Friday, May 30, 2014

Habakkuk

Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Sunshine and warm breezes..a continuing pattern for the weather lately, with thundershowers coming in the late afternoon. They will probably shift over to morning showers sometime in the future if memory serves me correctly. At least that's the way it has happened in the past.

My day did not go as planned yesterday, at least according to my plans. I had made out my list for groceries, and got to Publix later than I wanted. By the time I arrived home and put the groceries away, it was too late and I was too tired to attend the strawberry social at church that I was very much looking forward to. I was disappointed. But, I bought some very tasty cranberry orange scones and had a cup of tea in the afternoon, which made me feel better about it.

When I opened the garage door yesterday, the black garden snake that lives around here, was just slithering across the driveway, in front of the door, and a bluejay was dive bombing the snake. Bluejays are not nice birds! The snake slithered away into a large shrub and the bird gave up. Drama at the Green house! God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Habakkuk 3:17-19
Even though the fig trees have no blossoms,,
and there are no grapes on the vine; even
though the olive crop fails and the fields lie
empty and barren, even though the flocks die
in the fields, and the cattle barns are empty,
yet I will rejoice in the Lord!
I will rejoice in the God of my salvation. The
Sovereign Lord is my strength! He will make
me as surefooted as a deer and bring me safely
over the mountains.


I always thank God for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Thursday, May 29, 2014

Paul's Final Thoughts

Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made, and we will rejoice and be glad in it! We had quite a noisy thunderstorm last night after a very warm day with lots of sun and warm breezes. Looks like today will be another one just like it!

We had a very informative meeting at church yesterday morning, to start accumulating memories and stories of the early beginnings of Faith Covenant Church. Our new member, Shirley, is quite gifted at getting the info and gathering us together to take on this project, which we hope to get finished by Oct. to celebrate the 35th anniversary of FCC. It was a fun time with some of us old timers remembering special moments in the life and times and those "God Moments" which make up our history. We each have big assignments to get all this recorded and assembled in just a few months...but God is in control!

Afterwards, I drove on to Wendy's to get a salad for my lunch, and had to figure out how to dodge the trucks and tar machine that is repaving 4th St.Between that and the construction still ongoing at 83rd and 9th St, , it becomes an obstacle course on those two streets!

But I drove on to the Park to find all was quiet, with several Ranger trucks parked and people watching and taking pictures of the egrets and herons in the middle of the overgrown canal, getting their food. But God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Philippians 4:4-9

Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again ---rejoice!
Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do.
Remember, the Lord is coming soon.

Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything.
Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done.
If you do this, you will experience God's peace, which is far
more wonderful   than the human mind can understand.
His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live
in Christ Jesus.

And Now, Dear brothers and sisters, let me say one more
thing as I close this letter. Fix your thoughts on what is
true and honorable and right. Think about things that are
pure and lovely and admirable. Think about things that
are excellent and worthy of praise. Keep putting into
practice all you have learned from me, and heard from me
and saw me doing, and the God of peace will be with you.


I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving,
joy and love!

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Tuesday, May 27, 2014

HALT!

Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it!  Sun in the morning, and rain in the afternoon..at least, that was the pattern for yesterday. It started slowly, without thunder or lightning and then just settled into and nice, steady shower for about ten minutes. I had to take the flag down, because of tradition and I did not want it to get wet, but since it was late in the afternoon, I would have taken it down soon, anyway.

The yard crew just got finished...it only takes them about ten minutes with three people working, but I don't have much grass, anyway. Jim rides the mower, and two guys edge and blow. They get 'er done!
Brian had come over in the evening to take my dumpster down to the curb and the mower guys pulled it back up for me, when they got through. I appreciate all the help I can get!

I did laundry yesterday, and then took off for the closed library to put books in the drop off container, followed by 3 cars with the same idea. After getting a "steak frank" for my lunch from Steak and Shake, I headed over to the park. Not too many people were there, but several joined tables were set with a lot of food and someone was grilling.

The canal is still very low on water, and the egrets and ibis and also the roseate spoonbills seem to really like it. There is a lot of over growth in the middle and that is where they like to peck for food. I was in time to see a hawk fly up into the trees with his catch of the day. God is good!

From the devotional book Quiet Moments with God

Let us strip off anything that slows us down or
holds us back, and especially those sins that wrap
themselves so tightly around our feet and trip us up.

Hebrews 12:1 TLB

Those who counsel the clinically depressed often suggest the HALT! Method to their patients . HALT is an acronym based upon these four words:

. Hungry
, Angry
. Lonely
. Tired

Too much of any of these conditions can result in a stress overload and lead to a downward spiral that eventually crashes into a form of depression. When two or more of these conditions are present, the downward plunge happens faster, with greater pain. And, if all four conditions are present as an ongoing pattern in a person's life, the person's depression may not only be deep, but life itself may be endangered.

To compound the problem, hunger, anger, loneliness, and exhaustion  tend to cluster together. If you are overly tired, it's easier to become angry. If you have missed a meal, you are likely to get tired more quickly, and so forth.

Therefore, any time you are feeling too hungry, , too angry, too lonely, or too tired...it's time to call a HALT! and to take immediate remedial action. Have a healthy bite to eat. Release your anger in prayer, exercise, or an act of reconciliation. Call a friend, and pour out your heart. Take a nap, or go to bed early.

"Call it to a halt" and "enough is enough" are well known phrases we need to apply on a daily basis. Don't neglect your personal nutrition. Get enough sleep. Balance your life with friendships. Live in peace with the people around you.

As you prepare to come to the end of your workday, it's especially important you remember to HALT! Don't push yourself into overdrive, even if you have to work overtime. Avoid setting yourself up for a crash by staying well fed, calm, in touch with friends. and refreshed.

"Holy leisure" refers to a sense of balance
in the life, and ability to be at peace
through the activities of the day; an ability
to rest and take time to enjoy beauty.
An ability to pace ourselves.
           Richard Foster

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis

Monday, May 26, 2014

Coping Skills

Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! It is a beautiful Memorial day for ceremonies, remembering and enjoying the day however folks will celebrate.

Brian and I went out to Bay Pines National Cemetery Saturday, to place flowers on Louis' grave, and, as always, I was so moved to see thousands of flags waving in the wind over the large cemetery. The Boy Scouts put out all of the flags and then pick them up afterwards...a huge job, but one done with precision and caring.

I was watching two Air Force men in full dress uniform underneath the small shelter , preparing for a funeral service which was coming. One of them was practicing with his hands, the folding of the flag. Both were very solemn and before we left, they were standing side by side in the hot sun, perfectly still, with one of them holding the folded flag. Then the procession came in, and we left, so there would be more room for parking. I think these men volunteer for this duty, and I am sure think it is a great honor.

Louis and I watched the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown, many years ago, when we were in Wash. DC. I was so touched in my heart by the preciseness of each move. It was a memorable sight. God is so good!

From the devotional book 'Quiet Moments with God"

My times are in your hand.
Psalm 31:15 NRSV

How we handle delays tells us a lot about ourselves. How do you handle a traffic jam when you left the house already late for work? What do you do when your flight is delayed because of mechanical difficulty or bad weather? How do you respond when the register in your checkout lane runs out of tape just as you get to the head of the line? Can you take a deep breath and enjoy a five-minute break at the railroad crossing when the guard rail goes down to allow a train to pass?

Consider how one man handled a delay. Just as the light turned green at the busy intersection, his car stalled in heavy traffic. He tried everything he knew to get the car started, but all his efforts failed. The chorus of honking behind him put him on edge, which only make matters worse.

Finally he got out of his car and walked back to the first driver and said, "I'm sorry, but I can't seem to get my car started. If you'll go up there and give it a try, I'll stay here and blow your horn for you."

Things rarely go as smoothly as we would like, and we don't usually schedule ourselves any extra time just in case something goes wrong.

The ability to accept disappointments, delays, and setbacks with a pleasant , generous spirit is a gift of graciousness that comes from one who has received grace from others in pressured circumstances. Life is a series of choices, and no matter what situation we are in , we always have the freedom to choose how we are going to respond.

Refuse to get out of sorts the next time your schedule gets interrupted or turned upside down. Pray for strength to remain calm, cheerful, relaxed, and refreshed in the midst of the crisis. And always remember! God's plans for you, are not thwarted by delays!

Never become irritable while waiting; if you are patient you'll find that you can wait much faster.
Unknown

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Friday, May 23, 2014

A call to Remain Faithful

Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! More sunshine, cool breezes and very warm temps in the afternoon!A good time to live in the "Burg!"

The Rays won last night and it was not on TV! Boo!! But I have seen Sean Rodriguez' walk off homer on FB, and some of Alex Cobb's pitching, so guess I have to be satisfied with that. Maybe this is the beginning of coming out of the slump they have been in.

I am cautiously beginning to believe in Pierce Chiropractic , I have had one leg shorter than the other and could really feel it when I walked. I went for an adjustment a week ago, and now can tell how improved I am. I went back for a checkup yesterday, and Dr. Pierce said my perceptions were right on. I am still balanced and was walking much better, even without the cane for short distances around the house. Thanks, David, for your constant encouragement to visit Pierce Clinic!

I went on to the Park after leaving the Clinic, and once again, saw the busy roseate spoonbill and lots of egrets and ibis in the middle of the canal, which is down to a trickle now. We really need rain to fill it up and water our lawns. In His time, I am sure God will send it, because God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

 Jude 1:20-22

But you, dear friends, must continue to build your lives on
the foundation of your holy faith. And continue to pray as
you are directed by the Holy Spirit. Live in such a way
that God's love can bless you as you wait for the eternal
life that our Lord Jesus Christ in his mercy is going to
give you. Show mercy to those whose faith is wavering.
Rescue others by snatching from the flames of judgment.
There are still others to whom you need to show mercy,
but be sure that you are not contaminated by their sins.


I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving,
joy and love!

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis

Thursday, May 22, 2014

Luke 12 con't...

Good Morning , Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Another day in the string of beautiful weather days! Only today will get up into the nineties and so will the next two days! And this is only May!

After a delightful lunch with my friend from church, I noticed a gorgeous Royal Poinciana tree in full bloom. The jacarandas are still blooming and now the flame colored Royal Poincianas add to the beauty of spring! God has made all things beautiful!

And speaking of beautiful, I drove into the park later on, after doing my laundry chores, and there was the roseate spoonbill pecking away amidst the swamp of the canal. There is such a contrast with the white feathers of the egrets and ibis, and then the neutral, not so pretty, gopher tortoises! But God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Luke 12:32-34

...So don't be afraid , little flock. For it gives your
Father great happiness to give you the Kingdom.
Sell what you have and give to those in need.
this will store up treasure for you in heaven!
And the purses of heaven have no holes in them.
Your treasure will be safe-no thief can steal it
and no moth can destroy it.
Wherever your treasure is, there you heart and
thoughts will also be.


I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving,
joy and love!

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Wednesday, May 21, 2014

Teaching about Money and Possessions

Good Morning Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! So, we have another beautiful, warm day in the series of like days we have had! Sunshine, refreshing breezes and heat in the afternoon. Very nice!

I have been invited to lunch with a kind friend today, so I will not be able to procrastinate or waste time . Plus, my cleaning ladies are scheduled and I will be gone, but they know where the key is hidden and should have no trouble getting in. I will miss visiting with them, though.

Yesterday, I had an appointment with my long time doctor, and had to wait about forty minutes before being called in, which is unusual for him. My BP was running high, and he was concerned about that, but then he started chatting about the bill which may be passed next year regarding legal medical use of Marijuana and how it would affect memory, etc., in older folks. It was a lively discussion. Personally, I am against legalizing it. Then we were talking about memories and old age and he said I was amazing because I am ninety! I said wait a minute!! I am not ninety yet! And he said well, you are 87 and in remarkable shape. I told him about the 103 yr. old who is a member of my church and how feisty she is. He wondered if she remembered WW1. I have not talked with her to find out how far back her memory goes.

I also told the doctor that the thing I hate most about growing old, is that my body will not do what I am used to doing, like walking long distances, going to the Mall, etc. Sigh. I am still in better shape than a lot of people my age or younger. The doc wanted to know my secret. I just said "clean living". I should have answered , "the grace of God", but he is not a believer.

After I finally left his office, I drove across 9th St. and headed for Wendy's to get a frosty, then drove on to the Park, and saw the two roseate spoonbills, along with egrets and ibis, busy in the middle of the canal pecking around in the mud. Such beauty! God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Luke 12:27-31

Look at the lilies and how they grow.
They don't work or make their clothing,
yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed
as beautifully as they are. and if God cares so
wonderfully for flowers that are here today and
gone tomorrow, won't he more surely care for you?
You have so little faith! And don't worry about
 food--what to eat and drink. Don't worry whether
 God will provide it for you. These things dominate
 the thoughts of most people, but your Father
already knows your needs. He will give you all
you need from day to day if you make the Kingdom
of God your primary concern.


I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving,
joy and love!

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Tuesday, May 20, 2014

Love for Enemies

Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! What can I say, except "ditto"? Today is the same as yesterday which started out cool and then got very warm in the afternoon. It got up to almost ninety, in fact! But, except for the lack of rain, it is great weather!

Well, people, I did my ironing! Actually, I did not have as much as I thought I had, and it only took about ten minutes to do it.Some tasks are not as hard as we think they will be, if we just get to them! Sigh. Now, to start on closets....

I think I have new Times deliverers. The past two days the paper has not been in the chair..the usual spot by the front door. Yesterday it was on the floor beside the chair, and today is was right in front of the door on the floor. I'm not complaining, because it is still delivered by the door, but for over a year it has been put in the chair. I have given little gift certificates occasionally as a thank you for their faithfulness, because it takes extra time for them to walk up the driveway to the door instead of just flinging it from the car. Maybe the regulars are just on vacation.

I heard a noise out in the street late morning, and saw that the city had decided to fill in a pothole that had been forming in front of the house for the last six months. I had called it in and a lady came out to inspect right away, but nothing was done to fix it until yesterday. Guess these things have to be scheduled way down the line, but at least it is done!

I ran some errands before school let out, and then drove to the park and saw lots of egrets, ibis, and a couple woodstorks in the canal, which is very low on water. I think this makes it easy for the birds to fish for their lunch. God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Luke 6:27-31

But if you are willing to listen, I say, love your enemies. Do good to those who hate you.  Pray for the happiness of those who curse you. Pray for those who hurt you. If someone slaps you on one cheek, turn the other cheek. If someone demands your coat, offer your shirt, also. Give what you have to anyone who asks you for it, and when things are taken away from you, don't try to get them back.  Do for others as you would like them to do for you.

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving,
joy and love!

Love and hugs.
 Amaryllis

Monday, May 19, 2014

Encouragement

Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Once again , we have clear, blue skies and lots of sunshine. But even though it is cool now, the temps will climb up to the middle eighties today and the rest of the week.

My yard guys have already come and gone after mowing, edging and blowing. I had previously asked the head man to bring my dumpster up, because the garbage man always come around about 7, and since it is difficult for me to drag it back up beside the side garage door, I thought it would not be too much trouble for them. Last week, they forgot, and my friend, and neighbor brought it up herself. So, today the guys brought it up in front of the garage, instead of all the way back. So, once again, Cheryl took it back to where it belongs. I am blessed to have her for a friend and neighbor. She is one half of the team that cleans my house once a week, and a natural caregiver at heart.

Well, I watched Spider Man on the tube, by accident over the weekend. I did not know it was on, and probably would have avoided it, but was channel hopping and it was just coming on. I was caught up by the unbelievable special effects and the staring of the main character. He hardly changed expression and did not blink his eyes for long periods of time. Guess I am too old for fantasy films. But I watched it to the end.

After church yesterday, I dropped off a two week book I read in a day and a half, then drove on to the park, and saw a very wet turtle drying out on the weir, A group of people were gathered around the brown gopher tortoise across from the educational building, and two egrets were standing in the canal gathering lunch. It was a beautiful day and God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

What do I do when I feel overwhelmed?

Leviticus 26:8
Five of you will chase a hundred, and a hundred of you will chase ten thousand!

All your enemies will fall beneath the blows of your weapons.

Joshua 21:23:10
Each one of you will put to flight a thousand of the enemy, for the Lord your God
fights for you, just as he has promised.


Be encouraged that the power of God is for us, regardless of the number of enemies
against us. God used David to overcome Goliath, Gideon's three hundred soldiers
to defeat the armies of Midian, and one hundred and twenty disciples to establish
the church in Acts. He joys when working through our weaknesses and limitations.

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving,
joy and love!

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Friday, May 16, 2014

Ecclesiastes

Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Cool temps down to 68 this morning! Whoo Hoo! Never thought I would see this in the middle of May! Lots of sunshine and very cool breezes...cool for me, that is. I know some people really like the coolness, but I get chilled easily and like the warmth.

After the nice hard rain shower yesterday, the sun came out, so I went to pick up the book I had ordered from the library, along with other books, and then visited the park, to find it almost deserted. The ibis and squirrels were busy looking for food, but not many visitors were there.

On my way back, I stopped in at Audibel to buy some more batteries for my aids. They last just a week. I can almost tell when the deep voice will say in my ear, "Battery". First it was Thurs. to Thurs, now it is Sat. to Sat. Can't explain why it changed. Sigh.

Well, I am ignoring the plaintive call of my ironing, because I have a book waiting, the birds are singing their little throats out this morning, so loudly I can hear them inside the house, and it is just too nice to spend the time ironing. Besides, I haven't run out of clothes yet! But God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Ecclesiastes 3:9-15

What do people really get for all their hard work? I have
thought about this in connection with the various kinds of
work God has given people to do .
God has made everything beautiful for its own time.
He has Planted eternity in the human heart, but even so,
people cannot see the whole scope of God's work from
beginning to end. So I concluded that there is nothing
better for people to be happy and to enjoy themselves
as long as they can. And people should eat and drink
and enjoy the fruits of their labor, for these are gifts from God.

And I know that whatever God does is final. Nothing can be
added to it or taken from it. God's purpose in this is that
people should fear him. Whatever exists today and whatever
will exist in the future has already existed in the past. For
God calls each even back in its turn.


I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers
with thanksgiving, joy and love!

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Thursday, May 15, 2014

Cruisin' thru Colossians

Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! I took the day off yesterday, because of an early appointment at the Pierce Clinic, and today I have a late start because of a restless night. I did not sleep well, Maybe the full moon has something to do with it, but now, I am up and moving and ready to get a few things done while the sun is shining and before the rain comes.

My cleaning ladies were here and wanted to know what I had done that caused me to wear a collar around my neck. I told them about the adjustment at the clinic, and that I had to wear it for 3-4 hours. I could hardly wait to get it off because it was so stiff and uncomfortable! I had an intern, Kevin, before Dr. Pierce came in and he complimented me on my  name and knew it was a flower. That is fairly unusual for someone to know that. Anyway, hopefully, the adjustment will do some good.

We got some rain yesterday late, and today the wind is blowing and lots of clouds are around. There was water dripping off the roof this morning, so it might have rained a little last night.I took a drive over to the Park after I left the clinic. All was quiet and peaceful, except for a class of kids having a good time learning a lot about nature and animals. I saw one lone ibis in the canal where the water is very low and a turtle sunning on the bank of the weir, but very few people were there. But, as always, God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Colossians 3:12-17

Since God chose you to be the holy people
whom he loves, you must clothe yourselves
with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility,
gentleness, and patience. You must make allowance
for each other's faults and forgive the person who
offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you,
so you must forgive others. And the most important
piece of clothing you must wear is love. Love is
what binds us all together in perfect harmony.
And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in
your hearts. For as members of one body you are
called to live in peace. And always be thankful.

Let the words of Christ, in all their richness, live
in your hearts and make you wise. Use his words
to teach and counsel each other. Sing psalms
and hymns and spiritual songs to God with
thankful hearts. And whatever you do or say, let
it be as a representative of the Lord Jesus, all
the while giving thanks through him to God the Father.


I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving,
joy and love!

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Tuesday, May 13, 2014

Psoaring thru Psalm 119

Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it!  Lots of sunshine, a few clouds and breezes , plus a lot of humidity and heat make up the weather today, just like yesterday. Looks like the A/C is on for the duration.

I went to Pierce Clinic yesterday to see if he could do anything for my sore tendon from the Achilles heel. He seemed shocked that I was so out of adjustment since my last visit, and did not treat me, but had x-rays taken of my neck, so we start all over again. I told him what had been going on in my life...acute bronchitis, bad side effects from meds, etc, so he said I should have come in at the beginning, Since I am new to chiropractic, I am still a little skeptical about the healing powers they have, but I am open minded enough to try. I just want the pain relieved in the heel and ankle!

Since Brian got back from TN yesterday morning, he took me out to a Mother's Day dinner last night. We enjoyed a huge meal at Cheddar's, more than half of which I brought home. I had tilapia with mango salsa and shrimp on top. Delicious! I will enjoy that again!

I drove to the Park after I left the Clinic and saw the roseate spoonbill once again.What beauty!

Well, I had better get my sheets out of the dryer and make the bed. Time to get to work! God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Psalm 119:1-8

Happy are the people of integrity,
who follow the law of the Lord.
Happy are those who obey his decrees
and search for him with all their hearts.
They do not compromise with evil,
and they walk only in his paths.
You have charged us
to keep your commandments carefully.
Oh, that my actions would consistently
reflect your principles!
Then I will not be disgraced
when I compare my life with your commands.
When I learn your righteous laws
I will thank you by living as I should.
I will obey your principles.
Please don't give up on me!


I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving
joy and love!

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Monday, May 12, 2014

Psoaring thru Psalm 37

Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners!  This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! A very warm and humid day is happening already, with some clouds and sun, so summer is here!

A shower was predicted for yesterday, but it was a good Mother's Day. even though a bit warm. I received a lovely flower arrangement, cards from both sons and, since Brian was in TN with Daryl, he will take me out to dinner tonight, Lord willing!

It was so good to see Pastor Tim Musselwhite and Jill at church yesterday! He was a former associate pastor and interim at church back in the seventies, I believe, or maybe eighties. But, anyway, I liked him and was sorry to see him called away. They are now in CO. quite a change in climate from Florida.

As I was walking out of church, I happened to be behind two other ladies with canes, and I remarked it was the cane parade. One of the ladies said she did not want anyone to have to pick her up. The other friend is 93, and she needs some help walking, also. But we have a 103 yr. old who is spry and needs no help walking! We each age in our own ways...

On my way to church, I drove by Lynch Lake and saw a roseate spoonbill in all its pinkness, and saw one at the park over the weekend! I love the shade of pink their feathers are! God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Psalm 37:3-9
Trust in the Lord and do good.
Then you will live safely in the land and prosper.
Take delight in the Lord,
and he will give you your heart's desires.


Commit everything you do to the Lord.
Trust him, and he will help you.
He will make your innocence as clear as
the dawn, and the justice of your cause
will shine like the noonday sun.

Be still in the presence of the Lord,
and wait patiently for him to act.
Don't worry about evil people who prosper
or fret about their wicked schemes.

Stop your anger!
Turn from your rage!
Do not envy others--
it only leads to harm.
For the wicked will be destroyed,
but those who trust in the Lord will
possess the land.


I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving,
joy and love!

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Friday, May 9, 2014

Discernment

Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Sunshine, breezes and temperatures climbing...a day just like yesterday. I can almost see the grass grow!

Brian arrived safely in Knoxville about 8:30 and Daryl was there to meet him. I am hoping my three guys will have a great time hanging out together this weekend!

Newsflash! I just got delivery of some beautiful flowers in a Thomas Kinkade vase! And they smell like flowers!! My guys always have beautiful bouquets sent from Hayes Florist. Brian was apologetic that he would not be here for Mother's Day, but will take me to dinner Monday evening when he comes back from TN.  Love my family!

Yesterday, I returned some books to the library, and then drove on to the Park, There were only about 8 cars total there, so this must be a busy time of year for everyone. A dark, immature, ibis walked across the street right in front of me, and there were the usual squirrels dashing about.  Otherwise, all was quiet. On the way there, I drove by Lynch Lake and saw a fat osprey perched on a wire overlooking the lake. A good vantage point for spying fish! God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

James 1:5-9
If you need wisdom--if you want to know what God wants you
to do--ask him, and he will gladly tell you. He will not resent your
asking. But when you ask him, be sure that you really expect him
to answer, for a doubtful mind is as unsettled as a wave of the sea
that is driven and tossed by the wind. People like that should not
expect him to receive anything from the Lord. They can't make up their
minds. They waver back and forth in everything they do.


I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving,
joy and love!

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Thursday, May 8, 2014

Faith Brings Joy

Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! More sunshine and humidity on tap for today, so it looks like time to get out the summer clothes and put away the winter duds!

I did not go out yesterday. I was resting my heel and ankle as much as possible, so I waited for my cleaning ladies to come and let them do any work that needed doing. They were very sympathetic and since Kim just had her knee operated on, she knew that resting the joint and applying ice is very important.

Well, Praise God, when I rolled out of bed this morning, there was no pain! I am walking almost normally, now. All I did yesterday, was take an Aleve in the morning, and again in the evening before bed time. Maybe that helped, plus prayers!

I have been working with a stopped up shower drain for a while, now, and tried everything to get the water to flow out faster. Finally, I called the plumber yesterday and was told that when he finished a job he was on, he would be out in the afternoon. I received a call about 3 PM that he would be on his way in just a few minutes. When I called an hour later, the dispatcher was shocked that he had not come yet, so she called him and said he had made two stops and was on the way. Well, when he still had not come about thirty minutes later, he called and said his truck would not start. Long story short...he finally came about 6 and augured out the drain, and the water flows out freely! PTL!

I have been watching out my window, the butterflies circling by..a pretty swallowtail and a black and white one. I don't know my different butterflies very well, but God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Romans 5:1-
Therefore, since we have been made right in God's
sight by faith, we have peace with God because of
what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. Because
of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of
highest privilege where we now stand, and we confidently
and joyfully look forward to sharing God's glory.

We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and
trials, for we know that they are good for us---they help
us learn to endure. And endurance develops strength of
character in us, and character strengthens our confident
expectation of salvation. And this expectation will not
disappoint us. For we know how dearly God loves us,
because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts
with His love.


I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving,
joy and love.

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Wednesday, May 7, 2014

Assurance

Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! We have a ditto day for the weather...just like yesterday, except there is a breeze blowing this morning. Bright sun, and a few puffy clouds,,perfect!

I finally had to go shopping, so I went to Publix and was very tempted to use one of their electric wheelchairs. I have had a really sore right heel and ankle lately and was barely able to make it through the store without having to sit down. I have had this pain for some time now, and asked my podiatrist about it, but he was not too concerned..(should be his heel). Then I told my primary care doc about it, but he said since I am not diabetic, he did not know how to fix it. So now, I have an appointment with the Pierce Clinic, and maybe they can do something for it. It hurts!

Enough of my complaining, though. I was thankful for God's provision and met one of my friends from church while shopping. Her husband is being treated for cancer, so my complaints seem small compared to her situation. The store was not crowded and they only had three cashiers working, and no long lines, so I picked the right time to come.

I drove on over to the park and saw two pretty white egrets right away in the canal in front of the weir, and had to stop for a squirrel to cross the road. The canal had several ibis in it and people were looking over the bridge down into the water.. On the way out, I got behind two cars waiting for the light. It has an automatic trip, that has to be run over, but the first car was parked too far back, so we waited and waited for over five minutes. I thought about pulling up and telling him to drive forward, but he finally gave it the gun, and shot out on a red light. Just by him doing that, the light immediately changed, and the rest of us could go legally. But, God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

What does assurance do for me when I confront every day problems?

Hebrews 4:14-16
We have a great High Priest who has gone to heaven. Jesus  the Son of God. Let us cling to him and never stop trusting him. This great High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same temptations we do , yet he did not sin. So let us come boldly to the throne of  our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it.

Ephesians 2:12
Because of Christ and our faith in him, we can come fearlessly
into God's presence, assured of his glad welcome.
The assurance of God's love gives us courage to come to him with
any problem, struggle or concern. Our prayers are never interruptions
to the Lord. When we knock, the door is always open to us.


I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving,
 joy and love!

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Tuesday, May 6, 2014

Obedience

Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! We have another beautiful day of sunshine and lower humidity! Since we have already exceeded the rainfall total for the whole month of May, we will be dry for the next week or two. At least, that is the prediction. I know the street gutters are still flowing with water in front of my house. The staghorn fern got watered well, and is looking perky from the rain.

I heard a sermon from Joel Osteen Sunday before I left for church. He was preaching/teaching on Redeeming your Time. That has kind of stuck with me, because of all the time I waste going through the social media pages on the computer. He gave examples of not spending time with negative people....in a job you hate,  etc. and pointed out that Jesus surrounded himself with 12 men who supported and encouraged him. It was a good lesson for me!

Yesterday was wash day for me. I had let my laundry accumulate until I had two large loads to do, so I got busy and washed and dried everything and now it is all put away!

I drove on to the Park later and saw the gopher tortoise meandering around, but very few people were out. It was such a pretty day, I expected the place to be full. But God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

What does God promise to those who obey?

Psalm 1:1-3
Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice
of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join
in with scoffers. But they delight in doing everything
the Lord wants; day and hight they think about his law.
They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing
 fruit each season without fail. Their leaves never wither,
and in all they do, they prosper.
Obedience paves the way for fruitfulness. When we obey, we have
a clear conscience and uninterrupted fellowship with the Lord.
We honor other people and stay out of conflict. We give our
energies to things that last and do not waste time in unprofitable ways.


I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving,
joy and love!

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Monday, May 5, 2014

Happy Cinco de Mayo Day!

Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! The sun is shining brightly and the day is getting warmer, and would you believe it is predicted to hit 90 by the end of the week!  I guess that means the end of spring and summer is here for sure!

My yard guys have already come and gone after blowing all the trash off the porch and driveway and cleaning up the yard a bit. Jim also returns my garbage dumpster, which saves me having to do it. It's good to have reliable help! They don't usually mow every week, since the grass is not growing so fast, yet, and with all that rain over the weekend the street side is really soggy.

Speaking of the rain, I ordered a pizza delivered for the first time in my life, during that rainy Saturday. The young delivery guy came dashing through the rain to bring it to me nice and hot! I tipped him well for his trouble. I am learning to do certain things by myself, but I still avoid going into a restaurant alone. I have seen other women eating solo, but I am not bold enough to do it yet.

Yesterday evening, I went to a birthday party at my friends' house and had portabella burgers, (delicious) lots of salads, topped off with a yummy birthday cake. I was well taken care of by the host, my friend, David. Lots of talk, play and kids in the pool! A fun time! God is good!

This scripture is for all the seniors graduating this weekend, including my grandson, Matthew Louis Green, in Cleveland, TN;

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Jeremiah 30:11
 "For I know the plans I have for you," says the Lord. "They are plans
for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days
when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me in earnest, you will
find me when you seek me."


I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving,
joy and love!

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Friday, May 2, 2014

Psoaring thru Psalm 20

Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Rain, and more rain! We are having a "frog-strangler"! The wet has been falling for about thirty minutes. From the looks of radar, there will be no let up any time soon. Fortunately, any chores I had to do can wait.

I had a lazy day yesterday...just stuck around the house and watched the Rays win a double header over the Red Sox..Yay!, read and dozed in the afternoon, so whenever the rain moves on, I will have to go out today. But I did enjoy the butterflies flitting by the window. I think they were headed for my Beauty bush. God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Psalm 20

In times of trouble, may the Lord respond to your cry.
May the God of Israel keep you safe from all harm.

May he send you help from his sanctuary
and strengthen you from Jerusalem.
May he remember all your gifts
and look favorably on your burnt offerings.

May he grant your heart's desire and fulfill all your plans.
May we shout for joy when we hear of your victory.
flying banners to honor our God.
May the Lord answer all your prayers.

Now I know that the Lord saves his anointed king.
He will answer him from his holy heaven
and rescue him by his great power.
Some nations boast of their armies and weapons,
but we boast in the Lord our God.
Those nations will fall down and collapse;
but we will rise up and stand firm.
Give victory to our king, O Lord!
Respond to our cry for help.


I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving,
joy and love!

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Thursday, May 1, 2014

Happy May Day!

Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! We have a thunderstorm predicted for this afternoon and already the clouds are moving in, so maybe we will get a storm. Nothing like the Panhandle, I hope!

My ladies were here to clean yesterday, and it is always good to have them around discussing what is going on in the neighborhood and the local news. Kim has had family here for the past week and they were all going to The Hangar for 5 dollar burgers last evening. It was their first time and they really enjoyed it because the grandboys got to look down at all the airplanes. They ate outside. That is still one of my favorite places to eat!

I drove to Chick-fil-A for my salad supper. Traffic was heavy and fast, but the construction had stopped for the day, so no delays because of that! I am really impressed by the attitudes of the workers at Chick-fil-a. It is not usually the case with fast food workers to be so polite and happy to serve you.
Good training is the key!

I saw wood storks and ibis and ducks hanging around Lynch Lake on my way out, and then ibis, squirrels and the small gopher tortoise at the park later on. God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:
 Psalm 63:1-5

O God, you are my God;
I earnestly search for you.
My soul thirsts for you:
my whole body longs for you
in this parched and weary land
where there is no water.'

I have seen you in your sanctuary
and gazed upon your power and glory.
Your unfailing love is better to me tha life itself;
How I praise you!
I will honor you as long as I live,
lifting up my hands to you in prayer.
You satisfy me more than the richest of foods.
I will praise you with songs of joy.


I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis