Reflections

It is hard to believe that our year is coming to a close and a new year filled with endless possibilities is upon us. As I look back on this year, I am blessed beyond measure at all the Lord has given me. Hubby and I were able to spend time with our closest friends here; they love taking us on back roads and showing us new sites. I so look forward to more day trips and fun times together. It is always great to have someone who understands your little quirks, like driving back roads and watching wildlife just for the thrill of it. I am so thankful that my brother and his wife surprised me for my birthday by flying into Colorado in winter. What an incredible blessing they are to all of us!!!! We spent time back in California with family and friends; we love to visit but I can say I'm so glad I don't live there anymore. We saw our grandkids grow in leaps and bounds and are so blessed by our newest granddaughter, Alaina who joined our family on Thanksgiving Day. We are also so blessed for another little girl that will join our family this spring, taking the number of grandchildren up to nine. Thank you Lord, although I always wanted a big family with lots of kids, You have given me that through our daughters. I am so thankful and blessed by our two girls and their families. Hubby and I especially enjoyed seeing New Mexico with our good friends and old neighbors from Ca. I am thankful for the simple, slower life that we enjoy here. I am thankful for the wonderful pets the Lord has given us over the years and for how each one has enriched our lives. I am thankful for memories that bring smiles to our faces. I am thankful for my hubby of 31+ years and for the husband he is. I am so blessed by all my new bloggy friends-wow, who woulda thought! I am looking forward to this New Year and all that it holds. I believe the Lord is doing a mighty work in this world, in the lives of believers and unbelievers alike. I am looking forward to spending time focused on Him, because it is all about Him.

Happy New Year friends!!!!

Blessings, Noreen

Friendship

If anyone had told me a year and a half ago that joining this new world of blogging would produce some incredible and deep friendships, I would have smiled but been doubtful. I am here to say that I have made some of the best friends I've ever had, most of whom I've never met but plan to.
In my head I'm already planning a trip to Florida to meet a group of ladies who I've grown to love, Ca. holds some dear sisters too, Canada-one of the closest I've got and there are many, many dear gals scattered across our wonderful country. When my daughters were young, hubby and I would take cross-country trips showing them our country and her history. Well, I think another cross country trip would be just fine-but my stops would be centered around the relationships I've grown to cherish.
As you know, this past Christmas night has been a very hard one for us but I have to tell you that the comfort, love and support you all poured out to us was incredible. You have given me such a gift in your love and prayers. There are still hard moments and there will be for awhile but the Lord's grace has been upon us. I just wish I could grab each of you and give you a big hug but this will have to do until I meet you face to face. If I can tie in a golf course with each stop, my hubby would be so happy.
From my heart to yours Thank you for your kindness!
Love, Noreen

Christmas 2009

Sadie 6/1/99-12/26/09 RIP

Although we did get snow on Christmas eve and some very treacherous weather with high winds but we did not have the white stuff floating around. We had a wonderful time with our family on Christmas eve as well as Christmas morning and Christmas dinner. When we arrived back at home our dearly loved companion was very ill and continued to go downhill quickly. WE got her into the car and headed to the only emergency vet clinic, a 30-40 min. drive due to the bad weather. We went over everything with the vet and although Sadie was in pain she was so gentle even unto the end. Her whimpers were so very soft that one would not know she was in a very bad state. We left her there to get fluids and undergo some blood tests and returned home to await the results. The vet called and with tears told me that it wasn't good and that even with extreme treatment she would not survive. Through sobs, I told the vet to be merciful to her, our beloved friend. We could not return and hold her due to the road conditions and the vet and two assistants, who had been loving on her while we were there, held her and loved her for us to the end. For those of you who have pets and love them you will understand the deep grief we are going through. Our other old dog keeps wandering through the house and around the yard looking for his best friend. Our grandchildren keep saying how they'll miss her and how they loved her. She was the best friend a person could have and she loved us unconditionally. Her dog tag now hangs on our Christmas tree and I know in time I will smile at the memories of her but for now the tears flow as I recall her antics. Here is one that shows her personality~the first weekend we got her from the humane society she made herself at home, immediately by jumping up on the couch. Later we had to run to the grocery store and when we returned she had a present for me, sitting on my pillow. She had gone outside and killed a mole(we didn't even know we had them)and brought it back putting it on my pillow as a present. I wasn't too happy about that but knew it was a gift of love. She was always like that, always faithful and gentle but filled with silly-ness and spunk. She was with us for 8 1/2 years and probably the best dog we ever had.
For those of you with pets, would you give them some extra love for me tonight.
I'm thankful I have Reggie to love on right now.
Hugs, Noreen

A White Christmas

The snow began last evening around 9:00 p.m. and hasn't stopped. We were hoping that we'd have a white Christmas and it looks we will indeed.

I talked to my friend in Longmont and she thinks they had a bit less, probably 2", than we have.

This is a hard to see but we got around 8". We've been told it will continue through the day; my heart goes out to all those who have to travel today and tomorrow. This is nothing compared to the east coast and the midwest; I'm thankful for that.

Enjoy your day today my friends.

Merry Christmas!

Noreen

From our home to yours, we wish you a very Merry Christmas filled with blessings from above and a Happy and Healthy New Year.

Christmas 2009
Hugs, Noreen, John and our grandchildren

Happy Birthday to you

Our sweet little Olivia turned two on Saturday and the family all got together to celebrate.
Olivia is a wonderful, quiet and calm two year old but she does hold her own in a big family; she is a daddy's girl but adores the entire family.

Had to show you all a photo of how big our Alaina has gotten. She reminds us so much of her big brother, John, seen holding her here. She is a calm baby and so very alert.

Olivia does have a sweet tooth and was excited about the cake her momma made.

Checking out a card before getting into her presents.

My girl, my the Lord richly bless you this year and lead your parents in your training. You are a precious jewel in our family and this nana looks forward to watching you grow.

Well friends, the countdown is on; here at our home we are done with shopping and wrapping and will now relax and enjoy. Simplifying Christmas has made it so easy and stress free plus given me some free hours to spend with my dear friend who is out here dogsitting. One of our dogs wasn't doing so well this weekend so I spent most of the weekend here at home.

As we draw near to the celebration of our Lord's birth may you seek Him and behold the glory of the Lord.

Hugs, Noreen

Thankful Thursday and Funfilled Friday

Blessings to you my friends. Oh what a busy couple of days I've had; firstly Christmas shopping for our grandchildren, then today I had my hair cut and colored and then headed down to Longmont to visit with my dear friend who is here house sitting. The photo above is a small sled my family gave me many years ago that I fill with holiday stuffed animals. Occasionally I fill it with our grandkids and we take photos-not this year though, at least not yet.
I love to collect snowmen of all shapes and sizes and found that my kitchen windowsill was a perfect spot for these. In fact, I think I'll leave them out at least til February because they are just so cute.
Tomorrow I'll be helping my oldest make cookies with her kiddos. Maybe I'll actually help instead of holding my newest bundle of love. Tomorrow night our church has a music program that we'll be attending. Saturday eve we will be celebrating another granddaughter's 2nd birthday. What fun!!! Sunday may find me back down with my girlfriend for a couple of days. She usually house-sits for 2-3 weeks at a time and since I only get to see her once a year we try to squeeze in as much time as possible. Being that she is 45 minutes away does limit how often I go down, but boy do we have fun.
Have a joyous day and weekend; make it a priority to find joy in all you do, cherish the moments of life and in all things give thanks.
Remember Jesus is the reason for the season!
Hugs, Noreen

This is an ornament that our friends gave us that they got in Israel last spring. It is made out of bamboo and holds a special place because they gave it to us.

Today's treasure from the Word is:
"And the witness is this that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son.
He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life." IJohn5:11-12

During this holy season it becomes even more evident of this truth. May you be blessed today.
Hugs, Noreen

And the witness is this God has given us

Good Morning All~

I pray you each had a blessed weekend, filled with joy during this holy season. In the hustle and bustle of busyness, it is easy to lose sight of the most important aspects of Christmas. As I was going over my schedule for the week, it seems jam packed with so many things that it would be easy to get stressed about it all~so I stopped and asked the Lord to direct my days and to give me a heart of wisdom.
The photo above is a small decoration that I've had for over 20 years; it is so precious to me because of what it signifies-simple devotion to the King of Kings. If our eyes and our hearts are focused on Him, everything will fall into place accordingly.

Stay warm today and be blessed.
Noreen

Finding Joy In The Little Things

Christmas in the Sierra's 2006

Yesterday afternoon hubby and I ventured down to Golden, about 1 hour drive from us, to have dinner with some good friends. The weather was clear, the roads ice-free(thankfully)and the traffic extremely light. We purposely left early to avoid rush hour, because I do not enjoy traffic and since we made good time, we got to stop at one of our favorite antique stores-Armadillo's.
The store is huge and all I can say is that if money were no object we would always walk away with some new treasured antique. As it is, we really do just love walking the isles and browsing.
We then headed to our friends house and had a wonderful dinner. O.k. I will confess that I am still adjusting to baking here and my dessert had a bottom crust not fully baked. We will now purchase an oven thermometer to check the temp because I'm beginning to think it doesn't heat up to the full temp. and I really want to figure this out. After dinner, we played a new game-a dice game called Greed, but we were told that it has several different names. It was so fun and we are anxious to introduce it to our kids. Last week we played Tripoey with everyone; we've played that for many years so this new game will be a welcome addition. Our friends even sent us home with a puzzle for the holidays and cold weather.
Today we head over to our daughter's, C; I am trying to get to her house once a week, at the minimum, to help out with the new baby and spend time with the grandkids. I think hubby is going with me because our boys would not be too happy if I came alone. Our weekend seems to be filling up quickly and the next week looks booked already.
Our weather today is supposed to be in the 30's and tomorrow is supposed to hit the 40's-we'll feel like it's spring if it gets warmer than that.

Have a blessed and joyous weekend!
Hugs, Noreen

What a wonderful world we live in; we have so much to be thankful for each day! Yet, I realize, how many people slip into continual discouragement, especially at this time of year.
This week I've been so thankful to see Christmas through the eyes of a child; to remember the wonder of the season as viewed from a young one. I've also seen so many hurting at this time of year for various reasons~life threatening illnesses, financial troubles, bitterness, unfulfilled expectations. It is so easy to get pulled into that riptide of hurt without really stopping to take inventory of all the blessings in our lives.
So today I am so thankful for these:
A new day to live, may I live and love fully, being filled with appreciation for each breath I take. I am thankful for eyes that see, ears that hear, a heart that beats, a mind that is able to think and arms to hug.
I'm thankful for walking through the valleys of life in order to see the stars more clearly. The sun still shines in the morning.
I am thankful for those loved ones who've allowed me the privilege to walk through their journeys with them; journeys of joy and sadness and paths where I can grab a hand and journey with them for as long as we are able.
I am thankful that His grace is new every morning and He promise to never leave us or forsake us.
I am thankful for the blessings of those who know me intimately and love me still; especially my dear husband. I am so incredibly blessed and thus thankful for my two girls, their godly hubby's and our eight going on nine grandchildren.
I am thankful for dear friends, old and new, who we are able to spend time with embracing life.
I am thankful for pets, those four legged creatures that we take into our hearts and share our lives with.
I am thankful for my dearest friends, my prayer warriors who uplift and encourage me when I become weary. There are so many but special in my heart are these kindred sisters: Becky, Carol,Lynn, Lisa, Dineen, Cyndi, Pam, Marlene, Sue, Amy, Patricia, Stacy, Angela. xxxooo
I'm thankful for snow and for the different seasons. To see the earth covered in white glistening
powder makes my heart sing.
I am thankful for the strength to still help shovel our driveway and our walkways.
I am thankful that our two old dogs have adjusted well to all the white stuff that covers the yard.
But mostly I am thankful for Him!
Because it really is all about Him!

May your joy be made full in Him today.
Noreen

More from the Library

During this holy season, every person should read some sort of Christmas story, besides reading the Original Story of Christ's birth. There are so many classics for all ages; most of mine I've passed on to my daughters for their reading time over the month. When we homeschooled, our plan for December was more homespun than normal~filled with lots of baking thus incorporating math, bible memorization, and lots and lots of literature. Needless to say, I always love to have some Christmas centered books around and this year I actually picked up a book at our local grocery store. I got it for reading at my girls house when she was in the hospital but never got around to it. The title is: Christmas Homecoming by Debby Mayne and it is actually a novella-four short books in one. What I loved about this easy read was that it was centered here in Colorado-Boulder to be precise. The first story was by Debby Mayne entitled Silver Bells. The second story was I'll Be Home For Christmas by Elizabeth Ludwig; the third was O Christmas Tree by Elizabeth Goddard and lastly The First Noelle by Paige Winship Dooly. These stories are definitely easy reading but center on family relationships and the healing of Christmas.
Whether you find time to reread a classic this year or pick one up at the library, find some time to just sit and enjoy a good book with a cup of warmth.
Blessings,
Noreen

From My Library

Good morning Friends~
Oh what a glorious morning it is! When I gaze outside all I see if white powdery stuff blanketing everything. The joys that winter brings.
Wanted to share three books that I borrowed from my oldest daughters bookshelf last week.

• If God Should Choose by Kristen Stagg. This is the story of Jim and Roni Bowers, missionaries in Peru; the plane they were flying in was shot down by the Peruvian Air Force and Roni and their daughter Charity were killed. It is an amazing story of lives completely surrendered to God. I'm almost finished and think this book should be on the list for homeschoolers to read.
• Attitudes of a Transformed Heart by Martha Peace. This looks like a wonderful study on Romans 12:2; I've read some of her other books am excited to start this next.

• A Life That Says Welcome by Karen Ehman. I am not familiar with this author but was so drawn to this book. It reminds me of Open Heart, Open Home that I read as a new Christian. Can't wait to get through all of these books.

A big thank you to my girl for having such an amazing book collection. She belongs to a online book exchange and is constantly getting new books to add to their collection.
Have a wonderful warm Monday.
Hugs, Noreen

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas

Welcome to my home. I decided to show you some of our favorite decorations; many of which are between 20-30 years old. This beautiful tree was something I gave into about 8 years ago and although I fought tooth and nail against buying an artificial tree I am so glad we did. I always got allergies from live trees and I love how easy this tree is-no needles to constantly pick up and it looks good year after year.

When we were first married I brought the Nativity scene and I love it. It is hard to see the details but it is one of the best sets I've seen.

I also have several Lizzie High dolls that my brother and sister in law gave me one year....they are treasures. On our buffet we have set up part of our village collection-something our grandkids love looking at. I love the high ceilings in our kitchen-just perfect for some of my snowmen.
I just put the kettle on and would love to share a cup of tea or cocoa with you, can you sit a spell and visit.

Christmas Blessings to you.

Noreen

A Dogs View

Hi, I'm Sadie and yesterday I asked my mom why she always reads about dogs and their people but never posts about me or my best friend Reggie. So today since it is Thankful Thursday, she decided to tell you all why she is thankful for us. She's walking around the house singing, "Baby It's Cold Outside" because this morning our temperature outside was 13 degrees and it is now 19 degrees. Meanwhile I'm thinking "It's a Wonderful Life" because my mom and dad love me/us so much! She says I have a sense of humor cause I do silly things like sit up on the dining room chairs and dad just says I'm a silly dog. We do have it pretty easy here and my mom doesn't know who is more blessed-me or her. All I know is that I love living here cause my life wasn't so good before they adopted me. When they first brought me home I ran right over to the couch and jumped up cause I knew it was a forever home. I was alone the first couple of years and got lonely but then my best friend came to live with us. I used to visit him at my mom's sisters house but then she wasn't around anymore so he came to live with us.

Hi I'm Reggie, the old guy in this house, but I'm a great watchdog. Mom says I'm gentle but when someone comes in I always bark at them. Sadie and I are like a little old married couple, at least that's what mom says. When one of us is outside the other is too. We get to go on walks together and even though I'm getting stiff I still try to play with Sadie sometimes. Mom says I was probably kept in a small cage as a puppy cause I don't know how to play, other than with Sadie. All I know is that I'm glad I'm here and that mom and dad love me. I do miss my mom's sister-my other mom-but mom says I'll meet her at the Rainbow Bridge someday. I think she just makes this up so I don't worry about getting old. I love laying in the sunshine inside-it is a bit too cold out for me.

So now that mom has us one her blog, maybe will get to visit more often.

Today I am thankful for our beloved dogs, past and present, and the joy they bring into our lives. I can't imagine life without a dog, especially now that we are empty-nesters. When my hubby goes on golf trips they make me feel so much more secure. Due to allergies we don't have cats and eventually we will go to a breed that doesn't shed much, like a poodle mix. If I had my way and we lived on the land, we would definitely have more but with the cost of vets visits and boarding when we travel, one or two work for me.

Have a wonderful day.

Noreen

Children are a gift from the Lord.
Our precious granddaughter, Alaina.
Photo courtesy of Carrie @ Our Journey 11/09

Joy

This photo was taken 24 hours after our daughter gave birth to Alaina. The whole family is so excited to have a new bundle of joy in their midst.

Grandpa with his newest granddaughter. He is smitten with her.

Nana, big sis Olivia and little Alaina. True joy comes from the blessings the Lord gives and this little one is our Thanksgiving blessing. I'm hoping to get better photos of her this coming week.

Our Thanksgiving

As most of you know, I was frantically working on the finishing touches of a quilt for our newest granddaughter-hoping I could finish it before her arrival. Thankfully by the time I was ready for bed Wednesday night I had finished it-yippee! I've been told that the color looks pink and black but it is actually pink and brown. The back, although hard to see if this photo, is a Beatrix Potter print that my daughter spotted and loved.
Well we also had the best Thanksgiving blessing yesterday-our little Alaina was born in the afternoon. We had been on call since the middle of the night and knew that she would arrive before dinner time. Momma and baby are doing well and should be released from the hospital this afternoon. All four siblings were ecstatic when viewing photos of their baby sister. Due to H1N1, children are no longer permitted at our local hospitals but they seemed content to spend the day playing at Nana and Grandpa's house. I know the next few weeks will be a time of adjustment for all the family and I plan to be there to lend a hand(holding baby of course) whenever I can. Although I don't have any photos of her yet, you can be sure there will be some by this weekend. Our daughter makes giving birth look easy and the photos that I did see make her look radiant(what new mother isn't?)and rested-like she went away for a retreat. Now craziness will begin as everyone settles in.

Harvest blessings to you today! We are busy getting our home cleaned, dishes prepared and all the while waiting for the phone call that asks us to please come over so our girl can get to the hospital. I'm still working on the finishing touches on the quilt~I've got half of the binding still to tack down and then I'll sign it and takes photos. I never thought I'd get it all done by the time she was born-Hallelujah!
We, in America, have so much to be thankful about-wouldn't you agree!
To all those, past and present, who serve us in the Armed Forces I want to thank you for the great sacrifice you continually make on our behalf. For those who've lost loved ones serving our nation-thank you! I wish I could give you a big hug! To our forefathers for obtaining our freedom here in the U.S. I am grateful. For those men and women of faith that sacrificed their lives to speak the Truth, I am so thankful. For those still preaching the Truth, here and abroad, risking their lives for the sake of the Gospel I thank you. For the Lord's plan of salvation for each and every person, I Praise You Lord. For the atoning blood of the Lamb, I thank you Father.
This Thanksgiving may your heart be drawn closer to the Lord and may you see with new eyes all you have to be thankful for.

Thanksgiving Blessings to you and yours,
Noreen

Tuesday blessings to you dear friends. I wanted to share that last night I finally finished all the hand quilting and today will make the binding and get that on tonight. Once it is done, I will post photos of it~I can't believe the finished size is much bigger than a typical baby quilt-60"x60" but it will be a good play quilt as well and last while she grows. There is no news on the baby yet-any day now, whenever the Lord appoints her to be born.
I was off line yesterday after reading about Canada's new law concerning adoptions from Uganda. You can read about it at Linny's blog:
http://aplacecalledsimplicity.blogspot.com/

May you be blessed today as you seek our Savior and experience His love and grace in your lives.
Hugs, Noreen

Dear Friends~ Although we have no baby news yet, I am frantically working on the quilt to finish it by the time she arrives. There have been many hours hand stitching and I've still got a bit to do.
Once it is finished I will be able to spend more time online, posting and visiting all your blogs.
Have a wonderful Christ filled weekend!

In His Arms, Noreen

It is hard to believe that next Thursday is Thanksgiving Day-has this month flown by or what!
So today I am thankful for another day to worship my Lord. I am thankful for His word and the promises in it. I am thankful for His hand of protection amidst uncertain circumstances.
I mentioned last week I had been meditating on Ps. 91 and these are a few of the verses I looked at today.
"You will not be afraid of the terror by night or of the arrow that flies by day."-verse 5
"For I(you) have made the Lord my refuge, Even the Most High my dwelling place,
No evil will befall you, nor any plague come near your tent"-verse 9
I love this one-"For He will give His angels charge concerning you,
To guard you in all your ways."-verse 11
"Because he has loved Me, therefore I will deliver him,
I will set him securely on high because he has known My name." verse 14

I am thankful for our beautiful weather-crisp cool days with snow still blanketing the ground.
I have so many blessings around me-I'm thankful for each and every one of them.
I am thankful that in the next few days or week we will have another wee granddaughter join our family. What joy the Father gives!

Blessings to you this day.
Noreen

New England

One of my very favorite places to visit is New England. Although hubby and I have only been there twice we fell in love with the beauty of the different states and the quaint towns. Our second visit was in celebration of our 25th wedding anniversary and we even spent time at Booth Bay in Maine. Being lovers of the ocean, we especially loved the small villages along Maine's coast. We would both love to get back there within the next couple of years and spend several weeks exploring.
Today I am thankful for memories; thankful for trips taken around our great country and seeing sights new to us. I am thankful for a Creator who gives us such incredible vistas. I am thankful for each and every season, in nature and in life.
What are you thankful for today?

It's a new week filled with so many possibilities and blessings in our Lord; all we have to do is have open hands held up to Him. Yesterday I had breakfast with a young woman who was one of the first people I met before we moved here. This young gal is in her 20's and has such a heart for orphans, especially in Haiti. I haven't seen her in almost a year and as we visited she showed me photos of her latest trip to Haiti.
She stayed with a lady named Danita and Annie told so many heartwarming and heart-wrenching stories as she showed us the photos. This orphanage is not associated with any other large organization but is existing on the Lord's provision. Hearing these stories and gazing upon the photos of the children made me look towards years past wishing I could have joined a team ministering to the children. If you want to be challenged today, go check out this website and seek the Lord for direction on how you might give aid.
http://www.danitaschildren.org/

Today I am especially thankful for the different seasons of life and all that the Lord intends for each season. I am thankful for a young woman named Annie who openly shares her passion for orphans and draws others to them as well. I am thankful for women and men who give up everything to minister to children, to bring life physically as well as spiritually to a hungry world.
I am thankful for lots of snow this last weekend and the warmth of sunshine that brought beauty to the pristine white. I am thankful, once again, that the Lord wastes nothing but redeems everything.
Hugs, Noreen

Happy Friday

Hello dear friends-I'm wishing you abundant blessings this weekend. We are expecting snow tonight and today is dreary and cold. Just the perfect kind of day to stay inside; you know those types of days when you just wear a warm up suit or something cozy and warm and don't do much on anything. I've been fighting a stuffy nose, something that has been hanging around in our family so don't want to spread any new germs around. I'm hoping to pin the baby quilt today so I can start hand quilting it, for before you know it the little lass will arrive and this nana wants it finished by her birth.
I am so thankful for this day, this life. Even when I don't feel quite up to par, I am thankful it is something that will pass before too long. I am thankful to be blessed with an incredible family and two faithful dogs. I am thankful that our oldest dog's eye is looking better today after I applied medicine to it and put a halo collar on him. Four years ago he had to have eye surgery and the thought of going through it again wasn't pleasant. I am thankful that in Sonoma County we had a Eye Specialist for Dogs and that the original procedure was relatively easy and not as expensive as having a vet do it. I am thankful that we still had some of the ointment that I could apply. I am thankful for this little old dog, his loyal spirit and the fact that my sis loved him so much. I am thankful for memories of her that floated through my mind yesterday-oh how I miss her. I am thankful that I know with complete assurance that I will see her in glory.
I am thankful that our Father never gives us more than we can handle; even if we seem to think He does-He never leaves us or forsakes us. I am thankful that He is my hiding place, that I find shelter under His pinions. I am thankful that His love is perfect and holy and that it is always unconditional. I am thankful that I am a work in progress-far from finished.

Enjoy His blessings today and this weekend.
Noreen

Happy Veteran's Day to one and all!

To those who have so valiantly served our country and to those who are currently serving I salute you and say thanks for your great sacrifice.

May our Lord surround you and protect you and yours.

Tuesday's Treasures

He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High
Will abide in the shadow of the Almighty
I will say to the Lord, "My refuge and my fortress
My God in Whom I trust!"
For it is He who delivers you from the snare of the trapper,
And from deadly pestilence.
He will cover you with His pinions,
And under His wings you may seek refuge.
His faithfulness is a shield and bulwark. Psalm 91:1-4

This is what I'm thankful for today~that I can dwell in His shelter, abide in the shadow of the Almighty, trust in the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress, He delivers me from the snare of the trapper and from deadly disease.
I especially love this part-He will cover me with His pinions, and I will seek refuge under His wings; His faithfulness is my shield.

This day take in these verses and make them your own-no matter what your circumstances-they are truth for all of us today.
Blessings, Noreen

This new day I am thankful to be alive and to personally know my Creator.
I am thankful for the variety of colors, designs and shapes that graced our sky on Saturday evening.
I am thankful for a very artistic and talented hubby who sees beauty in the world around us.
I am thankful for the blessing of seeing my hubby's photo on Denver's 10:00 news.
I am thankful for the Rocky Mountains and the ability to see them from where we live.
I am thankful to my Lord, the maker of the heavens and earth, Who bestows on each of us different talents, abilities and gifts. I am thankful that He never compares us to another and loves us unconditionally.
I am thankful for prayer warriors who take up the fight with me for those I love and for those in the world around us.
I am thankful for God's word and the fact that it never returns void without accomplishing that which the Father desires.
I am thankful for those who read the humble ramblings of this woman and cheer me on regardless of what I share.
Hugs to you this day!!!
Noreen

Weekend blessings dear friends! There is just so many things to be thankful for each and every day and I can testify that the more you are grateful the more you find to be grateful about.

Today I am thankful for the blood of Jesus that cleanses us from sin. I am thankful we see His hand around us in the world.
I am thankful for christian radio stations that are able to broadcast inspiring music for us to enjoy.
I am thankful for the freedoms we have to listen to these radio stations.
I am thankful that the Lord gifts each of us differently and uses those talents(if we let Him)for His glory.
I am thankful that songs still move and grip my heart.
I am thankful for geese flying overhead during the night, honking.
I am thankful that we saw two bull elks fighting and locking their racks the other day.
I am thankful for wild life.
I am thankful that the Lord never gives us to much too handle; He may take us to the edge but never lets us fall.
I am thankful for new Christians and those sisters and brothers who lead others to Christ.
I am thankful for the bond I share with so many incredible sisters in the Lord.

Every time I hear the song below I sing out loud and lift my arms to the Lord-so I am hoping that the words grip your heart today.

Motions by Matthew West
This might hurt, it's not safe
But I know that I've gotta make a change
I don't care if I break,
At least I'll be feeling something
'Cause just okay is not enough
Help me fight through the nothingness of life

I don't wanna go through the motions
I don't wanna go one more day
without Your all consuming passion inside of me
I don't wanna spend my whole life asking,
"What if I had given everything,
instead of going through the motions?"

No regrets, not this time
I'm gonna let my heart defeat my mind
Let Your love make me whole
I think I'm finally feeling something
'Cause just okay is not enough
Help me fight through the nothingness of this life

'Cause I don't wanna go through the motions
I don't wanna go one more day
without Your all consuming passion inside of me
I don't wanna spend my whole life asking,
"What if I had given everything,
instead of going through the motions?"

take me all the way (take me all the way)
take me all the way ('cause I don't wanna go through the motions)
take me all the way (I know I'm finally feeling something real)
take me all the way

I don't wanna go through the motions
I don't wanna go one more day
without Your all consuming passion inside of me
I don't wanna spend my whole life asking,
"What if I had given everything,
instead of going through the motions?"

I don't wanna go through the motions
I don't wanna go one more day
without Your all consuming passion inside of me
I don't wanna spend my whole life asking,
"What if I had given everything,
instead of going through the motions?"

Hugs, Noreen

Friday Fun

Today I am thankful for the body of Christ that can unite three ladies~who are wives, moms and grandmothers and how we have so much in common. I met my blogging buddies at a local christian art gallery thus getting to share some of my favorite works of art and then we went to lunch. Photo-left Pam of http://smilinggrammy.blogspot.com/ and on my right is Marlene from http://barefootsoul.blogspot.com/; Marlene and I met this summer and this was the first time I met Pam. What wonderful women they are and we have so much in common-it never ceases to amaze me how the Lord can bring us together with others. They live down the road a bit so our visits aren't too often, especially now with winter upon us, but I know these gals and I will become the best of friends. We are also able to share prayer needs and encourage each other-what more could you want?

What ever you are doing today, enjoy all that the Lord has given you.
Hugs, Noreen

Thankful Thursday

Today we got to do one of my favorite activities-heading to the high country. Our closest friends, Rick and Barbara, suggested this trip because it was Rick's birthday.

Spending time out in nature puts a song in my heart and it was a beautiful day for hiking.

Overlooking the Big Thompson river....so beautiful!

I have so much fun with Barbara and we are perfectly matched with walking, which is unusual for me to find a friend who I can keep up with.

Hubby and I...the first of many hikes we hope to take in RMNP.

Although we haven't been neighbors and friends for long, it feels like we've known eachother forever.

Last Saturday our youngest daughter hosted a baby shower for her big sis. Daughter C above checking our an adorable outfit. After having two daughters, our oldest was in need of more baby clothes and did the Lord provide.

Our youngest put on such a nice ladies tea party and shower for her sister. Several ladies from church brought some goodies but most of the work fell on my girl. Being pregnant with three little ones at home, homeschooling and fitting in doctors appts. for our Peanut made life a bit crazy last week but she did an incredible job. Here she is above holding her youngest, D. I love having two daughters that are so close yet such totally different woman; it is such a blessing. They are always there for one another.

What's a baby shower without a nana in attendance?

Today I'm thankful for:
~two incredible daughters, their hubby's and all our grandchildren. I know I get a bit like a broken record about this but it is one of life's greatest blessings.

~I'm thankful for french toast with real Maple syrup and turkey bacon.

~I'm thankful for sunshine to warm our days.

~I'm thankful for our last pastor in California, the way he shepherded his flock and his great love for the community of believers. Haven't yet found another gem quite like him.

~I'm thankful that we live in a state that has Whole Foods and other health food stores and the availability to get alternatives for Peanut's new diet.

~I'm thankful for living in a time where we can buy "gluetin free" foods, non-dairy foods and other essentials to help our little Peanut grow. I'm thankful for the unknown websites out there, the ability to find them, to help with special diets and menu planning.

~I'm thankful that I have free hours in my day to lend a hand in any way possible, be it childcare or menu planning.

~I'm thankful that I have an Abba Father who knows just where I am and how to meet our deepest needs.

~I'm thankful that with the Lord, nothing is ever wasted and all things are redeemed.

Blessings on your Wednesday.

Noreen

Tuesday's Treasures

This morning, bright and early, I joined my dear friend and went for a walk. Oh what a gorgeous morning~the Rockies are snow capped and the air was brisk but the sun was shining and it feels good to be alive!
Today I'm thankful for~
~my dear friend who is battling liver cancer; each moment spent with her is a gift and I cherish the growing bond we share.
~for the promise of eternal life and for God's word that bring comfort and cheer despite lifes circumstances.
~for His creation and having eyes to behold it.
~for being retired and able to go for long walks, spend time with loved ones and watch our grandbabies grow.
~for the sweetest man in the universe and his love for me.
~for two old, loyal dogs who enrich my life so much.
~for answered prayers, too many to list but especially for the progress we are seeing with our Peanut.
~for doctor's who specialize in treating their patients with natural and holistic treatments and just not turning to drugs.
~for those times when prescription drugs are needed and the availability to get them.
~for fellowship with friends.
~for all my dear bloggy friends and the close ties that bind us through the internet.
~for living in a time such as this.

To each of you I send a big hug today. May you be blessed and enjoy the life you have been given. Hugs, Noreen

November Blessings

Greetings to you this first Monday in November. It is hard to believe we are entering a new month and that here in Colorado winter is already upon us. Before we now it the New Year will be upon us as well. Many of us are wondering where the days have gone.
When our girls were young I made it a tradition to focus on thankfulness as we got closer to Thanksgiving. We often talked about the many blessings we had in the Lord and would write down blessings on construction paper leaves. It helps children to look beyond the here and now and focus instead on the riches we have in Christ.
This year, as I've done since moving here, I am continuing to adopt an attitude of gratitude daily. God's word tell us to give thanks in all things~not just the blessings. So each day I am going to post at least one thing I am thankful for. I can testify that the more you give thanks for the little things as well as big things your whole perspective changes.
Today I am thankful for the beauty of the Lord's creation; for this winter sky filled with beautiful colors. We live in such a rich natural area so it is easy for me to give thanks for all I see from His hand. I know I would be challenged if I lived in a big city, like Denver, to find things to thank Him for but I would still find something. I well remember the season of my sister's battle with cancer and those last months; it was a hard path to walk but I tried to give thanks for each hour and day she was with us. Even during the final days there was always one thing to be grateful for, even at the end knowing she was with the Lord and not suffering.
So this month, won't you join me in purposely focusing and sharing about all the blessings in your life? It is amazing what the Lord does with our gratitude and how He multiplies it.
Hugs to you today.
Noreen

Burrr

Yesterday morning, approximately 12 hours after it started to snow.

This morning, after a day and a half of snowing; the drifts are piled high in our back yard and it is colder and windier than yesterday. It is supposed to keep snowing for most of the day and I believe most of the schools in Colorado are closed. Tonight we are supposed to have both families over to celebrate our two sil's birthdays(tomorrow)but we may have to postpone our get together~time will tell. Wherever you are and whatever weather you're experiencing today enjoy it.