What's on my Calendar?

 Aw, it's finally February! 

For me, it's not about the last month being a big bully but rather the promise of spring. We're enjoying mild 70-degree weather, though February and March can still surprise us with cold snaps or snowstorms. We're still in our winter rainy season, so anything goes. 

The East Coast has Punxsutawney Phil, who predicts spring like a celebrity, while California has Mojave Maxine, the laid-back desert tortoise. Instead of a crowd, she relaxes at The Living Desert Zoo in Palm Desert, soaking up the sun. 

Maxine's annual "brumation," which sounds fancy but just means she's hibernating until it warms up. She typically goes into hiding around Thanksgiving, choosing comfort over turkey and family. When she finally re-emerges, it could be late January or early February, which might be her version of being fashionably late.

So on the calendar this month are two wedding anniversaries, and a particular favorite of mine -  Chinese New Year. We're planning to visit one of the Chinese temples near us - weather permitting! And with that, I like to indulge in some good Chinese Food. 

Do you like Chinese food, and how often do you eat it? 

Other than that, we have no plans. 

I'm a spur-of-the-moment kinda person, so who knows?? I sure don't. I just know it when the time comes -  always flying by the seat of my pants. 

 Martin's Spurge bloomed in the backyard. 

A walk by the Sacramento River on Friday. There was a definite chill down by the river. 

Source: FORE

And this month, we're all watching and waiting for our favorite love birds, Liberty and Guardian. 

We're hoping for some eggs very soon. 

On my walk by the river - 

The rest of the day, I'm doing laundry - and we might go out and do something later in the afternoon. Maybe grab some dinner, or then again, maybe not. 

For February

Dear Lord, as I turn the calendar page to February, I am comforted by Your supreme reign and authority over all creation. You hold the universe in Your hands, and nothing is beyond Your knowledge or control. 

You are the Alpha and Omega. 

Thank You for Your faithfulness in all seasons of our lives. This February, help me to rest in Your sovereignty, in this topsy-turvy world. When uncertainties arise, remind me that our times are in Your Hands (Psalm 31:15). Guide me to lean not on my own understanding but to trust in Your Wisdom and Timing.  May Your Grace continually fill my heart with assurance, and HOPE as we live each day of this month to the fullest.

But God...

Today, the weather has shifted to a cozy, fall-like feel - after a warm week, with AC use during the day and windows open after 9 pm.  This fall feel is expected to continue for the next 10 days. We're also expecting some rain. 

Thank You, God, for the rainy season! 

I completely overlooked this - I need to remove it before the winter storms and winds arrive.

On Monday, Laydee had her surgical bandage removed and a check-up. Everything is healing well, and she now has a pink bandage at the tip, cuz she's a girl. She will return next Monday for another check and to have this bandage removed. She’s on her way to better health and a shorter but healthier wag! 

The surgeon last night called to share that the biopsy was inconclusive, but he is very confident they removed the entire tumor/cyst. They removed 3 inches of her tail, leaving a significant portion intact.

Isn't he the cutest?

My son sent me a message about a tortoise named Cecil, who needs a new home. While I was tempted, I decided to stick with our two pets for now. I might consider it in the future since there's a nearby sanctuary always looking for families and homes. Cecil is great with kids and people and loves being petted. He's very friendly.

Earlier today, my husband returned to the college with his Friends of Israel materials, undeterred by last week’s events and well-supported by prayer. 

He called earlier to let me know, one student even treated him to a slice of pizza. He's been warmly welcomed and acts as a grandfather figure to many, often praying with them for their exams and studies. The young man who visited last week, who threatened to bring a large crowd of friends, never showed up. 

But God...

All three individuals have been identified. "S" is Suzie, the blonde woman who just turned 67 on September 25th. As a mother and grandmother, she actively serves the Lord, maintains a home, holds a career, and leads a ministry. Suzie is part of a medical missionary team that goes to Guatemala annually to help children with cleft lips and palates. She is beloved in our community, and many people worldwide are praying for her and her team!

The latest update I received from the two gals in my bible study who know her states that the pilot and EMT are in critical but stable condition, while Susie's condition is critical and unstable. She is in an induced coma due to a brain bleed and has multiple broken bones.

I’m clinging to Romans 8:28, trusting that in every situation, God is working for the benefit of those who love Him and are destined according to His plan.

In a negative world, I am observing numerous miracles during this tragic event...

1. The pilot managed to maneuver the helicopter in a way that ensured not a single person or car on the ground was harmed. 

A miracle that many overlook and fail to recognize.

2. The helicopter didn't explode or catch on fire.

3. All three survived the crash. They haven't died yet...

4. The helicopter was resting on Susie, and people came to help lift the heavy helicopter off her. Those are not lightweight at all.

5. Nationwide coverage = more people praying for their well-being and for Suzie.

6. The strengthening of faith - the witness of a faithful servant of the Lord.

But God...

Despite the local news reporting that "Suzie's head injury is severe and the outlook appears grim" (HOW RUDE), I hold on to the belief that a "But God" moment is yet to come.

Genesis 50:20 : Joseph speaks to his brothers, saying, "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives." 

Psalm 73:26: "My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever." God’s unwavering power and faithfulness uplift us, even in our moments of weakness.

These "But God" moments in Scripture are profound reminders of God's intervention, grace, and transformative power in our lives.

There is so much good happening in a negative and hateful world, yet I see God moving in countless ways. But if God should take her home, He still deserves all the Glory for the incredible work He accomplished through her. His ways are not our ways.

Keep Praying! 

A Heavy Heart

Today, I'm here with a heart weighed down by sadness...

S. is a flight nurse with Reach Helicopter, a medical response helicopter service in Redding. Although I do not know her personally, many people in our community are familiar with her, and she is a member of our (BSF) group. Last night, S. and two other crew members - one pilot and a paramedic- had just completed a patient drop-off at Davis Medical Center when their helicopter tragically went down on Highway 50 near Sacramento.

From what we know, she was trapped under the helicopter, prompting a group of approximately 15 civilians to assist in lifting the aircraft off her until EMT came to rescue her. Both she and her fellow crew members are currently in critical condition. Fortunately, no casualties occurred on the ground, as the pilot skillfully maneuvered to avoid pedestrians and vehicles on the highway. The crew was on their way home to Redding. I cling to the belief that the brave actions of the rescuers could determine the difference between life and death for her and all the glory will belong to God!

Our entire community is in shock, as many people knew them. Redding's number one industry is the Medical profession. S. was a longtime member of BSF and had a deep love for the Lord. That’s how I learned about it from my teaching leader. Just shocked. 

Tragedy always reminds us of the temporary nature of this world and the hope we have in eternity. S. loves the Lord and has served Him for many years. I have no doubt our Heavenly Father has her in His loving arms. 

The Strength of Family Pride

Before I get to the post, I wanted to provide a brief update on the progress we're making with the yard project.

The front rock landscaping is complete, giving the area a polished look with no weeds! We had just enough materials for this side. Next, we’ll finish the brick edging and focus on potted plants and seasonal flowers for color. Additionally, we need to finish the painting of the wood trim around the windows to enhance the home's curb appeal.

We've bought the drip nozzles and lines for the sprinkler system, which will streamline our watering and help maintain a nice yard with less effort as we get older.

I still need to disassemble and reassemble the old side table, but I'm making progress. I plan to finish painting it, front and back, by the end of June.

Now on to the post

The Strength of Family Pride

Nannie

On her wedding day, as she stood on the cusp of a new life, her nine children and thirty-three grandchildren were merely a twinkle in my Grandpa's eye. At just 18 years old, she was a devoted young woman from the eastern Tennessee mountains, whose roots were deeply intertwined with the land. She married a coal miner, a man whose hands bore the strength of hard labor.  Throughout it all, she maintained a profound steadfast faith in the Lord, which grounded her in the midst of life's challenges and joys.

She devoted herself to raising her children in the ways of the Lord. Yet, as life often reveals, all nine of them would stray from the path, lured by their own interests and temptations. That must have hurt her.  After Grandma passed, a quiet transformation took place; one by one, her children, found their way back to the faith that she had so fervently nurtured. It was a silent testament to her enduring influence, but not without a twinge of sorrow. During those years of wandering, her children had not raised their children, to love Jesus as she had hoped.

Although I may not have been as fortunate as others to share her everyday company, her presence loomed large in my heart like a beacon of love and wisdom. There was always something about her.  Each summer, our family would return.  I began the sweet exchange of letters -  Those precious notes, beautifully penned in her handwriting, overflowed with heartfelt advice and warmth—a guiding light urging me to reconcile my spirit with Jesus before the trumpet sounds and calls us home. With gentle reminders, she inspired me to prepare for that glorious moment of meeting Him in the air, a thought that was foreign to me. 

As the years passed, all of us cousins found ourselves traversing the landscape of adulthood, and most of us have gradually awakened to the Jesus we weren’t taught about growing up. Yet, deep within my heart, I  recognized that my Grandma’s prayers resonated through the years, and He, in His infinite compassion, heard her heartfelt cries for her grandchildren. 

Terry with Kay Arthur who was a mother figure to her throughout her journey

I’ve mentioned my cousin, Terry, before. She’s a Christian author and the host of a local TV show in Nashville, Tennessee, where her passion for the Lord shines brightly. She is one of my cousins whom Grandma prayed for.  Every time I see her, I can’t help but feel that Grandma is smiling down, tears of joy streaming down her cheeks, pleased with all that Terry has accomplished in service to God.

Yesterday, I stumbled upon a recent interview that took me completely by surprise. Typically, she occupies the role of an interviewer, expertly steering conversations with her grace and poise. However, this time, the tables were turned; she found herself in the hot seat, offering a candid glimpse into her journey. With each revelation, she unveiled layers of her experiences that I had never heard before, illuminating her path with authenticity.

I couldn't be prouder of her. From the very beginning, I knew she was truly exceptional. As a member of a triplet trio, she shared a unique bond with her two brothers that is unlike any other. Recently, she faced the heartbreaking loss of one of her brothers. In this challenging time, her strength and spirit shine even brighter, reminding me of the incredible person she is.

It is the first half of the video. 

One of her books 

 

As many of you are aware, I haven't been blessed with the joy of grandchildren. However, I know that several of you have experienced this wonderful blessing, and I sincerely hope that you are embracing your role as a praying Grandma.

Understanding the significance of prayer in a child's life is crucial; it is truly one of the most profound and cherished gifts you can offer to your grandchild(ren). Your prayers can be a guiding light, nurturing their spirits and shaping their paths as they navigate through life’s journey.

.

Grandma: "Church is essential."

Grandma's child - "Church is optional"

Grandma's Grandchild - "Church is unnecessary." 

Great-Grandchild - "Jesus, who?" 

I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.

2 Timothy 1;5

April - What Happened to all my Blank spaces?

Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart,
    and the pleasantness of a friend
    springs from their heartfelt advice. Proverbs 27.9

I'm finally getting around to sharing my April Calendar from my handy dandy Dollar Tree Calendar! 

What do you have planned for April?

Wow, I’ve got a lot on my plate—maybe even more than I can handle! I’ll definitely be leaning on God for strength to tackle it all with grace and a positive attitude. 

NO GRUMBLING ALLOWED! 

Tomorrow is our last class fellowship of the year (not the study—we still have three weeks left). This is a time of fellowship and sharing. To make it special, my husband and I baked some apricot Hamantaschen. I felt bad for not bringing them last month for Purim. He took charge of making the dough while I whipped up the apricot filling from dried apricots. They’re all bagged up and ready to share with everyone! 

Friday Teen Challenge is coming by to help us out with some weed pulling, especially the pesky Vinca. I'll be busy grocery shopping in the morning, but later in the day, I'm taking a lunch break to walk with a friend of mine at Clover Creek. We'll find a bench to eat our bagged lunch. 

I'm so excited for Saturday (and a bit overwhelmed) because it's the first evening of Passover, and the whole family is coming together! 💗💕💘💓

Then, on Sunday, we have our church potluck, and the theme is family favorites. My husband is planning to bring his mom's delicious carrot pineapple side dish, which everyone loves! 

 

- On Monday, we’re excited to have our garage door installed!

- Then on Tuesday, we’ll be getting a free estimate for the leaf gutters—

- Can't forget about the Good Friday service coming up!

- And next Saturday is the Temple Passover Seder! I’ll give you more details on that later. 

I used to love having a packed calendar back in the day! I remember using different colored felt pens for each family member, creating a beautiful rainbow of events and activities. But these days, I find I prefer having more blank spaces on my calendar. Still, there are always a few things I really look forward to, and April just happened to be the month when all activities and events collide.

I've been reading some of you who are feeling troubled about world events and our economy. I empathize with your suffering, and the most meaningful gift I can offer is my heartfelt prayer.

Heavenly Father, 

You are sovereign over all nations, and nothing is beyond Your control. I ask for Your peace to calm the hearts of those worried about our country and world events. Remind them that You are our refuge and strength (Psalm 46:1).

Strengthen all of us to be beacons of hope and love in our communities, reflecting Your light in times of uncertainty. Thank You, Lord, for Your faithfulness and love. I trust in Your perfect plan and know You are always with us. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen

Keep your eyes on Jesus

Debby

God Hears Your Prayers

 

Countless prayers ascending to God’s ears…ever ponder the journey those prayers take?

In Revelation chapter 6, John witnesses the Lamb revealing the power of the first six seals on the scroll. In Revelation 8, he observes the opening of the seventh seal, where a profound silence envelops heaven for thirty minutes, creating a sacred pause before the seven trumpet judgments are unleashed. Following this moment of stillness, one of God's angels offers incense on the golden altar, as the smoke rises to God, carrying the heartfelt prayers of His people.

  

God hears His people when they pray, as our prayers rise like a sweet fragrance to Him. Prayer is our personal conversation with God, reflecting our faith and dependence on Him. Heartfelt prayer encompasses four essential elements: adoration (praise), confession, thanksgiving, and petition (or requests).

Through prayer, we embrace a profound connection with the Creator of heaven and earth.

Consider this for a moment... what an incredible privilege!

God has graciously welcomed us into a profound covenant relationship with Him through the person and work of Christ. With Jesus' sacrifice having removed the barrier of sin, we are empowered to communicate freely with God the Father in prayer.

As we lift our prayers for the LA fires, global conflicts, loved ones who are ill, grief, and the injustices many endure, let us find comfort in knowing that God hears every prayer and cherishes them in His heavenly storage.

_______________

“Be still, and know that I am God" 

Psalm 46;10