to the reefs to snorkel.  Since I don’t swim, snorkeling was not high on my list of to do’s!  The water was choppy over the reefs.  I tried it one time, but my life jacket kept making me feel like I was choking!

But, it was enough for me to understand why people love to snorkel the reefs of Belize.  The colorful fish under the water’s surface were breathtaking!  Sun-bright yellow, brilliant blue, shocking orange…you never knew what you would see when you dipped your eyes beneath the surface!  Those hidden treasures, only for “under water” eyes to behold. Only for eyes who dared to jump into the depths.

I thought about God’s treasures that day.  If I had chosen to stay behind because I was out of my comfort zone, I never would have been blessed by what I experienced!

Oh, don’t you see we’re the same?  God wants us to jump into the unknown with Him.  He wants to surprise us with so many hidden treasures that our minds can’t comprehend them.  He desires to bless us with a journey like none we’ve encountered!  He wants to bestow on us the gift of hidden treasures, experiences to be encountered only when we leap out of our comfort zones and into the depth of His love.

When you follow Christ, you will behold more wonders than you ever expect to!  You will stand back in awe of your God.  You will wonder what else there is out there for you … from Him.   You will shake your head in amazement, and lift your hands in praise!  You will be so glad you didn’t “stay behind”.  

Like the captain that held out his hand for me to get in the boat with him, God holds out His mighty hand.  He’s waiting on you to take it.  He’s waiting for you to make a commitment to following Him, and allowing Him to take you to a whole new place.  It’s a life full of adventure!  A life full of blessing!  And a life full of hidden treasures … treasures intended only for those who take the dive into the springs of Living Water.  What a perfect place to be!

So what are we waiting for!
Dive in!  

He’s waiting!
Have a beautiful day, y’all!
Hugs,
~ Deborah <><

Check out some really cute pets over at
http://www.xanga.com/BetsaflyGallery

~ GOD’S ARMOUR~
By M.S. Lowndes
Ephesians 6: 10–18

10:  In conclusion, be strong in the Lord [be empowered through your union with Him];
draw your strength from Him [that strength which His boundless might provides].

11:  Put on God’s whole armor [the armor of a heavy-armed soldier which God supplies],
that you may be able successfully to stand up against [all] the strategies and the deceits of the devil.

12:  For we are not wrestling with flesh and blood [contending only with physical opponents],
but against the despotisms, against the powers,
against [the master spirits who are] the world rulers of this present darkness,
against the spirit forces of wickedness in the heavenly (supernatural) sphere.

13:  Therefore put on God’s complete armor, that you may be able to resist and stand your ground
on the evil day [of danger], and, having done all [the crisis demands], to stand [firmly in your place].

14:  Stand therefore [hold your ground], having tightened the belt of truth around your loins
and having put on the breastplate of integrity and of moral rectitude and right standing with God,

15:  And having shod your feet in preparation [to face the enemy with the firm-footed stability,
the promptness, and the readiness produced by the good news] of the Gospel of peace.

16:  Lift up over all the [covering] shield of saving faith,
upon which you can quench all the flaming missiles of the wicked [one].

17:  And take the helmet of salvation and the sword that the Spirit wields, which is the Word of God.

18:  Pray at all times (on every occasion, in every season) in the Spirit,
with all [manner of] prayer and entreaty.
To that end keep alert and watch with strong purpose and perseverance,
interceding in behalf of all the saints (God’s consecrated people).

*In order to wage war with the enemy (Satan) we need to be clothed in God’s Armour. A soldier doesn’t go to war without being prepared. We need to be prepared for battle at all times. The battle we are in, is in the spiritual realm, so the armour we are to be clothed in, is in the spiritual realm too.

Belt — which is the truth, God’s truth. { V: 14 }

Breastplate — which is integrity, moral rectitude and right standing with God. { V: 14 }

Shod feet — which is being prepared to face the enemy with the firm-footed stability,
the promptness, and readiness produced by the good news of the gospel of peace.  { V: 15 }

Shield — which is faith so we can quench all the flaming missiles of the wicked one. { V: 16 }

Helmet — which is Salvation; not doubting our Salvation. { V: 17 }

Sword of the Spirit — which is the word of God, our only attacking piece. { V: 17 }

We need to be daily clothed with each piece of God’s Armour.  We need to wear truth – believe the truth and to stand up for the truth at all times.  We need to have integrity, and be in right standing with God at all times.  We need to have a firm footing in our faith, deep roots and not being swayed, at all times.  We need faith in God, at all times, though we cannot always see.  We need to be sure of our Salvation, and not doubt, at all times.  We need the word of God on our lips, in our minds, and written on our hearts at all times.  The moment we let our guard down or not put on any of these pieces, Satan will come in and attack.  There must not be any chinks in our Armour – no opening for Satan to get in.  This is a daily thing, and the key is in vs. 18: ‘Pray at all times (on every occasion, in every season) in the Spirit, with all [manner of] prayer and entreaty.  To that end keep alert and watch with strong purpose and perseverance, interceding in behalf of all the saints (God’s consecrated people)’.

Don’t let Satan get the upper hand.  He is our defeated foe.  Greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world.  You can, and will overcome Satan, because of Christ dwelling in you.  Stand firm against his attacks.  Refuse to give in to his subtleties; for often Satan’s attacks are subtle, therefore we need to be ever aware!

“Be well balanced (temperate, sober of mind), be vigilant and cautious at all times; for that enemy of yours, the devil, roams around like a lion roaring [in fierce hunger], seeking someone to seize upon and devour.  Withstand him; be firm in faith [against his onset-rooted, established, strong, immovable, and determined], knowing that the same (identical) sufferings are appointed to your brotherhood (whole body of Christians) throughout the world.” — 1 Peter 5:8-9

Satan has been defeated, he no longer has a hold
Jesus Christ is victorious, the redeemer of our souls.  - By M.S. Lowndes

 

~ Put On God’s Armour ~

God will never fail us
Even though we fail Him
He’s willing to give a second chance
When we stumble over sin

And yes from time to time
Sin creeps into our lives
So subtly does Satan attack
Unaware, sin gets inside

Our armour must be worn
At all times, night and day
Don’t let your guard down for a minute
For Satan will find a way

To destroy all our dreams
And upset all our plans
To bring confusion to our minds
So we fail to understand

What is really happening
As he gains more control
To eventually destroy us all
And take captive our souls

But as we stand on God’s word
Satan’s plans will not succeed
For greater is He that dwells in us
Than Satan and his deeds

We need to read God’s word
Each and every day
So we will be fully equipped
And a warrior when we pray

So daily gird yourself
With the armour that you need
Each piece is needed for battle
To defeat our enemy

And Christ has won the battle
Over death and our sin
Satan will always remain defeated
And Jesus shall always win.

  By M.S.Lowndes


**He has given us the Victory, we need only walk in his footsteps!
Have a victorious Monday in Him!
Hugs ~ Deborah <><

~ Perfect Peace ~ 

There once was a King who offered a prize to the artist who would paint the best picture of peace.  Many artists tried.  The King looked at all the pictures, but there were only two he really liked and he had to choose between them.

One picture was of a calm lake.  The lake was a perfect mirror for peaceful towering mountains were all around it.  Overhead was a blue sky with fluffy white clouds.  All who saw this picture thought that it was a perfect picture of peace.

The other picture had mountains too.  But these were rugged and bare.  Above was an angry sky from which rain fell, in which lightening played.  Down the side of the mountain tumbled a foaming waterfall.  This did not look peaceful at all.

But when the King looked, he saw behind the waterfall a tiny bush growing in a crack in the rock.  In the bush a mother bird had built her nest.  There, in the midst of the rush of angry water, sat the mother bird on her nest … perfect peace.

Which picture do you think won the prize?

The King chose the second picture.

Do you know why?

“Because,” explained the King, “peace does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble, or hard work.  Peace means to be in the midst of all those things and still be calm in your heart.  That is the real meaning of peace.” 

“I have told you all this so that you may have ‘peace’ in me. 
Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. 
But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” -  John 16:33 (NLT)

“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace,
whose mind is stayed on thee:
because he trusteth in thee.” – Isaiah 26:3

Peace In the Storm

Life can seem unbearable at times.  Physical pain, difficult decisions, financial hardships, the death of a loved one, or shattered dreams threaten to engulf us.  We become fearful and perplexed.  Plagued by doubts, we may even find it difficult to pray.

Those of us who know the Lord through personal faith in Christ have in Him a calm retreat in the storms of life, even while the howling winds of trial are sweeping over us.  We can experience peace of mind and calmness of spirit.

Richard Fuller, a 19th-century minister, told of an old seaman who said, “In fierce storms, we must put the ship in a certain position and keep her there.”  Said Fuller, “This, Christian, is what you must do. . . . You must put your soul in one position and keep it there.  You must stay upon the Lord; and, come what may—winds, waves, cross seas, thunder, lightning, frowning rocks, roaring breakers—no matter what, you must hold fast your confidence in God’s faithfulness and His everlasting love in Christ Jesus.”

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by your troubles, learn a lesson from that old sailor.  Fix your mind on the Lord. Ask for His help. Then trust Him to give you peace in your storm.  (Phil. 4:6-7). —Richard De Haan

 FAITH
Years ago, I was enthralled as I listened to a pastor who for several years had faithfully served the church.  His executive responsibilities had taken him all over this country.  As he concluded his message, he told of one of the most frightening yet thought-provoking experiences of his life.

He had been on a long flight.  The first warning of the approaching problems came when the sign on the airplane flashed on: “Fasten your seat belts.” Then, after a while, a calm voice said, “We shall not be serving the beverages at this time as we are expecting a little turbulence.  Please be sure your seat belt is fastened.”

As he looked around the aircraft, it became obvious that many of the passengers were becoming apprehensive. Later, the voice of the announcer said,  ”We are so sorry that we are unable to serve the meal at this time. The turbulence is still ahead of us.” And then the storm broke.  The ominous cracks of thunder could be heard even above the roar of the engines. Lightening lit up the darkening skies, and within moments that great plane was like a cork tossed around on a celestial ocean.  One moment the airplane was lifted on terrific currents of air; the next, it dropped as if it were about to crash.

The pastor confessed that he shared the discomfort and fear of those around him.  He said, “As I looked around the plane, I could see that nearly all the passengers were upset and alarmed.  Some were praying.  The future seemed ominous and many were wondering if they would make it through the storm.

And then, I suddenly saw a girl to whom the storm meant nothing.  She had tucked her feet beneath her as she sat on her seat and was reading a book. Everything within her small world was calm and orderly.  Sometimes she closed her eyes, then she would read again; then she would straighten her legs, but worry and fear were not in her world.  When the plane was being buffeted by the terrible storm, when it lurched this way and that, as it rose and fell with frightening severity, when all the adults were scared half to death, that marvelous child was completely composed and unafraid.”

The minister could hardly believe his eyes.

It was not surprising therefore, that when the plane finally reached its destination and all the passengers were hurrying to disembark, he lingered to speak to the girl whom he had watched for such a long time.

Having commented about the storm and behavior of the plane, he asked why she had not been afraid.  The sweet child replied, “Sir, my Daddy is the pilot, and he is taking me home.”

 You are my hiding place from every storm of life; You even keep me from getting into trouble! You surround me with songs of victory. I will instruct you (says the Lord) and guide you along the best pathway for your life; I will advise you and watch your progress.  Psalms 32:7-9 {LB}

 ”Faith isn’t faith, until it’s all you’re holding onto”.  ~unknown

 ”Faith is deliberate confidence in the character of God
          whose ways you may not understand at the time”.  ~Oswald Chambers

 
      

Hope you’ve all had a great week so far!  Our weather here is warming up, but up to now, it’s been 70* during the day, and 40′s through the night.  Many things going on here at home, getting ready for the fall craft shows, and I’ve been having some computer woes which have kept me from getting around to more of you, or even posting … 
I did manage to get a few pictures uploaded to share with you from this past weekend at the Irish Fest on Saturday. 

Sunday afternoon we went driving in the country to get pictures of all types of “FENCES”, and I did find one which I entered over at iliveinmycamera, for this weeks contest … so be sure to go vote for your favorite!  And if anyone is interested … the theme over at BetsaflyGallery for next week is “PETS” … so if you have any pictures of pets, any and all kinds, you can find all the information over there to help you get them submitted.  I’m still working on that one!! :o)  

Well on Saturday, we headed for the Irish Fest after a great breakfast at Bob Evans, and found a parking place pretty easily … and the parking wasn’t free, but close to all the activities.  We walked to the what we thought was the Irish Fest, but realized that we were at the Mexican Fest!!  So we asked, and found out the Irish Fest was 7 blocks north of where we were.  Well, we knew in that moment that we were going to get that much needed exercise, so off we went …
good thing we had our walking shoes on!  It was the most beautiful day … not a cloud in the deep blue sky. well maybe a wisp, or two … cool … and the walk was invigorating!  We could have driven, but we paid $5.00 to park and would have lost that …
besides, we really enjoyed that walk! 


This first picture is of the Scottish Rite Cathedral … a very impressive building …




 We knew when we were getting closer …




The sounds of Ireland … they had 4 stages with Irish music playing … 
my favorite was a smaller stage with a group of 3 women, and the music was wonderful …
I couldn’t get the best pictures … and many didn’t turn out,
but I’m still learning all the settings on this camera!   

 


We stopped at a larger stage with a group of men playing … (sorry about the clarity).
If you can see the ‘drum’ that the man on the right is playing … it’s called a “Bodhran” …
you can find a lot of history on line about them … they have the neatest sound to them …
and if you play one, you’re known as a “Bodhranist”.   




Here are a few of the participants that were there … 
 … I love the sound of ‘bagpipes’ …
and I kept telling Lewis that he shouldn’t have passed up buying that ’kilt’!! 
He looked at me funny!  

              


They had crafts, jewelry, lots of food, everything Irish … 
(sorry, Lew … no elephant ears here!)



   

… but as I said, a lot of pictures just didn’t make the cut …
except the real important ones …..



They had a stand set up trying to get subscriptions to the Indianapolis Star …
if you signed up you’d get one of these umbrellas …
I would have liked to have had one, but the picture was free! 
Might make for an interesting background!!



As promised … the ’Sheep and Duck Herding’  … in the city … 
Waiting for the command … he was so eager to please!






It was interesting how this particular sheep would seem to challenge the dog …
He wasn’t very obedient! 



The ducks were easy to move around the pen … 
he had called out 2 dogs and it was very interesting to watch them work.

   

This is the White River Canal, downtown … it’s a beautiful walk, and we wish we had come sooner! 
There was artwork on the sides of the canal under the bridges we walked through …






You can also ride paddle boats on the canal …
we’ll do that sometime …



We saw a few fountains … all so pretty …



… and more of the peaceful canal …



The water in this fountain runs between the potted flowers,
down the center steps … it sounds so pretty …
I’ve always wanted one of those table top fountains …
anybody have one of those??



A lot of the pictures of the actual canal way didn’t come out,
so I found this last one on the Internet for you …
it gives you an idea of what a walk might be like along the canal at night.
That’s when I want to go again! 



We walked on and found a wedding going on … there was no professional photographer …
or at least I didn’t see one, and she was giving her mother directions on how she wanted her pictures taken. 
I asked if I could practice and take a few photos, and she said she wouldn’t mind at all. 
I told her I was no professional, and that I was learning how to use the camera. 
I wish these were better, but I’m going to be sending them to her … 
she was very sweet … and a very nervous bride … so was I!!







After we talked with this sweet couple, we walked on,
and saw more beautiful fountains downtown…



The water looked so clear and refreshing …
I would have loved to have dangled my feet over the edge!



This was a final parting shot of the Scottish Rite Cathedral … 
… the sun was just behind it.



When we got to the car, there was another wedding going on …
this one, with a professional photographer, but I took a couple of photos anyway …
I enjoyed watching the professionals at work,
and would have loved to see the wedding album of this one! 

This building is the Indiana World War Memorial …
A very large, beautiful building.
Next time I’m going to count those steps!

I took took another picture of it in July …
no wedding going on then!



Finally … how cute is he?!  He wanted to come home with us!!
I wanted to bring him home with us too,
but, the lady that belongs to those feet, absolutely refused!
Can’t blame her, can you?!!

Well, I hope you enjoyed our Saturday … it was a full day …
and my feet still hurt thinkin’ about it … but we really enjoyed our time in downtown Indy.
and we’re looking forward to going back! 
You all have a great ‘hump day’, and providing the DSL doesn’t give me more problems,
I’m going to try to get around to visit and catch up with more of you later today. 

Be blessed in Him!
Hugs,
~ Deborah <><

We had a wonderful Saturday … I’ll share on Monday!  The weather was beautiful … the Irish Fest was crowded … and we did see sheep being herded … AND DUCKS??!!  Pictures on the way!  I’m posting this last verse in the study of Psalm 23 for Sunday.  If anyone has any other thoughts as to what this Psalm has meant to you, please share!  Have a blessed Sunday, and I’ll be back shortly!

 Hugs,
~ Deborah <><

PART VI ~ PSALM 23 ~
THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD
by Lura Langenback

 ~ PSALM 23: 6 ~
GOODNESS AND MERCY 
Have you noticed that if you want to do something that isn’t good,
all you have to do is fall into it?

“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life:
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.“  vs.6

Imagine, if you will, what the word ‘goodness’ actually means.  The dictionary definition is this: ‘in man is not a mere passive quality, but the deliberate preference of right to wrong, the firm and persistent resistance of all moral evil, and the choosing and following of all moral good.’  Now add to that the fact that God is a greater ‘goodness’ than man can ever possibly be.  He chooses to be goodness.  Not a passive act … deliberate.

The act of goodness is a decision.  Have you noticed that if you want to do something that isn’t good, all you have to do is fall into it?  BUT, if you do want to do something right, it requires a decision?  It’s a choice, a life determination.  Think about choices for a moment.  Many times we have no clue as to what to chose but we do so based on what we feel, what we are wearing, what the weather is like and so on.  Even our most pressing needs are resolved based on right or wrong choices.  It is so easy to chose wrong because we FEEL like having a pizza when the worst thing we can do is have it.  So easy to date that good looking guy/girl because they are so popular.  Those are choices, but are they right for you?  Only God can tell you that.  However, choosing goodness is a sure thing because God promises it.  Surely. Without a doubt.  Done deal.  You can’t get any better than that!

Now, imagine the goodness that you chose, following you ALL the days of your life.  What a blessing that would be! What am I saying here?  Look at the verse closely.  “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life“. Remember what ‘surely’ means?  It is a guaranteed deal.  It will happen with an absolute certainty.  There is no doubt about it in any way, shape or form.  That’s a comforting thought.  Imagine that this ‘goodness’ is so stuck to you that you can’t shake it off.  Oh, do I LOVE that!  If that were all the promise, I would be so blessed but it gets even better.

…”and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.“  What does ‘forever’ mean?  Without end … constant … continuing … eternity.  We are promised that we will dwell in God’s house from now until……forever!  What more do you want?  Living in the house with the Creator of all things, for eternity, is such a wonderful promise that I can’t wrap my mind around it totally.  But it sounds so good to me.  What a blessing!

For just one more moment, let’s go back and take a look at the whole Psalm.  We are promised that the Lord is our Shepherd, that He gives us peace in ways we would not otherwise have it, He restores us to wholeness, leads us in the right paths.  He walks WITH us through the valleys, through the shadows of death and He comforts us in that time.  He prepares a table of goodies right there in the presence of our enemies and anoints our heads with the oil of the Lord. Then He tells us that His Goodness will follow us all our lives.  One more promise.  We will be allowed to dwell in God’s house forever.  This is shouting time to me!  Seek the Shepherd today.



PSALM 23: 1–6
The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want.
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures; He leadeth me beside the still waters.
He restoreth my soul; He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil;
for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me.
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies;
Thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

~THE 23rd PSALM … SIMPLY PUT~

The Lord is my Shepherd …
that is Relationship.

I shall not want …
that is Supply.

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures …
that is Rest.

He leadeth me beside the still waters …
that is Refreshment.

He restoreth my soul …
that is Healing.

He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness …
that is Guidance.

For His name sake …
that is Purpose.

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death …
that is Testing.

I will fear no evil …
that is Protection.

For Thou art with me …
that is Faithfulness.

Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me …
that is Discipline.

Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies …
that is Hope.

Thou annointest my head with oil …
that is Consecration.

My cup runneth over …
that is Abundance.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life …
that is Blessing.

And I will dwell in the house of the Lord …
that is Security.

Forever …
That is ETERNITY!!

 AMEN!!