Providence 365 - Week 52

Luke 2:10-16
And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
I love hearing the story of Baby Jesus from the book of Luke. And it doesn’t matter if I hear it during worship, during a children’s Christmas program…or when Linus shares the Word during Charlie Browns Christmas – it is a story that never gets old, brings a smile to my face and warms my heart.

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

As we bring Providence 365 to a close, I pray that you have been blessed through our year long journey. Barbara (Precepts and Promises) and I (Pam of by the Shore designs) have enjoyed sharing His word and pray that you have found words for reflection that have been timely and inspiration for your scrapbooking layouts using our word-art.

Please take a moment to share with us in the forum at Faith Sisters how our Providence 365 journey impacted you. Thank you for joining us in 2011. Please make sure to visit us on our blogs for more inspiration in 2012 – God Bless and give Glory to God in the Highest!.

(Click on the image above or here for your word art for week 52)

AND.....MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Providence 365 - Week 48

For those in the United States, I pray that you each had a blessed Thanksgiving, surrounded by family, friends and loved ones.

It is hard to believe that it is week 48 of our 52 week journey through Providence 365. I have personally been blessed to be able to work with Barbara and share with you His words of inspiration.

Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Romans 12:12

To be joyful, patient and faithful – these three words represent completely different actions – yet in this verse they are strongly intertwined. When we rejoice in hope, we are waiting confidently for an expected outcome. When we rejoice in hope, we are better able to be patient, sit quietly and wait when times of tribulation occur. And during these difficult times we need to pray without ceasing more than ever.

Where do you find hope? How has hope helped you through those rough spots? And are you faithful in your prayer life?

In addition to Romans 12:12, here are a few more verses to reflect on:
Philippians 4:!9
Hebrews 11:1

Here is wordart I have created for this week’s Providence 365.

Barbara and I love to see the layouts you create with the Providence 365 wordart. Be sure to post it in our Faith Sisters Providence 365 Gallery and share with us in the Providence 365 forum - here


As I close this week’s Providence 365, I have a special prayer request for a young boy named Peter. Prayer is so powerful. Peter is fighting a strong battle against a few known illnesses and a few yet to be identified. While he has seen a couple of upswings in the last 2 weeks – his current condition is one that has his doctors and family very concerned. Please lift Peter and his family in prayer. His Mom shared a message today on his ‘Care Page’ that brought me to tears. Despite his health conditions, she puts her faith in our Lord and knows that Peter is not alone and is in His loving arms. She had prayed early on that regardless of what his little body was fighting on the outside, that he would not be alone and would find comfort and joy on the inside. She knows that this is the case and this brings her hope. Thank you for lifting this lil guy in prayer.

Providence 365 - Week 46

GIVE THANKS

Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. (Colossians 4:2)

Begin each day in prayer. End each day in prayer. And in between…well…...pray. We have so much to be thankful for – and I GIVE THANKS each day through prayer.

One of my annual traditions is to share with others all of the blessings that I am thankful for. I personally do this on my ‘facebook’ page and I have several friends and family members that do the same. As I prepare each days post, it reminds me how blessed I am and how much I truly have to be thankful for. As I reread my posts and read the posts of others, I am often struck by how much I take for granted in life and how much I truly have to be thankful for.

At the end of this message are my personal “Giving Thanks” posts that I have shared on facebook so far this November. I encourage you to share with others your own blessings. You can do this through a social media like facebook, your personal blog or simply telling a friend or loved one. As you share, I pray that you too will realize just how blessed you are.

At the end of the month, I plan on creating and framing a layout with the full collection of each of my daily “Giving Thanks” facebook posts ~ something that I can keep in a prominent place in my home as a constant reminder of my own blessings.

Here is a link to this week’s download for our Providence 365 challenge.

As the year starts coming to a close, I encourage you to make sure you have downloaded all of the previous week’s gifts that Barbara and I have created for you. Shortly after the new year, they will no longer be available, and we want to make sure that you – our faithful Providence 365 friends – have had the opportunity to obtain these lovely pieces of wordart.

As always, be sure to share your Providence 365 layout in our gallery and in our Providence 365 forum.

Till Next Week…..may you be blessed beyond measure.


(My 'Giving Thanks' Facebook Posts – Day 1-13)

Beginning our traditional 30 days of Thanksgiving. I am thankful for a loving God. And on that, I could go on and on....but that pretty much says it all.

Giving thanks. Day 2. A loving and supportive husband. Blessed we are together. AMLFAA

Giving Thanks - Day 3. I am thankful for two loving parents. Love you bunches Mom and Dad - you helped mold me into who I am today - you model love, compassion, hard work, dedication, strong morals and values and so much more - in everything you say and do.


Giving Thanks - Day 4. Shannon , while not our first child, you are my first born and I love you bunches and bunches. You continue to mature into a beautiful young lady, thoughtful, loving and caring, compassionate, talented, strong in your faith and....(wait for it) sassy. And I love every one of your traits as they help define who you are. You are my Koala Lou, I have always loved you and always will.

Giving thanks – Day 5...I thank God daily for the blessing of Georgie. She has taught me so much about life and unconditional love. You are my little nutbrown hare...love you to the moon and back.

Giving Thanks – Day 6 ~ I am thankful for three awesome older children. I have been blessed by each of you in countless ways throughout the years. Sarah, Jessica, and Chris ~ I love you more than you will know.

Giving Thanks, Day 7 ~ Giving thanks for a warm home and a roof over my head. Recognizing that not everyone in the world, this country, this state and even this city has this blessing. It is one I do not take for granted.

Giving Thanks ~ Day 8 - Thankful for a full tummy. We are blessed to have healthy foods to nourish our bodies, keeping us strong and healthy. We have not experienced true hunger like so many around the community and world. Thankful that we are also able to share this blessing with those in need.

Giving Thanks ~ Day 9 ~ I am thankful for water....for cool refreshing drinks, for its use in creating warm cups of coffee and tea, for hydrating my body, for the flowers and plants that thrive and grow, for bathing, for the powerful ocean that brings me joy, for a gentle stream that brings peace...but first and foremost for the waters of baptism, that washed my sins away.

Giving Thanks ~ Day 10 I am thankful for things that move. Reliable cars that get us to and from school, work and other destinations; planes that deliver us safely to visit family and friends; lawnmowers that keep our (sometimes) green grass neat and trim; and even my own body that moves each morning out of bed to begin another glorious day.

Giving Thanks ~ Day 11. I am thankful for freedom, a gift that we should each embrace but that we sadly sometimes take for granted. Thankful for the men and women that serve now; veterans that have served in the past; those that gave their lives while protecting my freedom and for all of their families. God Bless You!

Giving Thanks ~ Day 12 - I am thankful for opportunities for individuals that have different abilities. As we head off to our Special Olympics State Bowling Competition, I am reminded how special each one of us is, how can we not be, He created us! Georgie, you are going to do great today (and the best part is, she is an awesome bowler, needs no accommodations, and she can totally kick it with her 'typical' peers)

Giving Thanks – Day 13 ~ I am thankful for technology. While at times, it can be a ‘touch’ impersonal, it allows me to stay connected with friends and family; to gather and share information; provide support to others and it provides entertainment. Technology can often make life easier, simpler and richer. Praying for a healthy balance of technology and ‘real life’ .

Providence 365-week 44 TIME TO SERVE

TIME TO SERVE

“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ Matthew 25:40

Yesterday, my 10 year old daughter participated in our regional Special Olympics competition in bowling. Another amazing experience for our family. The event always begins in prayer and I cannot think of a better way to start. All of the athletes had a wonderful time and their positive spirit resonated throughout the bowling alley. What really struck me yesterday were the volunteers. They were out in full force – all to help make this experience the very best it could be for the athletes.

Where do you serve? Where would you like to volunteer? Where is the greatest need? We often serve in our church, but there are so many more opportunities in each of our greater communities. Reach out to all of our brothers and sisters, lend a helping hand. Perhaps in a soup kitchen, in a school, a homeless shelter for families, a food pantry, Special Olympics….His children need us.

This week, reflect on where you serve or where there may be a need in your community that you have not considered before.

Here is word-art to get you started on this week’s layout.

Barbara and I look forward to seeing your layouts in the Providence 365 gallery and here in the forum. Oh, and my daughter earned a Silver Medal. We move onto State Competitions in two weeks!

Providence 365-Week 42

I thank my God every time I remember you. Phil 1:3

Last weekend, Barbara of Precepts and Promises and I had the unique opportunity to meet “in real life”. We attended a conference with over 75 digital scrapbookers from around the country. What a blessing it was to spend time together with my Providence 365 friend.

During the conference, we heard a quote that really put in perspective why many of us scrapbook.

“We write to taste life twice, in the moment and in retrospect.” ― Anaïs Nin

What does it mean to “remember”? Recall, reminisce, ‘think of’, ‘bring to mind’ are just a few of the words and phrases that we use to define remember.

We “recall” events and occasions. We “reminisce” about people we have met in the past that have made an impact on our lives. We “think of” people that are in our life today that are important to us. Certain situations “bring to mind” special memories from the past. And we thank God when we remember.

When we scrapbook, we sometimes let our pictures do the talking (a picture is worth a thousand words). More often than not, we journal our thoughts – documenting details and sharing feelings and emotions. And as we journal ~ we taste life twice.

Here is your challenge this week. Why do YOU scrapbook? What do you scrapbook? Who do you scrapbook about? Who enjoys your scrapbooks? (And do you actually get those layouts printed out or posted on a blog so that your loved ones can enjoy them too)


Here is word art to use on your layout.

I look forward to seeing your layout about this week’s challenge. Please post your layout in our Providence 365 gallery and share it with us in the forum at Faith Sisters.

Have a blessed week. (and by the way, Barbara is just as sweet in real life as I thought she would be)

Providence 365-Week 40

Welcome to week 40 of Providence 365.

What a gift it is to be able to journey with you through 2011 – seeking His providence, reading His word and spending time in prayer and reflection. This week, as I spent time choosing a verse for week 40 – I kept coming back to the book of Galatians, specifically chapter 5, verse 22. Then I would wander elsewhere in the bible thinking that perhaps there was another verse ‘more worthy’ for reflection this week – nope – He kept leading me back to Galatians 5:22. I read it in a daily devotion. I saw it posted on facebook. It jumped out at me from a book I was reading. And I overheard our older students discussing it this morning during Sunday School. Sometimes it takes a thunk on the head for me to listen.

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.”

We are blessed with a fresh attitude towards life and towards each other. He is the Vine and we are the branches and from the branches are the fruit that we bear. We cannot bear fruit if we are detached from the vine. We are lifeless. But when we are in a firm relationship with Jesus, with God, when we open our hearts and let the Holy Spirit in, we are blessed with the fruit of the Spirit. Our attitudes – our fruits are abundant.

What fruits are apparent in your life? What fruits may need nurturing?

Here is a bit of word-art for this week’s challenge

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Please share with us your layout in the Providence 365 Forum at Faith Sisters – here.

I want to leave you with some ADDITIONAL FOOD FOR THOUGHT. The book I was reading this morning as I was preparing for this post referenced a quote by D.L. Moody –

“Out of 100 men, one will read the Bible, the other 99 will read the Christian”

This really stuck with me. I kept reading my devotion, but I also keep paging back to reflect on that quote. When others are “reading” me – do they see a Christian? I am displaying all of the fruits of the Spirit detailed in Galatians 5:22? Do others “see” Jesus exemplified in what I do and say? What about you?

Have a blessed week.

Providence 365- Week 38

Welcome to week 38 of Providence 365. It is hard to believe that we are almost 3/4 of the way through the year.

Barbara and I have been so blessed that you have joined us on this journey. You have shared of yourselves and given us a glimpse into your lives. Thank you!

This week, I want you to reach over and pick up His Word. What is your favorite Bible? What special meaning does this bible have to you? Was it presented to you as a child, or by a good friend? Do you have a favorite version?

We have several Bibles here in our home. I have the one given to me as a 1st grader in our church in Massachusetts. I have one that belonged to my great Grandfather who was (I believe) a Methodist minister. We have versions in Spanish, babies Bibles, toddler's Bibles, children's Bible....you get the idea. His Word is in every room of our house. My personal favorite is an NIV Bible for Moms - with inspirational tidbits for reflection. This one in particular was given to me by my precious daughters.

What is your favorite Bible verse? Do you highlight special passages? Do you use the pages to protect special documents? Is your family history and lineage documented within this Bible?

Share with us what makes this Bible special (we know His Word is AWESOME)

Here is wordart to help you get started....here

When you have completed your layout, please post it in the Providence 365 gallery at Faith Sisters and share that link in the forum - here.

Till next week ~ stay in His Word and in His loving arms.

Providence 365 - Week 36

We are blessed!


May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. 2 Cor 13:14


We are never alone. The bible reminds of us this – again and again. 2 Corinthians 13:14 reminds us that we are surrounded by His GRACE, His LOVE and His FELLOWSHIP. Take a peek at the following definitions. They help provide a bit of clarity as to the incredible relationship we have with our Father.


Definition of GRACE (excerpt)
1a : unmerited divine assistance given humans for their regeneration or sanctification b : a virtue coming from God c : a state of sanctification enjoyed through divine grace
2a : approval, favor


Definition of LOVE (excerpt)
1a (1) : strong affection for another arising out of kinship or personal ties


Definition of FELLOWSHIP (excerpt)
1: companionship, company
2a : community of interest, activity, feeling, or experience b : the state of being a fellow or associate
3: a company of equals or friends


As we go through each day, regardless of the challenges that present themselves – we are assured He is with us; He favors us; He has strong feelings for us; and He walks with us.



Life is Good! And God is Great.


I encourage you to spend some time focusing on this verse and document how His grace, His Love or His fellowship are central in your life. Here is wordart to help you.



Barbara and I love to see your layouts in the Providence 365 Gallery and here in the forum. We are blessed that you share a piece of your life and your own testimonies with us. If you have just recently discovered Providence 365, please know that you can go back to previous weeks and discover additional verses (and wordart) for personal reflection on and to help you document YOUR story.

Have a blessed week!

Providence 365- week 34

Welcome to week 34 of Providence 365. Here in Colorado, the sun is shining and we’re looking forward to another beautiful day in the Lord.


Today’s bible verse is a favorite of mine. WHATEVER!


Philippians 4:8
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.


My first thought when I hear WHATEVER is when I hear it mumbled by a sassy teen. Deep down, I know that it means, “I know you’re right Mom, but I need to express a little independence”


WHATEVER!
In the “urban dictionary” – the definition is as follows: used in an argument to admit that you are wrong without admitting it so the argument is over. (my sassy teen)


WHATEVER!
In a more traditional dictionary, it mean: ‘anything or everything that’ or ‘no matter what’ (our focus today)


Look at the last line of Philippians 4:8 – THINK ABOUT SUCH THINGS. The bible instructs use where our thoughts should be – no matter what.


Do you ever have those days where things are not going quite right? Or those days where you are anxious – about everything? What about times where you are struggling with a personal decision or choice? We can get buried in our own negative thoughts. And our own negative thoughts contribute to our confusion, anxiety and sadness. However, when we focus on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent and praiseworthy –our thoughts become positive, uplifting and godly. WHATEVER!


This week – when your thoughts are buried – read this verse – and think about WHATEVER! It’s amazing what a shift in focus can do. We would love to see a layout using WHATEVER….whatever you care to share.


Here is wordart to get you started. Post your layout in the Providence 365 layout here at Faith Sisters and let us know here in the forum.

On another note, I have a personal request for all prayer warriors. I have a very special friend whose young baby is back in the hospital. The doctors have yet to identify what is wrong. Please lift baby G in prayer – for his personal health (and for strength and peace for his family). Thank You!

Till next week! May your week be blessed - WHATEVER!

Providence 365-Week 32

Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever. Psalm 107:1

Too often during the course of the day, we take for granted all of the blessings we have. But we should give thanks – our Lord is good! He loves us and He has blessed us beyond measure.

The challenge this week is to look around you, and try to identify as many blessings as you can. Create a layout (either in words or pictorial) of each of these blessings…. the more the better!

Here are a few I will be using on my own layout – perhaps these will provide you with inspiration as you identify your own blessings.

Dave, Shannon, Georgie, Mom, Dad, home, food, water, freedom to worship, heat, air conditioning, vehicles, employment, refrigerator, stove, education, free will, (get the idea…..?)

Here is a link to word art to help you with this challenge. Click >>>>; HERE
And as you work on this weeks’ challenge – give THANKS TO OUR LORD! Keep your completed layout handy and use it a reminder of just how blessed we are. (You may also consider creating this ‘layout’ as a printable file that can be matted and framed and proudly displayed for a gentle visual reminder of all the things you are thankful for) When you are done – please upload your layout in the Providence 365 Gallery at Faith Sisters and share the link with us. I cannot wait to see how many blessings you can identify! (I know my blessings are never ending….)

Wishing you a fantabulous week as you uncover hidden blessings!

Providence 365-Week 30

Yet you, LORD, are our Father.
We are the clay, you are the potter;
we are all the work of your hand.
Isaiah 64:8 (NIV)

If you have ever worked with clay – you know that it can be a slow process to create that perfect pot. It takes patience and care and cannot be rushed.


I am clay and our good Lord is the potter. Isn’t this a comforting thought? I am the work of His hand. I am always growing, always changing - He is not done with me. He has patience with me. He guides me. His hands are constantly on me. He molds me not only on the outside but on the inside too. I’m not finished. He never gives up on me – He sits at that potter’s wheel as He patiently molds me. When I am weak, he builds me up to make me stronger. If I start leaning, He holds me up. I am sometimes hard on myself when I make a mistake and cannot get past the scar that is left. What I need to remember is that I am forgiven - His tender touch smooths out that blemish and allows me to grow. He never walks away from that wheel. I am His and He is not done with me. And for that I am thankful.


Do I make mistakes? Absolutely. Does He? Never! He has a plan for me and while I do not know that plan – I have confidence that He knows exactly what this pot will be when I am complete. I make mistakes, and He forgives me and still loves me. I head down a wrong path – and He redirects my steps. He is still molding me – He is not finished with me. I can imagine him smiling as I become the person He knows I will be.


This week, I encourage you to reflect on how He has been molding you….


Here is a bit of word art to help you with your layout this week.



Please make sure to post your layout in our Providence 365 gallery at Faith Sisters – and head on over the the Providence 365 thread in the Faith Sister Forum (here) and share the link. I can’t wait to see what you create. (And can you believe we are at week 30 – already!) Have a blessed week!

Providence 365 -Week 28

What’s in your stick bag?

Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. 1 Peter 4:10

Friday and Saturday, I sat in a concert hall and listened to incredible performances, presented by awesome and talented young musicians. Each musician had a part to play, a gift to share. I sat in awe as I watched a talented percussionist play the xylophone & marimba (and other instruments) with such passion and joy.

We each have gifts and are to use those gifts to serve. Notice the “s” on gifts. Yes, we have more than one – and not everyone was blessed with the same set of gifts. Can you imagine if the musicians in the orchestras and ensembles I listened to all played the same instrument and played the exact same score, same notes, same octaves. While I have no doubt the music would have been lovely, it would have quickly become old. The musical value would diminish over time.
The percussionist I mentioned is my daughter. I was literally moved to tears when it hit me how far she has come with her gift. When she opens her stick bag – it is filled with many mallets, sticks and other items that allow her to play a variety of instruments. I look at them and to the untrained eye (mine) they all look the same. Yet she knows that each one has a different and specific purpose and can be used to make beautiful music for others to enjoy.

She has many gifts. In addition to being a talented musician, she has already shown she can be a leader, a teacher, a compassionate caregiver and so much more. What a blessing to watch her grow and mature – to watch her unwrap new gifts ~ adding those to her own personal “stickbag” each day. She is learning when and how to use those gifts and is already starting to use them to serve others.

We each have a part to play in life’s orchestra. Each part is different yet played together, we make beautiful music. What gifts are in your stick bag? Do you know how to use them and what to use them for? What gifts are waiting for you to unwrap? And will you use them to serve others?

Here is my gift for you today - an overlay for your 12x12 layout. Use your “digi” gifts to create a layout showcasing your own gifts – or those of someone you love. (try reducing the opacity or even change the color to make this overlay perfect for your unique layout.)

You may download it here >>>>> here






We started the Providence 365 journey at the start of this calendar year. Each week Barbara (of Precepts and Promises) provide you with a prompt and a “gift” for you to create layouts to help you see and document God’s Providence in your own life. It is never too late to start. Each week thus far can be found in the Providence 365 forum at Faith Sisters >>>>> here.

Wishing you a blessed week.

Week 26 - Providence 365

It has been a blessed few weeks since I shared week 24 of Providence 365. And these two weeks have been filled with God’s Love!

Vacation Bible School was, once again, an incredible experience. We had over 420 children registered to attend and were blessed with over 150 volunteers. The church campus was filled with laughter, smiles, lots of hugs and of course, God’s Love.

My husband and I celebrated our 19th Wedding Anniversary last Monday. Our daughter surprised us by making dinner reservations for the two of us at a local inn (one which we had never visited before) The meal was incredible and the time spent with my husband was priceless. And we were surrounded by God’s Love.

Saturday – June 25th – is Jesus’ Half Birthday. A wonderful time to share God’s Love with everyone we meet. (OK - we know that it is ALWAYS a wonderful time to share God's Love.)

And each day we awake and see the signs of God’s Love in the beauty around us – a fluttering butterfly reminds us of our new life in Jesus Christ – watching a Doe care for her young fawn – a smile and a hug from a child – His love surrounds us.

In 1 John 4:8 we are reminded that….

Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love

This week – open your eyes and realize that God’s Love is EVERYWHERE. As you work on your layout for Providence 365 – look for His love in places that you may not have seen before. You will be amazed that His love surrounds us – God IS love.

Be sure to post your layout in our Providence 365 Gallery at Faith Sisters and share it with us in our Providence 365 Forum - here.

Here is word-art to help you with your layout. Have fun…and God Bless!

Providence 365 - Week 24

This is one of my favorite times of the year! Monday begins our annual Vacation Bible School ~ a community outreach that touches between 300-400 kiddos fifth grade and younger. Our children love this week as they get to know Jesus and that God loves them so much. Our volunteers (over 150 students in 6th-12th grade and adults) are a blessing to our church, our community and to the children. And EVERYONE has fun! This year’s theme is PANDA-MANIA! (I simply love Group's VBS programs - they are the best!)

We know that for some children – the church is their second home, their ‘other’ family. They know that God loves them and they look forward to learning more about Jesus each week – in the church and at home. For other children, this is the only time of the year that they enter a church. If we reach just one child and help them see that Jesus is their best friend – then the week is a success! Maybe we just spark a little flame in their heart and soul that makes them want to learn more – another success as it’s a great start. And the more the merrier – our ultimate goal is that all of these children know Jesus, and know that he is our Savior.

As a leadership team, we start planning after the last VBS, documenting lessons learned and beginning preparations for the coming year. There are so many behind the scenes activities to make this special week happen – and with His help, it all comes together. Each leadership meeting begins and ends with prayer – and He is with us every step of the way; guiding us, preparing us and ensuring that nothing is overlooked.

As we have gathered for the past several months – and as we gather this coming week – we remember:

“For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” Matthew 18:20

When surrounded by hundreds of children and volunteers for five straight days, three hours a day ~ how wonderful to remember that we are not alone – He is right there with us! Where are you gathering this coming week?

Please enjoy this word art and have fun with your layout this week!

have a wonderful week - wherever you gather...by the Shore

Providence 365- week 22

Welcome to Week 22 of Providence 365

As I type this I am looking out the back door - the sun is shining, the grass is green (well, almost) and a doe is gently grazing in my backyard. The girls are out of school for the summer and I was blessed to enjoy an early anniversary dinner last night with my husband of (almost) 19 years. Life is good.


speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord ~ Ephesians 5:19

This weeks bible verse is one I could use again and again. Music is staple in our home. My oldest daughter takes after my husband and can play almost any instrument she picks up. This year she was in five bands/orchestras. She has traveled around the country (and around the world) to share her gifts. She loves to play and listen to many genres, with Contemporary Christian, Classical and Country being at the top of her list. My youngest one loves to sing and has even been known to sing in her sleep. And I...while I played clarinet and guitar a long (long) time ago - I enjoy turning the radio on and listening. I have been known to sing along in the car, at least till I am asked to stop. (rolling my eyes and chuckling)

Here is a layout that I created to celebrate our Palm Sunday service this year - our Sunday School children participated in our annual Parade of Palms in the sanctuary and then blessed us at each service with musical offerings. I could listen all day to the voices of young children singing praise to our Lord! I used by the Shore designs "Just Because" paper collections for this layout - available in my store at Faith Sisters (and they are currently on sale here)


This week, I challenge you to share with us how music moves you. What is your favorite praise music? When do you listen? Do you have a favorite artist? (you get the idea)

Here is a little (free) wordart to get you started. CLICK HERE FOR DOWNLOAD

Come visit our Providence 365 Forum at Faith Sisters thread and share your layout and be sure to post it in our Providence 365 gallery. (And if you are new to Providence 365, we invite you to check out a few of the last 21 weeks. The freebies are still available and we would love for you to work on those challenges as your time permits.)

Wishing you a great day...by the shore

Providence 365- week 20

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matt. 11:28)

Recent weeks have been busy ones for me. I have felt overwhelmed and over worked. I know that “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”. This is my favorite bible verse – yet I am still learning that while I CAN do all things, I do not HAVE to do all things.

I am learning to balance life, to step back a bit, to take time for me. I have a long way to go, but I am confident that this balance is one that I can find.

Where do you go when you are tired? What do you do? How do you refresh?

Once I completed everything that needed to be done these past few weeks – I was able to step back and relax a bit. I was able to His that have sadly gone unnoticed and unappreciated during the hustle and bustle of “life”. The warmth of the morning sun as I walked with a friend; the sound of a gentle rain; the laughter of a young child, the time to reflect on His word – each a and a gift. I am finding joy in the little things that surround me.

As you work on this week’s Providence 365 challenge – take time for personal reflection, are you finding joy in His daily ? Are you taking time for you? Know that God loves you. He is there to wrap His arms around you and provide you with the rest that we all need.

I hope you this week's word art. You can download it here....

Please share your layout in the Providence 365 Gallery at Faith Sisters and post a link to it in our forum. Barbara and I love to see how you use our wordart and to see your individual takes on the weekly Providence 365 prompts.

Have a blessed week.

Providence 365 - Week 18 ~ Praise the Lord!

Praises to our Lord!

We have so much to be thankful for, even in times that are troubling. In the past year, we have witnessed earthquakes, tsunamis, tornados, flooding. Most of us from the comfort of our homes… watching tv, reading the daily news or surfing the internet. And sadly, there are some of us that have experienced these tragedies first hand.

Praise the LORD. Praise the LORD, my soul.
I will praise the LORD all my life; I will sing praise to my God as long as I live.
Psalm 146: 1,2

Sometimes it is difficult sing our praises during adversity – but we are called to be thankful, to sing praises at all times….”all my life”.

When we praise God – even in tough times – we BELIEVE that He will keep His promises. When we praise God, we TRUST him. When we praise God, we are pushing the devil away. When we praise God, we know that He LOVES us.

This week, take some time to reflect on how and when you praise God. Remember that He keeps His promises, we can trust Him and that He loves us unconditionally.

Praise the Lord!

(and here is word-art for your layout or special project to help with that Praise)

Here is the link to our Faith Sisters Forum for Providence 365-Week 18.

Have a blessed week!

Providence 365 - week 16

Sing Hosanna! Give me oil in my lamp, keep me burning Give me oil in my lamp, I pray Give me oil in my lamp, keep my burning Keep me burning till the break of day Sing hosanna, sing hosanna Sing hosanna to the King of kings Sing hosanna, sing hosanna Sing hosanna to the King On Saturday night at dinner, my youngest daughter began quietly singing a song that we are practicing with the children at church for our annual Parade of Palms. The song is “Give Me Oil in my lamp” (also known as Sing Hosanna) Her voice was so sweet and her attempt to sing it true to form was priceless. Our Parade of Palms is held at each of our three Sunday morning services on Palm Sunday. The children walk in with their palm branches waving proudly (ok, there are always a few little ones that are a bit too zealous) They parade to the front of the sanctuary and then share their musical offering with the congregation. Sweet sweet voices singing their praises for our Lord. We are moving into a very special time in the church year. What traditions do you observe during Holy Week? We begin with our Parade of Palms. MidWeek Lenten Services continue on Wednesday night. Maundy Thursday is a special time as our fifth graders partake of their First Communion. Good Friday brings a somber mood and a time for reflection. And Easter Sunday is glorious – Hallelujah, He is Risen, He is Risen Indeed! In all of this, what music comes to mind? I personally find that music can invoke special memories, feeling and emotions – more than any other external stimuli. Psalm 92:1 tells us It is good to praise the LORD and make music to your name, O Most High. What music ‘speaks’ to you this time of year? I will be creating a layout of my daughter marching with her palm branch (hopefully without ‘too’ much zeal) with the words to Sing Hosanna. (I just need to make sure my camera is ready on Sunday morning) Here is word-art – just for you – with Psalm 92:1. Please share with us in the Faith Sisters Gallery and the Providence 365 forum what your layout (or special project) is for week 16. We look forward to seeing your interpretation of this challenge. We hope you are enjoying your Providence 365 journey through the year. Have a wonderful week. May you be surrounded with His Love.

Providence 365 - Week 14

Welcome to Week 14 of Providence 365.

What a blessing it is to know that you are joining us on this journey through the year. Each week we share a special bible verse to provide a bit of inspiration – something for you to think about, pray on, and hopefully create a layout or hybrid project to help share your thoughts, stories and memories – the ones that are important to you and your family.

Ephesians 6: 1-3

Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honor your father and mother”—which is the first commandment with a promise - “so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.”

I enjoy looking at this verse and reflecting on it from both directions; as my parent’s child and as my children’s mother. I am my parent’s oldest child. I am also blessed that they are still role models, provide words of wisdom, guidance, love and are there whenever I need them. While over 1600 miles separates us, technology (phone and the internet) keep us ‘close’. They have taught me the values and morals which I live by today and they laid the foundation for me to come to know that Jesus Christ is our Savoir. I have two children at home and they continue to teach me every day. I am prayerful that they are able to learn about life and our loving God from my husband and myself; and that they are able to look back and know they were loved.

As you reflect on this week’s bible verse – think about how your parents have made a difference in your life – how they helped form you into the person you are today. Is there a life lesson that you directly contribute to your parents. And if you have children, what do you want them to know? Here is word art to help you create a layout for your scrapbooks or even a hybrid project like a card or picture for a frame.

I created a 5x7 print that I will frame for my daughter's room.

Make sure you visit us in our Faith Sisters Forum and post your work in our Providence 365 gallery. We can't wait to see what you have created and where your Providence 365 journey is taking you.

If you are new to Providence 365 know that we welcome you to join us. Our arms and hearts are open. You can join us where we are on week 14 – and if you wish, you can go back to the intro as well as previous weeks and complete those layouts – it is your choice. The journey is yours.

Have a blessed week.

Providence 365 - Week 12

Ecclesiastes 3

A Time for Everything

There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens:
a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot,
a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build,
a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance,
a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing,
a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away,
a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak,
a time to love and a time to hate,a time for war and a time for peace.

Blessings on this beautiful first day of Spring. Oh, I know – perhaps the weather is not quite ideal for some of us, perhaps we are saddened by events in the news or perhaps we are struggling with something in our personal lives. Regardless of where you are right now, know that you are exactly where He wants you.

I had another verse selected for this week– but this has been one that has been in my thoughts all week – and one that I found on my tongue too many times to count.

There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens

I truly believe I have moved into a season of prayer. Yes, I have prayed for as long as I can remember – but this is different. The need for prayer is there (and always has been, I just did not see it The overwhelming need to lift others in prayer has been increasing. The understanding of the power of prayer is becoming clearer. Babies in the hospital, struggles within the Church body, friends who are asking for prayers for their loved ones, their relationships, their children and themselves, times of war and conflict continue to grow, natural disasters are increasing and impacting the lives of many around the world.

What does this mean for me? What do I do in this season? How does this new season change my life and the life of those around me? I don’t know the answers to this – though I have been praying for clarity and direction. I do know I am in His Word more now than I have been in the past. I know that I desire to learn more about prayer. When I tell someone that I am lifting them in prayer – that those words are not to be taken lightly. This is a new season for me – and it is time.

This week, reflect on what your season is. What are you being called to do? There is a time for everything.

If you are able to create a layout on where you are in this season of your life – I encourage you to do so. If you are not ready yet, consider create a layout or card that simply uses this verse – print it out and keep it with you as a reminder that there is a time for everything.

I have a special Providence 365 wordart kit here for downloading. If you do download this, I simply ask that you please share with us on the Faithsisters Providence 365 forum what you have used it for and post it in our gallery.

(If you are new to Providence 365 – it is never too late to start. The Faith Sisters forum with Weeks 1-12 can be found here, along with an overview of the project)

Here is my layout for the challenge -

Wishing you a wonderful first week of spring (in Colorado, that means we still have more snow on the horizon) Wherever you are, whatever your season, remember there is a time for everything....