Monday, February 29, 2016

Happy Leap 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! Chilly nights, and warm, sunshiny days makes for perfect weather these days. It looks like March will come in like a lamb, since no rain is predicted for the rest of the week.

I had an interesting weekend...Fri. evening I went to Applebee's and picked up my Carside to Go dinner which I had ordered. That was the first time I had done that, but I will do it again, since it is a big change from Boston Market!

Then, Saturday, Brian went to the Saturday Morning Market downtown St. Petersburg, and brought me a jar of Thai red grape jam, home canned, and a quart of red, juicy strawberries, freshly picked and washed. So good! I already had a container of Publix strawberries, so I cut them all up, sampling as I cut, put Splenda on them and had some with my oatmeal this morning.

Brian took me to lunch at Harvey's on 4th St. Sat., after he finished with my check book. We had to wait about 15 minutes for a table, as they were unexpectedly busy. Because it was fan day at the Trop for the Rays and it was such a beautiful day, I think that may have accounted for the crowd. Anyway, I had a Reuben sandwich which was very good, and Brian had a grouper sandwich, which Harvey's is famous for.. I would have had one, but I am staying away from fish these days, as I have unhappy results from eating it.

Then yesterday, I listened to another powerful sermon from Pastor Kevin, and some good worship singing, and was pleased and surprised to see Allen Dean, Steve's twin, visiting . I had not seen him in years, so I had to give him a hug. So all three of the Dean boys were together. I know Phyllis's heart was overflowing! (their Mom).

Then, to cap off the weekend, I had a long phone conversation with one of my dearest old friends! She called from Indiana, and we had such a good time catching up!  She's one of the friends that no matter how long you are apart, you can take up right where you left off as if no time has passed!  God is so good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

John 14:6-Philip said, "Lord, show us the Father
and we will be satisfied."
Jesus replied, "Philip, don't you even yet know who
I am, even after all the time I have been with you?
Anyone who has ever seen me, has seen the Father!
So why are you asking to see him? Don't you believe
that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? Or at
least believe because of what you have seen me do.
The truth is, anyone who believes in me, will do the
same works I have done, and even greater works because
I am going to be with the Father. You may ask for any-
thing in my name and I will do it , because the work of
the Son brings glory to the Father. Yes, ask anything
in my name and I will do it."


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

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Friday, February 26, 2016

A Daily Prayer Against Spiritual Warfare

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 already late and that's because I am lazy this chilly day. We have lots of sun, but the wind is still blowing, so boaters are advised to use caution today.But the next few days should be lovely and clear.

I took a little ride yesterday and saw lots of people in the Park, but no animals. I noticed that the rain had made the water overflow the weir. There was lots of debris caught against the rods that line the sides. That was a lot of rain that came down!

On the way back I saw lots of cars parked in front of the Sav-A-Lot which is having its grand opening. Looks like lots of people have been waiting for it to open. It is in the same building that used to be a Publix many years ago, and then it was Dr. Pierce's Chiropractic Clinic. I think many  people from the Town Home apartments will find that very convenient.

Well, I fished some very old celery out of my crisper drawer, which was not crisp, and tossed it away. Celery does not keep well. I wish I could buy it loose, one or two stalks at a time instead of the whole head or whatever you call it! Same with lettuce. I'm thinking about putting some in one of the salad containers that go with the salad bars. That way I could use it up much faster instead of wasting the spoiled part that I never get to. I bought the celery so I could fill it with the cream cheese mixture that my niece, Kim, makes for Thanksgiving, so it was a little old, but not that old! I did not buy it in November!

Well, I see a bluejay hopping around in the hedge outside my window. God is good!

Pastor Jeff's Daily Prayer Suggestion:

Dear Heavenly Father.
I honor You as my Lord. I acknowledge that You are
always present with me. You are the only all powerful and
only wise God. You are kind and loving in all Your ways.
I love you and thank you that I am united with Jesus and
spiritually alive in Him.

I thank You for the life that I have in Christ, and I ask You
to fill me with Your Holy Spirit that I may live my life free
from sin.  You are the Vine and I am the branch; apart from
You I can do nothing. I take my stand against Satan and command
all his evil spirits to depart from me. I ask these things in the
name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Amen.

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

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Thursday, February 25, 2016

Easin' thru Ephesians

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 unlike yesterday at this time when we were under a severe thunderstorm warning and tornado watch! We had a lot of hard rain, but fortunately, no tornados. Then in the afternoon it cleared off and the next few days are supposed to be clear and cool! Our last days of winter, maybe.

Cheryl and Kim, my cleaning ladies came and said they did not get too wet going into their first house job and by the time they got here, the rain had stopped. So they worked hard and got the house spic and span. Since I am their last customer for the day, all they have to do is go across the street and they are home!

Well another familiar face is retiring from a local TV station. Chip Carter, one of my favorite sports reporters, is doing his last broadcast tomorrow. Seems like he is too young to retire.Former coach, Jon Gruden, and his wife stopped in to say goodbye to him and wish him well. It might be Tony Dungy next, or maybe Derek Jeter, who has a mansion in Tampa. We have several well known sports figures living in the area.

I saw squirrels out after the storm and the birds were busy making up for lost time securing berries and what not that they could not gather during the rain, so God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Living by the Spirit's Power

Ephesians 5:12-20
So be careful how you live, not as fools, but
as those who are wise. Make the most of
every opportunity for doing good in these
evil days. Don't act thoughtlessly, but try to
understand what the Lord wants you to do.
Don't be drunk with wine, because that will
ruin your life. Instead, let the Holy Spirit  fill
and control you. Then you will sing psalms
and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves
making music to the Lord in your hearts. And
you will always give thanks for everything to
God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.


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

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Wednesday, February 24, 2016

Psoaring thru Psalms

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 am rejoicing because I did not have to be out in the storm that passed through here! I was anxiously watching the ceiling where the faint stains are to see if they got any larger, which would mean more leaking, but unless it shows up later, so far no more stain.The roofer is not coming until the first of March, which is too long to wait in my opinion. All I want is someone to check to see where the leak is coming from. Sigh.

The sun is actually trying to come out now, and making the drops of rain shine like diamonds on the hedge next door. Well, looks like the clouds have not gone away yet, as the brightness dimmed. Now the wind has picked up and the prediction is for cooler weather; in fact, down right chilly tonight. Last night I had the A/C on and the winter blanket pushed down to the foot of the bed and was very comfortable. Guess I will pull it back up tonight.

It was so warm yesterday, that I decided to go to Steak and Shake and get a strawberry shake. I had been to the Park and saw a great blue heron, the big brown gopher tortoise, and on the way out, a hawk on the ground. After that, I took the shake home and enjoyed it! God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Psalm 139:1-6
O Lord, you have examined my heart
and know everything about me.
You know when I sit down or stand up.
You know my every thought when far away.
You chart the path ahead of me
and tell me where to stop and rest.
Every moment you know where I am.
You know what I am going to say
even before I say it, Lord.'
You both precede and follow me.
You place your hand of blessing on my head.
Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,
too great for me to know!


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

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Tuesday, February 23, 2016

Roamin' thru Romans

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 wind is blowing today and we are in for a short change in the weather tomorrow. But, today we have sun and temps in the seventies already. However, rain is coming and my roof is still not fixed, so I am hoping for no more leaks.

Sunday afternoon I took a trip to downtown St. Petersburg, and was pleased to see how busy it was. People were walking around shopping or just looking at the art show booths set up in Straub Park. Central Avenue parking was not to be found. Every space was taken. Outdoor dining was popular with the perfect weather, and the waterfront was beautiful! Since I grew up here it is gratifying to see how many young people are coming and enjoying this city.

I saw a glimpse of red peeking through the hedge outside my window and sure enough! It was a Cardinal! I haven't seen one in a long time, so I was excited to see him. Maybe there is a nest close by. I have also heard doves with their mournful coos and that is a sound I have been missing. Spring is on the way! And I saw a young gator sunning on the bank of the lake at the park Sunday afternoon. God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Romans 12:6-12
God has given each of us the ability to do
certain things well. So if God has given you
the ability to prophecy, speak out when you have
faith that God is speaking through you. If your
gift is that of serving others, serve them well.
If you are a teacher, do a good job of teaching.
If your gift is to encourage others, do it! If you
have money, share it generously. If God has given
you leadership ability , take the responsibility
seriously. And if you have the ability to show kindness
to others, do it gladly.


Don't pretend that you love others, really love them.
Hate what is wrong. Stand on the side of the good. Love
each other with genuine affection, and take delight in
honoring each other. Never be lazy in your work, but
serve the Lord enthusiastically!

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

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Monday, February 22, 2016

Psoaring thru Psalms

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! Well, it is almost afternoon, and I did not think I would be sending this today. I went to the Quest Diagnostic for lab work, thinking if I arrived around 8:30 or so, the crowd would be gone or at least thinned out. Wrong!! The room was packed with people waiting, so after sitting for a few minutes in one of the few empty seats, I decided to cross off my name and come back another time. Maybe it won't be so crowded Wednesday.

But at least, I got to enjoy the beauty of the morning. I saw many contrails criss crossing the sky; very visible against the very blue background. The sun is shining brightly and warming everything up and a slight breeze is blowing. Just beautiful!

I did not attend church yesterday. Saturday I had eaten a fish sandwich from McDonald's and found out that fish does not agree with me. I had been told by my doctor to not eat shellfish because it causes too much uric acid in my system, but apparently, most any fish does that. I was awake most of the night with needle like pains in my left foot, so I got up and walked around and had some yogurt about 3:30 Sunday morning.. My leg felt weak, so, much as I hated to miss church, I thought it best that I stay home. I had a good night's sleep last night and I feel much better. God is good!

BTW, Our youth director, Chuck Howard, won Honorable Mention for a very funny segment he sent to Funniest Home Videos which was shown on TV last night.

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Psalm 40:4-8
Oh, the joys of those who trust the Lord,
who have no confidence in the proud
or in this who worship idols.
O Lord, my God, you have done many
miracles for us.
Your plans for us are too numerous to list.
If I tried to recite all your wonderful deeds
I would never come to the end of them.

You take no delight in sacrifices or offerings/
Now that you have made me listen, I finally understand--
You don't require burnt offerings or sin offerings.
Then I said. "Lord, I have come.
And this has been written about me in your scroll.
I take joy in doing your will, my God,
for your law is written on my heart."


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

Friday, February 19, 2016

Jude

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! This has been a perfect week as far as weather is concerned, cool at night and just right during the sunshiny days. I am happy it is continuing for as long as my roof is not fixed!

Yesterday, I decided to go grocery shopping, so I went at the perfect time. There were very few people as I drove into the Publix parking lot, so I managed with my cane to get in the door and get a cart, then, since only a couple people were waiting for sandwiches, I decided to get one for my supper. I chose the turkey half sandwich and was glad I did. Then I went into produce and got a bowl of pineapple chunks to go with the juice I had found. I had to ask one of the guys in the back to get the chunks down for me, which he was glad to do. I thanked him and he said it was his pleasure, which reminded me of the service at CFA.  Short people don't do well in grocery stores, when it comes to high shelves. More than once, I have looked in vain for someone to reach up for me to get an item down. I have even asked  strangers and they are usually willing. Anyway, by the time I checked out, I had saved $20.98 including my 10 dollar coupon from the Sunday ad in the Times! Not bad!

I was watching a bluejay ,moving around in the hedge outside my window, getting what few berries are left on it. I don't see how they can swallow the big seeds, because their beaks are full of the round berries when they find one, but somehow they fit! God is marvelous and good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Jude 24,25

And now, all glory to God, who is able to keep
you from stumbling, and who will bring you
into his glorious presence innocent of sin and
with great joy. All glory to him, who alone is God
our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Yes,
glory, majesty, power, and authority belong to him,
in the beginning, now, and forevermore. Amen


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

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Thursday, February 18, 2016

God's Wisdom

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 are still having a string of perfect days...quite cool in the mornings and warming up nicely in the afternoon. Just perfect, although my cleaning ladies would prefer it to be very chilly as they work!

Cheryl said she had her windows open and would leave them open last night even though it was supposed to get down to 50. She's a lot warmer blooded than I am! I was reading an article yesterday on how to get a good night's sleep and the idea presented was to lose the pajamas and sleep nude to let your skin breathe. Just the thought of that makes me break out in goosebumps!

The girls came to clean yesterday and we had a good time talking while they worked. Kim had several suggestions about why my ipad will not stay on the internet, but none of them were very helpful. It remains a mystery.

I logged on to Zillow yesterday to check on our first house on 15th Street, 47 years ago. I found out that is has been remodeled and is now a rental. The carport has been enclosed to make another bedroom, so it is a 3 bedroom, 1 bath house, with remodeling throughout. Very different from the small house we bought when Louis came back from the service. We have lived in this area for 52 years!  Probably one of the longest residents of Meadowlawn!

I walked out on the front porch yesterday and saw a squirrel high in the oak tree clinging to a small branch which was leafless and just hanging on! Then I took a trip to the Park and saw quite a few local cars, but not many out of state, Coming back by Lynch Lake, there was the usual flock of seagulls, and ducks and the one lone wood stork. I wonder if he thinks he is an ibis, because he is always hanging around with them..,But God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Ephesians 3:14-19
When I think of the wisdom and scope of God's plan,
 I fall to my knees and pray to the Father, the
Creator of everything in heaven and on earth.
I pray that from the glorious, unlimited resources
he will give you mighty inner strength through his
Holy Spirit. And I pray that Christ will be more and
more at home in your hearts as you trust in him.
May your roots go down deep into the soil of God's
marvelous love. And may you have the power to
understand , as all God's people should, how wide,
how long, how high, and how deep his love really is.
May you experience the love of Christ, though it is so
great you will never fully understand it.
Then you will be filled with the fullness of life and power
the comes from God!


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

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Wednesday, February 17, 2016

Glory of the New Covenant

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 little chilly to me but promises to be another very warm day like yesterday with temps up into the seventies! Just perfect! Spring is here for this week, anyway.

I was busy in the house yesterday. I have substituted  another lamp for the one that quit working by my bed, but still hope to find someone to put a new socket in. I actually have the matching lamp that needs a new socket, also.

While I was making the bed with the sheets and blanket I took out of the dryer, I must have bumped the "home companion" bracelet I wear in case of falls, because I got a phone call from ADT wanting to know if I was OK. I have done that before, and one time I heard the ERT trucks driving up  and stepped out to see what was the matter. I don't answer the phone if I don't recognize the number and they had called twice to check on me. I appreciate the rapid response, but realize it costs money for them.

I decided to have a Jr. Whopper for supper, so drove to Burger King and on the way home saw the osprey sitting on a tall pole where his nest was being built on the school grounds. And I saw several ibis decorating the top of a light pole. God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

1 Corinthians 3:17-18
But whenever anyone turns to the Lord
then the veil is taken away. Now, the Lord
is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the
Lord is, he gives freedom. And all of us have
had that veil removed so that we can be mirrors
that brightly reflect the glory of the Lord. And as
the Spirit of the Lord works within us we become
more and more like him and reflect his glory even more.


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

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Tuesday, February 16, 2016

Psoaring thru Psalms

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 rain and tornado warnings last night, but I don't think it was too bad right around this neighborhood. I was worried about my roof, since a stain has shown up on the flat roof ceiling, but it does not look any worse today than yesterday. My handy man checked it out Sat. and said the sealant looks good , so he thinks the leak is coming from higher up. Sigh. I called the roofing company but they won't send someone out until March 1st, which seems too long just to get someone to check it out.

My yard crew came yesterday and mowed and blew more leaves off, so everything was neat for awhile. It looks like the oak that sheds is just about through losing its leaves but more came down during the wind yesterday. All the colorful maple leaves are just about gone from the trees in the neighborhood.

I tried to go shopping at two different shopping centers, but due to the crowds for the sales could not find a close enough parking space, so decided to visit the park. On my way, I passed a gorgeous roseate spoonbill preening himself by a culvert. It was the closest I have ever been to one in the wild, and he was beautiful! It sure brightened my day! God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Psalm 100
Shout with joy to the Lord, O earth!
Worship the Lord with gladness.
Come before him, singing with joy.
Acknowledge that the Lord is God!
He made us and we are his.
We are his people, the sheep of his pasture.

Enter his gates with thanksgiving,
and into his courts with praise.
Give thanks to him and bless his name,
For the Lord is good.
His unfailing love continues forever,
 and his faithfulness continues to each
generation.


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

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Monday, February 15, 2016

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! The sky is overcast but bright although rain is predicted for this afternoon. I am hoping to get in touch with the roofers since I discovered signs of a leak that my handy man said was not the result of a crack in the sealant on the flat roof. The roofer may be closed for Prez Day. But I will try again later.

My roses from Daryl are still pretty for Valentine's day and the chocolate mints are melt in your mouth good! The chocolates were supposed to come with the flowers, but the driver forgot to leave them. He remembered  sometime later, after I had texted thanks to Daryl for the flowers and he had asked me if I had received them. I told him no, so he sent Teleflora an email saying something was missing. Meanwhile, the driver, Mike, came back in the afternoon with warm chocolates, which I stuck in the fridge. Then, later the manager of the florist came with another box of chocolates. I told him the story, said I had already received the box and gave them back to him, thanking him for his concern. Daryl said I should never turn down chocolates!

Brian came over yesterday and brought my ipad which he had taken back to Apple to see why he could not download email for me on it. They had to wipe it clean so he could start all over and he successfully got all the apps back on it! I even have the Library app, so I can use it as an ereader, which will be convenient. My sons are very good to me!

We had a great sermon yesterday, and a lot of red was being worn by guys and gals alike!  There was 8,000 dollars raised in the coin cans for the clean water project for Covenant World Relief! It was exciting to see the overflowing large can last week as the money was poured in!

Yesterday I visited the Park, which was full once again with people enjoying the beautiful weather. Later I returned books to the book drop at the library and noticed the creek behind the sidewalk in Fossil Park. It has sloping grass covered banks and since the tide was out, lots of black mud was showing, but what caught my eye was a large flock of ibis pecking in and out of the water. It looked like a painting with the greens, shady trees and white birds. I just sat for a minute and enjoyed God's gifts. God is good!;

From the Promise Bible NLT:

When I am confused, where do I turn for clarity, wisdom, understanding and direction?

James 1:5-6
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 to receive anything from the Lord. They can't make up their minds. The 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

Friday, February 12, 2016

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! Still cool temps this morning, but like yesterday it will warm up and I actually had a window open in the afternoon. That was on the south side of the house in the kitchen where it is always warm.

After doing laundry, I did some grocery shopping and picked out some lovely bananas, and yes, I still get slightly green bananas...not too old to let them ripen!

I also took a drive to the park, which was very crowded with lots of people from out of state, I saw a lot of New York tags and since it was below freezing there, I know they must have been enjoying the sun!

Well I thought there would be no blog today, because I had drain problems in the shower. I joined HomeServ last year and pay very little monthly to them for several things that could go wrong in the house and it paid off. I called yesterday, was contacted by a plumber 5 minutes later and he came out at 9, and cleaned out the shower drain. He was here for about 20 minutes and it did not cost me anything! Yay for HomeServ! I almost forgot to mention that the plumber reminded me of Ben Zobrist; he looked a lot like him. For those of you who don't know, Ben  is a former Rays player who got traded to KC, and a fine man!

Coming home from shopping, I drove by Lynch Lake and saw 2 wood storks right by the street looking very depressed. They always look sad with their necks all drawn up and even though they were in a crowd of ibis, they were not happy. But God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Luke 7:27-31
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 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 others 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

Thursday, February 11, 2016

Psoaring thru Psalms

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, no wind and chilly air , but warming is what we have today. When I checked the temp earlier it was 49 degrees, but has already warmed up to about 54. Not much better, but I am managing to stay warm.

Well, I made an unhappy discovery this morning, The spot on the ceiling of my fireplace room has been leaking again. The white is discolored, but it doesn't look too bad. That is a difficult area that has been sealed several times, so I called my handy man again and told him what to expect when he comes. I had already left a message for him a day or two ago. Sigh. If it's not one thing, it's another!

My cleaning ladies came yesterday, late, and got the house all spic and span, as they usually do. Cheryl was wearing sneakers, which I teased her about, because she always wears flip flops. she said the reason she didn't  wear them was because they would look silly with the long pants she was wearing. She doesn't feel the cold so much, but my feet really do!

I watched two blue jays eating some kind of seeds from the ground next door; then they started fussing at each other and flew away! Tsk! They should try to get along! But God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Psalm 23
The Lord is my shepherd;
I have everything I need.
He lets me rest in green meadows.
He leads me beside peaceful streams.
He renews my strength.
He guides me along right paths,
bringing honor to his name.

Even when I walk through the dark valley of death,
I will not be afraid,
for you are close beside me .
Your rod and your staff
protect and comfort me.

You prepare a feast for me,
in the presence of my enemies.
You welcome me as a guest,
anointing my head with oil.
My cup overflows with blessings.
Surely your goodness and unfailing
love will pursue me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
forever.


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

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Wednesday, February 10, 2016

Wisdom

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! Thankfully, the wind has died down and all is still so far. The cold front passed and right now the temp is not any lower than it has been, but according to the forecast, it will be getting close to forty and maybe the thirties inland. My azaleas don't seem to know that it is still winter, because there is a lot of new growth and they are blooming!

Well, this computer just blanked out, so I had to turn it off and restart it! Wish I knew more about these things!

Anyway, as I was saying,; in spite of the wind, I took my books back to the Library and checked out with six more, one of which is a 14 day, so I have already started on it. The others I can take my time with. After that I drove over to the Winn Dixie, but while there were a couple of handicapped spaces in front of the entrance, there were no carts handy. I had the three wheeled walker in back and not my cane, so I left there and went on to CVS and got most of what was on my list. CVS has stocked a lot of light groceries which is very convenient. The reason I wanted to go into the WD was to get some of their deli potato salad, which is almost like what I make. Publix Pot. salad is too creamy and already in containers. They dish up as much as you want at WD.

So, after I left CVS, I went on to the windblown Park and in spite of the windy conditions there were quite a few people out and about. On the way home I went by Lynch Lake and saw that even the flocks of seagulls and ibis were grounded. Flying conditions were not too good! But God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Proverbs 3:21-26
My child, don't lose sight of good planning and insight.
Hang on to them, for they fill you with life and bring you
honor and respect. They keep you safe on your way and
keep your feet from stumbling. You can lie down without
fear and enjoy pleasant dreams. You need not be afraid of
disaster or the destruction that comes upon the wicked, for
the Lord is your security. He will keep your feet from being
caught in a trap.


Wisdom produces honor in our lives and protects us from trouble.
Wise people know the difference between right and wrong and choose
to do what's right. More than that, wisdom is choosing to apply God's
truth and principles to our daily relationships and situations.

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

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Tuesday, February 9, 2016

Will of God

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!Well, the prediction that strong winds would be moving through last night proved to be premature. Everything was quiet , but I see the trees and shrubs moving now, and the last I heard, was that the wind would pick up today, and then it would really turn cold. I am definitely not looking forward to it!

I think the oak trees have just about finished shedding their leaves. I don't see any drifting past my window, but quite a few are stuck in the needle leaves of the podacarpus hedge which the neighbors planted many years ago.I think it is about time for them to be raked up; the leaves, that is.

I finished a book yesterday and need to make another trip to the Library. I also did laundry yesterday which accumulates pretty fast, even though I am only one person. I watched a flock of redwing blackbirds pecking around the neighbor's yard and then they all flew off. I had not seen a flock of them in a couple years. God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Does God really have a plan for my life?

Psalm 139:3
You chart the path ahead of me and tell me where to stop and rest.
Every moment you know where I am.


Psalm 32:8
The Lord says, "I will guide you along the best pathway
for your life. I will advise you and watch over you.
 

God has a plan for our lives. It is not an unthinking, automated
script that we must follow. It is a journey with various destinations
and appointments and a great deal of freedom as to the pace and
scope of the travel. God's plan for us will always have a sense of
mystery, but we can be certain that he will guide us as long as we
rely on his leading.

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

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Monday, February 8, 2016

Psoaring thru Psalms

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 but the air is chilly. However, the temp has climbed up to 58 already, so it is really beautiful with only one or two clouds dotting the sky.

My yard crew is at work after I thought they weren't coming because this is late for them. The front porch was piled high with leaves, so their visit is timely! They are wearing jackets, so I know it is cold. Even my PC was balky, which is why this email is late today.

We had a long service yesterday, but a good one with our loose change offering for the Covenant World Relief water issue...making clean water available for those people who don't have it. It was an impressive (and noisy) time of filling up to overflowing, a large can in front of the lectern. Then came the sermon about the Living Water.

I waited about twenty minutes for a space to open up in the parking lot for the second service and we did not get out until 12:30.

Well, I watched the Super Bowl sporadically last night. Meaning I turned to other programs for short times, since I did not care who won. Neither team was my favorite. My only comment is that I don't know how the Panthers had an almost unbeaten record, because they certainly did not play like they were that good!

I drove around Lynch Lake on the way to church, and the lake had ripples on it from the strong wind. The ducks were huddled in a group against the bank with one lone wood stork keeping them company. God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Psalm 37:1-
Don't worry about the wicked.
Don't envy those who do wrong
for like grass, they soon fade away.
Like springtime flowers, they soon
fade away.

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 as
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, February 5, 2016

Paul's Final Words 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! Well, yesterday I was wearing summer clothes and today I have winter wear on again.Just as the prediction said, after the rain came the cold wave, so it was 51 when I got up and won't warm up to much above 60 later on.

Yesterday was the opening of the State Fair in Tampa and the rain did not do them any favors, but even though it is chilly today and the rest of the week, it is still beautiful with blue skies and sunshine. It goes on for ten days, so they will probably still draw a crowd. The only thing I would like from there is a corn dog. I haven't had a fair corn dog for years, so if anyone is going, have a corn dog for me!

Well, I watched American Idol last night and was wondering where John Wayne Schultz was. Apparently, he was eliminated one time when I wasn't watching, so I Googled him and saw his background and that he tried out back in 2011, just before his mom died of breast cancer.  He doesn't have an outstanding voice, but it was pleasant, and I was hoping he would be selected for the final 24. Guess it was not meant to be...

I then watched Tim Tebow do a lip sync as a Rocky Balboa impersonator. He was pretty funny and a good sport. He also had some pretty good dance moves. Maybe he could be on Dancing With The Stars...just sayin'. God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Philippians 4:8,9
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 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

Thursday, February 4, 2016

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 sunshine an hour or so ago, but now the clouds are coming in ahead of the rain, so it is mostly overcast. The rain is supposed to be starting in about an hour. Then the cold will follow.

Yesterday, I turned the A/C on in the afternoon. The house was stuffy and my cleaning ladies were complaining about the hot weather, although to me, 78 is not really hot. However, a record was set for the day when we reached 84!

I gave my ladies their early Valentine's gifts when they were ready to go..just small boxes of Whitman's chocolates all wrapped up. Kim could not wait, so she tore open her box right away to get at the chocolates!

Well, I am not happy about speed bumps going in on the main street out of this neighborhood. I see signs up for three of them, which will affect the time an emergency vehicle takes to get to an address. Bummer!

Later in the afternoon, I took a trip to the Park and almost missed a great blue heron, hidden in a clump of undergrowth by the weir. I thought I saw a gator, but it turned out to be a small group of water lilies. The park was full of cars and I saw a group of people reading the signs about the work going on in the lake, which has been underway for over a year.. But God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Philippians 4:4-7
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. ..


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

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Wednesday, February 3, 2016

Roamin' thru Romans

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! Sunny, windy and warm is the forecast for today and I see lots of leaves blowing , some of them caught in the leaves of the hedge next door. The front porch is already full and it was completely clean Monday after the blowing. Until the oak trees are through shedding, there will be falling leaves.

I noticed a couple days ago, that we are finally seeing fall colors in the trees. The maples are now red and yellow, so soon those leaves will be gone and it will look like winter. This will be the last dry day this week, because rain is coming tomorrow.

I noticed a sparrow flying by in the back yard a few minutes ago. I have not seen one for awhile...just bluejays and mockingbirds. And for some reason, no robins, yet. Maybe they are going some place else for their winter home. But God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Romans 8:35-
Can anything ever separate us from Christ's love?
Does it mean he no longer loves us if we have
trouble or calamity or are persecuted , or are hungry
or cold  or in danger or threatened with death? Even
the Scriptures say ,( "For your sake, we are killed every
day: we are being slaughtered like sheep.) No, despite
all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through
Christ, who loved us.

And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us
from his love. Death can't and life can't. The angels can't
and the demons can't. Our fears for today, our worries about
tomorrow, and even the powers of hell can't keep God's
love away. Whether we are high above the sky or in the
deepest ocean, nothing in all creation will ever be able to
separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ
Jesus our Lord.


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

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Tuesday, February 2, 2016

Jesus, the True Vine

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! When I got out of bed and opened the drapes in the living room, I could hardly see across the street, the fog was so thick!  But an hour later the sun was shining and there was not a trace of fog left. I saw the weather prediction before I toddled off to bed and the weather map showed a line of fog hovering just off shore, so, sure enough, it rolled through.

I took the van to the car wash yesterday, and could not believe how hot the weather was! Also, the humidity was much lower, so the van was dry by the time I came home. Today promises to be the same with the temp already near seventy.

I got ambitious and stripped the bed to put sheets in the washer, so the bed has not been made, yet, but nobody will see it but me, so that's okay..Well, the wind has picked up, so I see leaves drifting down . Reminds me of my birthday balloon which is running out of gas and drifting down from the ceiling. The others are still flying high! Thanks, Mari!

I drove through the Park on my way back from the car wash and lots of cars were parked, so many people were enjoying the warm weather and beauties of nature. I saw an osprey nest on top of a credit union sign on my way home from church Sunday and the owner of the nest was standing proudly just watching all the cars go by. God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

John 15:5-8
Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches.
Those who remain in me, and I in them. will
produce much fruit. For apart from me you
can do nothing. Anyone who parts from me
is thrown away like a useless branch and withers.
Such branches are gathered into a pile to be
burned. But if you stay joined to me and my words
remain in you, you may ask any request you like,
and it will be granted! My true disciples produce
much fruit. This brings great glory to my Father.


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

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Monday, February 1, 2016

Living by the Spirit's Power

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 an overcast day Sunday, but today the sun has been shining, and the puffy white clouds are giving it some competition. It is still a bit chilly to me, but the heat is not on, so I just dress warmly in the house.

The yard crew has been and gone, and they enjoy the cool weather. I noticed they were wearing shorts today and long sleeves, so while the legs must stay warm, the arms need cover. The front porch was covered with leaves, which are really falling now, so for a little while, at least, it will be free from leaves...five minutes, maybe?

On my way back from church yesterday, I drove by Lynch Lake and saw a huge flock of ibis with one lone wood stork in the crowd, all crowding around one lady tossing out bread crumbs. I think the wood stork likes the company of the ibises, because I have seen him with them on the ground pecking around. While the ibis look very graceful when flying, the wood stork looks awkward with his long legs and long beak. Guess God made him that way for a purpose!

I drove to the Park after church and it had quite a few people out enjoying the overcast, but pleasant day. Lots of cars were parked, but not many people in sight, so they must have been on the boardwalk.God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Galatians 5:22,23
But when the Holy Spirit controls our lives,
he will produce this kind of fruit in us ; love,
joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness,
faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
Here there is no conflict with the law.


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

Love and hugs
 Amaryllis