Enjoying a calm!

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

Lots of planes being heard overhead, roaring in the skies today. It would appear that multitudes of people who attended the 2010 Winter Olympics, are now returning to their homes. I wish them all safe and enjoyable flights to their countries / homelands / destinations. Vancouver, is now forever, on the map, as per all the wonderful and gracious accolades that it has been garnished with. Our beautiful city, its mountains, ocean, is truly a breathtaking part of the world!

Wish I could say that we had some concrete news; save that there will be some more showings of our house over the weekend. We are in a 'waiting mode'; and at the same time, Alan and I have 'cast all our cares upon Him'. We have been doing our due diligence to relocate; perhaps renting for the first bittid six months, might be an idea.

We are not sure of our immediate plans; save that we will be most prudent in our exercise. We do have a realtor looking for us; and if it happens that renting is more expensive, than securing a unit with a small mortgage, that may take precedence. Hopefully, a sf space that will contain most of our 'stuff' (as opposed to paying storage expenses etc). and that we could rent out and / or sell ultimately. By then, things will have stabilized; and we will have more of an idea where we would like to live; and the prices may even be a tidbit more forgiving, methinks.

Also, when you have a pet, it is more challenging to find a place to rent, that accepts pets. Fortunately, our Blue is a very good dog. In our looking for abodes, there is a particular tidbitz complex, that states that 'four legged kids' are welcome! Now, I like that kind of marketing approach. Afterall, our pets are, indeed, 'family members!'. Love the picture of our relaxed five year young 'pup'. Wherever we go, he goes.

We are thankful it is the weekend; and when we have some bittidz news, will keep you posted. We have been enjoying the Olympics (on our TV) and I am sure the 'Closing Ceremonies' will be just as awesome as the 'Opening Ceremonies'.

Peace and God Bless.

Refreshing reflections!

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

The days have just flown by! The Open House went well last week, a decent turn out, even with the Olympics. Also, there was an impromptu private showing on Saturday; so we made ourselves scarce for a tid while. We took our Blue to the park; and a great time was had by all! He enjoyed rolling around in and on the damp grass; ended up being filthy; but happy! When we were out and about, we took our saved up bottles and cans to the Liquor store; and good timing! There was a free tasting of Siku Glacier Ice Vodka! Gosh it was smooth and very good; and, indeed, it hit the spot! LOL!

We also went to see our bakery friend; and she was not her usual sparkly self; so I let her know about the vodka tasting. Well, her eyes immediately brightened up and she asked if I could go get her a tiny cup. Absolutely, I replied. ('Absolut' happens to be another Vodka brand!). I ended up being given a second 'shot' cup! Well worth that journey! LOL!) That 'shot' made her day; and her eyes lit up; and come to think of it, I let a number of people know about the exquisite flavour. It is not cheap; however, sometime when Alan and I have something major to celebrate, we will enjoy this refreshing boost! In the Liquor store, I was having a bit of fun; joyfully suggesting 'Party Time!' Smiles and laughter abounded; in fact, it was contagious!

Also, in those types of moments, I have this picture of Jesus in my mind (and heart); of Him wearing a cream / white robe, and joyfully striding with bold steps and a confident strength. I can not remember the name of the movie; however, there was a street scene that Jesus fearlessly set forth. I always feel an extra tingle when I see that image.

On Sunday morning, I watched the Vision Channel. Unfortunately, I missed the first part of 'Hour of Power'; but the last half, was such an uplifting ephifany to me! Pastor Sheila Schuller Coleman shares a heartfelt message. ie. "My message today is "Stratospheric Faith: Rising Above the Turbulence." You may know that our atmosphere is comprised of different layers and the lowest one is the troposphere, and then up above that is the stratosphere. The troposphere can be pretty turbulent. So, if you want to get above the turbulence, you want to get up into the stratosphere. Especially when times are stormy and we want to get up, we need to be lifted up into that stratospheric faith."

I would heartily encourage those of you, who are experiencing bittids of tough moments; to tune into www.hourofpower.org; as methinks you will appreciate impactful tidbits!

I also enjoyed watching 'Enjoying Everyday Life' with Joyce Meyer and her guest; and their empowering insights, includes and concludes with thoughts such as: 'Did I help anyone else today? Did I make them smile and laugh etc?' I could not help but think about the day before with our elderly (but feisty) bakery friend, who works long long hours on her feet. Best too, if you check out www.joycemeyer.org; for further clarity and understanding.

On 'Living Truth', Charles Price is sharing an incredibly powerful message about righteousness, self righteousness, and unrighteousness. He refers to several stories in the Bible; and those who are self righteous, are more difficult than those who are unrighteous. Best too, if you tune into his invaluable teachings on the website - www.livingtruth.ca.

Tidbit - 'Smile and the world smiles with you, Weep and you weep alone'. You could also use the word 'laugh' instead of smile; and 'cry' instead of weep. My Dad used to say that a lot; and he was a very special man. He overcame many obstacles; and his FAITH and COURAGE were strong in Him.

Bittid - A random act of kindness is what it is all about; and makes a huge difference; particularly to those, who are in pain, despair, or sadness etc. A smile or an encouraging word, action, or deed, is what we all need to genuinely do more of in this world. 'Love one another, as I have loved you' is very true.

Today we have connected with a few people; and now it is just a matter of 'patient waiting upon Him' to Provide Solution. Alan and I have 'cast all our cares upon Him'.

Another beautiful day for the Olympics! Love the photo image of the Siku Glacier Ice Vodka! Interesting history ('60,000 years of cool') about this particular type of Vodka; plus there are some great mouthwatering recipes! You can refer to online, for a bittidz of info. Methinks too, that on a 'special' occasion, I will enjoy some savoury 'shooters' of raw oysters, along with a tidbitz shot (or two!) of this delicious vodka! Skal!

Peace and God Bless.

Changes abound for the best!

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

Well, it has been an interesting tidbit week thus far. We have been in the 'throws' of having to make major decisions. Alan and I have surrendered to His Will, His Purpose, and Plan. That being said, We KNOW He has Guided us; and we TRUST that He has an even better plan for us.

You may want to fill your coffee cup up to the brim and / or pour yourelves a stiff drink; depending on your time of day or night. We have decided to sell our home; which we love. It was my parents'; and after my Mum passed away, Alan and I moved in here. Pretty much at her request; and we sense she was happy about that move. We have enjoyed adding a lot of 'TLC' (tender loving care)to this abode; and now it is time to make a home elsewhere. We have an Open House for Realtors Only this morning; so we will appreciate the park with Blue. We will enjoy the fresh air, take delight in the budding bittid signs of Spring, and also be thankful for our Blessings.

We have been working towards the refinancing of our out of town commercial property, and without going into things; it simply has not happened. Delays, let downs, changing of the goal posts, the whole 9 yards. The commercial interest rates and predatorial terms have been extremely onerous; so we thought best to sell our home. We will then take care of our residence mortgage and a few other items, and then be extremely prudent with the bit remainder. Hence, we will not be putting any 'down payments' towards a mortgage presently. In time, we will stabilize ourselves, including our business. In short, we were caught (like so many people)in a 'perfect storm'; as innocent bystanders since the fall of Lehman Brothers and so forth, in the fall of 2008. It has been like a domino effect around the world. The banks again ('fear factor'), have now further tightened their lending rules etc, as well as making credit even more difficult to obtain. I have an empathy for people, who actually put their 'money under their mattresses'.

We were offered a viable option about a month ago or so; and it appeared to make the most sense at the time. However, the individual reneged; perhaps because Alan and I did our due diligence, and 'if' he had other ulterior motives, he would have been exposed. So, looking back, perhaps this also has been a 'Blessing in disguise'. We also learned some sad lessons about human nature; and we were dismayed. However, we can say that we have done our best; and as the expression goes: 'When one door closes, He opens another'. That is where our heartfelt thoughts are.

We have been scutinizing other places to live; and the ones that we can afford more readily, are an hour or more away. There is one development that would fit in with our needs (very good value per square foot); however, why rush into anything, that we might regret later? Best to take our time, rent for a period, and take a breather. We are now avidly searching for a reasonable rent, in a 'pet friendly' location. Most of our 'stuff' will be in storage, until we choose a new abode. Ultimately, we will create a welcoming ambience in our future home.

Was up early this morning, prepping our house for the Open House. Glad it is a beautiful day; that always helps. Should mention too, that we have had numerous private interest in our recently listed home; however, we have suggested to them, that if they are still interested, get in touch with our realtor AFTER the Open House. We feel that there should be a 'level playing field' re: the Open House. Our realtor and us sense, there may be a 'bidding war'; as our home is competitively priced in today's market. We are sad; yet we are TRUSTING that He has a better plan for us.

We also gave the 'heads up' to our four kind neighbours, and they are also very sad; however we have reassured them we will keep in touch as friends. And you never know, maybe we will return to this complex! (but in a different unit).

Tidbit - 'The TRUTH sets you free'. Also Ask Him to 'carry ALL your burdens'; and He DOES. When you Ask Him to do that, it is amazing how much better you feel; as if a huge weight has been lifted from your heart. When things are 'overwhelming', just step back and leave it ALL to The Holy Spirit to Provide Solution.

Bittid - 'Keep on trekking'; and joyfully embrace each and every day, as it shows up. 'Praise Him In ALL Things'.

Love the friendly photo image! Cheers with a cup of coffee! Also, glad the Norwegians are doing well in the Olympics; not that I am surprised! Skal!

Have to do a quick tid of organizing for the Open House; but will keep you posted.

Peace and God Bless.

Welcome change!

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

As per my last post, there has been a lot going on! An option we have been diligently working towards, has taken us on a new path, if you will. We are scrutinizing this tidbit opportunity; and it makes the most bittid sense. An area where I was experiencing some difficulty in 'letting go', I have - as per my most recent post. Very true; that, indeed, the 'Truth sets you free'. We now have a renewed fervour and focus towards this unexpected turn of events. The other option is now far less desirable. Interesting change of pace! We believe that this is in total Accordance with His Will, His Purpose, and His Plan. One thing that keeps 'hitting me squarely on the head', is to NOT Rely Upon One's Own Unstanding. Literally, we have thrown it ALL upon Him; 'He IS the Way, the Truth, and the Light.'

Tidbit - Have the enduring FAITH, that He KNOWS what is best for you. Do not despair if an 'Answer to Prayer' appears to be a 'no' or a 'slow' response. ie. If this latest tidbitz comes to pass for Alan and I, then I have been given more understanding and insights by the Holy Spirit, as to all these PAST painful delays and jumping through hoops.

Bittid - Take confident courage and be joyful, KNOWING that He has everything in bittidz place for you. Do not ever 'give up'; 'hang in there'; and when you look back, it makes more sense. Well worth the fight! He IS the greatest Overcomer of all! Also, when you 'surrender' to His Will (forget about yourself and your troubles), you are refreshed in spirit, to welcome new options, and accept changes for the better.

I did watch the Vision Channel on Sunday; wonderful messages on the various programs and I hope to share some bits of tidbits. I heartily recommend you tune into these ministerial teachings, not only for their tids of encouragment, but for further bittids and clarity about the Bible and Christ.

Love the photo image of the man devouring his oysters! We have that plate (from a dear friend) and everytime I pass by that plate, I laugh! 'Laugh and the world laughs with you. Weep and you weep alone'. My Dad always would say that; and it is so very true.

Peace and God Bless.

A hopeful heart

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

We watched the Opening Ceremonies last night of the 2010 Winter Olympic Games. WOW! Fabulous; totally took my breath away! Totally fantastic!

We are still considering our various tid options. It has been a rough time; however, we are Full of Prayer for Him to Provide a Solution. We have surrendered to His Will; so whatever His Purpose and Plan is, so be it! Have to share that we have been feeling a bittid sad; so I have Asked Him to help me, to act with more Grace, more Understanding, and more Wisdom. In a tidbit, to Guide and Direct me to be more gracious and cheerful to appreciate His Purpose; whatever it may be. Before I fell off to sleep later last night, I Prayed with a hopeful heart, for the Holy Spirit to infill me while I slept; and to Show us the Way.

Well, this morning we received a follow - up email in response to a phone call we received 'out of the blue' yesterday evening. I am hopeful that perhaps this may be a Solution from Him; and that being said, I am joyfully anticipating GOOD news. If this should happen, this will be awesome!

Am looking forward to watching the Vision Channel tomorrow (You can refer to my earlier posts for a bit of info, if you wish). ie. 'Hour of Power', 'Enjoying Everyday Life', and 'Living Truth' provide us with wonderful insights and empowering encouragment. For those of you, who are genuinely interested in learning more about Him, best to check out their International ministerial teaching websites for yourselves.

Also, we will be tuned into the Olympics! The photo image is of beautiful Whistler Mountain!

Will keep you posted; and in the meantime, here is wishing you a nice weekend!

Peace and God Bless.

Always be thankful!

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

This is going to be a short tid post; but I will be back before too long. We have experienced a few arduous days since my last post; however, we have also learned some invaluable lessons. We are in the bit process of re evaluating and reassessing our options; and we are moving forward, regardless. Alan and I have fully 'surrendered' to His Will; and we have the FAITH that He has a Purpose and a Plan. We are TRUSTING that He has a GOOD Plan for us; and one that is even better than we can imagine presently.

Tidbit - When one door closes, He opens another.

Bittid - Be genuinely thankful for all your Blessings. Continue to always 'Praise Him In ALL Things'.

We gratefully had our hair cut today; and it was definitely like 'the before and after' scenario. Methinks, 'a good hair day, goes a long way!' LOL! One may as well be uplifted and look 'good' in any and all circumstances.

Am also appreciative of this tidbitz photo image, kindly forwarded to me by my son. It is of our beautiful Vancouver Harbour; with the Olympic Rings wonderfully illuminated. There is quite the bittidz 'buzz around town'; as tomorrow is the Opening Ceremony of the 2010 Winter Olympic Games! All the best to all competing athletes!

Peace and God Bless.

Having Faith

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

Here we are, Monday - again! Where do the days go? They have definitely been fully packed; and this week looks to be another full one again.

Since my last post (You may wish to refer to it, as well as other recent posts for a bittid of background), there have been a few new options; and until we have further clarity, we are taking a bittidz breather. We are ABIDING in Him; and everything is as per His Will, His Purpose, and His Plan.

As I mentioned earlier, we are not clear about His Purpose; save that we have the FAITH, that He, indeed, has a better plan for us. However, we are growing in understanding in our daily Walk with Him; as per our experiences, enlightenment and ephifanies etc.

We have gone through several hoops for many many months, have tried our best; however, now, we must WAIT UPON THE LORD, for Him to Provide the Solution. During these moments, we are genuinely THANKING Him for ALL our Blessings; and we have much to be grateful for! IF we were living in another part of the world, where there is chaos, hunger, drought, earthquakes, extreme poverty, disease, etc we are extremely fortunate. That is the way Alan and I feel; so we 'Praise Him In ALL Things'. Yes, quite literally, we have exhausted our efforts; and now it is a matter of timing and what happens next. We have entertained all avenues; so whatever one shows up first, may be the way we go. However, we are leaving it ALL up to Him to Direct our Path, via His Holy Spirit. With Him, ALL things are possible; and KNOWING that gem of a tidbit, the 'Truth Sets You Free'. He IS our Strength and Refuge; and in Him, we REST with a patient confidence, that He has everything in Hand.

Yesterday, I watched the Vision Channel in the morning; and yet again, totally appreciated their awesome messages and insights. ie. 'Hour of Power' (Dr. Robert Schuller - www.hourofpower.org) Dr. Schuller starts off, by reading Psalm 18 and three verses are of solid comfort to me. ie. "'I LOVE Thee, O Lord, and my strength'. The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, My God, my rock, in whom I take refuge; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. I call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised, And I am saved from my enemies". Methinks, that pretty much sums things up in a tidbitz.

Will share some tidbits about 'Hour of Power', 'Enjoying Everyday Life','Living Truth' in the upcoming posts. Also, last night before I fell off to sleep, I watched 'Door of Hope', with Rhonda Lazerte. She wonderfully shared teachings about, What is Faith?; and she referred to Hebrews 11:1 - "Now Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen". Also, Hebrews 10: 35 & 36 -"Therefore, do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. (that really uplifted my spirits). For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the Will of God, you may received what was promised". These elegant yet simple Biblical words provided me with a sound slumber; so once again, 'No coincidences. here folks'.

A heartfelt thank you to the ministries, who graciously give of their time on the Vision Channel! I also enjoy watching some other evening ministerial programs; however, I was already off 'sawing logs'. LOL!

Love the photo image of 'Seek and Ye Shall Find'. Or, another reflection, is that He is waiting at the Doorway of your heart (that includes all of us). If you open the door and invite Him in, He will come in and never leave. You will have forever changed; and you will be in an intimate relationship with Him; whereby He Guides you, via His Holy Spirit. You will have more of an appreciative understanding; as 'He IS the Way, the Truth, and the Light'. Hope these bittids are of help to those of you, who wish to learn more.

Peace and God Bless.

'No Coincidences, here folks!'

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

We are totally thankful it is the weekend; a bit of a rest and reprieve for our wearied spirits. As per my most recent post, we are still endeavouring to make the right decisions.

Basically, I (and Alan) have quite literally, thrown everything upon Him. We are Prayful and trusting that in Accordance with His Will, His Purpose, and His Plan, that something has got to give. We have been pursuing various options; and there is one tid choice that is so simple and doable. It was volunteered to us; however, it would appear that we were deceived; plain and simple. We are still scratching and shaking our heads. Makes no sense; and yet with the individual involved, it makes perfect sense. ie. Perhaps some of you have had bittidz experiences with a person / people, who say one thing, and then do another. At any rate, that plan is 'off the table'; fallen by the wayside, if you will; or is at least for now. We have a few other tidbitz possibilities, and hence, we are steadfastedly working towards them, as 'we speak'.

Tidbit - Regardless of your circumstances, remember to always 'Thank Him' and 'Praise Him In ALL Things'; and to continue to remain FOCUSED upon Him for His Solution. Do not be 'angst' or 'fraught' with 'distractions'; instead 'switch' your thoughts (like a light bulb switch) to thinking positive outcomes! Know that He ultimately knows what is best for you; and that He has a GOOD PLAN! For you!

Bittid - It is best to trustingly 'talk' out your troubles etc with Him (He is the BEST Confidant!); and to Rely totally upon Him to Provide you with the Help you need. Ask Him for His Guidance, Direction, Wisdom and Understandiing. Also, have the savvy to have 'cooler heads prevail'; and just wait in trusting patience for Him.

I still keep referring to Robert Schuller (Jr), insights, that 'When you are down to nothing, you know that He is up to something, that is to the good for you'.

Also Dr. Robert Schuller (Sr) shares in last Sunday's message, 'Be an Up Person in an Upside Down World!' re: having 'Faith, Focus, and Follow through = Achievement'. Here is a tidbit from Dr. Schuller; which I thought WOW! "You know it wasn't until the past year that I noticed my name in a published article which said, "Robert H. Schuller, 1926,"; my birth year. It looked like a bible verse and you know I told you a couple weeks ago I wonder if there's a bible verse 1926? So I looked in Matthew: there's a chapter 19 verse 26. It is: "And Jesus said, with men it is impossible but with God all things are possible."; Matthew 19:26". To me that is such an awesome Blessing AND a valiant validation!

All throughout yesterday, and during the night, and today, I have been constantly saying: 'Fine, I give up to YOUR Will. Fine. Thank You! (and, I say a genuine 'Thank You', because there are so many Blessings to be grateful for!). I know You have a Purpose (do not quite understand what it is; but okay - You Do; and that is good enough), and a Plan - and a GOOD PLAN at that! I had thought I had 'let things go'; however, by those very words, I really let it ALL go. And yes, I was sad; BUT, also feel that He knows Best; so best to be of GOOD CHEER and Trust in Him! Another ephifany! The Truth does, indeed, set you free! When I was referring online to Dr. Schuller's above comment re: Matthew 19:26; I came upon another illumination in what may be a part of tomorrow's teaching on 'Hour of Power' "Giving Thanks When God Says No!". Now that caught my attention! NO tid coincidence here folks! Hmmmmmm. WOW!

Pastor Dan Chun, of First Presbyterian Church of Honolulu says:.
"We need to start our devotional every day by getting up and looking at the mirror as we're brushing our teeth or washing our face and say, "I am not the messiah. I am not in control." And when we wonder why God doesn't answer all of our prayers, we should direct, instead, all of our focus to the blessings and His hand in those blessings given to us, blessings He planned for us since the beginning of time. Yes, God can utilize the bad to make good. When God says "no," let's not dwell on the no or the why, but ask Him what shall we do next now that the no is really a no. You see, God doesn't promise He will always take away the pain, but He does promise to give us hope and strength in the midst of our pain. Sometimes God says "no" because He has a better yes that comes later, that can only happen if a no happens now. People in business see that all the time. A door closes and by waiting and searching for options, a better yes comes later."

For further clarity, methinks it is best for you to check into 'Hour of Power'(www.hourofpower.org) and discover a wealth of enlightenment and encouragement. In an earlier post from last year, I included a bit about Pastor Dan Chun. ie. That in Honolulu, one can go to his Church and also play Golf on his golf course! Sounds great to me! LOL!

Am looking forward to the Vision Channel tomorrow morning - ie. 'Hour of Power', 'Enjoying Everyday Life', and 'Living Truth'; as well as other ministries later in the evening. ie. 'Door of Hope', 'Tomorrow's World' etc.

Here is wishing you a nice Saturday. The sun is out, and with these warmer temperatures, it feels as if 'Spring is just around the corner!' Love the tid cheery photo image!

Peace and God Bless.

Generosity of Spirit!

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

Well, it has been an enlightening few days! Embraced and appreciated the Vision Channel on Sunday; and eventhough I will share ultimately some tidbits with you, still best for those of you, who are curious and want to know more about Christ, to simply tune into: 'Hour Of Power' (www.hourofpower); 'Enjoying Everyday Life' (www.joycemeyer.org); and 'Living Truth' (www.livingtruth.ca). These three programs as well as other ministries, are wonderfully encouraging in their empowering teachings.

Alan and I have been facing many challenging choices. We are Relying all the more upon Him, to Guide us through everything; so that He will Help us make the 'right' decisions. We have various options; and throughout these bittids of 'trials and tribulations', we are learning pretty quickly who our friends are or are not. Our neighbours, who are also our friends, reinforced our friendship, as they graciously gave us a jar of homemade marmalade. (We just finished our raspberry jam); so this was all the more timely! We are Blessed to have neighbours who have such a 'generosity of spirit'.

Tidbit - A random act of kindness goes a long way. ie. The jar of marmalade.

Bittid - When 'distractions' occur, FOCUS all the more upon Christ. Abide in Him and Trust calmly and confidently, that He will Provide Solution.

Love the above tid photo image. Our kind neighbours gave us a LARGE jar of marmalade; and I am heartily looking forward to tomorrow's breakfast of soft boiled eggs, toast with fresh marmalade, along with my elixir of coffee. Alan is not a coffee drinker, as he prefers his morning tea. Have to admit though, there are moments / times when a good cup of tea really hits the spot! Takes me back to after I gave birth to my daughter in the wee bit hours of the morning. I was given a cup of lukewarm tea (was the best the hospital kitchen could provide at that hour), along with some arrowroot cookies. I dunked the cookies into the tea; and that has always been a fond memory for me. My newborn was sleeping; so it was a tranquil moment for us both.

Peace and God Bless.