Before I begin today's entry, I would like to thank all who prayed for me, for healing. When I awoke this morning, I felt a wee bit of relief, but by the time I got walking around my apartment, I knew that the pain was still with me. Your continued prayer would be appreciated. Thank you. May God bless you.
Today has been one of those weird days, again. I sometimes feel like I have nothing but weird days, lately!
For starters, I called the elevator to leave my apartment building, so I could go exercise. I waited, and waited, and waited. After much time, the elevator finally appeared. It was sort of like taking a milk train, for it stopped on almost every floor.
I heard it was because one of our three (3) elevators was being used to transport some new kitchen cabinets and was therefore out of service. Hmmm...okay.
Exercising wasn't easy for me, again today. Still, I managed to do it. However, much like yesterday, I did have trouble walking this afternoon. I sure wish this pain would go away, and come back again...never!
Upon returning to my building, I found a line-up for the elevators, once again. This time, I found out that two (2) elevators were out of service. The first (1st) one was out of service for the same reason as when I left home. The second (2nd) one out of service was because it was actually being serviced. So, this left only one (1) elevator for about 300 units.
Phew! No wonder we were like sardines in there, today! I felt badly for those around me, for when I entered the elevator, I was still soaking wet with sweat from working out. I warned people to not get too close, for I needed a shower. Some laughed. Others didn't. lol Oops... sorry, I suppose I shouldn't have laughed!
Arriving in my apartment, I decided that since I really don't like using air-conditioning unless it is absolutely necessary, that I would not turn it on. Instead, I opened my window and sliding door. Because of this, I decided to not take my shower immediately, but to wait until just before our pool meeting was scheduled.
My idea was to take my laundry downstairs with me and place it in the washers, while I attended the pool meeting. Then, I could slip down the hall to the laundry room and change my laundry over to the dryers. It would save much time, so I thought it was a good idea.
Normally, it would have been a good idea. The only problem was that we had an emergency situation happen. Apparently, a water main broke across the street. The result was, that we had no water.
This meant no shower, no laundry, no nothing. Yikes!
Well, I attended the pool meeting, making sure I didn't sit near anyone else! Of course, I am hoping the laundry room will be open early tomorrow morning, so I can use it at 7:00 a.m.
Such is life. It's always filled with kinks in the road, these days. At least these road bumps were small ones!
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Monday, May 30, 2011
Please Pray For Me...
Last week, I suffered with neck and shoulder pain. Well, I'm happy to say that I am feeling improved. However, when I awoke today, I had some pain where I haven't had pain in a long time. In my heel.
Okay. You are probably thinking to yourself, that I am complaining about nothing. Firstly, I must say that I am not complaining, but rather am just stating a fact.
It has actually been a long time since I experienced heel pain. You see, it can be caused from a couple of reasons. Firstly, it can be as a result of the neck and shoulder pain I suffered with last week. Or, more importantly, it could be a sign or a symptom of a flare-up.
Both spring and fall are the most severe times for pain and suffering from someone like myself, who is arthritic. Spring and fall are also the most common times for someone like me, who has Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS), to have a flare-up.
You need to know that I don't have to do anything to have pain. In fact, I always have pain. The question isn't whether or not I have pain, but rather, how much pain do I have.
Because I have the complication of Iritis, which not everyone with AS has, even the idea of having a flare-up, can be frightening. Flare-ups not only bring with them more inflammation, but if the inflammation level rises in my eye, bringing on the Iritis condition, then I am at risk of losing my eye. I've been on the verge, many times since originally having this problem arise.
I have to remind myself daily, that God is in control. That if He wills me to be okay, I will be; if He wills not, I won't be. I also remind myself that God told us not to fear, nor be afraid, for He is with us always, even 'til the end of the age (Isaiah 41:10).
So, every day, I trust in Him.
You've heard me say before that I am tenacious; I don't give up easily. Nor will I allow pain to interfere with my life, unless it is totally debilitating. After all, AS is a Rheumatoid Arthritic, auto-immune disease. If I let it, it could totally destroy my life.
Yes, I sometimes feel rather down in the dumps from time to time, much like anyone who battles chronic pain and disease. But, I also know that my attitude towards this condition makes it a situation where I can allow it to destroy me, or not. I chose not, a long time ago, when I was diagnosed.
I also know that if I don't keep moving, it is not only possible, but highly likely that I would end up wheelchair bound. So, pain or no pain, I try to keep moving.
Consequently, I went to exercise even though I was in pain. My friend/trainer wasn't happy with me. She felt I needed to rest.
Even so, I worked out. This afternoon, there was a period of time when I could hardly walk, but even so, I managed.
Please, if you can find it in your heart to pray for healing for me, I would appreciate it. I know that I must rely on God to help me, especially since I not longer have the love of my life with me, to help me in my times of need.
Thank you. May God bless you.
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
Okay. You are probably thinking to yourself, that I am complaining about nothing. Firstly, I must say that I am not complaining, but rather am just stating a fact.
It has actually been a long time since I experienced heel pain. You see, it can be caused from a couple of reasons. Firstly, it can be as a result of the neck and shoulder pain I suffered with last week. Or, more importantly, it could be a sign or a symptom of a flare-up.
Both spring and fall are the most severe times for pain and suffering from someone like myself, who is arthritic. Spring and fall are also the most common times for someone like me, who has Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS), to have a flare-up.
You need to know that I don't have to do anything to have pain. In fact, I always have pain. The question isn't whether or not I have pain, but rather, how much pain do I have.
Because I have the complication of Iritis, which not everyone with AS has, even the idea of having a flare-up, can be frightening. Flare-ups not only bring with them more inflammation, but if the inflammation level rises in my eye, bringing on the Iritis condition, then I am at risk of losing my eye. I've been on the verge, many times since originally having this problem arise.
I have to remind myself daily, that God is in control. That if He wills me to be okay, I will be; if He wills not, I won't be. I also remind myself that God told us not to fear, nor be afraid, for He is with us always, even 'til the end of the age (Isaiah 41:10).
So, every day, I trust in Him.
You've heard me say before that I am tenacious; I don't give up easily. Nor will I allow pain to interfere with my life, unless it is totally debilitating. After all, AS is a Rheumatoid Arthritic, auto-immune disease. If I let it, it could totally destroy my life.
Yes, I sometimes feel rather down in the dumps from time to time, much like anyone who battles chronic pain and disease. But, I also know that my attitude towards this condition makes it a situation where I can allow it to destroy me, or not. I chose not, a long time ago, when I was diagnosed.
I also know that if I don't keep moving, it is not only possible, but highly likely that I would end up wheelchair bound. So, pain or no pain, I try to keep moving.
Consequently, I went to exercise even though I was in pain. My friend/trainer wasn't happy with me. She felt I needed to rest.
Even so, I worked out. This afternoon, there was a period of time when I could hardly walk, but even so, I managed.
Please, if you can find it in your heart to pray for healing for me, I would appreciate it. I know that I must rely on God to help me, especially since I not longer have the love of my life with me, to help me in my times of need.
Thank you. May God bless you.
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
Sunday, May 29, 2011
The Reception...
If you read yesterday's entry, you'll know that on Friday evening, I went to a local Catholic church, where I attended a rehearsal for a wedding. You'll also know that the wedding was lovely. Hopefully, my voice sounded okay, as I wanted to honour God and my friends when I sang (acapella) the processional music.
What I haven't yet mentioned is that later, we gathered at Franco's, a local Italian restaurant and celebrated the happy couple's marriage. Arriving at the time I had been directed to, I was surprised to see only one (1) person there. It was C, my co-worker/friend, who had also become friends with M and her newly wedded husband, P.
I took a seat. C came and sat next to me. As we chatted, one of the servers entered the room. We were shocked to see a lady we hadn't seen for a while, C. We knew C worked there, but neither of us had ever been there when she was working.
C was shocked not only to see one of us, but to see both of us!
Well, it had been well over a year since we had seen each other. You see, C and her Mom attended a local church for grief counselling at the same time that my co-worker/friend C and I had, along with some other friends of ours, who had all lost a loved one.
In retrospect, it was rather odd that the only three (3) people in the room at that time, had all been together and gotten to know each other, through a grief programme. lol Well, at least I can laugh about this, now!
Within a few minutes, guests arrived, filling the room to capacity. Eventually, the bride and groom arrived, along with the wedding party.
All in all, the reception was lovely. From the look of those who celebrated, it seemed that we all enjoyed ourselves. The bride was radiant and the groom had a smile from ear to ear.
In my case, it was extra-special, because I knew the grooms family as well as the bride!
Well, once again, I congratulate M & P and pray that God will bless them with a lifetime of good health, happiness and love.
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
What I haven't yet mentioned is that later, we gathered at Franco's, a local Italian restaurant and celebrated the happy couple's marriage. Arriving at the time I had been directed to, I was surprised to see only one (1) person there. It was C, my co-worker/friend, who had also become friends with M and her newly wedded husband, P.
I took a seat. C came and sat next to me. As we chatted, one of the servers entered the room. We were shocked to see a lady we hadn't seen for a while, C. We knew C worked there, but neither of us had ever been there when she was working.
C was shocked not only to see one of us, but to see both of us!
Well, it had been well over a year since we had seen each other. You see, C and her Mom attended a local church for grief counselling at the same time that my co-worker/friend C and I had, along with some other friends of ours, who had all lost a loved one.
In retrospect, it was rather odd that the only three (3) people in the room at that time, had all been together and gotten to know each other, through a grief programme. lol Well, at least I can laugh about this, now!
Within a few minutes, guests arrived, filling the room to capacity. Eventually, the bride and groom arrived, along with the wedding party.
All in all, the reception was lovely. From the look of those who celebrated, it seemed that we all enjoyed ourselves. The bride was radiant and the groom had a smile from ear to ear.
In my case, it was extra-special, because I knew the grooms family as well as the bride!
Well, once again, I congratulate M & P and pray that God will bless them with a lifetime of good health, happiness and love.
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Congratulations M & P!
Congratulations M & P! Mr. & Mrs. C!
One thing I neglected to mention is that in the evening, I attended a wedding rehearsal. If you've read Life with Lynnie (LwL) for a while, you may recall that my friend M was to marry P, today.
P's family I know fairly well. His Mom, plus one of his brother's and his family worship at my church. The rest of his family has also worshipped with me in the past, so I know them fairly well. All except P, who I hadn't met, until I met him through M. Interesting, wouldn't you say?
In any case, the rehearsal went well. We all gathered at the church. Whenever I have sang for a wedding, I have usually been asked to sing for the rehearsal, but this didn't happen.
Today, turned out to be a beautiful day; in fact, a perfect day for a wedding! While it wasn't bright and cheerful in the morning, it sure cleared up to be a sunny and less humid afternoon. Perfect for the happy couple's photos!
At the scheduled time, I along with everyone else who were to be in attendance at the wedding ceremony, gathered at the Catholic church, where M worships. P converted so that they could both be on the same page so to speak, and worship, together.
I must say, the ceremony was lovely. So was the bride!
Everything went off just right, without a hitch. The wedding processional music was sung by me, acapella. I sang Josh Groban's You Raise Me Up, but with my little twist at the end, where I add one more line, honouring my Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. After all, He is the one who truly raises us up!
The remainder of the music was done by people who normally do so at this church, which I can only presume is where they worship. I wished Gordon could have been there to hear Ava Maria, sung. It was one of his favourites, even though he wasn't Catholic.
By the time the reception began at suppertime, the weather had changed; it rained throughout the evening. Wow! Thank You, Lord! Thank You, for providing the perfect day for a wedding.
Above is a pic of the happy couple, one of the first few taken as husband and wife. Congratulations M & P! May God always be in the centre of your marriage, along with you. May God bless your marriage and provide you with many happy, healthy and love-filled years, ahead!
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
Friday, May 27, 2011
Good, Bad and Ugly...
This morning, I awoke before my alarm was due to go off, but I didn't get out of bed. I just wanted to lay there, snuggling in comfort. After several times resetting my snooze alarm, I finally decided to get myself up and get moving.
My day began as it typically does. I read the paper, but decided I didn't have time to do the puzzles I really enjoy doing, so I just set it aside and got going as per my normal routine.
As usual, after checking e-mail for work and pleasure, I went on Facebook (FB) for a few minutes, to update there. Yes, I even managed to get some work done!
Exercise came next. Working out isn't easy for me, as you know. Even so, I am committed. Of course, some people probably think I should be committed (LOL), but my friend/personal trainer M always remarks how devoted I am. Yes. I believe I am tenacious, for I never give up, at anything I do.
When I was younger, I was not like this. If friends told me I was handling something in a wrong fashion, I would heed their advice.
However, after growing into a more mature Christian, I know that God expects me to never give up, on anything. Or, anyone.
Had I been like this when I was married the first time, I would either still be married or be dead. In either case, I wouldn't have given up, even if the results weren't great. But, at that time, even though I considered myself Christian, I truly didn't have the relationship I do today, with Jesus, my Lord and Saviour.
Today, I was once again faced with a situation, where I am feeling I need to change a situation. At this time, I will not go into detail, but it is enough to say that I haven't yet done this. In fact, I really don't want to do this, either.
Prayerfully, I am thinking about what I should do. He will give me the answer, I am sure. In His time; not mine.
At lunch time, my co-worker/friend C and I met with our mortgage broker friend M. We didn't meet at a restaurant, but rather at M's home.
It seemed easier this way, for we needed to discuss some business, plus some marketing opportunities to work together, on some projects. M felt she would need her laptop and other equipment, so it made sense to us.
C arrived before me, but even when I arrived M was still preparing for our feast. Upon my arrival, I brought into M's home our sweet treat for dessert, but I realized I had forgotten my cell phone in my van. Since it was recharging in my vehicle, I decided to leave it there.
Thank you M, for serving us lunch! It was truly a pleasure to have prayerful fellowship time together and share such a delicious meal.
To be honest, the lunch meal M served was actually my main meal for the day. It truly wasn't lunch, but more like supper. Wow, was I full when I left your home, M!
As I was walking out her door, M handed me a bag with enough food for an instant replay. I never expected that and refused at first, but M insisted so off I went, with delicacies in hand! Once again, thank you for your generous hospitality.
Arriving at my van, I secured the food I had been given and climbed in. Immediately, I checked my cell phone and found I had missed a few calls.
Just as I was about to dial one of the phone numbers, my cell phone rang. It was a mutual friend of a friend of mine. She asked if I was driving; I replied to M that I wasn't. She asked me to sit down.
Then, M let me know that my friend Wanda had been found dead, this morning.
We talked while I sat in the driveway, for I was unable to drive anywhere until I ended the call. I'll be writing more about this, within a few days. For now, all I can say is that I feel badly about Wanda dying.
It sure has been a hard day for me. I feel like I've had a myriad of emotions. Some good, some bad and some truly ugly.
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
My day began as it typically does. I read the paper, but decided I didn't have time to do the puzzles I really enjoy doing, so I just set it aside and got going as per my normal routine.
As usual, after checking e-mail for work and pleasure, I went on Facebook (FB) for a few minutes, to update there. Yes, I even managed to get some work done!
Exercise came next. Working out isn't easy for me, as you know. Even so, I am committed. Of course, some people probably think I should be committed (LOL), but my friend/personal trainer M always remarks how devoted I am. Yes. I believe I am tenacious, for I never give up, at anything I do.
When I was younger, I was not like this. If friends told me I was handling something in a wrong fashion, I would heed their advice.
However, after growing into a more mature Christian, I know that God expects me to never give up, on anything. Or, anyone.
Had I been like this when I was married the first time, I would either still be married or be dead. In either case, I wouldn't have given up, even if the results weren't great. But, at that time, even though I considered myself Christian, I truly didn't have the relationship I do today, with Jesus, my Lord and Saviour.
Today, I was once again faced with a situation, where I am feeling I need to change a situation. At this time, I will not go into detail, but it is enough to say that I haven't yet done this. In fact, I really don't want to do this, either.
Prayerfully, I am thinking about what I should do. He will give me the answer, I am sure. In His time; not mine.
At lunch time, my co-worker/friend C and I met with our mortgage broker friend M. We didn't meet at a restaurant, but rather at M's home.
It seemed easier this way, for we needed to discuss some business, plus some marketing opportunities to work together, on some projects. M felt she would need her laptop and other equipment, so it made sense to us.
C arrived before me, but even when I arrived M was still preparing for our feast. Upon my arrival, I brought into M's home our sweet treat for dessert, but I realized I had forgotten my cell phone in my van. Since it was recharging in my vehicle, I decided to leave it there.
Thank you M, for serving us lunch! It was truly a pleasure to have prayerful fellowship time together and share such a delicious meal.
To be honest, the lunch meal M served was actually my main meal for the day. It truly wasn't lunch, but more like supper. Wow, was I full when I left your home, M!
As I was walking out her door, M handed me a bag with enough food for an instant replay. I never expected that and refused at first, but M insisted so off I went, with delicacies in hand! Once again, thank you for your generous hospitality.
Arriving at my van, I secured the food I had been given and climbed in. Immediately, I checked my cell phone and found I had missed a few calls.
Just as I was about to dial one of the phone numbers, my cell phone rang. It was a mutual friend of a friend of mine. She asked if I was driving; I replied to M that I wasn't. She asked me to sit down.
Then, M let me know that my friend Wanda had been found dead, this morning.
We talked while I sat in the driveway, for I was unable to drive anywhere until I ended the call. I'll be writing more about this, within a few days. For now, all I can say is that I feel badly about Wanda dying.
It sure has been a hard day for me. I feel like I've had a myriad of emotions. Some good, some bad and some truly ugly.
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Be Thankful...
Wow! How I wish the pain in my neck and shoulders would subside! It's not quite as severe, but it seems it just will not leave. I have a feeling that I may have to see my Chiropractor, in order to obtain relief.
Consequently, when I went to work-out today, I did not use the weights to exercise with. Still, exercise is exercise. As I mentioned previously, when a person has physical problems and conditions that affect bones and muscle, it's not an easy task.
Still, God helps me through, daily. Just as He helps you, too.
Once again, today's weather was just horrible. Overcast, dreary, rain, rain, rain and more rain! Yuch! Hey, it's no longer April; showers should be over! Instead, we actually set a new record in history. Unfortunately, it was for the greatest amount of rain during the month of May.
Since rain continues to be in our forecast, I suppose this means that we will be continually setting a new record daily, until the month ends! Even so, no matter the weather here, we must be grateful.
Of course, God told us to be grateful in all things (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Anyone who has lived a day in this life knows that even though God directs us to do this, it isn't easy.
Life can be difficult at the best of times, but when weather systems add destruction like they have in various areas of N. America, it can be downright disasterous! Just look at what happened recently in Joplin, MO, USA.
How awful can life get? Just take a look! A friend posted this link on Facebook (FB); I shared it. Now, I'm posting it here for you, in case you're not a FB friend of mine (yet!).
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1390530/Joplin-MO-tornado-Before-photos-complete-devastation.html
Notice I didn't say, 'enjoy!'; that's because there is nothing in this link's photos to enjoy. A tornado about a mile or so wide, literally demolished this area.
As another of my FB friends said to me, we need to pray. Amen. We need to be praying, not just for the people who survived, for their trials in life have just multiplied. However, we truly need to pray for those injured and for the family of those who died.
Please pray. May God bless you, for this.
Yes, friends. Like me, you may not be very happy about our weather conditions, but considering what others have experienced, we need to give thanks.
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
Consequently, when I went to work-out today, I did not use the weights to exercise with. Still, exercise is exercise. As I mentioned previously, when a person has physical problems and conditions that affect bones and muscle, it's not an easy task.
Still, God helps me through, daily. Just as He helps you, too.
Once again, today's weather was just horrible. Overcast, dreary, rain, rain, rain and more rain! Yuch! Hey, it's no longer April; showers should be over! Instead, we actually set a new record in history. Unfortunately, it was for the greatest amount of rain during the month of May.
Since rain continues to be in our forecast, I suppose this means that we will be continually setting a new record daily, until the month ends! Even so, no matter the weather here, we must be grateful.
Of course, God told us to be grateful in all things (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Anyone who has lived a day in this life knows that even though God directs us to do this, it isn't easy.
Life can be difficult at the best of times, but when weather systems add destruction like they have in various areas of N. America, it can be downright disasterous! Just look at what happened recently in Joplin, MO, USA.
How awful can life get? Just take a look! A friend posted this link on Facebook (FB); I shared it. Now, I'm posting it here for you, in case you're not a FB friend of mine (yet!).
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1390530/Joplin-MO-tornado-Before-photos-complete-devastation.html
Notice I didn't say, 'enjoy!'; that's because there is nothing in this link's photos to enjoy. A tornado about a mile or so wide, literally demolished this area.
As another of my FB friends said to me, we need to pray. Amen. We need to be praying, not just for the people who survived, for their trials in life have just multiplied. However, we truly need to pray for those injured and for the family of those who died.
Please pray. May God bless you, for this.
Yes, friends. Like me, you may not be very happy about our weather conditions, but considering what others have experienced, we need to give thanks.
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
In All Things...
If you read yesterday's entry, you'll know that I was in pain for a couple of days, after using some rather light weights during my exercise workout.
This morning, I awoke early and found that the majority of my pain had subsided. Even so, I still was experiencing some pain, so I decided that I would not use the 2.5 lb. weights again, today.
Instead, I left home earlier than I normally do and drove to the nearest Canadian Tire store, once again. No, I didn't return the weights I had previously purchased. I decided to keep those for future use. Even so, I purchased the 1 lb. weights and used them today, during my workout.
This doesn't sound like much, but truthfully, between having Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS), which is a Rheumatoid Arthritic condition, Fibromyalgia and knowing I still suffer from neck and shoulder pain from long term injury, from which I have to date never received full and complete healing for, it seems it may be the best I can do.
Tonight, my lower neck and shoulders are aching, but not nearly as bad as when I used the heavier weights. In addition, my lower back is not in pain, so I suppose using the lighter weights was a good idea. At least, until I can increase my strength.
By the time I reached my friend M's home, where I exercise, I had literally been drenched to the bone, three (3) times! It obviously wasn't God's will to answer my prayer in a positive way, concerning allowing the rain to let up, so that I wouldn't become soaked. lol
In addition to my regular work, I had a co-worker visit me this afternoon. She's a lovely woman I believe is in her late 70's and yes, is still selling real estate. However, she has some trouble from time to time, because her computer skills could use some improvement.
So, today P came a-calling. She brought with her two (2) cups of Tim Horton's French Vanilla Cappuccino coffee. Hmmm...my favourite. Even though I was grateful and enjoyed it to the very last drop, my conscience bothered me! After all, even though it is delicious, it must have about 50,000,000 calories in it! lol
After helping P obtain some forms she needed and showing her what she needed help with, we had a lovely conversation. However, we did have trouble accessing some info, which I believe may either have been due to work being done on the site we needed to access, or possibly even due to the storms that have been raging through our area.
Yes, again it rained. In fact, it is dark and rainy, with thunder and lightning even now! Oh well! I suppose we should consider ourselves fortunate and blessed, considering what our friends in USA have been experiencing. God does tell us in His Word, that we need to be thankful in all things!
Those tornadoes have caused so much loss of life and damage, that it surprises me when I hear people say they don't believe we are in the last days. To those who feel this way, I can only say...please read your Bible, prayerfully.
One thing is for sure, we need to be praying for those affected by all the storm damage. I'm not referring just to those whose homes were lost, for although this truly is a tragedy, they can be rebuilt, with effort. I'm referring to families who have lost loved ones, who died as a result of these storms.
Please find it in your heart to pray. Not only do I appreciate your prayer, but God will bless you for it.
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
This morning, I awoke early and found that the majority of my pain had subsided. Even so, I still was experiencing some pain, so I decided that I would not use the 2.5 lb. weights again, today.
Instead, I left home earlier than I normally do and drove to the nearest Canadian Tire store, once again. No, I didn't return the weights I had previously purchased. I decided to keep those for future use. Even so, I purchased the 1 lb. weights and used them today, during my workout.
This doesn't sound like much, but truthfully, between having Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS), which is a Rheumatoid Arthritic condition, Fibromyalgia and knowing I still suffer from neck and shoulder pain from long term injury, from which I have to date never received full and complete healing for, it seems it may be the best I can do.
Tonight, my lower neck and shoulders are aching, but not nearly as bad as when I used the heavier weights. In addition, my lower back is not in pain, so I suppose using the lighter weights was a good idea. At least, until I can increase my strength.
By the time I reached my friend M's home, where I exercise, I had literally been drenched to the bone, three (3) times! It obviously wasn't God's will to answer my prayer in a positive way, concerning allowing the rain to let up, so that I wouldn't become soaked. lol
In addition to my regular work, I had a co-worker visit me this afternoon. She's a lovely woman I believe is in her late 70's and yes, is still selling real estate. However, she has some trouble from time to time, because her computer skills could use some improvement.
So, today P came a-calling. She brought with her two (2) cups of Tim Horton's French Vanilla Cappuccino coffee. Hmmm...my favourite. Even though I was grateful and enjoyed it to the very last drop, my conscience bothered me! After all, even though it is delicious, it must have about 50,000,000 calories in it! lol
After helping P obtain some forms she needed and showing her what she needed help with, we had a lovely conversation. However, we did have trouble accessing some info, which I believe may either have been due to work being done on the site we needed to access, or possibly even due to the storms that have been raging through our area.
Yes, again it rained. In fact, it is dark and rainy, with thunder and lightning even now! Oh well! I suppose we should consider ourselves fortunate and blessed, considering what our friends in USA have been experiencing. God does tell us in His Word, that we need to be thankful in all things!
Those tornadoes have caused so much loss of life and damage, that it surprises me when I hear people say they don't believe we are in the last days. To those who feel this way, I can only say...please read your Bible, prayerfully.
One thing is for sure, we need to be praying for those affected by all the storm damage. I'm not referring just to those whose homes were lost, for although this truly is a tragedy, they can be rebuilt, with effort. I'm referring to families who have lost loved ones, who died as a result of these storms.
Please find it in your heart to pray. Not only do I appreciate your prayer, but God will bless you for it.
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Pain...
Yesterday, when I went to exercise, I did something different than I usually do. I used weights on my wrists.
My personal trainer friend M had suggested that since it is difficult for me to bend down and pick up even the smallest of weights to exercise with, that I might want to purchase some that I can wear, as I exercise. It sounded like a good idea, so I went and bought some.
It didn't sound like a difficult thing to do, working out with weights I mean. But, with some left over health problems that I have never seemed to be totally healed from, it proved to be a little more troublesome than I thought it would be.
Anyone who knows me, knows that whenever I do anything physical, I don't always hurt at the time I make the physical effort. Instead, I usually suffer greatly, later. That's exactly what happened, yesterday.
Who would have thought that two and a half pounds (2.5 lbs.) of extra weight on each of my wrists would cause such a problem? Not me!
In any case, a few hours later, my lower back, my neck, shoulders and head was aching so much, that I had to actually go lie down on several occasions for a period of about 20 minutes, each time.
When I went to exercise today, some of the pain had subsided. Even so, M made it clear that I should not use the weights, today. After some discussion, we decided that I would use them again, tomorrow.
Hopefully, the pain is only another indication of how weak I truly still am and not an indication that I am not yet healed enough to make such an effort. Although, I must say that this evening, I am still feeling the pain.
God knows that I am trying hard to regain some better health.
After suffering permanent injury so many years ago and not having had the benefit of enough healing or relief from pain until recently to allow me to work out to regain strength, it hasn't been easy. In fact, it's been downright difficult and at times, extremely painful.
So far, God has helped me more than I had ever dreamed possible. I praise God and thank Jesus for this!
Friends, if you can find it in your heart to pray for me, for total restorative healing, I would be eternally grateful. May God bless you, now and always.
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
My personal trainer friend M had suggested that since it is difficult for me to bend down and pick up even the smallest of weights to exercise with, that I might want to purchase some that I can wear, as I exercise. It sounded like a good idea, so I went and bought some.
It didn't sound like a difficult thing to do, working out with weights I mean. But, with some left over health problems that I have never seemed to be totally healed from, it proved to be a little more troublesome than I thought it would be.
Anyone who knows me, knows that whenever I do anything physical, I don't always hurt at the time I make the physical effort. Instead, I usually suffer greatly, later. That's exactly what happened, yesterday.
Who would have thought that two and a half pounds (2.5 lbs.) of extra weight on each of my wrists would cause such a problem? Not me!
In any case, a few hours later, my lower back, my neck, shoulders and head was aching so much, that I had to actually go lie down on several occasions for a period of about 20 minutes, each time.
When I went to exercise today, some of the pain had subsided. Even so, M made it clear that I should not use the weights, today. After some discussion, we decided that I would use them again, tomorrow.
Hopefully, the pain is only another indication of how weak I truly still am and not an indication that I am not yet healed enough to make such an effort. Although, I must say that this evening, I am still feeling the pain.
God knows that I am trying hard to regain some better health.
After suffering permanent injury so many years ago and not having had the benefit of enough healing or relief from pain until recently to allow me to work out to regain strength, it hasn't been easy. In fact, it's been downright difficult and at times, extremely painful.
So far, God has helped me more than I had ever dreamed possible. I praise God and thank Jesus for this!
Friends, if you can find it in your heart to pray for me, for total restorative healing, I would be eternally grateful. May God bless you, now and always.
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
Monday, May 23, 2011
Seventeen!
Hopefully, you enjoyed the series I just finished writing, regarding sin. lol Some of you might possibly be happy it's done, now!
Wow! It certainly has been a long time since I wrote an entry about my life!
Actually, with being unusually busy with work lately, I can't say I would have had much to write about anyway, had I not written that series that turned out to be a little longer than I thought it would be.
Even so, I do have a life. Although some of my Facebook (FB) friends might think I don't!
Talking about friends, my co-worker/friend C went away for the long weekend, plus another day or so. Lucky him! He went to Welland, for a 50th school reunion!
Being a widower, at first he thought he might feel out-of-place, but in the end he decided to attend. Along with his first (1st) girlfriend and his second (2nd) girlfriend!
Wow! Talk about rolling back time! I had been teasing him that when he returns home to Windsor, he'll once again be telling all of us friends that he is in love! He thought not; at least that's what he said. Time will tell.
While he was away, I had to do more work than I normally do. Usually, he does more of our physical work, while I usually do more of the paperwork part of our job.
Not so this weekend.
On Saturday, I had a busy day planned. I had expected to meet with an investor and a couple of his partners. Although my contact lives here in Windsor, the rest of this small group was supposed to be coming from Toronto area.
Having to show 11 properties is no small feat for any Realtor, but especially not for me, with my bad knee and limited ability of climbing stairs. However, I had the shock of my life, upon meeting the investors at the first (1st) property's appointment time.
Three (3) people did not show up. 17 did.
Did you faint? lol I almost did! As a matter of fact, I thought the owner of the first (1st) property we arrived at, was going to pass out!
In fact, as it turned out, there were more vehicles travelling in a caravan style trip around the streets surrounding the University of Windsor area, than there were supposed to be people meeting! When I say I was thankful that the student semester was over and most students had left the area to move home for a break from their studies, I truly mean it.
Had this occurred during term studies, we would not have been able to find parking for the several vehicles that followed me!
In the end, I knew in my heart that I would not hear a response from this group. Firstly, because English was not their first language and the whole group seemed to be speaking in their native tongue, but also because it is usually difficult for groups, usually much smaller than this one, to agree on which properties they wish to make offers on.
With a group this size, I'll be happy to hear a year from now!
Oops... Please forgive me for writing about my job. I try to not do this very often, but I just couldn't resist, this time, with such an unusual situation. Hopefully, you had a good laugh.
By the way, prayer works. Before leaving for my appointments, I prayed God would help me, physically. He did. I'm still alive to tell this story!
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
Wow! It certainly has been a long time since I wrote an entry about my life!
Actually, with being unusually busy with work lately, I can't say I would have had much to write about anyway, had I not written that series that turned out to be a little longer than I thought it would be.
Even so, I do have a life. Although some of my Facebook (FB) friends might think I don't!
Talking about friends, my co-worker/friend C went away for the long weekend, plus another day or so. Lucky him! He went to Welland, for a 50th school reunion!
Being a widower, at first he thought he might feel out-of-place, but in the end he decided to attend. Along with his first (1st) girlfriend and his second (2nd) girlfriend!
Wow! Talk about rolling back time! I had been teasing him that when he returns home to Windsor, he'll once again be telling all of us friends that he is in love! He thought not; at least that's what he said. Time will tell.
While he was away, I had to do more work than I normally do. Usually, he does more of our physical work, while I usually do more of the paperwork part of our job.
Not so this weekend.
On Saturday, I had a busy day planned. I had expected to meet with an investor and a couple of his partners. Although my contact lives here in Windsor, the rest of this small group was supposed to be coming from Toronto area.
Having to show 11 properties is no small feat for any Realtor, but especially not for me, with my bad knee and limited ability of climbing stairs. However, I had the shock of my life, upon meeting the investors at the first (1st) property's appointment time.
Three (3) people did not show up. 17 did.
Did you faint? lol I almost did! As a matter of fact, I thought the owner of the first (1st) property we arrived at, was going to pass out!
In fact, as it turned out, there were more vehicles travelling in a caravan style trip around the streets surrounding the University of Windsor area, than there were supposed to be people meeting! When I say I was thankful that the student semester was over and most students had left the area to move home for a break from their studies, I truly mean it.
Had this occurred during term studies, we would not have been able to find parking for the several vehicles that followed me!
In the end, I knew in my heart that I would not hear a response from this group. Firstly, because English was not their first language and the whole group seemed to be speaking in their native tongue, but also because it is usually difficult for groups, usually much smaller than this one, to agree on which properties they wish to make offers on.
With a group this size, I'll be happy to hear a year from now!
Oops... Please forgive me for writing about my job. I try to not do this very often, but I just couldn't resist, this time, with such an unusual situation. Hopefully, you had a good laugh.
By the way, prayer works. Before leaving for my appointments, I prayed God would help me, physically. He did. I'm still alive to tell this story!
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Saved? or Not Saved? That's the Question!
I would like to thank each of you for bearing with me while I've been discussing the issues that pertain to a male friend of mine, who wants a relationship with a Christian woman, but wants sex without marriage.
If you've been reading, you'll know that we discussed sin and how God cannot look upon sin. Then, we discussed how the blood of Jesus covers our sin so God cannot see our sin, once we belong to Him. We discussed how we all stumble and fall into sin from time to time. Then, obedience, repentance and forgiveness were issues that pertained. Yesterday, we discussed love.
That leads us to the last issue I can think of that pertains to our discussions. Is my friend saved, or is he not?
I am sure that some people, especially those who are unsaved, who are not trusting in Jesus, might think my friend is not saved.
It's been my experience that most people who are not saved think that if we are 'religious' we should be perfect. Since what my friend hopes to do isn't a sign of perfection, I could hazard a guess that some may think he is not saved.
Is this true, though? If you've read recent entries, you may have read that once we are in the palm of God's hand, we can never be removed. While some might think there are only two (2) choices: saved or not. I believe there are three (3) scenerios:
1) He is saved; or
2) He is not saved; or
3) He is saved, but out of fellowship.
It is my opinion that if someone is truly saved, without being out of fellowship, they would not ever make a statement like that, or with reference to my friend, I believe he would not have remarked that he hopes to find a woman willing to sin, with him. How can I say this? Well, God's Word does tell us to discern truth, based on the Bible.
God told us in Matthew 7:16, "You shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?" Proverbs 20:11 tells, "Even a child is known by his actions, by whether his conduct is pure and right." There are other verses that support what I have said; feel free to check them out for yourself. Please realize, I am not saying he is not saved.
It is possible my friend is not saved, based upon those very same verses I just quoted, above. Is there fruit of the spirit? Is there a desire in my friend's life to not sin, to honour God, our Father? Some might say, 'no'.
Then, comes the last scenario, the one where my friend may be saved, but out of fellowship. After all, we know that even the saved fall into sin from time to time. We don't lose our salvation, when we fall into sin. However, we are not supposed to intentionally sin, ever. Certainly not, if we are saved.
Phew! Am I ever glad that only God can judge this. It is not for me, or for you to judge. I am glad I don't have to judge this situation, for I truly wouldn't want to make this judgement.
However, I am able to discern and let you know my thoughts on this subject.
In my opinion, from what I can tell, it appears my friend may be a saved person. Why? Because, I cannot imagine an unsaved person, ever claiming they are saved. Ever. Never, have I ever heard this, before. Never. Most unsaved people consider us saved people as religious fanatics. He claims to be saved.
All I can say is that if my friend is saved and out of fellowship, he needs to confess his sin, repent and turn back to God.
If my friend is not saved, certainly he needs to come to salvation.
How? John 14:6 tells us, "Jesus said to him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man comes to the Father, but by me." John 1:14 says, "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth."
As you just read, trusting or believing in Jesus is the only way way to God. So, if my friend isn't yet saved, he needs to come to Christ. Will he be guaranteed salvation?
If my friend's heart is true and right, and if he is truly coming to Christ and not just making lip service, he will be saved. Acts 16: 31 makes it clear, "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you shall be saved, and your house."
Is my friend the only person who needs to decide where they fit in the 1, 2 or 3 scenario discussed, today? No. We all must do this. Hopefully, if you haven't already trusted in Jesus for your salvation, you will do so, today. We are not guaranteed tomorrow; it may be too late. Please do so, today.
So, is my friend saved, or not saved? Only God knows for sure, for He is the only one who knows the true condition of my friend's heart.
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
If you've been reading, you'll know that we discussed sin and how God cannot look upon sin. Then, we discussed how the blood of Jesus covers our sin so God cannot see our sin, once we belong to Him. We discussed how we all stumble and fall into sin from time to time. Then, obedience, repentance and forgiveness were issues that pertained. Yesterday, we discussed love.
That leads us to the last issue I can think of that pertains to our discussions. Is my friend saved, or is he not?
I am sure that some people, especially those who are unsaved, who are not trusting in Jesus, might think my friend is not saved.
It's been my experience that most people who are not saved think that if we are 'religious' we should be perfect. Since what my friend hopes to do isn't a sign of perfection, I could hazard a guess that some may think he is not saved.
Is this true, though? If you've read recent entries, you may have read that once we are in the palm of God's hand, we can never be removed. While some might think there are only two (2) choices: saved or not. I believe there are three (3) scenerios:
1) He is saved; or
2) He is not saved; or
3) He is saved, but out of fellowship.
It is my opinion that if someone is truly saved, without being out of fellowship, they would not ever make a statement like that, or with reference to my friend, I believe he would not have remarked that he hopes to find a woman willing to sin, with him. How can I say this? Well, God's Word does tell us to discern truth, based on the Bible.
God told us in Matthew 7:16, "You shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?" Proverbs 20:11 tells, "Even a child is known by his actions, by whether his conduct is pure and right." There are other verses that support what I have said; feel free to check them out for yourself. Please realize, I am not saying he is not saved.
It is possible my friend is not saved, based upon those very same verses I just quoted, above. Is there fruit of the spirit? Is there a desire in my friend's life to not sin, to honour God, our Father? Some might say, 'no'.
Then, comes the last scenario, the one where my friend may be saved, but out of fellowship. After all, we know that even the saved fall into sin from time to time. We don't lose our salvation, when we fall into sin. However, we are not supposed to intentionally sin, ever. Certainly not, if we are saved.
Phew! Am I ever glad that only God can judge this. It is not for me, or for you to judge. I am glad I don't have to judge this situation, for I truly wouldn't want to make this judgement.
However, I am able to discern and let you know my thoughts on this subject.
In my opinion, from what I can tell, it appears my friend may be a saved person. Why? Because, I cannot imagine an unsaved person, ever claiming they are saved. Ever. Never, have I ever heard this, before. Never. Most unsaved people consider us saved people as religious fanatics. He claims to be saved.
All I can say is that if my friend is saved and out of fellowship, he needs to confess his sin, repent and turn back to God.
If my friend is not saved, certainly he needs to come to salvation.
How? John 14:6 tells us, "Jesus said to him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man comes to the Father, but by me." John 1:14 says, "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth."
As you just read, trusting or believing in Jesus is the only way way to God. So, if my friend isn't yet saved, he needs to come to Christ. Will he be guaranteed salvation?
If my friend's heart is true and right, and if he is truly coming to Christ and not just making lip service, he will be saved. Acts 16: 31 makes it clear, "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you shall be saved, and your house."
Is my friend the only person who needs to decide where they fit in the 1, 2 or 3 scenario discussed, today? No. We all must do this. Hopefully, if you haven't already trusted in Jesus for your salvation, you will do so, today. We are not guaranteed tomorrow; it may be too late. Please do so, today.
So, is my friend saved, or not saved? Only God knows for sure, for He is the only one who knows the true condition of my friend's heart.
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Love...
As you probably are aware, we've been discussing a number of issues that relate to a circumstance that came to light, when a friend who claims to be Christian let me know that he is hoping to find a Christian woman, because he believes he will be able to trust a Christian woman to be faithful to him. However, without marriage, he wants his relationship to be sexual, in nature.
If you wish to read about the various issues that come to mind, that relate to this, feel free to do so. We've discussed sin and how God cannot look upon sin, ever. We've discussed the blood of Jesus, that covers our sin when we trust in Him, so that God can look upon us, because cannot see our sin. We've discussed how even God's children stumble from time to time. Of course, this lead us to the issue of obedience, to Him. As lost sheep, God draws us back to Him, when we are part of the fold. Repentance is of utmost importance. Yesterday, we discussed forgiveness and how even though we are permanently saved once we come to Christ and are forgiven for past, present and even future sin, we can still lose our rewards in heaven.
Today, love is the issue.
Everyone needs love. There is none that I have ever met, nor probably will ever meet, who does not need love. Even so, some people think it is a crime to want to be loved, as if it is a negative.
When it comes to God, love is definitely a positive.
God loved us so very much that He sent His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on Him should not perish, but have everlasting life (John 3:16). Wow! Is that love or what?! To think that even before we were born, God made a plan for us to have salvation, because He loved us, is absolutely amazing, to me!
However, when it comes to us loving God, some people don't believe that God expects obedience, as part of the way we show Him we love him.
Here are a few Bible verses that show us that our obedience to God is truly part of love, and expected by Him:
* John 14:15, "If you love me, keep my commandments."
* John 14:21, "Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me. He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love him and show myself to him."
* John 14:23, "Jesus replied, "If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him."
* 1 John 2:3, "We know that we have come to know him if we obey his commands."
* 2 John 1:6, "And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love."
Of course, we covered some of this when we discussed obedience, but today, we are thinking in a different context, the context of love.
While God expects us to be obedient, he doesn't want us to be obedient solely because he commands it. He wants us to do it because we love Him.
Even though we sometimes fall into sin, as discussed in another entry, God recognizes that we are not perfect and cannot be until we are in heaven. The Apostle Paul said it in a good and easy way to understand, when he said in Romans 7:19, "For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do."
But, when we repent and confess to Him, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sin and cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).
This leads us to almost the end of subject of whether or not my friend should be asking a Christian to sin. We've already seen that he should not.
But, is my friend saved? He thinks he is. The answer will be forthcoming, tomorrow.
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
If you wish to read about the various issues that come to mind, that relate to this, feel free to do so. We've discussed sin and how God cannot look upon sin, ever. We've discussed the blood of Jesus, that covers our sin when we trust in Him, so that God can look upon us, because cannot see our sin. We've discussed how even God's children stumble from time to time. Of course, this lead us to the issue of obedience, to Him. As lost sheep, God draws us back to Him, when we are part of the fold. Repentance is of utmost importance. Yesterday, we discussed forgiveness and how even though we are permanently saved once we come to Christ and are forgiven for past, present and even future sin, we can still lose our rewards in heaven.
Today, love is the issue.
Everyone needs love. There is none that I have ever met, nor probably will ever meet, who does not need love. Even so, some people think it is a crime to want to be loved, as if it is a negative.
When it comes to God, love is definitely a positive.
God loved us so very much that He sent His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on Him should not perish, but have everlasting life (John 3:16). Wow! Is that love or what?! To think that even before we were born, God made a plan for us to have salvation, because He loved us, is absolutely amazing, to me!
However, when it comes to us loving God, some people don't believe that God expects obedience, as part of the way we show Him we love him.
Here are a few Bible verses that show us that our obedience to God is truly part of love, and expected by Him:
* John 14:15, "If you love me, keep my commandments."
* John 14:21, "Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me. He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love him and show myself to him."
* John 14:23, "Jesus replied, "If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him."
* 1 John 2:3, "We know that we have come to know him if we obey his commands."
* 2 John 1:6, "And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love."
Of course, we covered some of this when we discussed obedience, but today, we are thinking in a different context, the context of love.
While God expects us to be obedient, he doesn't want us to be obedient solely because he commands it. He wants us to do it because we love Him.
Even though we sometimes fall into sin, as discussed in another entry, God recognizes that we are not perfect and cannot be until we are in heaven. The Apostle Paul said it in a good and easy way to understand, when he said in Romans 7:19, "For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do."
But, when we repent and confess to Him, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sin and cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).
This leads us to almost the end of subject of whether or not my friend should be asking a Christian to sin. We've already seen that he should not.
But, is my friend saved? He thinks he is. The answer will be forthcoming, tomorrow.
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
Friday, May 20, 2011
Forgiven!
If you have been recently reading Life with Lynnie (LwL), you'll know that a male friend's desire to find a Christian woman to have a relationship with, including sex without marriage, has spurred me on to write about this topic.
To date, we've discussed sin and how God cannot look upon it. We've discussed blood; how the blood of Jesus covers our sin, when we are saved, so that God doesn't see it. Other topics discussed have been obedience, being a lost sheep and in yesterday's entry, repentance.
This brings up another issue. Being forgiven.
When we discussed repentance, it was clear that in order to be forgiven, repentance is involved. Yes, when Jesus died for us, for the sin of all who will believe on Him, He did so for our past, present and future sin. But, this has nothing to do with the issue at hand.
When we say our past, present and future sin, it is referring to the fact that we can never lose our salvation. That God accepts us into His family of believers and we can never be removed. This was previously discussed. If you want to think of it in these terms, it is sort of the MACRO picture for us.
However, when we speak about repentance and forgiveness in the terms we will be discussing here today, it refers to a more of a MICRO picture for us. I am referring to our repentance that we should do on a regular basis, to keep us a clean vessel.
You see, even though we may be saved and be guaranteed our place in heaven for eternity, by trusting in Jesus Christ for our salvation, we can still be what some people refer to as 'out of fellowship'. This basically means that while we are still saved, we do not have favour with God, for we have some sin in our life.
How can a believer have sin in their life? It's simple. Each of us falls into sin, almost daily, whether we are saved, or not.
We try to not sin, once we are looking to our Lord, for everything in our life, but there are times when we sin, even if we don't want to, or mean to.
Think about this. You are a believer in Jesus Christ, saved by grace (alone), through faith (alone), in Christ (alone). You have been granted salvation through the shed blood of Christ. Once in the palm of God's hand you can never be removed.
Does this mean you are now perfect? No. We will never be made perfect, until we are in heaven. While still on earth, when we become saved, we obtain a 'new' nature; but, we still have our 'old' nature. We can still fall into sin, from time to time, because we are not perfect, just forgiven.
We may be made righteous through Jesus Christ, but we still fail, for we are not God; we are only human.
So, when we fall into sin, does this mean we lose our salvation? Absolutely not. As you read in a previous entry, once we are saved, we can never be removed from the palm of God's hand.
However, if we were to go to heaven while out of fellowship, with unrepented sin in our life, we may lose the rewards that God has been so eager to give us.
Who would want that? Would any true believer want to be in this condition? No. Still, we fall into sin. So, what can we do about it?
Well, once again, God made provision for us. He provided what some people call 'The Christian Bar of Soap', so we can be cleaned up and made sparkling clean, once again.
1 John 1:9 is the soap we use, for God tells us, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
How great is that! Wow! God even provided for us, to have a bath, to get cleaned up for Him! I bathe regularly. Do you? When was the last time, you took a bath and got cleaned up for God?
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
To date, we've discussed sin and how God cannot look upon it. We've discussed blood; how the blood of Jesus covers our sin, when we are saved, so that God doesn't see it. Other topics discussed have been obedience, being a lost sheep and in yesterday's entry, repentance.
This brings up another issue. Being forgiven.
When we discussed repentance, it was clear that in order to be forgiven, repentance is involved. Yes, when Jesus died for us, for the sin of all who will believe on Him, He did so for our past, present and future sin. But, this has nothing to do with the issue at hand.
When we say our past, present and future sin, it is referring to the fact that we can never lose our salvation. That God accepts us into His family of believers and we can never be removed. This was previously discussed. If you want to think of it in these terms, it is sort of the MACRO picture for us.
However, when we speak about repentance and forgiveness in the terms we will be discussing here today, it refers to a more of a MICRO picture for us. I am referring to our repentance that we should do on a regular basis, to keep us a clean vessel.
You see, even though we may be saved and be guaranteed our place in heaven for eternity, by trusting in Jesus Christ for our salvation, we can still be what some people refer to as 'out of fellowship'. This basically means that while we are still saved, we do not have favour with God, for we have some sin in our life.
How can a believer have sin in their life? It's simple. Each of us falls into sin, almost daily, whether we are saved, or not.
We try to not sin, once we are looking to our Lord, for everything in our life, but there are times when we sin, even if we don't want to, or mean to.
Think about this. You are a believer in Jesus Christ, saved by grace (alone), through faith (alone), in Christ (alone). You have been granted salvation through the shed blood of Christ. Once in the palm of God's hand you can never be removed.
Does this mean you are now perfect? No. We will never be made perfect, until we are in heaven. While still on earth, when we become saved, we obtain a 'new' nature; but, we still have our 'old' nature. We can still fall into sin, from time to time, because we are not perfect, just forgiven.
We may be made righteous through Jesus Christ, but we still fail, for we are not God; we are only human.
So, when we fall into sin, does this mean we lose our salvation? Absolutely not. As you read in a previous entry, once we are saved, we can never be removed from the palm of God's hand.
However, if we were to go to heaven while out of fellowship, with unrepented sin in our life, we may lose the rewards that God has been so eager to give us.
Who would want that? Would any true believer want to be in this condition? No. Still, we fall into sin. So, what can we do about it?
Well, once again, God made provision for us. He provided what some people call 'The Christian Bar of Soap', so we can be cleaned up and made sparkling clean, once again.
1 John 1:9 is the soap we use, for God tells us, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
How great is that! Wow! God even provided for us, to have a bath, to get cleaned up for Him! I bathe regularly. Do you? When was the last time, you took a bath and got cleaned up for God?
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Repentance...
It seems that what I've been trying get across has taken longer than what I had thought. Hopefully, you've hung in here with me; I appreciate you reading Life with Lynnie (LwL).
When I first began this not-so-mini series, I mentioned about a male friend, who considers himself Christian, who is looking to find a woman to be part of his life, and have a relationship with, including sex, but without marriage. Please realize, I am not trying to put my friend down, as you will see, by the end of this not-so-mini series!
Firstly, we discussed sin. Then, how the we are made righteous through trusting/believing in Jesus (being saved), for then His blood covers our sin, so God cannot see it.
Then, the topic of stumbling came up. No one is perfect; we all stumble and sin, from time to time. We discussed obedience; how God wants us to not just love him, but also obey him.
Yesterday, we discussed being a lost sheep and how our Good Shepherd actually reaches out and brings back anyone who is a lost sheep. God will never stop loving one of His own; he'll always bring them back to the sheepfold, His family.
Today, we'll discuss repentance.
How are we drawn back into the sheepfold? How are we restored to favour with God? Through repentance.
How does repentance occur? Well, usually the Holy Spirit convicts a child of God of his or her sin. When this happens, the sinner is said to have a broken spirit and contrite heart. They are sorry and feel badly for what they have done.
Some verses that speak of repentance and what happens when we are repentant, are as follows:
* Psalm 51:17, "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, you will not despise." Another Bible version says this same verse another way, "The sacrifice pleasing to God is a broken spirit. O God, you do not despise a broken and sorrowful heart."
* Psalm 34:18, "The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."
* Psalm 147:3, "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds."
* 2 Kings 22:19, "Because your heart was responsive and you humbled yourself before the LORD when you heard what I have spoken against this place and its people, that they would become accursed and laid waste, and because you tore your robes and wept in my presence, I have heard you, declares the LORD."
* 1 Samuel 15:22, "But Samuel replied: "Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the voice of the LORD? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams."
Wow! Did you read this last verse, posted immediately above this sentence? What does the last line say? "To obey is better than sacrifice."
Oooo... Here we go again, back to the idea of obedience.
Some people don't believe that obedience is necessary in the life of a Christian, but we clearly see in these verses and in many, many others, that obedience is absolutely expected of us, by God. And, is better than sacrifice; meaning to atone for our sin. That is, if we truly love God.
Well, there is still more to be said on this whole issue, but I'll have to continue, tomorrow.
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
When I first began this not-so-mini series, I mentioned about a male friend, who considers himself Christian, who is looking to find a woman to be part of his life, and have a relationship with, including sex, but without marriage. Please realize, I am not trying to put my friend down, as you will see, by the end of this not-so-mini series!
Firstly, we discussed sin. Then, how the we are made righteous through trusting/believing in Jesus (being saved), for then His blood covers our sin, so God cannot see it.
Then, the topic of stumbling came up. No one is perfect; we all stumble and sin, from time to time. We discussed obedience; how God wants us to not just love him, but also obey him.
Yesterday, we discussed being a lost sheep and how our Good Shepherd actually reaches out and brings back anyone who is a lost sheep. God will never stop loving one of His own; he'll always bring them back to the sheepfold, His family.
Today, we'll discuss repentance.
How are we drawn back into the sheepfold? How are we restored to favour with God? Through repentance.
How does repentance occur? Well, usually the Holy Spirit convicts a child of God of his or her sin. When this happens, the sinner is said to have a broken spirit and contrite heart. They are sorry and feel badly for what they have done.
Some verses that speak of repentance and what happens when we are repentant, are as follows:
* Psalm 51:17, "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, you will not despise." Another Bible version says this same verse another way, "The sacrifice pleasing to God is a broken spirit. O God, you do not despise a broken and sorrowful heart."
* Psalm 34:18, "The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."
* Psalm 147:3, "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds."
* 2 Kings 22:19, "Because your heart was responsive and you humbled yourself before the LORD when you heard what I have spoken against this place and its people, that they would become accursed and laid waste, and because you tore your robes and wept in my presence, I have heard you, declares the LORD."
* 1 Samuel 15:22, "But Samuel replied: "Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the voice of the LORD? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams."
Wow! Did you read this last verse, posted immediately above this sentence? What does the last line say? "To obey is better than sacrifice."
Oooo... Here we go again, back to the idea of obedience.
Some people don't believe that obedience is necessary in the life of a Christian, but we clearly see in these verses and in many, many others, that obedience is absolutely expected of us, by God. And, is better than sacrifice; meaning to atone for our sin. That is, if we truly love God.
Well, there is still more to be said on this whole issue, but I'll have to continue, tomorrow.
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Lost Sheep...
If you've been reading Life with Lynnie (LwL) for the past few days, you'll know that I've been writing about the issue of sin. Not just sin in someone's life, but also causing someone else to sin.
In the beginning, we discussed how Jesus died for sin; for yours, for mine, for the sin of the whole world, of all who will believe on Him.
Then came the issue of stumbling. Not just the person who is electing to sin, or stumble, but also the issue of becoming a stumbling block for others.
Obedience was the topic of yesterday's entry. God not only wants His children to love Him, but expects obedience from all who belong to Him!
Today, I thought it appropriate to discuss salvation, in the sense of whether or not a person can lose their salvation. Especially after sinning.
Well, for the answer we must once again look to God's Word, the Bible.
We've discussed on several occasions that we have all sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). By this verse, we know that there is no one, other than Jesus, God Himself, who has not sinned.
God knew this, yet He loved us still. He still proceeded in creating the plan of salvation for us, that He made. Wow! What love He has for us!
You see, once we're in the palm of God's hand, we can never be removed, for we belong to Him. And, will forever. God told us so in Isaiah 49:15-16, "15 “Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands; your walls are ever before me."
Since we can never be removed from the palm of God's hand, we can rest assured that even though we may forsake Him, by not being obedient and loving towards God, that He will love us, always. We are not items of trash, to be thrown away on a whim. No. God loves us.
We are sometimes lost sheep. If we belong to Him and sin, or fall away, God considers us a lost sheep. Just as a shepherd will leave the flock and go find and bring back the one lost sheep, so our God does with us. Each one of us!
The following verses clearly tell us how God feels about us:
* Matthew 18:12, “What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them goes astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine and go to the mountains to seek the one that is straying?"
* Matthew 18:13, "And if he should find it, assuredly, I say to you, he rejoices more over that sheep than over the ninety-nine that did not go astray."
* Luke 15:4-7, "“What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one which is lost until he finds it? And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost!’ I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance."
You'll notice that the last verse speaks of repentance. This is an topic for tomorrow. Stay tuned!
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
In the beginning, we discussed how Jesus died for sin; for yours, for mine, for the sin of the whole world, of all who will believe on Him.
Then came the issue of stumbling. Not just the person who is electing to sin, or stumble, but also the issue of becoming a stumbling block for others.
Obedience was the topic of yesterday's entry. God not only wants His children to love Him, but expects obedience from all who belong to Him!
Today, I thought it appropriate to discuss salvation, in the sense of whether or not a person can lose their salvation. Especially after sinning.
Well, for the answer we must once again look to God's Word, the Bible.
We've discussed on several occasions that we have all sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). By this verse, we know that there is no one, other than Jesus, God Himself, who has not sinned.
God knew this, yet He loved us still. He still proceeded in creating the plan of salvation for us, that He made. Wow! What love He has for us!
You see, once we're in the palm of God's hand, we can never be removed, for we belong to Him. And, will forever. God told us so in Isaiah 49:15-16, "15 “Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands; your walls are ever before me."
Since we can never be removed from the palm of God's hand, we can rest assured that even though we may forsake Him, by not being obedient and loving towards God, that He will love us, always. We are not items of trash, to be thrown away on a whim. No. God loves us.
We are sometimes lost sheep. If we belong to Him and sin, or fall away, God considers us a lost sheep. Just as a shepherd will leave the flock and go find and bring back the one lost sheep, so our God does with us. Each one of us!
The following verses clearly tell us how God feels about us:
* Matthew 18:12, “What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them goes astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine and go to the mountains to seek the one that is straying?"
* Matthew 18:13, "And if he should find it, assuredly, I say to you, he rejoices more over that sheep than over the ninety-nine that did not go astray."
* Luke 15:4-7, "“What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one which is lost until he finds it? And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost!’ I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance."
You'll notice that the last verse speaks of repentance. This is an topic for tomorrow. Stay tuned!
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Obedience...
As you know, I've been writing the last few entries about a friend of mine, who claims to be Christian. He is hoping to find a Christian woman to have a relationship with, because he feels a Christian woman would be someone who would be faithful to him. He wants a physical relationship, but not marriage.
We began discussing how God cannot look upon sin. This is why He made a plan of salvation for us. Originally, His chosen people had to do blood sacrifices on a continuing basis, to atone for their sin. Then, God fulfilled prophecy, by sending to earth His only begotten Son, our Lord, Jesus Christ, to become the sacrifice to end all sacrifices. Jesus died on the cross for me and for the sins of the whole world, for all who will believe on Him, including you...if you are trusting/believing in Him.
Then, we discussed how we are to not cause our brother to stumble. God has made it clear, that we are not to be a stumbling block to anyone. It makes no difference if the problem is with regards to food, or an addiction of some sort, or sex, no one who belongs to our Lord, should ever do anything to cause another brother (or sister) the Lord, to sin.
Today, we're going to talk about obedience.
God expects obedience from His children. Jesus said that He considers us His heirs.
Galatians 4:4-7 clearly tells us, "But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born[a] of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons. And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, “Abba, Father!” Therefore you are no longer a slave but a son, and if a son, then an heir of[b] God through Christ."
You just read that we are not living under the law, as the people were during the time of the Old Testament. We are living under grace. We are no longer considered slaves, but we have been made heirs through Christ Jesus, when we trust in Him.
Speaking of slaves, we are no longer a slave to sin, either. This is confirmed in Romans 6:6, "We know that the person we used to be was crucified with him to put an end to sin in our bodies. Because of this we are no longer slaves to sin." This means that when we are saved, when we belong to Jesus, we do not have to sin, as before.
We have a choice. As I said, we do not have to sin. We can choose to sin, or we can choose to not sin. God leaves that choice up to us. Although I am not going to discuss here today what happens when we sin, we do pay for our sin.
I have heard many people remind me that God is love. Yes, this is true. But, in His love for us, He expects obedience. He expects us to do His will, not ours. He wants us to be His heirs, who love Him, adore Him, worship Him and obey Him.
God tells us this in Luke 8:21, "And he answered and said to them, My mother and my brothers are these which hear the word of God, and do it."
We also know this from Luke 11:28, "He replied, "Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it."
There are more verses, but God makes himself very clear in John 15:14-15, "You are My friends if you do whatever I command you. No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I heard from My Father I have made known to you."
Hopefully, you can see that our relationship with God is not only about love. Hopefully, you have recognized that our relationship with God is also about obedience.
Since there is still more to discuss on the topic of sin, I will have to continue tomorrow.
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
We began discussing how God cannot look upon sin. This is why He made a plan of salvation for us. Originally, His chosen people had to do blood sacrifices on a continuing basis, to atone for their sin. Then, God fulfilled prophecy, by sending to earth His only begotten Son, our Lord, Jesus Christ, to become the sacrifice to end all sacrifices. Jesus died on the cross for me and for the sins of the whole world, for all who will believe on Him, including you...if you are trusting/believing in Him.
Then, we discussed how we are to not cause our brother to stumble. God has made it clear, that we are not to be a stumbling block to anyone. It makes no difference if the problem is with regards to food, or an addiction of some sort, or sex, no one who belongs to our Lord, should ever do anything to cause another brother (or sister) the Lord, to sin.
Today, we're going to talk about obedience.
God expects obedience from His children. Jesus said that He considers us His heirs.
Galatians 4:4-7 clearly tells us, "But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born[a] of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons. And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, “Abba, Father!” Therefore you are no longer a slave but a son, and if a son, then an heir of[b] God through Christ."
You just read that we are not living under the law, as the people were during the time of the Old Testament. We are living under grace. We are no longer considered slaves, but we have been made heirs through Christ Jesus, when we trust in Him.
Speaking of slaves, we are no longer a slave to sin, either. This is confirmed in Romans 6:6, "We know that the person we used to be was crucified with him to put an end to sin in our bodies. Because of this we are no longer slaves to sin." This means that when we are saved, when we belong to Jesus, we do not have to sin, as before.
We have a choice. As I said, we do not have to sin. We can choose to sin, or we can choose to not sin. God leaves that choice up to us. Although I am not going to discuss here today what happens when we sin, we do pay for our sin.
I have heard many people remind me that God is love. Yes, this is true. But, in His love for us, He expects obedience. He expects us to do His will, not ours. He wants us to be His heirs, who love Him, adore Him, worship Him and obey Him.
God tells us this in Luke 8:21, "And he answered and said to them, My mother and my brothers are these which hear the word of God, and do it."
We also know this from Luke 11:28, "He replied, "Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it."
There are more verses, but God makes himself very clear in John 15:14-15, "You are My friends if you do whatever I command you. No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I heard from My Father I have made known to you."
Hopefully, you can see that our relationship with God is not only about love. Hopefully, you have recognized that our relationship with God is also about obedience.
Since there is still more to discuss on the topic of sin, I will have to continue tomorrow.
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
Monday, May 16, 2011
Stumble?
If you've read Life with Lynnie's recent entries, you'll know that I have been discussing the issue of sin. A friend of mine, who claims to be Christian, is hoping to find a Christian woman willing to commit to a sinful relationship with him.
Then, yesterday we discussed the fact that God cannot look upon sin. We discussed how if God could accept us sinning, then there truly was no need for Jesus to have died on the cross, for the sin of all who would believe on Him.
Which leads me to the next point. Would a Christian want to lead another astray? Would one Christian want to cause another to stumble? Not if they have read God's Word, the Bible...and know they want to be obedient to God.
There are several Bible verses that tell us we should not cause our brother to stumble; some refer to food, with still more to other issues. Here are a few:
* 1 Corinthians 8:13, "Why, if meat make my brother to offend, I will eat no flesh while the world stands, lest I make my brother to offend."
* Acts 15:20, "Instead we should write to them, telling them to abstain from food polluted by idols, from sexual immorality, from the meat of strangled animals and from blood."
* Romans 14:13, "Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother's way."
* Romans 14:21, "It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything else that will cause your brother to fall."
* 1 Corinthians 10:32, " Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the church of God."
* 2 Corinthians 6:3, "We put no stumbling block in anyone's path, so that our ministry will not be discredited."
Causing our brother to stumble, doesn't refer to just men, because of the term used as 'brother'. It refers to anyone; all people.
The word stumble, doesn't just mean to cause someone to fall, but is used in the context of sin. In other words, no one should ever cause someone else to sin.
As you can clearly see, God has told us that we should not sin ourselves, nor cause or do anything to make someone else sin, either.
Once again, I must ask you to be patient, for there is more to be said on this topic.
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
Then, yesterday we discussed the fact that God cannot look upon sin. We discussed how if God could accept us sinning, then there truly was no need for Jesus to have died on the cross, for the sin of all who would believe on Him.
Which leads me to the next point. Would a Christian want to lead another astray? Would one Christian want to cause another to stumble? Not if they have read God's Word, the Bible...and know they want to be obedient to God.
There are several Bible verses that tell us we should not cause our brother to stumble; some refer to food, with still more to other issues. Here are a few:
* 1 Corinthians 8:13, "Why, if meat make my brother to offend, I will eat no flesh while the world stands, lest I make my brother to offend."
* Acts 15:20, "Instead we should write to them, telling them to abstain from food polluted by idols, from sexual immorality, from the meat of strangled animals and from blood."
* Romans 14:13, "Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother's way."
* Romans 14:21, "It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything else that will cause your brother to fall."
* 1 Corinthians 10:32, " Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the church of God."
* 2 Corinthians 6:3, "We put no stumbling block in anyone's path, so that our ministry will not be discredited."
Causing our brother to stumble, doesn't refer to just men, because of the term used as 'brother'. It refers to anyone; all people.
The word stumble, doesn't just mean to cause someone to fall, but is used in the context of sin. In other words, no one should ever cause someone else to sin.
As you can clearly see, God has told us that we should not sin ourselves, nor cause or do anything to make someone else sin, either.
Once again, I must ask you to be patient, for there is more to be said on this topic.
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
Sunday, May 15, 2011
The Blood...
In yesterday's entry, I wrote about sin and about how a friend of mine, is hoping to find someone who will agree to sin with him. If you haven't read yesterday's entry, I would suggest you do so.
Please don't misunderstand me. It's not that I am without sin, for this is not the case. God's Word tells us that all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). Including me.
Please, realize that I am not trying to point a finger at my friend. I am not trying to judge him, as I wrote about, yesterday. I am however, using this situation in an effort to explain what I am about to say.
There are actually several issues that come to mind regarding this situation.
Firstly, God hates sin. He cannot look upon sin. Ever. For any reason. This is evident in the story of Noah. More particularly in Genesis 6:5-7.
This fact was also evidenced when Jesus hung on the cross, dying for your sin, mine and for the sin of all who would believe upon Him. Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34, tell us how Jesus cried out to God the Father, "'Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?' that is, 'My God, My God, why have you forsaken Me?'" God the Father had turned away from Jesus, because He couldn't look upon Him, while He was dying for the sin of the world.
Some might not believe this. If you are one, then I pity you. You are lost and without hope.
I believe everything the Bible teaches, because it is the inspired word of God.
If God the Father could look upon sin, then there would be no reason for Jesus to have died for you and me. He did it all. He made a way for God to provide us with salvation. He made a way for God to be able to look upon us and not see our sin.
In the Old Testament, we read that God's chosen people had to make blood sacrifices, regularly to atone for their sin.
Those of us who are trusting in Jesus Christ for our salvation, know that He was the sacrifice to end all sacrifices. No more sacrifices are necessary. All we have to do is believe/trust on the Lord, Jesus Christ and we will be saved (Acts 16:31).
Jesus' blood shed for us, covers our sin. Blots our sin out, so that God cannot see it. We are not righteous on our own, but we are made righteous when Jesus' blood covers us.
Since there is more to be said, I must continue this, tomorrow. However, I must ask you to trust in Jesus Christ for your salvation, if you are not already doing so. We are not guaranteed tomorrow; please, do it, today. Blessings...
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
Please don't misunderstand me. It's not that I am without sin, for this is not the case. God's Word tells us that all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). Including me.
Please, realize that I am not trying to point a finger at my friend. I am not trying to judge him, as I wrote about, yesterday. I am however, using this situation in an effort to explain what I am about to say.
There are actually several issues that come to mind regarding this situation.
Firstly, God hates sin. He cannot look upon sin. Ever. For any reason. This is evident in the story of Noah. More particularly in Genesis 6:5-7.
This fact was also evidenced when Jesus hung on the cross, dying for your sin, mine and for the sin of all who would believe upon Him. Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34, tell us how Jesus cried out to God the Father, "'Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?' that is, 'My God, My God, why have you forsaken Me?'" God the Father had turned away from Jesus, because He couldn't look upon Him, while He was dying for the sin of the world.
Some might not believe this. If you are one, then I pity you. You are lost and without hope.
I believe everything the Bible teaches, because it is the inspired word of God.
If God the Father could look upon sin, then there would be no reason for Jesus to have died for you and me. He did it all. He made a way for God to provide us with salvation. He made a way for God to be able to look upon us and not see our sin.
In the Old Testament, we read that God's chosen people had to make blood sacrifices, regularly to atone for their sin.
Those of us who are trusting in Jesus Christ for our salvation, know that He was the sacrifice to end all sacrifices. No more sacrifices are necessary. All we have to do is believe/trust on the Lord, Jesus Christ and we will be saved (Acts 16:31).
Jesus' blood shed for us, covers our sin. Blots our sin out, so that God cannot see it. We are not righteous on our own, but we are made righteous when Jesus' blood covers us.
Since there is more to be said, I must continue this, tomorrow. However, I must ask you to trust in Jesus Christ for your salvation, if you are not already doing so. We are not guaranteed tomorrow; please, do it, today. Blessings...
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Sin?
Recently, I once again had a conversation with a friend, regarding an important topic.
This friend is male, and lives here in Windsor, as opposed to being an on-line friend. It's important you understand this, because then you will realize that this is an ongoing discussion with this person. He truly is just a friend; no romantic connection! Even so, for the sake of anonymity, I will not divulge his name.
Before I begin, I must mention that if this topic of conversation had been with a female friend, my feelings on the subject would have been the same. There would be no difference, no matter who the person was.
This on-going discussion involves sin. Or, at least the prospect of sin.
Quite a while ago, my friend made a comment to me that he was looking for a romantic connection. Of course, I laughed and made a face with a response of 'oh sure!', because that is just my personality.
All teasing aside. This friend was serious. He claimed further into our conversation that he was hoping to find a Christian woman and asked me if I knew of any Christian, good-looking blondes. I laughed once again, because although this person calls himself a Christian, he shows no fruit of the spirit.
Now, I'm not here to judge, for only God knows the condition of each of our hearts; personally, I am glad I do not need to judge anyone. However, God did tell us to discern truth. God did tell us that we shall know them by their fruit (Matthew 7:16). In this case, there is only lip service, but no obedience or desire to follow God; he doesn't even attend church service anywhere, to worship God.
Still, he is my friend and I don't want you to think I think badly of him, for I don't. I regularly remind him that if he truly loves God, he should worship Him. That's another topic, for another time.
The only reason I wrote about this is so that you will understand where this subject is coming from and going to.
This friend claims he wants a Christian woman in his life, because he feels he can trust Christian women. Not, because he wants a woman that truly loves God.
Now, bear with me when I say this, but my friend doesn't want to find a Christian woman, to love and be loved by and marry. No. Instead, he made it clear to me that he only wants a Christian woman in his life, to have a relationship with her.
Being Christian, he feels he can trust her to be true only to him, without marriage. Just a personal... and a physical relationship... without marriage.
My immediate thought, that I blurted out to my friend, was that if he found a Christian woman, she wouldn't want to have a physical relationship with him, without marriage. He disagreed, letting me know that he has already met some.
I listened as he told me that he has not only met some like this, but he has had a relationship with a few.
I quickly noticed there was no remorse for the sin he had just admitted to, in his life. No repentance. No desire to be right with God, even after further discussion on this subject.
I recalled Proverbs 14:12, which tells us, "There is a way which seems right to a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death." It seemed to me this was fitting for this situation and told him so.
Any/all of my comments were just scoffed at.
It amazed, but wasn't shocking to me that he felt this way, for I know many people who feel this way. That God will just tolerate their sin, because He should do so, if He loves them.
Are you getting the drift of what I will be writing about? Hopefully, so.
In any case, I must write more about this tomorrow, for I am not able to continue, today.
This friend is male, and lives here in Windsor, as opposed to being an on-line friend. It's important you understand this, because then you will realize that this is an ongoing discussion with this person. He truly is just a friend; no romantic connection! Even so, for the sake of anonymity, I will not divulge his name.
Before I begin, I must mention that if this topic of conversation had been with a female friend, my feelings on the subject would have been the same. There would be no difference, no matter who the person was.
This on-going discussion involves sin. Or, at least the prospect of sin.
Quite a while ago, my friend made a comment to me that he was looking for a romantic connection. Of course, I laughed and made a face with a response of 'oh sure!', because that is just my personality.
All teasing aside. This friend was serious. He claimed further into our conversation that he was hoping to find a Christian woman and asked me if I knew of any Christian, good-looking blondes. I laughed once again, because although this person calls himself a Christian, he shows no fruit of the spirit.
Now, I'm not here to judge, for only God knows the condition of each of our hearts; personally, I am glad I do not need to judge anyone. However, God did tell us to discern truth. God did tell us that we shall know them by their fruit (Matthew 7:16). In this case, there is only lip service, but no obedience or desire to follow God; he doesn't even attend church service anywhere, to worship God.
Still, he is my friend and I don't want you to think I think badly of him, for I don't. I regularly remind him that if he truly loves God, he should worship Him. That's another topic, for another time.
The only reason I wrote about this is so that you will understand where this subject is coming from and going to.
This friend claims he wants a Christian woman in his life, because he feels he can trust Christian women. Not, because he wants a woman that truly loves God.
Now, bear with me when I say this, but my friend doesn't want to find a Christian woman, to love and be loved by and marry. No. Instead, he made it clear to me that he only wants a Christian woman in his life, to have a relationship with her.
Being Christian, he feels he can trust her to be true only to him, without marriage. Just a personal... and a physical relationship... without marriage.
My immediate thought, that I blurted out to my friend, was that if he found a Christian woman, she wouldn't want to have a physical relationship with him, without marriage. He disagreed, letting me know that he has already met some.
I listened as he told me that he has not only met some like this, but he has had a relationship with a few.
I quickly noticed there was no remorse for the sin he had just admitted to, in his life. No repentance. No desire to be right with God, even after further discussion on this subject.
I recalled Proverbs 14:12, which tells us, "There is a way which seems right to a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death." It seemed to me this was fitting for this situation and told him so.
Any/all of my comments were just scoffed at.
It amazed, but wasn't shocking to me that he felt this way, for I know many people who feel this way. That God will just tolerate their sin, because He should do so, if He loves them.
Are you getting the drift of what I will be writing about? Hopefully, so.
In any case, I must write more about this tomorrow, for I am not able to continue, today.
Friday, May 13, 2011
Hosting!
Thursday evening was a wonderful time of fellowship! As I mentioned yesterday, I expected guests for dinner.
My friend/co-worker C was kind enough to pick up both L and B at their homes in the downtown Windsor area. K, my neighbour/friend from across the hall joined us. So, in total there were five (5) of us.
We enjoyed some great conversation before our meal, then enjoyed a great roast beef dinner, together. At least that's what they told me; that dinner was great. lol
We laughed so hard at times, that tears came to many eyes!
Seriously, all in all, it was a great evening. I truly felt blessed having this group of friends in my home.
Of course, the birthday cupcakes didn't hurt, either.
Within a few days is both C and B's birthdays, so it was a great reason to get together. It gave us something to celebrate. Even though it wasn't L or K's birthday, I placed a candle in each of their cupcakes.
This meant that everyone had a cupcake with a lit candle in it. Except for me, of course. I didn't need to have anything more to have to exercise to work off my poor body!
It truly was a great way to finish our meal, for we sang Happy Birthday to all our friends! Hopefully, everyone enjoyed themselves as much as I thought they did.
Once again, Happy Birthday, friends!
It was quite late when I cleaned up, so it was quite late when I went to bed for some shut eye. Even so, I was up early Friday morning.
Knowing I had an appointment later in the morning, I went to exercise earlier than normal. Afterwards, I had to pick up a couple of things on my way home, because again this evening, I was expecting company for dinner.
I suppose you could say I enjoy hosting. I enjoy having people around me. I enjoy celebrating for whatever reason there is to celebrate.
Tonight, there truly was no reason to celebrate. My neighbour/friend K from across the hall, plus a fairly new friend G, who exercises usually at the same time I do and who I found out lives across and down the street from me, were due to join me for dinner.
So after exercise and shopping, I had to continue my preparations for tonight's meal. Then, it was time to head out to my business meeting.
Upon returning from my business meeting, I continued preparing for my guests arrival. This was once again interrupted, because I had to leave to pick up my grandson J and take him to my Chiropractor.
After J had his treatment and I mine, we headed home. J to his home, then me to mine. Phew! It never ceases to amaze me how God's timing is always perfect. I arrived home five (5) minutes before my guests were to arrive!
In the end, K didn't join G and I for dinner. When I arrived home, she was crying. We spoke until G arrived. Then, K went home.
So, instead of being seated for dinner with us, I fixed a plate for her and she enjoyed it in her apartment. Tonight, we feasted on a shrimp dinner. K always loves that; I was sure it would do her good!
Once again, I must thank God for how He loves me and provides for me, always. He never ceases to amaze me, how He always works things out, even to the smallest detail. Thank You, Lord!
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
My friend/co-worker C was kind enough to pick up both L and B at their homes in the downtown Windsor area. K, my neighbour/friend from across the hall joined us. So, in total there were five (5) of us.
We enjoyed some great conversation before our meal, then enjoyed a great roast beef dinner, together. At least that's what they told me; that dinner was great. lol
We laughed so hard at times, that tears came to many eyes!
Seriously, all in all, it was a great evening. I truly felt blessed having this group of friends in my home.
Of course, the birthday cupcakes didn't hurt, either.
Within a few days is both C and B's birthdays, so it was a great reason to get together. It gave us something to celebrate. Even though it wasn't L or K's birthday, I placed a candle in each of their cupcakes.
This meant that everyone had a cupcake with a lit candle in it. Except for me, of course. I didn't need to have anything more to have to exercise to work off my poor body!
It truly was a great way to finish our meal, for we sang Happy Birthday to all our friends! Hopefully, everyone enjoyed themselves as much as I thought they did.
Once again, Happy Birthday, friends!
It was quite late when I cleaned up, so it was quite late when I went to bed for some shut eye. Even so, I was up early Friday morning.
Knowing I had an appointment later in the morning, I went to exercise earlier than normal. Afterwards, I had to pick up a couple of things on my way home, because again this evening, I was expecting company for dinner.
I suppose you could say I enjoy hosting. I enjoy having people around me. I enjoy celebrating for whatever reason there is to celebrate.
Tonight, there truly was no reason to celebrate. My neighbour/friend K from across the hall, plus a fairly new friend G, who exercises usually at the same time I do and who I found out lives across and down the street from me, were due to join me for dinner.
So after exercise and shopping, I had to continue my preparations for tonight's meal. Then, it was time to head out to my business meeting.
Upon returning from my business meeting, I continued preparing for my guests arrival. This was once again interrupted, because I had to leave to pick up my grandson J and take him to my Chiropractor.
After J had his treatment and I mine, we headed home. J to his home, then me to mine. Phew! It never ceases to amaze me how God's timing is always perfect. I arrived home five (5) minutes before my guests were to arrive!
In the end, K didn't join G and I for dinner. When I arrived home, she was crying. We spoke until G arrived. Then, K went home.
So, instead of being seated for dinner with us, I fixed a plate for her and she enjoyed it in her apartment. Tonight, we feasted on a shrimp dinner. K always loves that; I was sure it would do her good!
Once again, I must thank God for how He loves me and provides for me, always. He never ceases to amaze me, how He always works things out, even to the smallest detail. Thank You, Lord!
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
Thursday, May 12, 2011
More Celebrations!
You may/may not be aware that Blogger had a problem Thursday; not only was I not able to publish this entry on time, but my entry from Wednesday I was somehow lost and I had to rewrite and republish it. Please accept my apologies for the interruption; this was totally out of my control. Thank you. Blessings...
In Wednesday's entry, I mentioned I might head to bed, early. Well, I did.
Just after 10:00 pm, I crawled into bed, hurting from head to toe, totally wiped out. Exhausted, doesn't even describe how I felt.
God blessed me with a wonderful sleep! Thank You, Lord!
Even though my alarm was set to wake me at normal time, I awoke earlier than I had planned. No matter how hard I tried to go back asleep, I just couldn't. So, after about a half (1/2) hour of lying in bed awake, I finally got up. It was 6:15 am!
Oh well. So much for trying to catch up on missed sleep and trying to allow my body to recuperate from being over used. Truly, I cannot complain. It was a restful seven and a half (7 1/2) hours sleep! Again, thank You, Lord!
In addition to exercising as I normally do, I have increased intensity. This may be one contributing factor to my body hurting. Of course, I am Rheumatoid Arthritic. Duh! Even so, I am hurting more than I normally do.
Nevertheless, I will not give up! I'm not that kind of person. So, I did what I always do during the week. I went to work out at my friend M's!
On the way home, I stopped to get milk and a couple of things. Today, wasn't meant to be a shopping day, but I knew that if I wanted to make mashed potatoes for tonight's dinner, I had to buy milk.
Milk is something I don't normally keep in my home, anymore. Gordon used to love to drink milk and believe me when I say, he drank a lot of milk!
However, since Gordon's death, I rarely have milk in my home.
I've never been a milk drinker. Even as a child I didn't like milk. My parents told me that even as a toddler, I didn't want to drink it. I think it's kind of funny really, because my Dad was a milkman for many years!
An exception to the norm is when I am expecting company, as I am this evening.
My neighbour/friend K will be one guest. She told me yesterday that she's going to be moving to another unit in our building. I knew that in K's heart, she truly wanted to live on the east side of the building. How did I know this? Well, whenever she would come to visit me, she'd make sure to let me know how much she loved my view!
K won't be moving to the new unit, until September. I know, she'll still be in the building, but it won't be the same once she moves, for she will be living on another floor. Gone will be the days when we open our doors and hand over plates of food, while clad only in our housecoats, or whatever.
In any case, K will be one of my guests, tonight. My friend/co-worker C, whose birthday is in a few days will be joining us. He's picking up two (2) friends who live downtown and bringing them with him. Both L (who is a widow) and B are Christian Singles' Cafe friends. B will be having a birthday in a few days, also. L worships with me.
I'm looking forward to having a great time of fun and fellowship this evening. And hopefully, a great roast beef dinner, too! I'll keep you posted.
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
In Wednesday's entry, I mentioned I might head to bed, early. Well, I did.
Just after 10:00 pm, I crawled into bed, hurting from head to toe, totally wiped out. Exhausted, doesn't even describe how I felt.
God blessed me with a wonderful sleep! Thank You, Lord!
Even though my alarm was set to wake me at normal time, I awoke earlier than I had planned. No matter how hard I tried to go back asleep, I just couldn't. So, after about a half (1/2) hour of lying in bed awake, I finally got up. It was 6:15 am!
Oh well. So much for trying to catch up on missed sleep and trying to allow my body to recuperate from being over used. Truly, I cannot complain. It was a restful seven and a half (7 1/2) hours sleep! Again, thank You, Lord!
In addition to exercising as I normally do, I have increased intensity. This may be one contributing factor to my body hurting. Of course, I am Rheumatoid Arthritic. Duh! Even so, I am hurting more than I normally do.
Nevertheless, I will not give up! I'm not that kind of person. So, I did what I always do during the week. I went to work out at my friend M's!
On the way home, I stopped to get milk and a couple of things. Today, wasn't meant to be a shopping day, but I knew that if I wanted to make mashed potatoes for tonight's dinner, I had to buy milk.
Milk is something I don't normally keep in my home, anymore. Gordon used to love to drink milk and believe me when I say, he drank a lot of milk!
However, since Gordon's death, I rarely have milk in my home.
I've never been a milk drinker. Even as a child I didn't like milk. My parents told me that even as a toddler, I didn't want to drink it. I think it's kind of funny really, because my Dad was a milkman for many years!
An exception to the norm is when I am expecting company, as I am this evening.
My neighbour/friend K will be one guest. She told me yesterday that she's going to be moving to another unit in our building. I knew that in K's heart, she truly wanted to live on the east side of the building. How did I know this? Well, whenever she would come to visit me, she'd make sure to let me know how much she loved my view!
K won't be moving to the new unit, until September. I know, she'll still be in the building, but it won't be the same once she moves, for she will be living on another floor. Gone will be the days when we open our doors and hand over plates of food, while clad only in our housecoats, or whatever.
In any case, K will be one of my guests, tonight. My friend/co-worker C, whose birthday is in a few days will be joining us. He's picking up two (2) friends who live downtown and bringing them with him. Both L (who is a widow) and B are Christian Singles' Cafe friends. B will be having a birthday in a few days, also. L worships with me.
I'm looking forward to having a great time of fun and fellowship this evening. And hopefully, a great roast beef dinner, too! I'll keep you posted.
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Happy 1st Birthday, A!
Happy 1st Birthday, A!
Surrounding my granddaughter A (who is covered in Birthday cake!) from L to R, is A's brother N, A's Dad S, A's Mom (my daughter, B), A's brother T and A's brother J.
Immediately behind A, is her brother A. Beside A is her other Grandma.
In you've been reading Life with Lynnie (LwL) on a regular basis, you will know that I posted an entry for May 11th, with a pic of my family celebrating my granddaughter A's first (1st) birthday!
On Thursday, when I went to post my daily entry, I was able to access Blogger to write the entry, but by the time I went to post it, Blogger was no longer available. Apparently, they had to do some updating to the system. So, thankfully, I saved what I wrote elsewhere; I will post that entry, shortly.
However, during the course of the evening, during the updating, something happened. They dropped the blog entry for A's Birthday. Today (Friday) when I went to post yesterday's entry I thought they would have recovered it, as per their message, yesterday. For some reason, this didn't happen. In any case, I am rewriting an entry for A's birthday.
On Tuesday, I had a much busier work day, than is normal for me as of late. I worked right up to midnight!
Exhausted as I was, I could not go to bed and catch some sleep, because I had promised to bake a birthday cake for my granddaughter A, who was turning one (1) on Wednesday, May 11th!
Consequently, I was up til after 2:30 a.m. After baking the cake, I had to let it cool, so I did more paperwork for the deal I was working on. Then, I iced and decorated the cake.
It was actually a good thing I had made a chocolate cake with chocolate icing, for later in the day, I received a page from my daughter B, saying that she hoped I had made something with chocolate icing! lol Phew! Was I relieved that I had!
In any case, instead of meeting at B's home as we normally do for birthday celebrations, we met at her Dad's and Grandma's home, since it was A's 1st birthday. This way we could together, all share in the joy of celebrating A's 1st birthday.
On the way, I picked up pizza so we could truly celebrate as a family, sharing dinner, also.
Of course, when it came to cake time, A enjoyed eating her 1st slice of birthday cake, celebrating the first of her special days. As per normal, she wore much of it!
Being totally worn out, I thought I might go to bed earlier than normal.
I praise You, Father and thank You, for allowing me to have such a great memory. I'm truly blessed.
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Stressed Beyond Belief...
In yesterday's entry, I said I was blessed beyond belief. I was.
However, while writing this entry, I feel a little bit differently. I feel stressed beyond belief.
Oh well. That's life. Nothing happens that surprises God. Only us. Put a smile on your face Lynnie, pull up your socks and get on with life.
It's not that life was bad yesterday, for it truly wasn't. I worked hard. Yes, it was more stressful than it usually is, but I managed to get through what I needed to do.
Truly, I was blessed in some ways. I was able to spend a bit of time with one of my grandsons, J. Afterwards, his Mom (my daughter) met me at my church, for a Mother/Daughter dinner. In fact, both my daughters joined me, there.
I was grateful being able to spend some time with my family. Thank You, Lord!
My life in general is just not reflective of what I want it to be.
Okay, I know. You're going to tell me to stop whining, unless I want some cheese to go with it. Maybe, that's the problem. Maybe, I just cannot be happy any more.
I'm just truly tired of being alone. I miss Gordon.
Even though I am not posting this until at least the late evening on May 10th, I am writing this, just minutes before it became 19 months since Gordon died.
See, the sadness is killing me. Grief takes over, whether I like it, or not. I cannot seem to feel better.
I keep praying God will heal me. He hasn't, yet. Daily, I remind myself that I need to be patient. But, it's hard.
I miss feeling loved. I'm tired of feeling like a loser, when it comes to love. Yet, that's the truth. I have not been blessed that way.
It's easy to say that I have friends who love me, for I do. It's easy to say the same about some of my family, for I believe God is restoring part of my life.
But, nothing replaces the feeling of being loved by a spouse. Wanted. Needed. Cherished.
Instead of feeling complete, fulfilled, etc., all I feel is empty. Void. A non-entity any longer.
Whether I like it or not, there's nothing I can do about it. So, I must just take a deep breath and carry on. Well, what other choice do I have?
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
However, while writing this entry, I feel a little bit differently. I feel stressed beyond belief.
Oh well. That's life. Nothing happens that surprises God. Only us. Put a smile on your face Lynnie, pull up your socks and get on with life.
It's not that life was bad yesterday, for it truly wasn't. I worked hard. Yes, it was more stressful than it usually is, but I managed to get through what I needed to do.
Truly, I was blessed in some ways. I was able to spend a bit of time with one of my grandsons, J. Afterwards, his Mom (my daughter) met me at my church, for a Mother/Daughter dinner. In fact, both my daughters joined me, there.
I was grateful being able to spend some time with my family. Thank You, Lord!
My life in general is just not reflective of what I want it to be.
Okay, I know. You're going to tell me to stop whining, unless I want some cheese to go with it. Maybe, that's the problem. Maybe, I just cannot be happy any more.
I'm just truly tired of being alone. I miss Gordon.
Even though I am not posting this until at least the late evening on May 10th, I am writing this, just minutes before it became 19 months since Gordon died.
See, the sadness is killing me. Grief takes over, whether I like it, or not. I cannot seem to feel better.
I keep praying God will heal me. He hasn't, yet. Daily, I remind myself that I need to be patient. But, it's hard.
I miss feeling loved. I'm tired of feeling like a loser, when it comes to love. Yet, that's the truth. I have not been blessed that way.
It's easy to say that I have friends who love me, for I do. It's easy to say the same about some of my family, for I believe God is restoring part of my life.
But, nothing replaces the feeling of being loved by a spouse. Wanted. Needed. Cherished.
Instead of feeling complete, fulfilled, etc., all I feel is empty. Void. A non-entity any longer.
Whether I like it or not, there's nothing I can do about it. So, I must just take a deep breath and carry on. Well, what other choice do I have?
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
Monday, May 9, 2011
Blessed Beyond Belief!
Today is the 9th of May. Tomorrow is the 10th. At 12:30 am, it will be 19 months, since my husband took his last breath.
This has truly been the worst trial of my life. And, I've had many.
Just as God restored Job, completely restoring his life and family, I feel like God is beginning to do this for me. At least, in some ways.
Of course, I am still a widow. It's not easy. In fact, it is downright hard.
I suppose some people handle it better than others. As for me, I guess you can say I fall in the latter group, for I don't feel like I am handling it, well. Still, I am grateful that God gives me grace and helps me cope, daily.
To all who have prayed for me, I thank you and pray God will bless you for doing so. It seems some of your prayers have been answered. I know some of mine have been! Praise God! Thank You, Jesus!
Saturday evening, my daughter B called me. She invited me to join her, her family and some other people for dinner on Mother's Day. Wow! I was shocked, but very happy.
Later, my daughter P invited me to visit her and her family at their home, after church on Sunday; Mother's Day. Wow! Again, I was shocked, but very happy.
So, after worshipping at my church, I did exactly that. I visited with P and her family. It was wonderful. Not because they had Mother's Day gifts for me, either. While I appreciated receiving them, the truth is, I it did my heart good that P and her family wanted to spend time with me. Thank you, P. Thank you, grandchildren D, Z & S. K, too. I truly felt blessed.
Afterwards, I made my way over to meet B and family, for dinner. We had a lovely time, together. Once again, I truly appreciated the lovely card and gift, but the best part was having almost all B's family spend time with me. Thank you, B... and grandchildren T, N, J & A; I'm sorry A wasn't with us, but hopefully, I'll see him on Wednesday, this week. Again, I truly felt blessed.
There were other people who shared this Mother's Day dinner. I appreciated visiting with each one. After all, life for me is relatively boring and lonely.
One guest made some comments about someone he and another person were mutual friends with. He spoke about how he felt their friend shouldn't be feeling so sad, after losing their loved one.
Hmmm... Obviously, everyone handles grief differently. Actually, I commented about this. Once again, it made me realize that there are so many people who don't understand loss and grief.
It seems to me that many people think that someone who is grieving, shouldn't be grieving, especially if they believe their loved one is in heaven. I don't agree.
Even if a person's loved one is in heaven, there is terrible loss felt by the loved one left behind. Yes, we can be happy we know our loved one is in heaven, but does that mean that we shouldn't feel loss or sadness, loneliness, or any of the other feelings that seem to fill a person, when they grieve? After all, we are only human.
It seems to me that some people just have never experienced the kind of loss that some of us have. Praise God for this, for I wouldn't wish grief upon anyone. Not even my worst enemy.
Even so, as I mentioned earlier, I feel like God is beginning to restore part of my life. For this I am thankful, for this was the first time in MANY years that both my children and grandchildren celebrated Mother's Day, with me. I praise God and thank You, Jesus! You blessed me beyond belief.
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
This has truly been the worst trial of my life. And, I've had many.
Just as God restored Job, completely restoring his life and family, I feel like God is beginning to do this for me. At least, in some ways.
Of course, I am still a widow. It's not easy. In fact, it is downright hard.
I suppose some people handle it better than others. As for me, I guess you can say I fall in the latter group, for I don't feel like I am handling it, well. Still, I am grateful that God gives me grace and helps me cope, daily.
To all who have prayed for me, I thank you and pray God will bless you for doing so. It seems some of your prayers have been answered. I know some of mine have been! Praise God! Thank You, Jesus!
Saturday evening, my daughter B called me. She invited me to join her, her family and some other people for dinner on Mother's Day. Wow! I was shocked, but very happy.
Later, my daughter P invited me to visit her and her family at their home, after church on Sunday; Mother's Day. Wow! Again, I was shocked, but very happy.
So, after worshipping at my church, I did exactly that. I visited with P and her family. It was wonderful. Not because they had Mother's Day gifts for me, either. While I appreciated receiving them, the truth is, I it did my heart good that P and her family wanted to spend time with me. Thank you, P. Thank you, grandchildren D, Z & S. K, too. I truly felt blessed.
Afterwards, I made my way over to meet B and family, for dinner. We had a lovely time, together. Once again, I truly appreciated the lovely card and gift, but the best part was having almost all B's family spend time with me. Thank you, B... and grandchildren T, N, J & A; I'm sorry A wasn't with us, but hopefully, I'll see him on Wednesday, this week. Again, I truly felt blessed.
There were other people who shared this Mother's Day dinner. I appreciated visiting with each one. After all, life for me is relatively boring and lonely.
One guest made some comments about someone he and another person were mutual friends with. He spoke about how he felt their friend shouldn't be feeling so sad, after losing their loved one.
Hmmm... Obviously, everyone handles grief differently. Actually, I commented about this. Once again, it made me realize that there are so many people who don't understand loss and grief.
It seems to me that many people think that someone who is grieving, shouldn't be grieving, especially if they believe their loved one is in heaven. I don't agree.
Even if a person's loved one is in heaven, there is terrible loss felt by the loved one left behind. Yes, we can be happy we know our loved one is in heaven, but does that mean that we shouldn't feel loss or sadness, loneliness, or any of the other feelings that seem to fill a person, when they grieve? After all, we are only human.
It seems to me that some people just have never experienced the kind of loss that some of us have. Praise God for this, for I wouldn't wish grief upon anyone. Not even my worst enemy.
Even so, as I mentioned earlier, I feel like God is beginning to restore part of my life. For this I am thankful, for this was the first time in MANY years that both my children and grandchildren celebrated Mother's Day, with me. I praise God and thank You, Jesus! You blessed me beyond belief.
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Unusual! Miraculous! & Happy Mother's Day!
You'll also know that I was in the process of leaving my friend A's home, where I had just enjoyed a time of fun, food and fellowship. Friday evening was time for Christian Singles' Cafe (CSC) at Tim Horton's.
As I mentioned yesterday, my friend J, who we call B, was going to be in attendance at CSC, for the first time in several months, due to him moving out west.
What I hadn't mentioned previously, was the fact that I had to be with my CSC friends for another reason. My eldest daughter B, was going to be in attendance, also.
I know. Laugh if you like. Can you imagine attending a singles' group event with your Mother?! Well, she was going to be there.
You see, just as our visiting friend B had left Windsor, I had contacted him to let him know my daughter B had moved back to our Windsor area. Since she really didn't have any Christian friends, I thought possibly he, being only a few years older than her, might introduce her to some of his friends.
The trouble was, he was leaving town! I jokingly thanked him! He asked if she was on Facebook (FB); I replied she was. So, he suggested they become FB friends. They did.
Since then, they chat regularly. Both B's wanted to meet each other in person at CSC. My daughter didn't really want to attend without me, so how could I not attend? I had now two (2) reasons I absolutely had to be there!
In any case, I made my way from A's to Timmy's. On my way, an unusual thing happened. I thought I had seen everything, as a driver; I could tell stories that would curl your hair! Especially, after driving a bus! But, something happened to me I had never before experienced.
While stopped at a traffic light, I felt like someone was looking at me. I turned my head to look at the car next to me in the curb lane. The fellow (yes, A...he was a man!) smiled and blew me a kiss. Twice, within a second or two. The light changed and I drove away, not looking over at the driver, again.
If I don't laugh, I'll cry. After all, I find at times that life is a cruel joke. No, I won't discuss why, here and now.
At CSC, I found my daughter enjoying coffee with my Christian friends, including B.
We had a wonderful time, together. Of course, people in attendance teased about my daughter being there with her Mom!
Something else really unusual happened to me while there at Timmy's.
My friend L and her husband never had children and her Mom has passed away, so she doesn't celebrate Mother's Day. Even so, this loving friend, who had became a widow a few months ago, had brought me a gift. For me, for Mother's Day. Why L did this, I have no idea. Still, I appreciate her loving gesture. Thank you, L! May God bless you for having such a loving heart.
Mother's Day is hard for me. My Mom's dead. Gordon's Mom is dead. In the past, there hasn't been much of a celebration.
God provided a miracle for me, today. For the first (1st) time in many, many, many, many, many, many (I could go on, but I won't!) years, both my children and my grandchildren spent time with me, celebrating Mother's Day. What an unexpected blessing! It's almost overwhelming; I think I might cry, happy tears. I praise God and thank Jesus!
Before I leave for today, I'd like to take this time to wish all my friends and family who are Mothers or who have Mothers, a very Happy Mother's Day!
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Ne'er a Minute to Spare!
Friday was an extremely busy day for me.
Once again, I was up early. It was good that I had an early start for my day.
As you already know, I went to do my exercise for the day. Upon arriving home, I thought I would be just working at home, doing computer work and making calls, etc.
Much to my surprise, I found I actually had to work outside my home, in the afternoon. Of course, this meant rushing through my work at home and making last minute appointments.
Once finished working, my day didn't slow down, but instead increased in intensity. I was rushed doing other things in support of work, family and church family. I praised God that everything I needed to do was within a relatively short distance of each other.
Even so, I hardly had a minute to spare.
Eventually, I arrived at my friend A's home. A had invited not just me to her home, but also several other church family sister's-in-the-Lord.
It was shocking, but I was actually the first (1st) woman to arrive. I brought with me a plate of goodies for dessert, as my contribution to our dinner gathering.
One by one, friends with hands filled with contributions to dinner, joined us. Together, we had a great time of fellowship.
It seemed we all knew each other fairly well, with the exception of one woman who I had seen at church many times, but had not yet gotten to know, personally. Since she was one of the earlier people to arrive, we had time to get to know each other a little bit, before the crowd rushed in.
When A had invited me, I almost had to turn her down, because Friday was the first (1st) Friday of the month. Meaning, this was the evening for Christian Singles' Cafe (CSC). When we meet at Tim Horton's for coffee and fellowship time.
Any other month, I would have just cancelled attending CSC in order to attend A's women's fellowship dinner, but this month was the exception.
My friend J, who we call B, you may recall, had gone out to Edmonton to visit his daughter, about the time when she was due to deliver his first (1st) grandchild. He had a wonderful time, while there. His family, who had relocated there recently, didn't really want him to leave.
Not finding employment, B thought he was going to return to Windsor, but during a gathering of some people he met with, one of the men told him he should apply where he worked, for they were hiring. B took the fellow's advice. The rest is history.
B began working at one of the out-in-the-boonie camps. He works 10 hours per day, three (3) weeks in a row; then, he has one (1) week off. Usually, he spends it with his family, in Edmonton. But, not this time.
Friday about 3:00 pm, B arrived in Windsor. There's more to be said about this, at a later time.
Consequently, I could not cancel out from attending CSC. When I explained this to A, she insisted I join the group of women, at least for a while and leave them early enough to be able to attend CSC.
That is exactly what I did.
Together, we enjoyed fellowship time, before praying together. Then we enjoyed our pot-luck dinner, which proved to be a tasty treat. Thank you, ladies! I pray you were as blessed as I was!
Then, one of my church sisters gave her testimony. This had been a planned event for our gathering. I wish I could have stayed longer, but immediately after L did this, I said goodbye to my cronies and had to leave.
Well, there is more to be said about Friday evening, but it will have to wait until tomorrow. May God bless you.
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
Once again, I was up early. It was good that I had an early start for my day.
As you already know, I went to do my exercise for the day. Upon arriving home, I thought I would be just working at home, doing computer work and making calls, etc.
Much to my surprise, I found I actually had to work outside my home, in the afternoon. Of course, this meant rushing through my work at home and making last minute appointments.
Once finished working, my day didn't slow down, but instead increased in intensity. I was rushed doing other things in support of work, family and church family. I praised God that everything I needed to do was within a relatively short distance of each other.
Even so, I hardly had a minute to spare.
Eventually, I arrived at my friend A's home. A had invited not just me to her home, but also several other church family sister's-in-the-Lord.
It was shocking, but I was actually the first (1st) woman to arrive. I brought with me a plate of goodies for dessert, as my contribution to our dinner gathering.
One by one, friends with hands filled with contributions to dinner, joined us. Together, we had a great time of fellowship.
It seemed we all knew each other fairly well, with the exception of one woman who I had seen at church many times, but had not yet gotten to know, personally. Since she was one of the earlier people to arrive, we had time to get to know each other a little bit, before the crowd rushed in.
When A had invited me, I almost had to turn her down, because Friday was the first (1st) Friday of the month. Meaning, this was the evening for Christian Singles' Cafe (CSC). When we meet at Tim Horton's for coffee and fellowship time.
Any other month, I would have just cancelled attending CSC in order to attend A's women's fellowship dinner, but this month was the exception.
My friend J, who we call B, you may recall, had gone out to Edmonton to visit his daughter, about the time when she was due to deliver his first (1st) grandchild. He had a wonderful time, while there. His family, who had relocated there recently, didn't really want him to leave.
Not finding employment, B thought he was going to return to Windsor, but during a gathering of some people he met with, one of the men told him he should apply where he worked, for they were hiring. B took the fellow's advice. The rest is history.
B began working at one of the out-in-the-boonie camps. He works 10 hours per day, three (3) weeks in a row; then, he has one (1) week off. Usually, he spends it with his family, in Edmonton. But, not this time.
Friday about 3:00 pm, B arrived in Windsor. There's more to be said about this, at a later time.
Consequently, I could not cancel out from attending CSC. When I explained this to A, she insisted I join the group of women, at least for a while and leave them early enough to be able to attend CSC.
That is exactly what I did.
Together, we enjoyed fellowship time, before praying together. Then we enjoyed our pot-luck dinner, which proved to be a tasty treat. Thank you, ladies! I pray you were as blessed as I was!
Then, one of my church sisters gave her testimony. This had been a planned event for our gathering. I wish I could have stayed longer, but immediately after L did this, I said goodbye to my cronies and had to leave.
Well, there is more to be said about Friday evening, but it will have to wait until tomorrow. May God bless you.
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
Friday, May 6, 2011
Everyone Needs Love...
Yesterday, I wondered if my half (1/2) of 40 winks, my 20 minute nap would interfere with my night's sleep. Well, it didn't really. Shocked? I was.
Actually, I didn't get to climb into bed until close to 1:00 am, so I did think that maybe I would have trouble sleeping. To my surprise, the Sand Man or sleep fairy, visited me and I immediately drifted off to never-never land. Praise God! Thank You, Jesus!
When I awoke this morning, I felt totally rested, for the first time in a long time. In fact, I not only awoke, but actually got up out of my comfy bed, before my alarm went off. That's a switch! :-))
Arising, my first thought was that the weatherman was wrong. Our weather report of last evening let us know that we were to have rain again, this morning. :(
It wasn't raining! In fact, while it wasn't gleamingly brilliant outside, the sun was shining. I wondered if it had rained earlier, before I awoke. Everything looked dry.
Then it began. Instead of the sky being barely coated with clouds, the beautiful light began to fade. An overcast sky replaced the yellowed smile from heaven.
By the time I left to go exercise, our outdoor hue was dull, gray and totally overcast. Driving out from the garage, it didn't surprise me that it had begun to rain.
Oh well! What can I say? Isn't this just like life?
One day, the sun is shining and everything in your world looks wonderful. Then, on another day, everything in your world looks bleak.
I'm not giving up on today being a nice day. After all, our weather report did say that in the afternoon the rain would stop and we would have a mixture of clouds and sun.
Again, sort of like life, don't you think?! At least mine.
While at times it feels totally horrid and never totally wonderful, there always seems to be a mixture of high points, even in the midst of storms. And, of course there are times when storms show up sometimes unexpectedly, in the middle of a wonderful era.
No matter the weather, or the condition of life, I am always grateful for my Lord, Jesus Christ. Without Him, I am nothing. I can do nothing. I can be nothing. He is my everything.
When my heart is filled with love, He is there. When my life is filled with sadness, He is there. He promised me He would never leave me, nor forsake me (Hebrews 13:5); that He'd be with me always, even to the end of the age (Matthew 28:20).
He made these promises to you, too!
All you need to do is trust/believe in Jesus. He will not only provide eternal salvation for you, but He will be there with you, as you walk through sometimes veiled tears of life.
What promises to cling to! Even in the darkest of times.
Hopefully, it won't rain, tomorrow. One thing for sure, is the fact that Jesus is always with us. He is love. And everyone needs love.
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
Actually, I didn't get to climb into bed until close to 1:00 am, so I did think that maybe I would have trouble sleeping. To my surprise, the Sand Man or sleep fairy, visited me and I immediately drifted off to never-never land. Praise God! Thank You, Jesus!
When I awoke this morning, I felt totally rested, for the first time in a long time. In fact, I not only awoke, but actually got up out of my comfy bed, before my alarm went off. That's a switch! :-))
Arising, my first thought was that the weatherman was wrong. Our weather report of last evening let us know that we were to have rain again, this morning. :(
It wasn't raining! In fact, while it wasn't gleamingly brilliant outside, the sun was shining. I wondered if it had rained earlier, before I awoke. Everything looked dry.
Then it began. Instead of the sky being barely coated with clouds, the beautiful light began to fade. An overcast sky replaced the yellowed smile from heaven.
By the time I left to go exercise, our outdoor hue was dull, gray and totally overcast. Driving out from the garage, it didn't surprise me that it had begun to rain.
Oh well! What can I say? Isn't this just like life?
One day, the sun is shining and everything in your world looks wonderful. Then, on another day, everything in your world looks bleak.
I'm not giving up on today being a nice day. After all, our weather report did say that in the afternoon the rain would stop and we would have a mixture of clouds and sun.
Again, sort of like life, don't you think?! At least mine.
While at times it feels totally horrid and never totally wonderful, there always seems to be a mixture of high points, even in the midst of storms. And, of course there are times when storms show up sometimes unexpectedly, in the middle of a wonderful era.
No matter the weather, or the condition of life, I am always grateful for my Lord, Jesus Christ. Without Him, I am nothing. I can do nothing. I can be nothing. He is my everything.
When my heart is filled with love, He is there. When my life is filled with sadness, He is there. He promised me He would never leave me, nor forsake me (Hebrews 13:5); that He'd be with me always, even to the end of the age (Matthew 28:20).
He made these promises to you, too!
All you need to do is trust/believe in Jesus. He will not only provide eternal salvation for you, but He will be there with you, as you walk through sometimes veiled tears of life.
What promises to cling to! Even in the darkest of times.
Hopefully, it won't rain, tomorrow. One thing for sure, is the fact that Jesus is always with us. He is love. And everyone needs love.
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Wonderful!
Even though I was so very tired again last night, I didn't get to sleep early. Once I was asleep though, I slept like a log. Thank You, Lord!
Thoughts ran through my mind about going away for a holiday. If you read yesterday's entry, you'll know that I came across a fabulous travel offer, on my travel club's website.
You'll also know then, that I had approached my neighbour/friend across the hall K, who had been telling me she really needs to get away. Actually, we're both of that mindset!
It's funny, I often hear people say that great minds think alike. Whenever I hear this or think this, I also think and sometimes respond that in addition, fools seldom differ!
Of course, being a Christian who reads my Bible regularly, I realize that no one should ever call someone a fool. It's for this reason I laugh, when I think or say that last line, to make sure it is received by the hearer as it is meant to be. A humerous response... only.
In any case, I knew I wouldn't hear from K early in the day. Firstly, because she sleeps in, generally. More importantly, she was going to try to reach another friend of hers to see if she would like to join us.
So, as per my normal routine, I went out to do my exercise.
It was such a beautiful day, today. Sunny, comfortable temperature. And, for the first time in a very long time, no rain!
Of course, throughout the rest of the day, I had to find time to work. lol Well, after all, who wants to work on such a wonderful day?!
Seriously, once I finished doing some real estate work, I decided I should open the programme I am using to write my book and actually write some. While I had been really sick, I hadn't done too much of that, not just because it is stressful, but also because I didn't really want my writing to have a negative slant, caused by my feeling sick.
In addition, I also managed to fit in a 20 minute nap. Well, it may not have been 40 winks, but at least it took the edge off my tiredness.
Then, I had a call from a client, who informed me I would be working not just in my home, as per normal, but outside my home again, tomorrow! So, once again, I did more work, here at home.
Looking at the clock, I realized it was suppertime. After having a bite to eat, I had just enough time to make sure I arrived at Bible study, on time.
As it turned out, I was the only person who attended, in addition to my friend W's family members. It was a lovely time of fellowship. Thank you, W!
You're probably wondering if K decided to commit to going on vacation with me. Well, she hasn't, yet.
Just before I was leaving for Bible study, K called me, telling me that while she was feeling much improved yesterday, she was feeling really sick once again, today.
I handed her some soup, when she returned my coffee maker and a plate from a meal I supplied her the other day.
Unfortunately, I didn't really have time to talk then, so I didn't mention the Florida vacation. In my heart of hearts, she probably wasn't feeling well enough to even think about it. Please pray for healing for her; I know K would appreciate the prayer as much as I do. May God bless you.
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
Thoughts ran through my mind about going away for a holiday. If you read yesterday's entry, you'll know that I came across a fabulous travel offer, on my travel club's website.
You'll also know then, that I had approached my neighbour/friend across the hall K, who had been telling me she really needs to get away. Actually, we're both of that mindset!
It's funny, I often hear people say that great minds think alike. Whenever I hear this or think this, I also think and sometimes respond that in addition, fools seldom differ!
Of course, being a Christian who reads my Bible regularly, I realize that no one should ever call someone a fool. It's for this reason I laugh, when I think or say that last line, to make sure it is received by the hearer as it is meant to be. A humerous response... only.
In any case, I knew I wouldn't hear from K early in the day. Firstly, because she sleeps in, generally. More importantly, she was going to try to reach another friend of hers to see if she would like to join us.
So, as per my normal routine, I went out to do my exercise.
It was such a beautiful day, today. Sunny, comfortable temperature. And, for the first time in a very long time, no rain!
Of course, throughout the rest of the day, I had to find time to work. lol Well, after all, who wants to work on such a wonderful day?!
Seriously, once I finished doing some real estate work, I decided I should open the programme I am using to write my book and actually write some. While I had been really sick, I hadn't done too much of that, not just because it is stressful, but also because I didn't really want my writing to have a negative slant, caused by my feeling sick.
In addition, I also managed to fit in a 20 minute nap. Well, it may not have been 40 winks, but at least it took the edge off my tiredness.
Then, I had a call from a client, who informed me I would be working not just in my home, as per normal, but outside my home again, tomorrow! So, once again, I did more work, here at home.
Looking at the clock, I realized it was suppertime. After having a bite to eat, I had just enough time to make sure I arrived at Bible study, on time.
As it turned out, I was the only person who attended, in addition to my friend W's family members. It was a lovely time of fellowship. Thank you, W!
You're probably wondering if K decided to commit to going on vacation with me. Well, she hasn't, yet.
Just before I was leaving for Bible study, K called me, telling me that while she was feeling much improved yesterday, she was feeling really sick once again, today.
I handed her some soup, when she returned my coffee maker and a plate from a meal I supplied her the other day.
Unfortunately, I didn't really have time to talk then, so I didn't mention the Florida vacation. In my heart of hearts, she probably wasn't feeling well enough to even think about it. Please pray for healing for her; I know K would appreciate the prayer as much as I do. May God bless you.
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Travel Possibility?
Last night, once again I had trouble sleeping. Consequently, I was up half the night, again.
There was nothing of any importance on my mind, other than the usual stuff that just rolls around in this somewhat stressed head of mine. I cannot wait, until the Lord has cleared out all the stuff that shouldn't be there.
Being up late, it always boggles my mind trying to come up with ideas of how to relax enough to be able to get to sleep. So, I did the usual. I read a bit, watched some television and decided to go on-line.
Facebook (FB) is always an easy alternative to doing other stuff, for there is always someone on-line, especially when friends live all over the world. Some are up for the day, while others are heading to bed.
In addition, I perused my travel club site. You may recall that I was a member, when head office was located in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada. However, when they left Mississauga, I thought possibly the club had folded. But, I was wrong. Head office had moved to Las Vegas, Nevada, USA.
In any case, I went on-line to see what was happening.
There was a pleasant surprise waiting for me! A sale was in effect, for resorts around the world. I must say that our regular last minute pricing for resorts is about the best there is, being lower than I have heard of on a regular basis. But, this sale was a great one. The pricing is half (1/2) of our regular, low-priced last minute pricing. Good time to go, don't you think?
Checking on resorts and locations was a rather fun, relaxing thing for me to do.
I noticed there was a 2-bedroom unit available in Phoenix, Arizona, USA area. My first thought upon seeing this, was my neighbour/friend K, who used to spend part winters in that area, because her Mom used to live there.
The thought of calling her ran through my mind. Looking at the clock changed my mind. It was well after midnight! There was no way I was going to contact her, at that time of night!
Around suppertime tonight, I called K. I told her about the sale and went on-line to see what was available. Phoenix was no longer available. When there is an amazing sale like there is at the moment people book, immediately. Once units are booked, they're gone.
We discussed countries outside North America, but they weren't appealing to her. K preferred the thought of driving, rather than flying. I let K know that there were unites available here in Ontario, in Collingwood or Barrie. She said she'd like to lay out in the sun, feeling some warmth.
I mentioned Orlando area of Florida, USA. This seemed to appeal to her, so I printed out the info and knocked on her door. She asked me to hold on a moment, because someone was at her door (lol). Yes, K laughed when she saw me! :-))
So, tonight, she is reading over the info. K let me know she'll think about it and pray about it tonight, and let me know, tomorrow.
While I would not really look forward to the lengthy 22+ hour drive (each way), I realize that it would be beneficial in some ways. When Gordon and I used to visit Florida, we sometimes made side trips, to see things in areas we normally would not be able to visit, easily.
Time will tell if it will work out for me to get away for a week. For sure, if K doesn't want to go, I probably won't go. Who wants to do this sort of thing, alone? Not me.
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
I mentioned there was
There was nothing of any importance on my mind, other than the usual stuff that just rolls around in this somewhat stressed head of mine. I cannot wait, until the Lord has cleared out all the stuff that shouldn't be there.
Being up late, it always boggles my mind trying to come up with ideas of how to relax enough to be able to get to sleep. So, I did the usual. I read a bit, watched some television and decided to go on-line.
Facebook (FB) is always an easy alternative to doing other stuff, for there is always someone on-line, especially when friends live all over the world. Some are up for the day, while others are heading to bed.
In addition, I perused my travel club site. You may recall that I was a member, when head office was located in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada. However, when they left Mississauga, I thought possibly the club had folded. But, I was wrong. Head office had moved to Las Vegas, Nevada, USA.
In any case, I went on-line to see what was happening.
There was a pleasant surprise waiting for me! A sale was in effect, for resorts around the world. I must say that our regular last minute pricing for resorts is about the best there is, being lower than I have heard of on a regular basis. But, this sale was a great one. The pricing is half (1/2) of our regular, low-priced last minute pricing. Good time to go, don't you think?
Checking on resorts and locations was a rather fun, relaxing thing for me to do.
I noticed there was a 2-bedroom unit available in Phoenix, Arizona, USA area. My first thought upon seeing this, was my neighbour/friend K, who used to spend part winters in that area, because her Mom used to live there.
The thought of calling her ran through my mind. Looking at the clock changed my mind. It was well after midnight! There was no way I was going to contact her, at that time of night!
Around suppertime tonight, I called K. I told her about the sale and went on-line to see what was available. Phoenix was no longer available. When there is an amazing sale like there is at the moment people book, immediately. Once units are booked, they're gone.
We discussed countries outside North America, but they weren't appealing to her. K preferred the thought of driving, rather than flying. I let K know that there were unites available here in Ontario, in Collingwood or Barrie. She said she'd like to lay out in the sun, feeling some warmth.
I mentioned Orlando area of Florida, USA. This seemed to appeal to her, so I printed out the info and knocked on her door. She asked me to hold on a moment, because someone was at her door (lol). Yes, K laughed when she saw me! :-))
So, tonight, she is reading over the info. K let me know she'll think about it and pray about it tonight, and let me know, tomorrow.
While I would not really look forward to the lengthy 22+ hour drive (each way), I realize that it would be beneficial in some ways. When Gordon and I used to visit Florida, we sometimes made side trips, to see things in areas we normally would not be able to visit, easily.
Time will tell if it will work out for me to get away for a week. For sure, if K doesn't want to go, I probably won't go. Who wants to do this sort of thing, alone? Not me.
Until next time...
If you would like to comment, please e-mail: lifewithlynnie@gmail.com
I mentioned there was
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