Some inexpensive, yet thoughtful Christmas Gifts!

Good Evening,

We are 'waiting' for good news; so we are hopeful to hear either tonight or tomorrow. Very tough times, is all I can say. However, I LIKE what Dr. Robert Schuller always says that "Tough times never last, but tough people do". That is a tidbit of 'oompfy' encouragement; and also where the 'Leap of FAITH' is key! We ARE leaving it ALL to Him to Provide the Solutions.

Meanwhile, some other Christmas 'gift! thoughts' ex. For many years, I have enjoyed two neat large Christmas 'comfy' mugs; and this year, we are giving them to my daughter's twin boys. Eventhough, the twins are only 2 years old; I know the 'bear' and the 'snowman' will be a welcome delight to ALL those who drink from them! We have appreciated these cheery mugs solely as decorations; however, it is now time to happily pass them on from our household to their household! (Also, we do not need too many decorations; particularly, if someone else can appreciate them). A couple of lovely 'snow scenes' immersed in water; have forgotten what 'they' are called; but when you turn 'them' upside down, snowflakes fall! Quite awesome!

Also, an inspiring book for my daughter - 'Woman to Woman' by Joyce Meyer ('Enjoying Everyday Life'); an insightful book of encouragement; and methinks for her as a young Mum, who is constantly 'run off her feet', this book will provide her with some wonderful tidbits of wisdom. I have the book as well; (and have read it!) and the bittids are excellent'(www.joycemeyer.org, if you wish to check into her website). Plus, the 'almonds' I made up earlier, are in a funky Christmas papered container; reminds me, when I was a child, I paper covered my school books (like everyone else); same idea here! Also, some refreshing bubble bath for young Mum.

Tonight, we are dealing with extreme 'deep freeze' temperatures and nasty wind chills. It is unseasonably cold here. Alan and I have 2 warm winter jackets that we do not wear often; (better someone else can benefit from them!) so we gave these away to some 'street people', earlier in the evening. We had an extra sleeping bag that was appreciated as well! Alan also gave away some Christian 'tracts' to this group of 5 or 6 people; and save for one person, they were thankful to receive them and for the encouragement. Alan's comment to the person who responded 'negatively' to the 'tract'; was: 'You are the one, who needs this the most'. Perhaps the others will gently 'witness' to him. Have also been reading 'Revelations Unveiled', by Tim LaHaye; and if you read it, you will find the truth, relative to what is currently happening around the world.

Off the topic; yet, a comparison nonetheless, with today's 'global financial crisis'. A man called Madoff, engineered for years (by himself, so he says?) a 'Pyramid Scheme' involving $50 Billion in fraud from various influencial investors. My heart goes out to those who lost 'billions' etc; or even in the case of one couple, who lost their million dollars worth of hard earned savings. He had worked in carpet sales, saved a million dollars, finally was able to start enjoying their 'golden years' of retirement; only to discover, that within 48 hours, their fortune was entirely wiped out! We may have our problems (who doesn't?); however, I have empathy towards all those who are innocent victims of such an unfathomable and unthinkable fraud! Methinks, "Where will Madoff's final resting address be?"

Tidbit - There is always someone who is in a far worse and dire situation than yourself. When you 'give' (with a 'generosity of spirit') to others; particularly to those in need, you feel so much better, don't you?

Bittid - Turn misfortune / adversity into success / creativity! - ie. Christmas gifts etc. Spend time with those you love; and let them know they are 'special'.

Time to call it a night; am ready for a sound night's rest. Hope this helped a bittid. Love the above warm and cosy photo image!

Good Night and God Bless.