Tag Archives: family

Making Resolutions that Count

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Making Resolutions that Count

my deer

A new year’s arrival means time for our family to evaluate and plan. We make resolutions, and often fail in the first week to keep them. We look back and wonder where time went and what we did worthwhile. Seems if we can’t list grand things accomplished, we  feel we failed altogether.

I received a note from today reminding me it’s not the big “important” things that are significant, it’s the day-to-day tasks we do for others that are priceless. A caring daughter wrote:

“Mother is 90 and definitely a trooper. I felt so helpless in helping her with her leg cramps from low potassium. I massaged and covered them with warmed blankets. I know you can relate to sitting up all night in a hospital room chair!”

Yes, I can relate to those seemingly endless days and nights. And so can some of you. Many of my readers are caring for at least one person now. I want you to know, caring for and loving others is the most important thing you can ever do.

Today I learned a former classmate died last night, that makes four in the past two years, and we are not that old! I planned to visit through the years, at least correspond more, but there seemed never enough time.

I am resolved to care more this year; to listen more earnestly; to pray more faithfully for others; and to regularly call or send notes to those who need encouragement.

A lady in her 90’s calls each month to let me know she gets our latest ministry newsletter and that she read it all and prayed for each need. When we miss her call,  she leaves a sweet message. I’m calling her tomorrow, just to let her know what a blessing she is to us.

Do you have people in your life that have been a blessing to you? Do you know others who could use a blessing about now? It’s near zero here today and will be tomorrow; I wonder how many people living alone could use a call from me just to cheer them and help shorten their day by giving them some encouragement?

Today I put my note cards, pens, stamps, and address book on my desk and plan to use them every week. How about you?

Hugs,

Be sure you are signed up for my newsletter (pretty box in the top right hand corner) as I have exciting, encouraging things to share in the weeks to come. Let me hear from you soon. Thanks.

P.S. Did you find the two beautiful deer in the photo? They were enjoying the brush we left for them this year. Photo taken from my kitchen window. I thank God for His blessings everyday!

Sharing a Blessing and Encouragement for the Season

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Sunbeams bounce off crystal dogwood trees in my front yard as I sit inside by the warm, glowing fireplace. All the colors of the rainbow are captured in bright sparkles on ice-covered branches. A bright red cardinals looks like an ornaments as he lights on icy limbs seeking food. It’s warm and safe inside and I am blessed.

It is not so in every home my letter goes into; and I know that full well. You may realize Christmas has come and you have not had time or energy to accomplish what you wanted for yourself or your loved ones. Some of you are caring for someone who may be difficult at times; or someone failing daily although you do all in your power to help them. Maybe a parent no longer recognizes you and you long for a familiar Christmas hug.

The same winter storm that painted my surroundings with beauty may have left some of you without power or provisions you need. Some may have meager pantries and little warmth for the winter.

Observing the world around us on television or real life, we are led to believe this holiday season is on shopping, spending, getting fancied up for some occasion, decorating and eating, eating, eating. If not careful, we can grow tired, frustrated, and feel abandoned.

I want to spend this few minutes thanking God for you who allow me into your homes each week. We’ll start again in January with some good helps and hints and always a word of encouragement.

I wish I could visit each home and let you know you are appreciated for all you do and you are loved for who you are. There is One whose birth we celebrate this week who loves you more than my words can possibly say. May His peace rule your heart and give you rest.

Contrary to the world’s view, Christmas is about giving, not getting. “For God so loved (you) that He gave His only son … ” The greatest joy of Christmas is in giving.  You show that throughout the year as you give of yourself to care for your family and others. I pray for you to have those around who care for you; appreciate you, offer you the support you need to do your job well.

I know One who will always be there for you; may His unfailing Love fill your life and spill out to those around you. “The Word became human and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only Son.” John 1:14

God bless you!

Merry Christmas!

Hugs,

Next letter: shopping tips – stretching your time and money for the next year’s shopping needs!

Holiday Stress Tips on Gift Giving Part Two

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Gift lists can be overwhelming; family, friends, caregivers, others who serve us. Stress occurs when we can’t find ‘just the right’ gift or money is tight. Who do we give gifts to? Is our gift giving really  gift exchange? Do we ever give  out of duty, expectations, or guilt?

Each year I listen to shoppers rushing to fill long lists in little time; usually spending over their budget. Many comment on difficulty buying for a certain person on their list. Some honestly admit they do not want to give him or her anything but feel obligated.

Please note: I realize you may have packages purchased and wrapped for this year. If it has been frustrating, or you have not finished or even begun, now is the perfect time to spend a few minutes thinking through your personal priorities regarding gifting.

Here are a few simple tips that have served me well.

#1 Adjust your attitude. Are you still looking for a “thank you” for the special gift you sent last year? Sadly, thank you cards and calls seem in short supply in our world today. Gifts given out of a heart of love and compassion and not from guilt or duty have already received a thank you. The giving of each gift, no matter how large or small, will bring you true joy.

#2 Is there something only you can give? Does your work or hobby provide something others would appreciate? For instance, if you enjoy creating cards, make them a dozen beautiful cards with envelopes. Include stamps and a pen and you have a personal gift that says you really care.

#3 Consider the needs of the recipient. Before giving a beautiful plate of homemade candy and cookies to a family, inquire about health and nutrition restrictions. A small houseplant or greenery can be a welcome gift; it can also be an extra burden to one who doesn’t need something else to care for.

#4 Other than family, what other gifts do you want to give? Boss? Co-workers? Church or other groups?  Is there a spending limit? Check this list carefully. Are you giving because you want to or because you feel compelled to do so? I have personally found relationship issues I needed to deal with before offering a gift.

#5 Determine who you will be giving gifts to in your family. Will you be drawing names? Will you continue to buy large gifts for your children after they leave the nest? What about their children, and their children? If you don’t set guidelines up front, your list may get longer and longer as your budget gets smaller. Do you have something set aside for those who drop by unexpectedly?

#6 What about those who care for your needs; i.e., postman, beautician, delivery persons, favorite waitress or waiter?

My experience as a giver and as a recipient of much giving, has led me to believe the most needed gift is love. Allow me to rephrase that statement: The Greatest Gift IS Love. We know Jesus is the Greatest Gift; He came to earth, lived, died, and rose again all because of God’s Love for us. Therefore, the greatest of all our gifts to one another should be love.

Hugs,

What has been my best shopping tip for over 30 years that I still practice today? Visit me next week and find out. Why not give someone my address this week so they can get the newsletter, too? You have signed up, right?