You feel better when you are genuinely grateful!

Good Afternoon, or whatever is the best greeting to you, in your part of the world!

I feel as if it has been a while since my last post (Dec 18th). It is that time of year for many to be on the go; and we have also been experiencing a few tid 'computer' challenges. December 19th was the Funeral Service for our 92 year old friend. The Memorial Service was very enlightening; and the reception that followed, in the Church hall was, indeed, a comforting one. The food (mini sandwiches & pastries) were enjoyed by all; there is something 'special' about food, when it is delicious! A few cups of tea; hit the spot as well! After the reception a bittid of us were invited back to the home of our good friends; where we all appreciated a few stiff drinks as well as the 'leftovers' from the reception.

Apart from our friend's passing, the main topic of tidbit conversation, was about the economy and the repercussions felt throughout the entire world. The 'gathering' was extremely meaningful; largely due to everyone being affected by the global financial crisis; thus everyone was a bit more 'real' or genuine. No facades, no fake dialogue etc. As one chap suggested about the banks: 'If one has the money, one does not go to the banks to borrow money; and 'those' in that grouping, are the ones that the bank will lend money to". I thought that was exceedingly well put. In short, no one is being loaned any money!

The Bank of Canada is suggesting that the banks are 'hoarding' the money, as they are wanting to bolster their bottom lines at the expense of all of us, from having reasonable access to credit. Hence, precipitating a potential recession with deflationary possibilities. In other words, they are the problem, not us. A member of our family has impeccable credit; he was turned down by a bank to help him in his business of many years. So, who knows? All I can say, is that we are going to enjoy this Christmas; and be appreciative of all our Blessings! 'Praise Him In ALL Things!'

Last night was the night of our friends' Christmas party; and it was one of the nicest parties we have been to, in a long time. Everyone was more 'down to earth'; and because of our friend's recent passing, we 'bonded' all the more with one another. No one was fearful of being 'vulnerable' or 'themselves' - it was most refreshing! We came home well after midnight and the expected 'snow blizzard' was already well on its way. Glad we did not have too far to drive! Canada is forecasted to have a 'White Christmas' throughout the country; which is most unusual. Neat, methinks; and once again, with the credit crisis and its overall domino effect, people are more thankful than ever! Somehow, we will get through these turbulent times.

This morning, I watched the Vision Channel; and as I have mentioned in previous posts, best to 'tune' into these wonderful International Bible Teachers, so that you can receive their messages first hand. On 'Hour of Power', with Dr. Robert Schuller, he was sharing that God is real; and that He always has a Purpose for us. Have to confess, that I slept in for a bittidz; so I only was able to hear the last few minutes of his program. Joyce Meyer in 'Enjoying Everyday Life', was excellent again; and she had a wonderful guest, Dr. Gary Smalley, who is a speaker / author on relationships and 'pushing buttons' (www.garysmalley.com - there are some free 'tests' you might like to try out). Basically, do not try to 'change' someone else; it is 'you' that needs to 'change'. When you accept Him into your heart genuinely, you 'change', and you look at things differently; ie. resolving issues, which includes also dealing with various 'buttons being pushed'. Very invaluable information!

On 'Living Truth', with Charles Price, he was sharing that Jesus is our Saviour and that our 'sins' are forgiven by Him, if we genuinely accept Him into our hearts. You can refer to John 1; 11:13. When you Admit your need, and Believe in Him (that He sacrificed His Life for you), and you Commit to 'changing' (to be more like Him), His 'Holy Spirit' lives within you for evermore. You are no longer 'empty' or 'dead'; because you have been given 'new life' or a new appetite to live a more meaningful life. The Bible takes on a new meaning, when you invite Him into your heart.

We also watched the 'Antiques Roadshow' and there was a bold sign that read, 'Everything has a Beauty; not everyone sees it'. That is a very true tidbitz!

Here is wishing you all a Merry Christmas! We are choosing to have one; and in a tidbit, to make it one of the best bittid Christmases yet! Not in a material way; but in a totally Thankful way! His Birth is of great Joy to us, and we are appreciative of His special Gifts to us all! My apologies for not writing yesterday; our computer had a 'siesta'; however, am glad now, that it is up and running happily again!

Right now we have approximately 15 to 18 inches of snow; very pretty and still thickly falling. How appropriate for the first day of winter; and yet, I felt like utilizing the above photo image! Perhaps it brings a smile to your face!

God Bless.