Cousins: Fruitcakes –By Karla

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Recently, “the cousins” got together for a snowball fight! Okay, actually our reason for our gathering was a Christmas celebration. However, we did not leave before large, synthetic snowballs started flying! As Donna and I drove over the mountain back to our houses, I started thinking about how my cousins and I are a bunch of fruitcakes! 

At first thought, the word fruitcakes can conjure up a negative connotation, but chew on the following and let these words simmer in your thoughts. 

Variety

Like most fruitcakes, a variety of fruits add to the mix. In our cousin mix, we have a lawyer, some bankers, a receptionist, a dental hygienist, some insurance specialists, some housewives, a nurse, a seamstress, some government workers, and a home title-researcher, and teachers a plenty! We are unique as are the different fruits in the cake, and when the fruits blend together, it creates something special Over the years, all fruitful cousins have bonded together to help each other survive and thrive. 

Nutty Cousins

Nuts! Oh, we have those too! While none of us are truly nutty enough to be institutionalized, we have questionable moments. I will simply share a few because if I shared them all, you would be bringing several straight jackets!

One was known to have carried a leftover biscuit in her purse to have when needed, and her daughter once brushed her teeth with Preparation H! One of us must not be drinking anything when a funny story is told, lest she spew it everywhere. Another was testing out a media chair in Walmart, when it unfolded. She was sprawled out on the floor and laughing so hard that she could not get up! Perhaps one of my favorites is the one who was searching for funnel clouds because of an apparent “newly installed city tornado warning siren” only to remember ten minutes later that she had changed her ringtone. And during the “snowball fight” that evening, we caught a glimpse of one of us stuffing her bra with two! I guess our nutty sides add spice to our lives resembling the nutmeg in a fruitcake loaf. 

The Holy Spirit

Many recipes call for the bread to be soaked in “spirits”. Honey, I tell you the truth when I say that my cousins know the true spirit that we need to immerse ourselves in: The Holy Spirit of God. We’re bred from a lengthy line of Christians. Fruitcakes can get better with age, so can we! Christians that don’t just say they know God; ones that desire to learn more of the true bread of life. (John 6:25-59). 

December is declared the fruitcake month; these breads are made for special occasions. They are not intended to sit on the shelves taking up space, but given to others. As we are God’s special creation, we are to give of ourselves to others. 

Fruitcake Cousins

While doing some quick research, I learned that fruitcakes can get stale. To refresh them, one only needs to steam them. Christians too can become stale; life can beat us down. By spending time in God’s word, we can revive. God amazes me! He designed Christian fellowship to help us out. Fruitcakes are known for their solid consistency. Well, my friend, my fruitcake cousins have serious substance.They know the Lord, and they surely know how to rejuvenate me with laughter, listening ears, kind words, and hugs.

Did you know a fruitcake once traveled into outer space? Yep, it launched its way on Apollo 11. I have no idea why, but it did! Since it was not eaten, it now sits in the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum! But, I do know where my fruitcake cousins and I will be traveling one day: to be with our Savior far beyond the space we can see in this world.  

While fruitcakes are known to last for a long time; some even say “forever”. I know my fruity and nutty friends will live eternally with the true Bread of Life. 

Snowball fight!

(Thanks Mental Floss: 15 Fun Facts about Fruitcake; April 16, 2016 & Fill Your Plate: Interesting Facts About Fruitcake; Dec. 9, 2011 for providing me with some quick research.) 

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God Knows Best: The Planner – By Karla

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When I was 21, mom remarried. Berry immediately gained four daughters and eventually gained twelve grandchildren. Sometime over the years, he affectionately gave my sisters and me nicknames. Lynn, the oldest, became “The Boss”. What a perfect name for her! Gail, my twin separated by two-and-a-half-years was called “The Planner”. The youngest Julie earned her title easily, “The Princess”, and Berry gave me the name “The Sweet One.” While I am not sure that I am the sweetest one, I do enjoy the name he gave me.

Our family: 2007

The Planner

God-love Gail! She really is “The Planner”, desiring to know when and how things will happen. Gail doesn’t care for the unknown and operates best when things are just so. When the sisters are discussing some event, Gail is the one that makes sure the plan is carried out with as few hiccups as possible. I just love her inquisitive mind that is always thinking ahead about the what ifs. Her gift of planning has helped us all  many times over the years. With such a large family, we often have to change the plan. Gail deals with this well, as long as the alternate plan develops quickly and firmly. 

Truly, I don’t think Gail is alone. Many of us take comfort in a neatly formed and executed plan. If the truth be known, I think some of my most frightening times in life were the “unknowns” that leered ahead. In fact, I have had stomach aches, raw lips (where I have peeled off the top layers of skin), and added wrinkly lines by fretting over what lay around the corner. 

It is not always that the plan is unclear that upsets me. Quite honestly, the problem is I question God’s plans. At some point or another, hopefully not after too much time has passed, I remember that God’s ways are not my ways. (Isaiah 55:8) 

God’s Orchestrated Plans

Below are just a few events God orchestrated that I never would have thought was the best plan:

  • Crossing the Red Sea:  (No way would I have been brave enough to walk through on the dry land believing the walls of water would not come crashing down.) But, God knows best! He created a safe path for all Israelites to get through and destroy their enemies with His perfect timing.
  • The Battle of Jericho. (I wouldn’t have believed an army we could make the walls fall down just because we were marching around blowing some horns.) But, God knows best! To beat it all, no Israelites got hurt! 
  • Jesus’ birth. (If I had known Mary was in labor, I would have knocked on every door insight, trying to find a ”proper” place for Jesus to be born.) But, God knows best! He wanted Jesus born right where He had him, in a meek and lowly stable, The King of King, but not of earthly royalty. 
  • Jesus’ death. (I certainly would not have wanted my Jesus to be beaten, mocked, and crucified!) But, God knows best! He knew how to give us the most incredible gift; Christ taking our sins away. Thus, He provided the way to eternal life if we accept it. 

God’s plan for all these situations was just that–God’s plan! His plans are never too late, never too early, never too big, nor never too small. 

An Unplanned Move

In 1992, a series of events led my young family to move from Oklahoma back to Georgia. The move was not what we had planned! In fact, the events caused a serious financial issue and uncertainties for several months. Many times I cried out to God trying to understand the reasons why the situation occurred, which caused so much turmoil. 

However, around March of 2004, I had a realization. While I had not been toiling over the situation all those years, it hit me one afternoon. Nana died in December; than six weeks later Mom passed away. As I was grieving and processing that day, I finally understood that God knew exactly when Nana and Mom would leave this earth. He knew how I needed their guidance in the years while they were still with me and the advice that I still live by today. 

All that time, what I had thought was a bad plan, turned out to be a precious gift from God. He led me home, so that I would be only a short drive from them both. He gave me 21 years with them that I would not have had if life had followed my plan. 

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Kindness: Always Stay Humble and Kind- by Donna

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They say opposites attract. I’m not so sure I believe that, but in my daddy and mama’s case, it was true. Their personalities couldn’t have been any more different. My mama was a loving, feisty spit fire. My daddy was a patient, laid back, funny man. I have always said I am 99% my daddy and 1% my mama. I am like my daddy; But, I don’t think I can live up to the size of his big, kind, humble and selfless heart.

My daddy loved to tell stories and laugh. He had a southern drawl and North Georgia mountain vocabulary like few I’ve ever known. I loved to hear him retell the story of when the tractor ran over him. “I knew I’z in trouble when that there tire runned over me. It sounded plum like a hound dog crunchin’ on a possum. I mean to tell you; I hear’d my bones a crunchin’. 

All Smiles

Daddy was such a smart, talented man; he could fix or build anything. Alzhimer’s eventually took that ability away, but it never took his grin or joy. He continued to be a happy man and wore a smile most of the time. When he entered the nursing home, the staff commented how they loved him because he was always joking with them. During weekend visits at the home, we all had tears from laughing running down our faces. My favorite quote is “a day without laughter is a wasted day”. Humor has always abounded in my family; I am thankful my parents passed down their sense of wittiness. 

At his funeral the pastor said, “Whenever I saw him coming, he always had that “Kenneth grin”. As he entered the hospital, which unexpectedly became the last week of his life, he continued to smile. The day before he left us, a nurse came in and said, “I never got to be your dad’s nurse, but I once came in briefly to assist a coworker. When we moved him, he grimaced from the pain, but after, he looked at me, smiled, and said “thank you. He is the most pleasant man.”

Kind Heart

My daddy also had a big heart. He was perpetually kind: always helping others, expecting nothing in return, and never wanting recognition. He was always ready, willing, and able to assist many widows from church. Free of charge, he cleaned gutters, raked leaves, and did repairs. He even drove one widow to and from her colonoscopy! (See blog: Only Human).

I was at the hospital for his last five days. Covid made things more difficult. I wore a drape, face mask, shield, and gloves, even when sleeping in the chair. With Corona restrictions, I found myself alone with daddy for his last two days. I listened to the constant beeps of machines and the sound of daddy breathing.

Every day the doctor would come in. At first it was always, “It won’t be much longer.” But, daddy’s heart continued to stay solid. The last three times the doctor came in, he would simply state, “That is one strong man”. 

Saturday Nights

Daddy was a hard worker. When not working at the Ford plant, he was outside laboring in the garden or restoring a car. But Saturday evenings were spent with us. My mind drifted to Saturdays long ago. He always washed and waxed the car, so it would be shiny and clean for church the next day. We often helped or washed our bikes beside him. Saturday’s supper was either T-bone steaks, homemade fries, and salad or Chef Boyardee pizza made by me.

We would then all go into the den and watch Hee Haw. After the blonde girl waved saying, “That’s All!”, he would get out his Kiwi shoe shine kit and “get to rubbin” his church shoes until they beamed. Meanwhile, mama rolled my hair with pink sponge rollers. Daddy was not one to read, but every Saturday night, he studied his Sunday School lesson.

When it was time for bed on Saturdays, he would get out the oversized Children’s Bible and let us pick a story. My two brothers and I got in one bed while he read the chosen selection. If it were my turn to pick, I would once again pick Daniel in the Lion’s Den.

When the story was over, we would go to our own beds, and he would tuck each of us in. Daddy would lie down beside me while I said my bedtime prayers. I had to sleep with a vaporizer a lot, but even with it on, I could hear him breathe. I think he occasionally dozed off from the long week of work. Then he’d kiss my forehead and whisper, “Good night, Donnie Boo.” 

As my mind drifted back, I noticed his breaths had become a little labored. He began inhaling and exhaling through his mouth. Now normally, that loud noise might grate on my nerves, but as I curled up in the chair to sleep, I found it comforting. It took me back to those Saturday nights of my childhood. I drifted off to the sound of his breathing, not knowing it would be my last night with him.

Strong Heart

During the next day, I sat in the chair reading a book and grading some tests. Later in the evening while texting a friend, I noticed the rhythm of his breath began to change, so I watched the monitor. His blood pressure and oxygen were going down quickly. A nurse walking by, noticed me standing over him with concerned eyes and entered the room. With a trembling voice I managed to ask, “Is he near passing?” 

She looked at the monitor, “Normally I’d say yes, but although his oxygen and pressure are dropping, his heart rate is still 121. He has a strong heart.”

When she left, I sat down on his bed and watched. The numbers kept going down, but his heart stayed steady. Then it happened. It began dropping too; 90, 89, 88…. At that moment the reality of being alone hit me. It was the loneliest I had ever felt in my life. 

“I don’t want to be here alone.” I texted my friend.

His response was: “You’re not alone. God has chosen you to be there”.

I realized the magnitude of that last statement. I was given the privilege of being with my daddy as he was going home. As I sat down on the bed beside him, I felt at peace. 

Take my Hand

Daddy’s favorite music were hymns, bluegrass, and old country. So, I clicked my Pandora app and selected the Statler Brothers station. I placed my phone on the pillow by his ear. Remarkably, the first song that began to play was Take My Hand, Precious Lord. Sometimes God seems so hidden, but other times He makes His presence clearly known to me. Not only was that the perfect song for the occasion, but it is what was already engraved on his and mama’s headstone. I took off my glove and rubbed his arm as I watched the oxygen and respirations flatline. His pulse was still 80. 

God always knows what I need. As the song ended, my all time favorite, Carrie Underwood’s version of How Great Thou Art, began to play. During this song, I watched his pulse slowly go down, down, down, until it ceased. 

I wasn’t surprised it took so long for his heart to give up; it was always the strongest, biggest part of him. 

Humble and Kind

Recently, I heard the song, Humble and Kind by Tim McGraw. Daddy came to mind. I can just hear him saying so many of these lyrics:

Hold the door, say “please”, say “thank you”

Don’t steal, don’t cheat, and don’t lie

I know you got mountains to climb

But always stay humble and kind

When the dreams you’re dreamin’ come to you

When the work you put in is realized

Let yourself feel the pride

But always stay humble and kind

Don’t expect a free ride from no one

Don’t hold a grudge or a chip and here’s why

Bitterness keeps you from flyin’

Always stay humble and kind

Don’t take for granted the love this life gives you

When you get where you’re goin’ 

Don’t forget turn back around

And help the next one in line

Always stay humble and kind.

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Temptation: In Need of a Sign -By Karla

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Panama City Beach or Bust

For the past 6 years, several precious friends from church have packed our bags and head south for a long weekend. Like always, I hesitated in my excitement. Those hurricanes seem to enjoy the Gulf of Mexico every Columbus Day weekend as much as I do. Even still, God has always provided some hours of sunshine to brighten our weary souls. (Red Tide and No, Karla, You Get To)

On the Road Again

Though this past weekend came with the threat of disappointment in the weather, we forged ahead. Friday at four fifteen, the car was loaded and off we zoomed to pick up Donna in Rome. Our traditional first stop, Olive Garden, always begins the weekend of feasting and fellowship.

Along the journey, we played board games that we have altered into a point system, but honestly, none of us care who wins or loses. The point of our games is to pave the path with laughter and memories. Occasionally, a forecast update was shared as we anticipated our beach time.

Beach, Here We Come

Rolling into our Panama City Beach condo spot around 12:00am, we had realized Saturday’s beach time would be shorter than we hoped. We were a little tuckered. So, we opted to sleep in a little and stroll on down around ten in the morning. Leaving our floats because we knew they would only serve as kites swirling in the wind, we decided to leisurely lie in our chairs. 

Double Red Flags

As our toes touched the sand, we noticed not one–but two red flags, which forbids swimming in the ocean. Within minutes a lifeguard was pacing down the shoreline followed by a beach patrol vehicle. Clearly marked signs protruded from the shore, demanding that beach dwellers stay out of the water and threatened arrest if a person did not comply. I have been to Panama City Beach many times over the past fifteen years, and I have never seen such safety measures. They monitored the shore all afternoon. 

PUNISHABLE BY ARREST

Donna and I discussed the incident that we observed in fear a few years ago. Though double red flags flew, a mom had her three young children in the water with her. Perhaps, it was the first time they had experienced the pleasure, which persuaded her to risk any danger, but within minutes, two of her three had swiftly drifted from her reach. She began yelling for help.

Dining at the time, we were at a distance too far to be of assistance. We watched and fretted while a man ran to the aid of the two kids. In the meantime, the mom was frantically attempting to get herself and the youngest child safely to shore. The situation was unnerving. Danger can so easily overtake sometimes.

Too Risky

Over the weekend, the four of us watched the waves bounce, swirl, and spray in a fashion I have rarely seen. While we had strong desires to swim and splash in the waves, we knew to respect the mighty strength of the warned riptide.

But, others–not so much! We watched as the on-foot lifeguard protected his stretch of the water. Over and over he stated, “Get out of the water”. When he would make his announcement, the defiers would leave the water. The patrolman would turn his back as he walked to the next perpetrators. But the people would be right back in the foamy swirls within minutes. The same scenario was happening with the patrol vehicle. As the driver drove alongside the water, her voice projected through the speaker.

“The water is closed today. Get out of the water!”

People reluctantly walked out. But as she drove away, they would return.

Tempting

As we watched the waters churn, we were delighted with a flawless work of water Fantasia. I thought of how the show seemed to taint us into its illusion of thrills. It looked so fun, so enticing, so harmlessly filled with pleasure. And yet… the riptide was rippling underneath.

To the spontaneous, the excitement was too great to simply stand on the sidelines. Still, there in plain sight was a warning. The writing on the wall could not have been any more plain! In addition, lifeguards were tirelessly urging people to stay away. Did many listen? No, the illusion was too tempting. We heard sirens in the distance.

As we shook our heads at the boldness of others in the face of danger, we discussed how God must get frustrated with us all at times like these. His word tells us to resist temptations just as clearly as the “stay out of the water” sign aims to deter the foolish swimmer. 

“Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”

Matthew 26:41

But nevertheless, in life, we ignore the signs of danger and are lured in by the appeal of fun. Later to find ourselves trapped in sin. We flail about desiring to be rescued. Luckily for us, God walks alongside us with a presence abundantly stronger than any lifeguard. Although He warns us many times, with His loving grace, He forgives us and guides us back to shore, where He longs for us to abide in Him.

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Family: Singin’ and Dancin’ the Day Away-by Donna

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A few Saturdays ago, six cousins loaded a boat on Lake Blue Ridge. Five of us were over fifty, and one was from the generation below. We also had in tow two children under the age of 8. It was a gorgeous sunny day. We started off just relaxing, snacking, chatting, and enjoying the view. But suddenly a song that we all knew came on and the singing began. It just happened. No one planned it; no one said, “Let’s sing.”

When our hearts are happy, singing just transpires. It comes flowing out. Belle, from the younger generation, at our request, became our photographer and DJ. As our requests were made, she often commented, “I don’t know this”. It was a schizophrenic range of music — but we all knew them.

We began requesting music from our childhood, such as Grandma’s Feather Bed, and John’s Been Shucking My Corn, (yep, that is a real song). I am sure fellow boaters on the lake were surprised as they passed by and heard us yelling, “Don’t look, Ethel” as we sang, The Streak with Ray Stevens.

Dance Party

When disco was requested, we could sit no more. Dancing began. Some danced to the Hustle or the Electric Slide; other sisters twirled until they were dizzy and fell. Of course, songs from Grease were a must as we hand-jived. We all danced to We are Family and YMCA. Laughter rang from the deck.

Belle was teaching line dancing to the tune of Boot Scootin Boogie. At times, there were air guitars and air fiddles. Karla and I even attempted a little flossing (not with dental floss).

Eventually the music came to what brings us joy, God. Yes, we were cruising along, standing on the deck together singing and clapping to “ I Saw the Light”. I am sure people sailing by were amused at what looked like a hoe down, but our actions were not surprising from our family.

Joy

When dusk was near, our captain, the matriarch of our generation, brought the ship to a stop. We faced the mountains and the setting sun. We all watched in awe as the sun slowly disappeared behind the hills while I’ll Fly Away played. It was magical.

We sang because we were full of joy and love. I love music; I love to sing to it, dance to it, and listen to it. 

Zephaniah 3:17 reads, “The Lord thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing.” It is not a verse I have been familiar with in the past. But one day when I read it, it was mind blowing to me. I never really thought about God singing. But not only does he sing, but he sings over us. The word sing in Hebrew means “a ringing cry with a sense of joy”. 

Our God loves us that much!

(We do not own the rights to this music.)

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Drawing Nearer: Just a Closer Walk with Thee -Karla

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Sunday Night Madness

Loving music as I do, when I sing in church, I feel so close to the Lord. The songs draw me nearer to God as I prepare my heart and mind for His message. With the peace that only God can give, I always love Sunday mornings as I feel God’s spirit nestled within me. For years I longed for that peace and closeness to stay with me throughout the week until I could be in the Lord’s house again.

However, Sunday evening would rear its annoying face as I thought of Monday’s stress engulfing me like a hurricane. The weight of the undone laundry hung on my shoulders and the load of ungraded papers would leer at me from my bookbag. 

  • ungraded papers
  • laundry basket still full
  • dishes in the sink
  • floors unvacuumed

Sure enough (as Nana would say), as Monday’s sun would rise, I rushed around getting the girls and myself ready for school. I was lucky if I remembered to whisper a prayer asking Him to be with me throughout the day. As the hours ticked and Tuesday dawned, my sprint continued, hoping to survive the day. Often I would make a promise to God that I would spend some time with Him that evening, which might or might not have been kept. 

Monday Morning Rush

Sure enough (as Nana would say), as Monday’s sun would rise, I rushed around getting the girls and myself ready for school. I was lucky if I remembered to whisper a prayer asking Him to be with me throughout the day. As the hours ticked and Tuesday dawned, my sprint continued, hoping to survive the day. Often I would make a promise to God that I would spend some time with Him that evening, which might or might not have been kept. 

Hump Day and Beyond

Wednesdays were better; I knew that by dusk I would be back in church with the kids for their activities. At times, I drug myself through the motions after a long day. Still I enjoyed the Christian fellowship and felt a little recharged. 

On Thursday mornings, I might have remembered to murmur a prayer at the red light while the girls were talking in the backseat. 

Gracious! When Friday would roll around, I was beyond thankful. Saying TGIF was about as close as I got to thinking of God. 

You might think that on Saturdays I could have found time for Him, but usually I was busy sleeping late, doing chores, and chauffeuring the girls to and fro. 

Come Sunday morning, after fighting the devil to make it to church, I would feel Jesus’ peaceful presence embracing me again. 

Drawing Nearer

Why was it so difficult to feel His companionship Monday through Friday? I was like the kid dashing out of a department store, obliviously running in the parking lot with cars everywhere. Meanwhile, the mom is trying to help guide the child safely to their van. Likewise, God had been by my side trying to guide me all week, but I kept wandering around amid the hazards of life.

I roamed from daylight to dark and meandered from Monday to Saturday amid obstacles, trying to find strength and peace to survive, but discovered little. I was attempting to navigate my daily life alone, while I had put God on a shelf during the week. Yes, I acknowledged Him as I stumbled along, but I was not asking Him to travel with me holding my hand. 

Though I don’t recall the words from the sermon that prompted the desire for change, I can distinctly recall tears in my eyes as I claimed I didn’t want to walk my daily path alone ever again. I wanted Jesus nine to five, five to nine, and repeat. 

close up shot of an elderly woman reading a bible
Photo by RODNAE Productions on Pexels.com

The process to have Him with me in my highs and lows and everything in between was so simple. Connect everyday. 

  • Read His word
  • Talk to Him in prayer
  • Be still and know that He is God

After making a commitment to spend quality time with him each day, I have found these words to be true: “The closer your walk with God, the less room for anything to come between.” 

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Armor of God: Never Leave Home Without It -By Karla

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Dining at Cracker Barrel, Donna and I noticed an elderly man. Simultaneously, we said, “Bless his heart.” We whispered about him having to eat alone. At a second glance, I noticed he did not have his teeth in. 

Donna and I often joke about how we promise to make sure that the other does this and that or does not do this or that when we reach that certain age. Please note that I mean no disrespect to anyone who has dentures; we all have things we must deal with. (I especially mean no disrespect to Aunt Anna. She has entertained the little ones over the years by flipping hers in and out with just the push of her tongue!) 

It was no surprise to Donna that I mouthed, “Never let me leave the house, forgetting my teeth.” Of course, she agreed and added some other words that I could not hear. So, she suggested I need to buy a hearing aid and add it to the list of things I should never leave home without. I shook my head as I realized my list was getting longer; I made a mental note to add my glasses too. 

When the waitress brought his food, Donna grew concerned about him getting sore gums noticing he had ordered crispy tater tots. 

Our Mom’s List

Our conversation then wandered into the list of items our mothers made sure we were never without when in our cars. 

  • Always have a blanket in case you are stranded on the side of the road on a frigid night
  • Make sure to have a flashlight in case you need to walk at night because your car breaks down
  • Have a pair of scissors–though I am not sure why…maybe in case you meet a bear while you are walking with your blanket and flashlight! (But, honestly, those scissors have come in very handy over the years!)
person holding flashlight during nighttime
Photo by Wendelin Jacober on Pexels.com

My List

Among Mom’s advised car list, I have added a few “musts” for my purse as I have aged.

  • Yes, like the American Express commercial said, “Never leave home without it”: your credit card (It comes in handy during emergencies or if you see a really, cute little dress.)
  • Your phone cord and charger (I have learned a dead phone and worried children can be a problem.)
  • A healthy snack & a bottle of water (No one wants to hear a growling stomach in church.)
  • Safety pins (Those buttons can pop off at the most inconvenient times.)
  • Band-Aids (Nobody wants blood on their clothes.)
  • Hand sanitizer (Covid-19…Need I say more.)
  • Tissues (I’m snot kidding)
  • Lip Gloss (A shiny smile says so much.)
  • Breath mints or gum (You remember the Big Red commercial: “say goodbye a little longer.”)
  • Small tube of lotion (Who wants rough hands?)
  • Power compact (Will this oily skin ever end?)

In my young adult life, I would have included an extra tampon or pad on the list, but at my age I will have to say a clean pair of panties. Mom might have said those are needed in case of a car wreck, but I am much more concerned about getting tickled with a friend and need a pair to change into. 

 We can powder our noses, gloss our lips, stick on the Band-Aid, clean and smooth our skin, pin a hole, quench our temporary thirst, and disguise our breath, but to be prepared in life, we need more than supplies from our purse.  

The Armor of God

All kidding aside, “Mama said there would be days like this”; ones filled with the devil’s schemes. The Bible gives us a list of things never to leave home without. We must guard ourselves with… (Ephesians 6:10-18)

  • Belt of truth 
  • Breastplate of righteousness
  • Fit your feet with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace
  • Shield of faith
  • Helmet of salvation
  • Sword of the Spirit

The armor of God is the thing to truly never leave the house without! When we make time to read God’s word, pray, and listen, we armor ourselves with a relationship with the Lord, the most important thing to never forget!

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Teachers: Not Naming Names –by Donna

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If you were a fly on the wall in a school in August, you would hear many humorous stories. Not about the students, but the teachers. Teachers have to retrain themselves, right down to our bladders. During the summer we “go” whenever the urge hits, but in school, you may be holding it a very long time. Going back to school can be exhausting: emotionally, mentally and physically. We all love our job and are thankful for summer break, but retraining our minds and bodies is difficult. Getting up early, being on your feet most of the day, and being responsible for umpteen students is exasperating at times.

I have many friends and family members who are teachers. I shan’t name any names, but these are some things that have happened the last two weeks.

Teacher Troubles

Teacher A was so tired she was asleep last night by 7, yet she overslept. But being the dedicated teacher she is, she made it on time. She came with wet hair, but whatever it takes.

Teacher B went to bed on Friday. Woke up the next morning and her contacts were not in the contact case. They were not in her eyes either. She had no recollection of even putting the contact solution in the case. Where are they? Only God knows. 

Teacher C wore her dress to school backwards. She wore it all day long before noticing.

Teacher D sprayed her hair with foaming bathroom cleaner rather than hairspray.

Teacher E drank her thermos of hot tea as she does every day. After a few hours, she thought it tasted bland and opened it up to see she had forgotten the tea bag and had only been drinking hot water all morning.

Teacher F may take the prize. Teacher F decided to have flowers delivered to her principal. But, she accidentally put her own name as the receiver. She had beautiful flowers delivered to herself! She was the giver and receiver.

National Teacher Exhaustion Month

Several years ago I was diagnosed as slightly anemic. During that time, I could barely function in the evenings. My children would tell me something important, and we would have an entire conversation about it. The next day I would have no memory of it. They began to say, “Don’t tell Mom anything after ten. She won’t remember it.” It was true. I would fall asleep in the recliner almost every night. It didn’t matter what was on TV or what was going on. That is how August is for a lot of teachers. We could name it, National Teacher Exhaustion Month.

I am thankful that God never tires. He is always wide awake. He never forgets our conversations, and never loses His focus. Our Father is never late or confused. He is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow–always at His best for us.

Psalms 121:4 …indeed, He who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.

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Trust Fall – by Karla

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1, 2, 3…jump. The preschooler leans over the vast depth of the pool water, eyes wide with excitement, trusting the loved one to catch her.

Peddling and swerving; peddling and straightening. The youngster continues, believing the parent will keep holding his bike, guiding him until he is balanced and free to continue on his own. 

The “flyer” on a cheerleading squad is tossed high above the others, trusting her teammates will be waiting below ready to protect her descend with wide open arms.

“Take the keys to the car and run to the store,” are perhaps the most exciting trust words ever spoken to the sixteen-year-old.

The Concept of Trust

As we age, trust can become more difficult. According to the dictionary, trust can be defined as having confidence, faith, or hope in someone or something.

Sadly, in today’s world, the concept of trust has grown rather weak over the years, like a man’s handshake that has been diluted into a “yeah, whatever” agreement.

Most of us have dealt with the feeling of mistrust when it comes to others. Some days, it might seem the only one you can trust is your faithful dog, but he might even run off if tempted with a juicy bone.

Christian Friends

Let me tell you, I have some wonderful Christian friends: companions who have listened to me cry, rant, cheer, and laugh. Some pals have stood with me through thick and thin. How did I get so blessed to have such truly trusted friends? I looked in the right place. I found the ones with their hands stretched out ready to serve. Although Christian friends will not be perfect, they will give of themselves to the best of their ability.

God, I thank you for your creation of Christian friendships and what they mean to me. I will end with a short summary of recent events which illustrates the kind of friend I wish for you… 

Moving Day

Donna and I were moving boxes, most were very heavy. Scorching heat steamed around 95 degrees! Arms loaded, we traipsed back and forth getting boxes and moving them to the car. At times, when we were heaving and hoeing, we laughed until we cried. We’d pick up a box and look wide-eyed at each other as if to say there’s no way we can get this box of lead into the car. Our giggles started draining even more strength from our weak and flabby arms, which usually resulted in the box dropping. Though some of our laughter left us snorting and almost having tears run down our legs, we somehow managed to get everything loaded for each trip to and fro.

While moving the contents, we often used hand trucks. Stacking the boxes higher and higher, we discussed how much the dollie could hold. Many times, Donna would say, “I’m telling you; this thing can hold a refrigerator!” So, we stacked on another box. Driving the loaded cart was not an easy task, but Donna continued to say, “This thing can hold a refrigerator!”

Somewhere along the path when I had an empty cart and exhaustion had about set in, I said, “Hop on, Donna. I’ll take you for a ride.” Her tired eyes cut to the corner, “You already pushed me and let me surf on the flat utility cart. It’s your turn!”

“You can’t push me! I replied.

Without skipping a beat, she replied, “This thing can hold a refrigerator!”

Trust Fall

“You can’t hold me.” I repeated as we continued walking in silence. I glanced over, seeing her eyes calculating my weight and her strength. Then her mouth twisted to the side. Donna has been my best friend (and cousin) for as long as I can remember. I knew the determined look: I can too! I immediately stopped the hand truck leveling to the floor and took my rightful place, standing on its flat metal platform.

Talk about a trust fall! The thought that she could NOT hold me steady never crossed my mind. She is my devout friend with whom I trust. Crossing my arms over my chest, I felt my body leaning slowly backwards, and backwards, and backwards. Uhhh, I’m not stopping!

Gradually, I reclined until I was jolted flat onto the floor. Now crashing to the ground while lying on metal might sound very painful. But when you have a good friend, she will do everything in her power to protect you. And that is exactly what Donna did. She broke the fall and went down with me.

Then we just sat and laughed and laughed.

Trust God

God is the ultimate trust. He, and He alone, will never fail us.

  •  “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6
  • “Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion, which cannot be shaken but endures forever.” Psalm 125:1

God is so good to us, being available 24/7. However, He knows His creation well. He knew we would need fellowship. He knows we need someone that we can physically see. Thus, Christian friendship was born.

*Even if you totally trust your friend, human strength can give way. However, trust in God, for He will NEVER fail you. 

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Dolphins: The Best Day, Ever — By: Donna

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One of the things I love about teaching younger children is their joy. During a 180-day school year, you wouldn’t believe the number of days I hear, “This is the best day, ever!” All it takes is doing something different. Now I know that whatever that day held, it was not as great as Christmas morning, vacation, or their birthday party. Why do they say that…because they live in the moment.  They find joy and fulfillment in the here and now.

Dolphins

On my birthday this year, I had the “best day ever!’ I have always loved dolphins. I suppose my love came from the TV show Flipper. The first time I went to Florida, at age 6, I came home with a stuffed dolphin, and a dolphin hat, and T-shirt. A few years later I chose a Miami football satchel, just because it had a dolphin on it. Growing up not far from Six Flags over Georgia, I loved watching the daily Dolphin show multiple times when we went.

One of the items on my bucket list is to swim with dolphins in the ocean. I have always wanted to, but it is pricey. I didn’t want to swim dolphins in captivity because I thought that aspect would make me sad. Karla and I were in Florida on my birthday this year, and we decided to find something fun to do. As we looked for options, the dolphin advertisement kept popping up. I decided to just do it. I booked with Panama City Beach Dolphin Tour and More. They had a 98% rate of seeing dolphins.

Anchors Away

I was so ready to have a blast. But when we loaded the small ship, many of the other passengers were drinking heavily and cursing a lot. It made me uncomfortable. As adults, we sometimes let distractions deprive us from the moment of fun. I decided not to allow their actions to spoil my opportunity.

I was very excited! When we sailed far out, Captain Dane pointed saying, “There they are!”. I became a three-year-old. I stood up, bouncing up and down, clenching my fist with anticipation. The captain began shouting, “jump in, jump in.” Passengers jumped in and began treading water. Not me. I took off swimming as fast as I could. I soon found myself swimming underwater with three dolphins. The dolphin in the lead had a huge fish dangling from his mouth. It was an incredible site. I was swimming with dolphins in the wild!! As a first timer, I was required to wear a life jacket. I am a rule follower, so I obliged, even though I felt I did not need the safety measure. To my dismay, the jacket would not allow me to dive down deeper. It was pure exhilarating torture.

 

Incredible Memory

When they swam away, we loaded the ship and headed to find more. I asked if I could remove my life jacket. I was given the okay. This time when we stopped, I did not wait and let all the children go first, like I did before. This was my chance, and I wanted to make the most of the experience. I was the second off and swam toward their fins as fast as lightning. However, they submerged, and I lost sight of them. The captain pointed and yelled to me, “Right there! There!” I assumed he could see them since he was up high, so I just dove straight down. I was soon underwater right beside three dolphins.

There are no words to describe my feelings. I took it all in — creating an incredible memory. I listened to their conversation of clicks and squeaks. Their long bodies bent and their mouths opened and closed. It was as if I was watching a movie. It was surreal. Then one turned around and began swimming toward me. Needing air, pressure began building in my chest and I knew I couldn’t last much longer. I kicked my legs as hard as I could, extending my arm. I was within 6 inches from his sleek body when he dove down. So close, I almost touched him. I tried to swim down but decided I wouldn’t make it and headed for air.

It’s Your Birthday

When the dolphins retreated and we took our seats, thunder roared. Captain Dane took off his shirt so it wouldn’t get wet and announced, “Ladies and Gentleman, look what we have ahead”. We looked and knew we were about to get drenched. The small canvas at one end of the boat was only big enough for a couple of people. As the cold rain began pelting us like crushed ice, the expressions of the passengers were not good. But suddenly it was as if everyone decided to be present in the moment and enjoy. Laughter began ringing out from everyone.

Karla burst into the Happy Birthday song and everyone joined in. Our captain cranked up the music, “Go shorty, It’s your birthday. We gonna party like it’s your birthday.” Some began to dance. It was truly raining cats and dogs. We could have all been miserable, but instead we had a blast.

After the rain storm, our captain passed out crackers and we fed the seagulls that were circling above the ship. Later, we stopped to snorkel. We saw pufferfish, starfish, seahorses and much more. Our skipper Patrick let us hold them and told us all about each one. 

On Friday, I turned 54, but what fun I had seeing the ocean through the eyes of a child. Be childlike. You can’t go swimming with dolphins every day, but find something to make your day the best day ever. Once this day is gone, you will never have it again.

“What day is it?” asked Pooh.

“It’s today,” squeaked Piglet.

“My favorite day,” said Pooh.

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