Happy Birthday! & Goodbye 2011...

Once again, before I begin this entry, I must wish someone Happy Birthday!  My dear grandson S, Happy Birthday!

2011 has been quite a year, for me! 

If you've been a long-time reader of Life with Lynnie (LwL), you'll know that I have written about this in the past.  Ever since being totally devastated, dealing with my husband Gordon's illness, suffering and death, I've prayed that God would not just restore my life, but would reveal truth, to me.  Truth, regarding relationships.

God answered my prayer.

This year, much like last year, and even in 2009, the year my husband Gordon died, there was a lot of sadness for me.  It is never easy realizing that people you love and care for, not only don't feel the same way, but elect to push you out of their lives.

My great-grandmother, Roseanne Getty Dunn was shunned.  During my genealogy research, I found out that she had been shunned by family and friends, because she married my great-grandfather, George Dunn.  I had been told that she had been shunned, because she married beneath herself.  On-line genealogy friends told me it was more likely that she was shunned, because she had married someone who was not of the same religious denomination.  She survived. 

This year, I was shunned by people, too. 

One person, a relative who I have met only three (3) or four (4) times in my whole life, who is not Christian, recently shunned me, because they didn't like what they were told my book was about.  They said this in an e-mail, admitting that they had not read my book, for themself.  Of course, being not only not Christian, but someone who doesn't believe God exists at all, this is not surprising.

What was surprising, was being shunned by two (2) Christian people.  No; I cannot call them friends.  I thought they were friends, but I came to the realization that they indeed, were not.  One being a childhood friend and one being someone I have known for many a year.  Why?  It seems they don't basically agree with me, on some Biblical issues.

It's a pity, really.  For the loss truly isn't mine; it's theirs.  I have much love to give to others, but it seems some people don't want it.  As I said, it's their loss.

In addition to the sadness I've experienced this year, there has been a lot of joy, and happiness, also.

I'm grateful that God has been restoring some relationships in my life.  Relationships, that I didn't think would ever be restored.  But then, nothing is impossible for God (Luke 1:37).  Thank You, Lord!  You have blessed me, beyond belief.  I am truly grateful...

The other day, a Facebook (FB) friend of mine posted something that I found to be such a blessing.  The reason?  Well, even though I realize Queen Elizabeth II is the head of the Church of England (Anglican Church), I cannot recall her speaking about my Lord and Saviour, in such an open manner, as she did, recently.

Here is a link to Queen Elizabeth II's Christmas broadcast 2011:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=olEp_3Spc1g&sns=fb

In it, not only does the Queen speak of Jesus and Christmas, but she also speaks of forgiveness being part of the Christmas message.

Well, it was a shocker to me to hear this from the Queen.  Even so, I was grateful to have heard her speak of this, because after salvation, forgiveness is the next most important thing in life.  At least, in my mind, it is.

After all, when Jesus died on the cross for my sin and for the sin of all who would believe, He forgave those who hurt Him, and asked God the Father, to do the same.

We need to follow suit.  As followers of Jesus, we need to be forgiving of others. 

I know I am.  Forgiving of others, I mean.  So, please know that if there is anyone out there who has hurt me in any way, I have forgiven you.

Still, as I walk through this lonely, dark and dying world, I reflect and ask myself regularly:  Where is the Love? 

In reality, I know where the love is.  It's not here on earth.  It's in heaven.  It's Jesus, who loves me with an everlasting love.

Am I glad 2011 is almost over?  Yes.  Absolutely.

A FB pastor friend of mine, has been such a blessing to me.  He's been encouraging and supportive of me, as a widow.  He's been a great friend, who has helped me realize that I need to try to put the past in the past, and leave it, there.

I need to move forward with my life.  So, as 2012 approaches, I am looking to make every effort, taking steps to change my life.  As God leads me.

Friends, I wish you a very Happy New Year!  I pray God will bless each of you, with good health, happiness, prosperity and love, throughout 2012!

Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

Confused? & Happy Birthday...

Before I begin today's entry, I would like to say that had my granddaughter K lived, today would have been her birthday.  Happy Birthday, K!

In yesterday's Life with Lynnie (LwL) entry, I wrote about how I had finished reading the Bible, the whole Bible, both Old and New Testaments, in one year, again.

I also mentioned that some people don't attend Bible study, or read their Bible enough to know and understand what God is teaching them, and/or what He expects of them.  Before closing yesterday, I mentioned that I chatted with a friend, who I knew was very confused, even if he didn't know he was.

This friend, who regularly talks about being a child of God, about being saved, once again made comments that clearly showed he either doesn't know or doesn't understand God's Word. 

The comments related to knowing whether or not we will go to heaven, once we die and leave this earth.

Not wanting to get into an argument with my friend, I didn't discuss the subject, in depth.  I only reminded him, that whosoever believes on our Lord, Jesus Christ, will be saved (Acts 16:31).  After all, the Bible teaches that to be absent from the body, is to be with the Lord, for those trusting in Him.

Still, this friend commented that he didn't know if he was truly good enough for God.

Be still my heart! 

Without being face to face, it is difficult to discuss subjects like this with anyone who doesn't have a clear understanding of God's Word.  Typing on FB, makes it even more difficult.

In addition to have briefly discussed the issue with my friend on-line, I will continue to pray that the Holy Spirit will remove the blinders from my friend's eyes, open his heart and mind, and convict him, to want to know and clearly understand God's Word and His intention for the lives of all who believe upon Jesus.

You see, salvation is not dependent upon how good or not good we have been.  In fact, the only thing it is dependent upon is whether or not we are trusting in Jesus Christ, for our salvation.

The truth is, I know my friend is really mixed up, if he believes that we must be good, in order to be saved. 

We can never be good enough; the Bible teaches this.  The only perfect person was Jesus, himself.  God tells us in His Word, that all have sinned and come short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). 

And, God cannot look upon sin.  If He could look upon sin, there would have been no need for Jesus to come to earth as a man, and die on a wooden cross for the sin of all who will believe.

You might ask if my friend has received any teaching.  Well, sort of.  While he attended one denomination for worship, he also fellowshipped with another denomination, who doesn't always treat God's Word as gospel truth, but rather varies from it.

Knowing this and knowing that my friend has never really attended Bible study, but rather has relied on what other people think, rather than learning directly from God and His Word, it is easy to see how his, or indeed anyone's thinking and understanding can be confused.

In any case, prayer will continue.

I will suggest that if you have never received Biblical teaching, you may want to do so.  May God bless you, friends...


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

An Accomplishment? Or, A Blessing?

Yesterday evening, I did something that made me very happy.

I finished reading the Bible!

It's quite an accomplishment, really; at least for me, it is.  Some people I have met, read their Bibles regularly and even read the whole Bible in a year, the way I try to do, annually.  Then, there are others who truthfully declare to me that they have never once read through all of God's Word, the Bible.  Not so, for me.

Every year, I begin reading the full Bible, beginning with the Old Testament and finishing up with the New Testament, usually in the final days of each calendar year.  January marks the beginning of my reading year, so in a few days, I'll be starting to read God's Word, once again.

I've done this for many years now.  Over, and over, and over, again.

Whenever I read God's Word, I find that He opens up my heart and mind, guiding me and helping me to understand more and more, of what He is saying.  It amazes me that even though I may have read a passage several times over the years, He continues to reveal truth, and understanding about what He is saying.  For this, I am grateful! 

Of course, reading the Bible is important, but so is Bible study! 

That's something I was grateful to have been able to attend for many years, too.  Bible study, I mean.  Of course, good Bible study is the foundation of understanding God's Word.

Some people don't think it is necessary to read the Bible.  Or, to understand God's Word.  Or, to even attend Bible study.

I don't agree.  I believe it is very important! 

After all, if we don't know and understand what God is telling us in His Word, how can we be obedient to Him, in faith?

Of course, the topic of doctrine is an issue for another time.  It's quite a subject, that can be debatable at its very least.

However, it never fails to amaze me how often I speak with people that I can tell, do not have a clue about God's Word, what it says and what it teaches.  This is no joke; it's the truth.

In fact, it happened to me, even today.

There's more to say, so hang in there!  More about this, tomorrow, for sure.

Oops...  One last thing.  I'd like to wish my good friend M, a very Happy Birthday!


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

Christmas Day Blessings...

Awaking alone on Christmas morning, is very different than when my husband was alive.  There was no celebration to enjoy with him.  It was just me, alone.

Being Sonday, I went to worship at my church, as I normally do.  I'm so very grateful that my church is not one who cancels Sunday worship services, because it is Christmas.  After all, worshipping our Lord, is the most important thing we can do in this dark and dying world.

Truly, I pity those who worship with groups who cancelled Christmas Day church services.  Why?  Well, to me, that's like  putting people ahead of our Lord.  Making family celebrations more important than worshipping God.  Especially, on Jesus' birthday!

After worshipping God and celebrating my Lord Jesus Christ's birthday, at church, I dropped by to see my co-worker/friend C, at Malden Park.  He had been taken home by a patient transport company on Christmas Eve.  Unfortunately, in the middle of the night, he was brought back to his room at the rehabilitation centre, because his home was not properly set up for him to be able to function. 

Before I left, we prayed, together.  Thank you to all who have been praying for C.  May God bless you for continued prayer...

I made my way to the cemetary and visited Gordon's grave, like I do most Sunday's, after church.  Of course, with Christmas being a special day, I thought I would see many people visiting graves, but I didn't.  Like normal, I stood there alone, crying and talking to God and Gordon.

Truly, I do not know how to rebuild my life.  But, God does, so I'm trusting Him to do this for me. 

Later, I went to my daughter B's home.  With her family, her boyfriend, and another friend, we enjoyed a time of fun, food and fellowship.  Of course, we opened gifts, together.  Thank you B, for including me.

Yes!  I remembered my camera.  Believe it, or not!  Here is a pic:

From left to right is my granddaughter A held by her brother T,

my grandson N, daughter B, her boyfriend S, S's friend D and

beside B is my grandson J. 

Unfortunately, my grandson A was not in this pic. 

This year was truly a Merry Christmas, for me.  Thank You, Lord!  Thank You, for blessing me beyond what I could have ever imagined.

Friends, I pray that your Christmas was filled with blessings and memories that will last your lifetime. 

Mostly, I pray that our Lord, Jesus Christ, who came to earth as a baby, and who grew to be a man who suffered on a cross for my sin, your sin and the sin of all who would believe, is your Saviour.  If you are not yet trusting in Jesus for your salvation, please do so, today. 

Your eternal future depends upon it.


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

Christmas Eve Blessings...

This past Saturday was December 24th, Christmas Eve.

As I normally do, Monday through Saturday, I went to the YMCA/YWCA (Y) at opening time.  After my workout in the pool, I stopped to pick up a couple of items I needed at a store close to home.

Of course, there is always last minute things to do at Christmas.  This Christmas Eve was no different.

Later, I had to drive east to Russell Woods area, then later west to Windsor's far west side, to take my real estate partner C's paycheque to him.  After all, he is confined to a bed and/or wheelchair, due to having a stroke.

Afterwards, I went to my daughter P's home. 

P, her family and I had a nice visit, together.  It's always heartwarming to be with family, especially on special occasions, like Christmas!

We shared some food, fun, fellowship and time opening Christmas gifts.

If I could have remembered to bring my camera with me, I would have pics available on this entry for you to see.  The trouble was, I forgot my camera. 

P told me not to worry, because she would send me pics she took with her camera/cell phone.  Unfortunately, she's been so busy, and with not feeling the best, she hasn't yet done this.  If things change, I'll make sure to post a pic or two (2) for you to see.

Please remember to pray for P.  As you know, she hasn't been well.  I thank you, for prayer!  May God bless you...

In the evening, God truly blessed me.

For the first (1st) time in years, P came to Christmas Eve service with me; her son Z, my grandson was with us, as well!  Normally, it was only Gordon and I, who worshipped at our Christmas Eve church service; then, after he died, it was me, alone.

Thank you, Lord.  This was the best gift I could have received from P, this Christmas!

My heart nearly burst with gratitude.  Silently, I thanked God, over and over, and over, again.  I praised Him for not just blessing me, but also my family, who worshipped with me.

Of course, Jesus is the greatest gift anyone could receive.  Ever.  Anywhere.  Any time.

Thank You, Lord, for coming to earth as a baby, knowing full well that You would be fulfilling God the Father's plan of redemption, after becoming an adult.

I must admit, this was the best Christmas Eve I've had, since becoming widowed.  Thank You, Lord!

If you do not know Jesus Christ as your Saviour, I pray you will do so, now.  Today, is the day of salvation!


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

Memories...

A week before Christmas, on the Sunday evening of December 18th, after reading my Bible, I decided to scroll through the channels to see what was on television.

On CBC, National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation, with Chevy Chase, had just begun.  At first, I thought I would change the channel.  After a second or two (2) of thought, I changed my mind.

Being a rare time since my husband died, I found the courage to watch a show that Gordon loved, like that Christmas movie.  It was one that Gordon and I enjoyed watching, together. 

Just the thought of recalling how he would laugh, prevented me from watching it, after he died.  He would literally shake with a full-body rocking motion, while laughing aloud.

It didn't put a smile on my face watching it, but I am glad I did. 

I'm hoping that by next year, I'll be able to actually enjoy watching it, and other films that bring those memories to the forefront of my mind, instead of feeling like I want to avoid those memories.

Unfortunately, it is still heartbreaking for me to recall Gordon.  Even though my Lord helps me daily, it is still so very painful when I reminisce. 

So, is the idea of being alone, at Christmas.

Oh, I know.  I spent time with my family; I'll be writing about this, tomorrow.  For this I am grateful.  Truly, grateful.  I know, I am blessed.  After all, this Christmas, as a family, we made memories!

Still, it is not the same, when someone you love, is no longer with you. 

It feels like something is missing.  Of course, the reality is, someone is missing.  In the case of a spouse, it's the other half.  In my case, it's the other half of me.

Part of me is gone.  Forever.

The question becomes, will I ever be healed of this?  Will God restore my life, in the future, to include someone else for me to love and to be loved by?

God's will is always done.  Since He knows the end from the beginning, only He knows.  And, only time will tell.

Meanwhile, I just need to take a deep breath, stay calm and trust that my Lord will help me through this lonely time.  If you're like me, grieving the loss of a loved one, please know that I will be praying for you, throughout this time of celebration of not just our Lord's birth, but also into the new year.

Always remember that Jesus loves you. 

He loved you so very much, that He came to earth knowing He was fulfilling God's plan of redemption for us.  He came knowing He would die on a wooden cross for your sin, my sin, and the sin of all who will believe. 

To me, the amazing thing is that God loved us so much, that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us (Romans 5:8). 

For this, even in my grief, I will be eternally grateful.  And, joyous!  Praise God!  Thank You, Jesus!


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

Happy Birthday, Jesus! Merry Christmas!

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior,

who is Christ the Lord.

Luke 2:11


I celebrate the birth of our Lord, Jesus Christ
because I am grateful
that God provided a way of Salvation
for me
and
for all who believe,
by sending His only Begotten Son
that whosoever
believeth on Him
should not perish
but
have everlasting life.
John 3:16

May God bless

you

and your family

this

Christmas

and

throughout

the coming year!

Merry Christmas!

Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

Jesus is the Reason for the Season!

The Christmas Story

Luke 2:1-21

 ¹And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed.
 ²(And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)
 ³And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.
 ⁴And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)
 ⁵To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.
 ⁶And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.
 ⁷And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
 ⁸And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
 ⁹And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
 ¹⁰And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
 ¹¹For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
 ¹²And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
 ¹³And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
 ¹⁴Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
 ¹⁵And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.
 ¹⁶And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.
 ¹⁷And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.
 ¹⁸And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.
 ¹⁹But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.
 ²⁰And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.
 ²¹And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called JESUS, which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

May God bless each of you and your families

as you worship our Lord,

Jesus Christ! 

Merry Christmas...

friends!



Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

Christian Displays: a Celebration of Jesus & the Gospel!

Last Friday evening, when I took some of my grandsons to Amherstburg and LaSalle areas, I mentioned how sorry I was that I had no pics, because I had forgotten to take my camera.

Well, I must admit, that the reason I was sad I forgot my camera was not because I didn't get to take pics of the Christmas light displays, or the Gingerbread House, etc.  The real reason I was sorry I hadn't brought my camera, is because it's always nice to have a momento of memories in the making.

Like the memories we made, together.  My grandsons and I.

Okay, I probably would have posted a pic or two, but I must say that all the displays we saw were secular.  None were of the true meaning of Christmas.  Jesus.

However, since I drive early in the morning to the YMCA/YWCA (Y) about 6:00 a.m. or just after, each day, I decided to bring my camera with me to show you that there are those who still believe it is good to have light displays and/or nativity scenes, honouring our Lord, Jesus Christ's birth.

Actually, I took pics at various times of day, as I was either on my way to or heading home from, the Y.  All were on Riverside Dr. E., here in Windsor, Ontario, Canada.

I hope you enjoy this Nativity Scene:

At this next home, I took several pics.  It was difficult to see the lights in the daytime pic, but I thought I'd post it, anyway.  Please forgive me for not being a better photographer.

I'm sure you'll agree that the daytime pic doesn't do this scene justice.  So, I am also posting a pic I took before sunrise another morning.

Even in the rainy darkness of early morning, it isn't easy to see what the display is about.  Take a guess, though.

In my mind, there are ground lights and a Christmas tree done up in red lights.  But, beside this, there is a cross-shaped display with white lights, topped with a crown of red lights.

This told me that the people who live here, are Christians. 

Why would I think this?  Because, the Christmas tree reminds us of the birth of Christ; the reason we celebrate Christmas!  The white lights on the cross-like image, is a reminder of the real reason Jesus came to earth.  It is a display of Jesus, hanging on the cross, complete with a crown of thorns, and His blood.

Wow! 

What an ingenious way of getting across visually, the Gospel, as a celebration of Jesus' birth and why He came to earth!  After all, if He hadn't come to earth in human form and if He hadn't died for the sin of all who believe, no one would be saved from an eternity in Hell, separated from God. 

The last pic I am posting is of a sign that I pass by, daily.  In fact, I see signs like this all over town!  And, I praise God for this!

There are some churches who have elected to create and distribute these signs to all who want to post them. 

It blesses me and makes my heart skip a beat every time I see one of these signs, for I know that there are some people who are not afraid to stand up for Christ, even in this secular world of today, where it is not fully acceptable to name the name of Christ.

May God bless each and every one.


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

Different, but Delightful Christmas Play...

This past Sunday was Sonday; my Lord's day!

Awaking much earlier than my alarm, I got up, turned on my computer and went on FB for a short time.  After chatting with a few FB friends online, my phone rang.  It was still rather early in the morning, as the sun was not yet up. 

But, when it was a long-distance ring, I knew who it was.  Yup!  It was my FB friend from Germany!  We spoke for a while.  She knew I was up early, because she had also been on FB, so she decided to call me.  How nice!  Thank you for calling, I!

Eventually, I decided to shower and get ready for church.  Normally, I worship at my own church, but last week I didn't, due to other things happening with friends at other churches.  Today, was the same.

Earlier in the week, my friend M had invited me to worship at her church, just up the road from mine.

Okay, it wasn't really for worship, of a typical kind.  Her church group was putting on a play.  Well, that's what they called it, but considering there was music in it, it was sort of a musical/play.  About the birth of Christ, of course!

Here is a pic of some of the angels who participated in the play.  My friend M, is the blonde angel at the front left side:

Actually, the play was different.  Not your typical play about Jesus' birth!

This pic shows the shepherd (in red and gold), along with sheep and angels, awaiting Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus:

This pic was taken when, as a shepherd sang Silent Night, all the sheep began to interrupt, crying baa, baa, baa, repeatedly.  As a result, the shepherd commented that she would stop singing, because it truly wasn't a silent night, with all the sheep making so much noise!

This final pic was taken once Joseph, Mary (seated) and baby Jesus had arrived:

What you cannot see in the pic above, is the three (3) kings.  They were standing off to the right, in front of the white screen you can see.

As the kings sang We Three Kings (of Orient Are) they played guitars. 

For the first verse, they sang the Christmas song, as it is normally sung.  However, when they played and sang subsequent verses, they broke into various forms of musical types, delighting the crowd!

Afterwards, everyone enjoyed cupcakes and ice cream, together.  Well, almost everyone.  My friend M and her sister K, were busy packing away costumes.

After enjoying some fellowship with M's husband D and a couple of other people, I made my way home. 

Thank You, Lord... for always providing for me, even in these lonely times.  I am truly grateful for Your love.


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

Jesus' Birthday Celebration...

In yesterday's Life with Lynnie (LwL) entry, you'll remember that I not only wrote about my daughter P's birthday celebration, but also about a couple of very special visitors who dropped by, bearing gifts for the boys.  Santa & Mrs. Claus!

Some Christians are okay with me supporting Santa, his family and crew of elves.  Others disagree with anyone promoting him, at all.

Well, for me, I can understand both positions.  After all, as Christians, we celebrate Christmas, not because of Santa, for Christmas really is celebrated, because of the birth of Christ, our Saviour.

Even so, I am not against the idea of Santa. 

Why?  Well, Santa is what we call the jolly, old man who comes bearing gifts, here in Canada and USA. 

In Europe and some other areas of the world, he is known as Father Christmas and/or Saint Nicholas, or St. Nick.  Here is a link to the Wikipedia site that tells of Saint Nicholas:  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Nicholas  If you have trouble opening links, or want to investigate for yourself, feel free to google it, or search the internet, yourself.

The fact is, that St. Nick was at one time, a real person, a Christian, who gave gifts to people.  While he is no longer alive, the tradition he began, continues.

While I agree that Christmas is not about St. Nick and that in today's mainly secular society, Christmas is being misrepresented by Santa, instead of by Christ, I do believe it is okay to celebrate Christmas and the birth of my Saviour, along with Santa.

When my children were young, I taught them about Santa.  In some people's eyes this was wrong.

However, I always felt that encouraging my children to show love at Christmas time, by the giving and receiving of gifts was a loving thing to do.  Especially, when I explained to them the real reason we celebrate Christmas!

While December 25th is not the actual birth date of our Saviour, Jesus Christ, it is the day we Christians celebrate the coming to earth of our Lord.

Just as we celebrate birthdays of our family members, with special times of fellowship, food, fun and gifts, I believe there is no reason why we shouldn't do the same, for Jesus' birthday.

So, as I raised my children, they learned the real meaning of Christmas, honouring our Lord and Saviour, thanking God for sending His Son to earth, to fulfill His plan of redemption for us, while celebrating an annual birthday party of sorts, with Santa/St. Nick joining into the celebration.

I know.  Not everyone will agree.  Oh well.  It seems no one can keep everyone happy, all the time.

In any case, when we celebrate this weekend, the coming of our Lord, Jesus Christ as an infant, we'll be having our own birthday party, in His honour.  Yes, with presents, food, fun, fellowship, love for one another and with love, honouring the person who is the reason for the special day... Jesus!


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

Happy Birthday, P! & Santa and Mrs. Claus!

Yesterday evening, my daughter P, her family, her boyfriend and his son, and I got together for a special occasion.  Her birthday!

We sang Happy Birthday to P, while the candles were lit on her cake. 

As we were singing, an unusual thing happened.  The smoke detector went off!  lol 

Yes, this happened with her sister's birthday, but at least at her sister's home, the smoke alarm went off as she blew out the candles!  P's went off while the candles were burning brightly, before she even had the chance to blow them out!  :-))

I suppose this means that in the future, I'll have to stop using one candle for each birthday, plus one for good luck!  Here's P blowing out the candles on her cake, while her son Z looks on...

Happy Birthday, P!!!

After enjoying our dinner and cake together, we relaxed for a while.  Visiting is always nice!

Then, a knock came to the door.

A special couple was there.  They came in.  Big as life.  Bag in hand, the fellow Ho Ho Ho'd his way over to sit down, while his wife followed and stood beside him.  Wow!  I never thought I'd see this in my lifetime!

It was Santa and Mrs. Claus!

Mrs. Claus opened the sack full of gifts.  One by one, P's sons and her boyfriend K's son were called over to have a seat on Santa's knee.  Yes, I have pics of all this, but I won't post them all, here.

I will post one of (from left to right) Mrs. Claus, J, D, Santa, with S and Z in front!

What a blessing this was!  Thank you, Santa and Mrs. Claus!  We all appreciated you visiting us!  Thank you also, for the gifts you brought for the boys!

Did you know Santa's a Canadian?  I always thought he wasn't, but according to this Youtube song/video, he is.  To enjoy it, click on this link!   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ei3rTITyOhY&feature=youtu.be

Oh, by the way, if you live in the Windsor and Essex County area, Detroit or anywhere nearby, and you'd like to contact Santa and Mrs. Claus, they'd love to hear from you. 

You can find them by clicking on this link, where you'll see pics of people they've visited, recently.  Feel free to leave a comment, so they can get back to you!  http://santagosanta.blogspot.com/


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

Pizza?! & Happy Birthday, P!!

Saturday morning, I awoke, got ready and made my way to the YMCA/YWCA (Y).  Arriving at opening time of 8:00 a.m. might sound early to you, but compared to the opening time I arrive of 6:30 a.m. Monday through Friday, it's like sleeping in, for me!

In case you're not aware, I work out in the pool six (6) days per week.  Why?  Because, I can!

If you've been a reader of Life with Lynnie (LwL) for a while, you'll know that for many years after being in a major collision, I could not get exercise.  At least, not without causing myself great and lasting pain.  However, after much chiropractic care and after God blessing me with improved physical health, I find I can do some exercise.

Does this mean I am fully healed?  No.  I'm not.  There is much I cannot physically do, but at least I have improved to the point where I can get some exercise and feel better about myself, without being in agony, for an extended period of time.

Praise God!  Thank You, Jesus!

Arriaving home, I had a short nap.  Yup.  I get worn out doing my pool exercise!

Later, I did some stuff I needed to do around the apartment.  Of course, I had to do some writing, too!

Then, it was off to visit my co-worker/friend/real estate partner C, who is still at Rehab at Malden Park, on Windsor's west side, after having a stroke.  Although he is improving somewhat, he still cannot walk or do stairs, so it looks like he'll be there, for a while.  Thank you to those who have been praying for healing for C.  May God bless you...

Whenever I go visit C, I try to not go empty-handed.

Sometimes, I bring homemade cookies, cupcakes, or whatever treats I think he may like.  Sometimes, a puzzle book of some kind.  But, yesterday, I did something different.

I took pizza!  lol :-))

C was certainly surprised when I walked in with pizza!  Well, in some of our previous discussions, even though he told me the food was better there than at the hospital, he was getting tired of the same old things.  I thought this might be something different for him.

And, others!  C's previous hospital roommate R, is across the hall from him.  R appreciated enjoying some pizza.  As did C's newest roommate and his wife.  Of course, both C and I enjoyed some, too!

Since business is rather slow at this time of year, it didn't take long to discuss what we needed to discuss.  Although, I did tell C about a conversation I had with a church sister, just before leaving home to go visit him.  Of course, we happily discussed our upcoming paycheque!

Every time I made comments about leaving, C asked me to stay.

Believe me, I think I understand how difficult it is for him, being cooped up [no pun intended, for those who realize that his nickname is 'coop' :-))], not being able to get up and around whenever he wants to.  After all, we realtors are fairly busy people, mostly on the go, coming and going at will.

After an extended visit of over three (3) hours, I finally got up and insisted I had to leave. 

We probably could have continued discussing various issues, but the truth is, I shouldn't sit that long at one time and was feeling rather uncomfortable.  So, I said 'goodbye' and off I went. 

Arriving home, is never a picnic for me.  Especially since I always arrive home to an empty apartment.  Nothing there, but me, four (4) walls and a bunch of furniture.  It can be very lonely, at times.

Still, I am grateful for all God provides for me.  Thank You, Lord.  I know I can't make it through this life, without You.

Before I say bye for now, I'd like to wish my daughter, P a very Happy Birthday!


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

More About Christmas Memories...

When we left off in yesterday's Life with Lynnie (LwL) entry, my grandsons were enjoying blowing bubbles into their hot chocolate at Tim Horton's, while warming up at their coffee shop in Amherstburg.

Yup, they were revved up and raring to go, by the time we left there!  lol :-))

Off we went, looking at some of the buildings and area we saw in photos at the Black Historical Museum, earlier.  Eventually, we arrived at the Gingerbread House, which is part of the celebration of Riverlights:  http://www.riverlights.ca/

Together, we checked out all the gingerbread houses that had been made and submitted into the contest.   While all were really great, it seemed we all had our favourites! 

My three (3) youngest grandsons sat down at a table where they did craftwork, making reindeer ornaments.  Each left with a bag to take home, containing craft and colouring supplies, plus suckers.  Hmmm... more sugar!!

After enjoying cookies there, we once again climbed into my van and did more looking around the park at all the lighted displays.  Again, we all had our favourites!  Some liked Santa and his sleigh, some Santa fishing, and other displays, but my favourite was still the display of fireworks.

Sorry, I would have posted pics, but silly me; I forgot my camera!

While at the park area, I explained to my grandsons that because Grandpa Gordon's family had history in the area, we used to visit that same park, when their moms were children.  Usually, in the summer, for a picnic.

We passed by the gymnasium for the high school, across the street from Fort Malden (link:  http://www.pc.gc.ca/lhn-nhs/on/malden/index.aspx ).  I pointed out how Grandpa Gordon's great-grandfather had built a house that had to be moved from the area, when the gymnasium addition was built. 

Originally, the family home had been within the grounds of Fort Malden, so it was a heritage home, not worthy of demolition.  For preservation, it had been moved from it's birthplace location, to a new location along the old Hwy. #18, Front Road location, which I showed them as we passed by.

On the way home, we made another stop.  We stopped in front of a home on Kenwood Dr., LaSalle, ON, where the omeowners display not just lights, but the lighting display is co-ordinated to music, that you turn on your radio.  Here's a link:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2TBeTxLpyqo

My grandsons all enjoyed their time, as I did, along with them!  Thank You, Lord, for blessing them... and me!

Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com 

Christmas Memories...

Yesterday, I awoke with a song on my heart, once again.  What it means to me, I have no idea.

The song entitled, Bring It On Home to Me, has been sung by many, including Paul McCartney; here's a link:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DOOuWyfZCnE

Why this happens to me, I have no idea.  I just know, it does.

Actually, after awaking and preparing to go to the YMCA/YWCA (Y) to do my pool exercise, I found myself feeling rather low.  Christmas music was one reason, believe it or not.

Normally, I don't listen to music on the radio.  While driving, I usually listen to preachers/teachers on a Christian station.  However, there was an advertisement for a song called, All I Want For Christmas, Is You:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wxO1iGGw8t4

One Christian pastor I listened to on the way home, talked about how there are more depressed people at Christmas time, than at any other time of the year.  Even Christians.

Well, no matter the case, I found this song rather depressing.  I'm sure that most people would find it to be a lovely song; to me, it just reminds me that I am alone, another Christmas season.

Of course, if you're like me and from my era, when you began to read the title All I Want For Christmas..., you might have been reminded of another song, All I Want For Christmas Is My Two Front Teeth.  Here's a link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ZreIZ5EAQU

Thinking about childhood memories, I made some, yesterday.  So did four (4) of my grandchildren.

After picking up my two (2) youngest grandsons from each of my daughter's homes, we drove to a nearby town, Amherstburg.

Like a couple of them did with me last year, we hoped to visit the Park House Museum, but even though they were to be open when we arrived, the museum was closed.  Instead, we visited a different museum.   Here's a link to the North American Black Historical Museum:  http://www.blackhistoricalmuseum.org/about/about.htm

There were a couple of men working at the museum who spoke with our small group, explaining some of the displays and discussing the underground railroad and the part Canada played in helping black slaves obtain freedom.  Here's a link for info regarding the underground railroad and Canada:   http://www.pc.gc.ca/canada/proj/cfc-ugrr/itm2-com/pg03_e.asp 

As we toured the museum itself, the log cabin and the church, I was reminded about visiting this museum many years ago, with my grandsons, moms; my daughters. 

Afterwards, we visited the King's Navy Yard Park (link: http://www.amherstburg.ca/Attractions/Details/navy_yard_park.aspx ), looking at the cannons and other relics, in addition to the lighted Christmas display.

Getting cold, we headed for Tim Horton's (Timmies), where all my grandsons warmed themselves with hot chocolate!  As they drank some, they had contests to see who could blow the most bubbles in their cups.  lol

The last thing I want to say with regards to Timmies, is that I could visually see how the sugar affected my hyper-active bunch!

As you might expect, there is more for me to say with regards to my Christmas outing with my grandsons!  Please join us again, tomorrow.


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

One Bethlehem Night! & Isn't It Amazing?

Last Sunday, being my Lord's day, I went to worship.  While this is not abnormal for me, what was different, was where and how often I worshipped!

As prearranged, I drove to my mortgage broker friend M's home, arriving there, about 8:30 a.m.  While her husband and son drove in their van, she joined me in mine.

They worship at Heritage Park Alliance Church (HPAC), on Sixth (6th) Concession.  The new church building was opened a few months ago and although I knew of the new complex, I hadn't yet seen it.

Previously, HPA had been located on the old Hwy. #3, in the area where homes and other buildings had been purchased by our Ontario Government, in order to tear down and make way for the new bridge access road. 

Actually, within the last few weeks, all those homes and some of the other buildings have been torn down.  It's like a desolate area, now.  Almost unrecognizable!

Years ago, at their old location, my daughter B had worshipped there for a while, but I had not ever worshipped there, before. 

The worship service began at 9:00 a.m.  It was a very nice service, with a Christmas theme, of course!  I enjoyed being there with my friend and her family, worshipping our Lord!

Afterwards, I headed out on my own, while my friend M left with her family.

On my way to the town of Essex, I had to pass by the cemetary, so I stopped there and visited Gordon's grave.  I'm sure this isn't a surprise to any of you, who read Life with Lynnie (LwL), regularly.

Arriving in Essex at Grace Baptist Church (GBC), I found I was in time to worship, once again.  This time in a communion service.  Wow!  What a blessing it was, for me.  I love participating in the Lord's supper!

After a short visit with the pastor, clients and friends, I made my way home.

In the afternoon, my phone rang a couple of times.  Both calls were shocking in nature.

My church sister/friend A called, to let me know that we needed to pray together, for another church sister, L.  L had experienced severe pain in the stomach area, had gone for ultrasound and other tests. 

The results showed she had an aggressive form of cancer.  L is now hospitalized.  We prayed.  I continue to pray.  And, I am asking you to pray for L and her family, if you believe in prayer.  Thank you.  May God bless you...

The second (2nd) phone call was from my daughter, B.

She has recently begun worshipping at Parkwood Gospel Temple (PGT).  B let me know that the Christmas musical/play at PGT, was wonderful.  She truly enjoyed it.

In fact, she enjoyed it so much that she invited me to join her, a friend, and her eldest son (my grandson!) for the last performance, that evening!

My original plan for the evening was to go worship at my church and later, visit with my co-worker/friend C at the rehab centre.  But, plans change sometimes, as did mine, for that evening.

Instead, I visited C about suppertime.  Then, I made my way to PGT.

My daughter B, grandson T, plus B's friend S and I sat together for the evening performance of One Bethlehem Night.  It was a wonderful production.  If there was anyone who didn't enjoy it, I'm not sure where they were, for it seemed everyone did!

I was grateful that the pastor not only gave a gospel message, immediately after the musical/play finished.  And, an altar call was made, so that if any wanted to come to Christ, they could be prayed for and information given them.

As we left the auditorium (as they call it), but yet while still in the sanctuary, I asked my grandson T if he had accepted Christ, yet; he replied that he had.  Then, I did the same with B's friend S; he replied that he had.

For this, I praised God and thanked Jesus that these two (2) souls were no longer lost souls!  I prayed that their conversions were real and true, and that God would use them in a mighty way.

On my way out, a woman about B's age approached me, asking me if I remembered her.  She commented that she used to get into all sorts of trouble with my daughter, B!  I said, M... is this you?  She introduced me to a male who accompanied her, R and hugged me, tighter than I can recall being hugged, in such a long time!

M was so-o happy to have been reacquainted with me and of course, especially with B!

Isn't it just so-o amazing how God works?!


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

Alive and Well?

After having such a busy week, both for work and with regards to book sales efforts, Saturday was truly a let down for me.

Like the good girl I am, I began my day at the YMCA/YWCA (Y) at opening time; 8:00 a.m., because it was Saturday.  On my way home, I did some shopping.

Bored?  I was.

Throughout the day, I felt tired.  Dragging myself around, I managed to do some work on my Christmas cards/gifts for clients and friends.

To be honest, I felt rather depressed.  At the time, I couldn't think of why.  I just knew that I felt low in spirit.

My personal trainer friend M, had invited me to join her and her husband at the legion for some dancing and fun time.  After feeling like a fifth (5th) wheel the weekend previously, sitting there all alone, I didn't relish the idea.

Then, a thought occurred to me.  I called my neighbour/friend K and asked her if she wanted to go to the legion.  She replied that she didn't.

Well, that made me decide what I was doing.  I was not going to subject myself to watching my friends up on the dance floor, enjoying themselves, while I sat like a bump on a log, all alone.

Why do I need to go out to be alone?  The thought of that turned my stomach.  After all, I can stay home and do exactly the same thing.  Be alone, I mean.

And, alone, I was.  Like almost every other day and evening of my life.

I stayed home, feeling all the while, like I just wanted to fall apart.  Actually, for a while, I did.

The next day, my Lord's day, in retrospect, I realized what the problem had been.  Saturday, had been the 10th of the month. 

I've said it before, and I'll say it again.  Whenever the 1st of the month and the 10th of the month comes along, I feel sad over losing my husband, Gordon.

Even though I haven't been writing much about this, I am still affected. 

I try to not think about it.  In fact, this month, I didn't really think about it.  But, like normal for me, the grief/sadness overwhelmed me once again.  This time, without me even thinking about it or realizing the date.

I suppose this just goes to show that our sub-conscious is alive and well, even when our brain is not always in gear.


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

Blessings Of Various Kinds...

Last Friday, was another busy day for me.

After doing my pool exercise at the WMCA/WYCA (Y), I did some of the work I knew I needed to do.

Later in the day, I made my way over to the Malden Park Continuing Care Centre (MPCCC), on Windsor's west side, at the back of the property where IODE Hospital used to be located.  Since the merger and name change to Windsor Regional Hospital, the building itself is under reconstruction, so patients for rehabilitation, have been moved to MPCCC, temporarily.

This is where my co-worker/realestate partner/friend C is staying, currently.

Hopefully, rehab will help C recover from the stroke he had that affected his ear/hearing/equalibrium, that prevents him from being able to stand, due to dizziness.  Of course, his ability to walk has been affected by this, as well as having more neuropathy, than before.

Please pray for healing for C.  Thank you.  May God bless you...

After visiting with C and updating him on recent work events, etc., I made my way to my nearby church.  Friday was the night for our church Christmas dinner.

Our turkey dinner was delicious!  Thank you to all who prepared and served it!  May God bless you, for your hard work and efforts to serve the rest of us, who I'm sure enjoyed it, as much as I did.

It was wonderful enjoying an evening of not just a tasty meal, but also of fun and fellowship with my church family.  We even played some games.  All in all, it was a great time!

Leaving there earlier than I would have liked to, I drove a few blocks, over to another church.

My book reading club was meeting there in the basement of that church, which has been converted into a restaurant/coffee shop.  To my surprise, there was the largest group of members attend this meeting, that I could remember.

In fact, the organizer has decided that rather than move to another location, he'll hold meetings on two (2) evenings.  One will be on a Monday, and the other, on a Friday.

By the time I had arrived, most of the discussion of the book of the month we read, Animal Farm, by George Orwell, had already taken place.  To my surprise, just as I was seating myself, I was asked a few questions, to which I politely responded.  No one was surprised at my response, for it seemed that most felt the way I did about the book.  I could take it, or leave it.

In any case, meeting with my fellow book readers was a blessing to me.  Thank You, Lord!


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

Comfort?

In yesterday's Life with Lynnie (LwL) entry, I mentioned that I sold some copies of my book Love Never Fails You... to a funeral home in a town about an hours drive from where I live.

After leaving there, I had to make some other stops.  One being in another town, Amherstburg. 

There, I approached a bookstore I thought might be interested in carrying my book.  Upon entering, the store was void of people, filled with books.  Only the owner and one friend/relative/co-worker was present.

It turned out the owner is also a writer, who will be speaking at one of my book reading club's meetings in probably February or March, next year.  Wow!  This was a pleasant surprise, hearing this!

He let me know he'd love to carry my book.  He couldn't though.  His store was closing around Christmas time.  Just not enough business to keep it open.

My heart sunk.  Not for me.  For him.  I felt badly.  It's terrible to see how many people are hurting these days. 

Massive unemployment in our area, due mainly to plant closures, has drastically affected not just our real estate market, but in the downward trickle, is affecting our small business owners.  Like this one.

As I left the store, I prayed for the owner and indeed for all affected by this economy.

You may or may not be aware, but I have many copies of my book on hand. 

Normally, I wouldn't have ordered extra copies, for the publisher supplied me with enough for friends and family.  However, when I had been expected to speak at the conferences in USA, I had ordered copies of my book that could be sold at the conferences.  Much like the other speakers who were authors.

In any case, after the conferences were cancelled, I found myself wondering how I will sell the copies I have on hand.  Well, if you read yesterday's LwL entry, you'll know that God opened a door for me.

Heading back to Windsor, I found myself at an intersection around the corner from the cemetary where Gordon is buried.  I decided to make a stop at his grave.

As I pulled into the cemetary, it occurred to me that my friend J, who used to live and work in Windsor, worked out of the building on site.  I parked there.  The response there was slightly different. 

The manager wasn't in, but another person purchased one (1) copy of my book for their library of books they lend people, with a promise that he would read the book, have his manager read it, and if they feel it is suitable for their business, they may purchase more copies.

After visiting Gordon's grave, I approached two (2) more buildings in the complex and sold more copies of my book. 

Praise God!  Thank You, Jesus!  Not just for the book sales, but also for opening the door for a way for me to not just sell the copies I have on hand, but also by providing another way that people can be helped by what I have written about.

After all, God told us in 2 Corinthians 1:3-4, "Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God." 


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

Benefit?

It's been a while since I wrote on Life with Lynnie (LwL) about what I've been up to lately, so I decided to do exactly that.  Let you know what I've been up to.

Well, as per every other December, as per normal for me, I've been busy.  Oh yes, work slows down.  But, because it does, it gives me a chance to deliver Christmas cards and small gifts to clients, past clients and friends.  I'm blessed!

Last week was a busy, busy week for me!

Did I mention that I managed to sell some copies of my books?   For those who don't know, Love Never Fails You... is about overcoming life's trials and grief.  For more info, please click on this link:  http://www.lynniebooks.blogspot.com/

Knowing that I had to drop off some copies with a friend who was hosting a weekend retreat, I had to drive out to Kingsville.  Due to being out that way, I had decided to drive a few minutes further, into Leamington.

The store I planned to go to carries gift items and books.  In fact, one of my fellow writers' book is available, there.

Before entering, I wondered if the response would be the same as so many other stores, at this time of year.  Many have told me to wait until February or so, because they were overwhelmed with Christmas items.

As soon as I opened the door and entered, I knew in my heart the response would be exactly the same as those other stores.  Christmas gifts filled every nook and cranny!  Sure enough, the woman in charge spoke those words I expected to hear. 

After thanking her, I left.  While walking out to my van, I looked at the cover of my book.  Overcoming Life's Trials & Grief, it says in the upper right hand corner.

I looked up.  Across the street was Reid Funeral Home.  My eyes once again dropped to the word grief on the cover of my book. 

As I looked up again, a thought popped into my head.  Visit the funeral home.

I recall actually chuckling to myself, thinking it was probably a silly idea, but since God planted the thought in my head, I reflected that it couldn't be all that silly.  In fact, it might just be the right thing to do.  After all, what could they say?  No?  Hmmm...

In I went to speak with the owner/manager.  K was very courteous and polite.  I asked him if he had ever considered carrying a book like mine, in their funeral home.  He responded he hadn't.

We discussed the issue, including the fact that most people they deal with during the course of their business, will experience grief.

In the end, K purchased some books from me.  Not to sell, he let me know.  Rather, to give to his clients, as a gift.  Wow!  What a great thing to do for someone!

Leaving there, I was thankful that K was Christian, for if he hadn't been, he may not have seen the benefit of what I had to say in the content of my writing.

Of course, I was truly thankful that God had led me to not just a place that would appreciate my book, but also that He had opened the door for a way for me to sell some of the inventory I have on hand.  Thank You, Lord!


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

All Kinds, Finale...

Were you shocked when you read yesterday's Life with Lynnie (LwL) entry?

Can you even imagine how shocked I was when this happened to me?  Ooooooeeeeee!

I asked why he was looking to marry someone, anyone, from anywhere, while he already had a wife.  And, I asked how he could possibly even think of such a thing, being Christian!

He explained to me that his wife didn't like to have sex with him as often as he would like.  Hence, his need to find a second (2nd) wife.  He told me that since divorce was out of the question, he wouldn't divorce her; but, an additional marriage was okay. 

Hopefully, you didn't pass out, reading this!  lol lol lol  :-))  If I don't laugh, I'll cry. 

Before I ended our chat conversation, I told him I would pray for him and suggested he try loving his wife. 

After all, if a woman doesn't feel loved, she won't respond well to her husband.  Not just sexually, but in any way.  And, I must add, from what he was saying, it didn't sound as if he showed her much love.

How awful it is to realize that even self-proclaimed Christians can distort God's Word, to make it sound like it is okay to sin. 

When I told him this, he became angry, informing me that I was being legalistic and unChristianlike, by telling him that marriage was between one (1) man and one (1) woman... only.  Nothing more; nothing less. 

He let me know that he didn't agree with me; that he believed that he could have more than one (1) wife.  After getting even more angry with me, he cancelled friendship.

All I can say is... Praise God!  Thank You, Jesus!  I know it takes all kinds to make a world, but truly, I do not need friends such as these in my life!

I am grateful that I am truly a child of God.

Not only am I thankful that God has given me good intuition and knowledge of what He wants for His children, through His Word (the Bible), but I am thankful that He has shown me that as His child, I also need to forgive those who hurt me.  And, I have.

After all, Jesus forgave us, even in our sinfulness.  While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us (Romans 5:8)! 

I realize I need to forgive others; hopefully, you do, too.  But, this is a topic for another time! 

So is, the topic of various sorts of sin.


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

More About All Kinds...

You know if you read yesterday's Life with Lynnie (LwL) entry, that an African Facebook (FB) friend had asked me to marry him.

As I've written about in the past, this seems to be a fairly regular occurrence for me.  Being approached and proposed to on FB, I mean.  Not just from men from Africa, India, Malaysia, but also from men, in North America, too!

Also, as I've said in the past, it makes me wonder why this happens to me. 

As I recently discussed with a real-life friend, I wondered if I have some kind of message posted on my forehead that people misinterpret as me being vulnerable, needy or an easy mark.

Oh well, in any case, the point is, it happens.  For whatever reason, it happens to me fairly regularly.  lol

Back to the story about this African fellow who proposed marriage to me.

When this happened, trying to be pleasant and not wanting to be hurtful to him, I refused in a polite way. 

In my own mind, I fluffed it off as just being another one of those FB come-ons.  After all, I have received too many marriage proposals from people who were not on the level, in the past.  Especially, on FB!

Then, this African fellow began making comments that made me wonder about him.  He began commenting about marriage, in a rather negative way.

I asked him to confirm he was single and never been married, or if he had ever been married, in the past.  Why?  Well, he sounded like he had a chip on his shoulder.

At first, he didn't respond.  So, I asked again, and again.  Eventually, he replied with an answer that nearly blew me away.

This African fellow told me that he was married! 

Not in the past, either.  He was married at the time he asked me to consider marrying him!

Hopefully, you haven't died from having a heart attack.  Or, had a stroke.  Or, even just fainted. 

There's more to this story, so stay tuned for tomorrow, please.


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

Destruction?

Here on Life with Lynnie (LwL) I'll share something with you. 

It's an entry, that I wrote also back in 2011, but will share with you, now.

It's actually about Biblical issues.  Here it is:

I'll just get to the point.  By the way, I tend to mostly quote the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible; if you prefer another version, feel free to look up these verses.

False teachers/preachers teach a false gospel.  A false Jesus can be the result.  Here are some Bible verses that support what I am saying:

* 2 Peter 2:1-3, "But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction.  And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of.  And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not."

*  Matthew 7:15, "Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves."

*  Matthew 24:24, "For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect."

* 2 Timothy 4:2-4, "Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine.  For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;  And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables."

God has warned everyone of what will happen, if they do not adhere to what God's Word teaches.  Revelation 22:18-19 tells us, "For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book:  And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book."

Strong repercussions don't you think?  Being removed from the book of life, is the worst.  Without our name being written in the Lamb's book of life, we have no savation.  It's been lost.  Don't believe me?  Here's Revelation 20:15, "And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire."

So, what should we do?  For sure, we need to do what we are instructed to do, in Ephesians 6:10-18, "Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.  Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.  For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.  Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.  Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.  And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:  Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;"

Thank you for reading this entry. 

Hopefully, you enjoyed what I wrote years ago, and forgot to share with you.  And, hopefully... you agree with what was discussed here on LwL.

Of course, I hope and pray that you will also preach the gospel, as God would have you do.  If you do, I'm sure He'll bless you.

May God bless you.


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

All Kinds...

Hopefully, you've read Life with Lynnie (LwL) entries over the past couple of days.  If you have, you'll know that I've encountered some unwanted stuff through contact with Facebook (FB) friends and/or acquaintances.

Please know that I do not believe it is FB's fault.  Certainly, it is not.  I realize that if people are not on the level, no internet system of any kind will be able to determine this, in advance.

Yesterday, I mentioned a fellow who claimed to be a Malaysian pastor.  As I mentioned, this fellow was like all other pastors or people who have ministries and chat with friends on FB.

At first, he was pleasant and easy to chat and pray with.

Then, things began to change.  Not only was I being pressured to post only on his FB page and work only with him on his ministry, he began pressuring me for personal information. 

He claimed God had spoken to him, letting him know that He was directing him that I was to work solely with him, on his ministry. 

No.  I did not give out any personal info!

When I refused to give him my personal info, he sent me a rather nasty message and not only cancelled friendship, but blocked me, so that I could not even send a message in reply, to him.

Some friend!  Some Christian!  Obviously, he got his wires crossed concerning the message he claimed he received from God!  lol  :-))

Of course, these couple of examples I have elected to write about aren't the only incidents that have happened to me.  I've had many.  Okay.  I'll tell you about one (1) more.

A while ago, as is normal for me, I was chatted up on FB by a friend from Africa.  As is fairly common, conversation was light and Christian in nature.

Then, he began asking me if I missed being married.  I responded that I missed Gordon.  I let him know that he had been the other half of me, that I felt like half of me was missing.  After all, the Bible tells us that when we marry, we become one person (Matthew 19:6). 

His remarks to me began taking on a tone of wanting to marry me.  In fact, he asked me to consider marrying him.

Since this is too much to write about today, I'll continue this, tomorrow.  See you, then!


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

A Turn Off?

Before I begin today's Life with Lynnie (LwL) entry, I would like to take the time to thank all who prayed for my daughter P, who had a bone marrow biopsy, today.  Continued prayer would be appreciated, as it will take some time before she receives the results from the specialist.  Thank you.  May God bless each and every one of you, friends.

If I sounded upset in yesterday's entry, please forgive me.  I wasn't.  Although, it may have sounded that way, because I was speaking truth that sounded fairly negative.

Sometimes truth isn't what everyone hopes to hear.  But, truth is truth.

There is something I must clarify. 

First, I must say that I may not have made it clear that beauty is not just outward appearance.  True beauty comes from within.

In addition to this, I must add that not everyone I chat with on Facebook (FB) is a scammer.  Many of my FB friends have become real life friends, as well.

However, as I mentioned yesterday, not everyone on FB or indeed who use the internet to interact with people, are on the level.  I've experienced a few circumstances that would turn anyone off.

A while ago, I had been chatting with a fellow who claimed he'd like to chat with me on a regular basis.  Not seeing anything wrong with this, I chatted with him.

At first, our chatting involved just surface Christian discussions.  I was happy with this.  Then, he began telling me that he was falling for me.  How could this be, I thought?  And, said to him.  Then, he asked if he could meet with me. 

Knowing that I recently met with a FB friend from Germany and her husband, I let this fellow know I would think about it.  After repeated requests, I let him know that if indeed I made a decision to meet with him, I certainly wouldn't come alone; I'd bring a friend.

Then, after much prayer, the truth began to reveal itself.  I was appalled when a suggestion was made for me to participate in something that wasn't quite on the level.  He claimed it wasn't illegal; I didn't agree.  In any case, I refused any further contact with this person.

This morning I found a message in my FB messages inbox from someone who claims to be a pastor in Malaysia.

Normally, I chatted and prayed with people such as him on a fairly regular basis.  Most have become people I pray for, regularly.  This pastor was different, though.

I began feeling pressured by this man.  Last week, he began pressuring me to give him a mobile (cell) number, where he could call me, for the purpose of praying together and working together for his ministry.

Never, had I ever given this person the impression I would do anything like that.  And, I let him know that I don't give out my personal info to people on FB.  In addition, I let him know that I would pray for his ministry, but I could not and would not commit to only working with him for his ministry.  Why?  As I told him, I am approached by literally hundreds of people who are doing work for our Lord, who needs help.

In any case, I felt like this pastor was trying to manipulate me, by things he said in his messages.  Believe me, this didn't sit well with me.  I refuse to be bullied, manipulated or whatever anyone would want to call it, by anyone; never mind someone who claims to be a pastor!

Besides, who is to say this person is on the level? 

Well, there is more I must say on this issue, but it will have to wait until tomorrow.  Hopefully, you'll meet with me, then.


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

Born, Yesterday?

If you've not yet read yesterday's Life with Lynnie (LwL) entry, I would suggest you do so.

I need to mention that the two (2) Facebook (FB) messages from men I didn't know, that I posted in yesterday's entry, are common to what I seem to receive on a regular basis.  No, I haven't opened each and every message, but I have opened many.

In addition, I have chatted/messaged from time to time with some.  Less than a handful, but still some, nevertheless.  I just wanted to clarify, so that you wouldn't think that I never, ever had discussions with any.

However, even though those the men I wrote about in yesterday's entry weren't FB friends, a few others became such. 

In addition, I find that many of my male FB friends approach me in various ways, encouraging me to get to know them better.  Some just want to be friends.  That's okay with me.  We all need friends, whether male or female.

What bothers me is when I am approached by men who claim they want a relationship, or worse yet, want to marry me.  lol  Yes, you read correctly!

If I had to try and determine a number of times I have received marriage proposals, I would have to pick a number out of the air, because although I never kept track, there have been many.  Many, many, many.

In some ways, it's kind of sad.

Oh, I don't mean because they are let down.  That's not the case.  The fact is, they couldn't really care less.  They don't know me.  They don't know anything about me.  Most are just looking for a way to come to Canada.

Years ago, I had a cousin that happened to.  She met a fellow from Europe.  They fell in love, or so it seemed.  They married.  Once he arrived in Canada, and once he had landed immigrant status, he left her.  Marriage over.  Done.  Finished.

To be honest, I find this sort of thing to be rather insulting, at times.

After all, those who are doing things like this, must think I am either desperate for a relationship, or else they must think I am stupid enough to fall for their love advances.

I am grateful that I am not a shallow person who would fall for this sort of thing.  I am grateful that God always reveals truth, in my life.  Thank You, Jesus!

Let's face it.  I wasn't born under a rock.  And, I wasn't born, yesterday!


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com

More About... Beautiful...

If you read yesterday's Life with Lynnie (LwL) entry, you'll know that over the past few weeks, I've been called beautiful by a couple of people.  One (1) person I had never met before the day they commented to me about this.  The other, a childhood friend that I never expected would ever say something like this, to me!

You'll also know that I found it shocking that anyone would ever think, never mind say anything like this to me.  Even so, life has proven to be fairly shocking, because more and more people have been giving me compliments.

During a recent conversation with my youngest daughter P, I mentioned to her that I certainly didn't need to join a Christian dating site of any sort, because I was being hounded by men on Facebook (FB), daily.  She laughed when I said this, but I wasn't joking; I was serious.

I went into my my messages and read to her some of the names of men who had contacted me.  Please understand, I hadn't even read the messages from most of these men, because I feel that most of them aren't even on the level.  Nope, these men are not my FB friends, just men who have somehow found me!

P asked what I was doing to find these men.  I explained to her that I hadn't found them; they had found me!  And, I don't know how they are doing this.

I went on further to say that all I do is post mainly Christian stuff, as I normally do.

For some reason, men must find Christian women attractive.  It seems that many men want a Christian woman in their life.  Why?  I'm not really sure.  Maybe because they feel that Christian women can be trusted more than those who are not committed to Jesus.  I really can't say.

I just know that I am approached almost daily.

After our short conversation, I decided to open up a few messages to read to her and to me, because as I said, I hadn't read any of them.  One was almost like a chapter of a book, so I did not include it here.  However, I decided to copy and paste the messages (without using names) from two (2) men who approached me on FB.

Here they are:

1)  Hello how are you doing... You're such a Beautiful woman. Believe me i can hardly believe you're single. I mean, you are too good to be single. How come all of the cute men out there haven't found you and stolen your heart? You've got stunning looks and believe me if i have your kind a lady i'll never retire looking into your eyes. will be looking forward to read more from you and maybe we might have something in common....hope to hear from you soonest..

2)  Hi cutie, how are you? Permit me to compliment your beauty and smile. Honestly, you are gorgeously beautiful and you have a cute smile, so infectious! A kind of smile that can warm up the heart of a stranger like mine. I would like to get to know you more, become friends, see how compatible we are and then go from there if you wouldn't mind. I look forward to hearing from you. Until then, take care!
Warm regards,

Remember, these messages were not from men who were FB friends of mine; these were from men I do not know.  I cannot even call them acquaintances!

There's more to be said about this, but it will have to wait until tomorrow.


Until next time...

If you would like to comment, please e-mail:  lifewithlynnie@gmail.com