Changes for the better!

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

Was up early and took some pictures of the 'before and after'. ie the old fir tree that I referred to in yesterday's post (will display photos in the next post). The tree is being cut down today (rather sad; as I love trees); however, it has been designated to come down. Apparently, the main tidbit reason is that if there was a huge wind and because of the age and frailty of the tree, it is more of a 'precautionary' process; the primary concern being that it could fall on the house(s). 'Our' tree is not the only tree that has been 'cherry picked'; there are numerous other ones throughout our complex. Also, 'our' tree did not have a tid touch of disease (I was mistaken); it was split in the middle / half way up and it thus was very vulnerable to wind. So, as the expression goes: 'It is better to be safe, than sorry.'

I totally enjoyed and appreciated the quiet 'outdoor' moments this morning; as no one else was up; save the birds, which are such a joyful start to one's day!

As you know we are moving (unless there is a major miracle); and we have no idea where etc. It has been / is a 'waiting' period and that is perhaps even more of a tidbitz challenge, not knowing the outcome. Save that, we Trust in Him to Direct our path.

Am thankful I took the 'momento' photos earlier, as there are now two large trucks with sophisticated machines and competent work crew in full gear. Quite the precise procedure! I hope all the chickadees will relocate to the gorgeous tree outside our other bedroom window.

Tidbit - For those of you needing an uplift of encouragement, there is always the dawn; not darkness. If you choose to get up a little earlier, and truly take a few bittid moments to appreciate the peace and beauty of a quiet Spring morning, your spirits are restored and refreshed. If you have a grateful heart, you can appreciate any and all Blessings that come your way throughout each and every day.

I am reflecting upon 'true' friendships. This particular 'chum' (from Grade four) that I ran into yesterday, had caused me some grief a few years ago. By her own 'words, actions, and deeds,' sadly, she convicted herself. Also at the time, I called her on it and she was not happy about being 'exposed' with the truth. Needless to say, it would appear that she was ashamed, embarrassed, and 'disappeared' out of our lives.

However, our paths crossed again last summer, when she let me know that her dear Mum had passed away. She and her Mum were very close; so eventhough, I had been severely and falsely maligned etc, I had compassion for her. Alan and I went to the Memorial Service (methinks my 'friend' was hoping we would be busy and not turn up. She gave me several 'outs'; but I was steadfast to attend). As it happens, she was extremely glad to see us and thankful that we went in support for her time of sorrow.

We invited her to partake in a bit of Thanksgiving turkey 'leftovers' (she had already been spoken for Thanksgiving Dinner) and that was a nice evening. We have not gathered together since (save running into each other at the bank, at the grocery store etc). Yesterday, I told her that 'I loved her dearly.' Well, she stated the same words back; and it was as if a new friendship (that had been 'misplaced') had been 'found' again!. With a greater level of genuineness and understanding on both our parts.

I told her also, that I did not get in touch with her (save a phone call earlier this year to say we would get together), because I did not want to bog her down with our bittidz of 'trials and tribulations.' Turns out that she has had her fair share of 'going through hoops' as well.

It felt good to be straight up and building upon a better friendship. ie. Sharing some of our circumstances with each other. Also, we will be getting together in the near future for a 'potluck' meal.

Bittid - "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." Very true.

Well, the tree is totally GONE (took ten minutes approx)...Weird; but it is as if there is a whole new 'canvas' before our eyes. Much brighter, much better. Like in restoring some 'lost' friendships; and a genuine 'welcoming back into the fold.'

Also, before I forget, want to put a tidbit plug in for 'Living Truth' with Pastor Charles and Hilary Price. Alan and I think they provide a wonderful and genuine ministry throughout the world; and we really appreciate them. We also appreciate their monthly booklets, as well as their T.V (Vision Channel). / radio broadcasts. They are 'launching their own daily devotioanl'; and eventhough Alan and I are currently 'low in financial fumes,' we are hopeful that it time, we can contribute something to their ministry. Perhaps some of you who appreciate Charles and Hilary Price, and have the means, why not give them a bit of a helping hand!

Speaking of a helping hand, a 'true' friend who gave us the turkey, has also 'ordered' me to get my hair done. It has been long long ovedue; so the several 'bad hair days' will be attended to today. (She said I can pay her later; not to worry). We have focused on Him, as well as putting food on the table and dealing with necessities.

As mentioned, we are in a 'waiting' mode and thus far, He has sustained us. Again, if you wish, you can refer to my November 23rd and 25th, 2010 posts of 'In the Middle' and reading what Joyce Meyer of 'Enjoying Everyday Life' shares. We think she provides a wonderful ministry as well.

Just made me think of the message from Robert Schuller (Jr) - that 'If you are down to nothing, you know that He is working on something for you; that is something to the good for you.' Also, I keep thinking of the verse from Romans 8:28 "And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love Him; to those who are called according to His Purpose." We also appreciate the 'Hour of Power' ministries; they are great!

There are so many wonderful ministries on the Vision Channel and we are totally grateful; as they have helped us further in our understanding and appreciation of Christ.

This particular Easter is going to be all the more special to us; knowing that Christ lived, died, and ressurected to give by His Grace, the opportunity for man to reconcile with our Creator. Lest we forget that Christ has told us that He is the doorway of our heart, if we open the door and invite Him in, He will come in and never leave us.

I love Easter Lillies and their beautiful fragrance; however, it is a bittid of a luxury; so we are content with seeing the many daffodils that abound magnificently in our complex. Plus, the 'fallen' daffodis, that Alan has 'found', add a wonderful 'sparkle' to our home.

It is HOW (always looking at the positive!) one adapts to change; and even if things look bleak, there is always a dawn; a hope. If you are in darkness, there is always a dawn or a Solution in Him. 'He IS the Way, the Truth, and the Light.'

The above picture is of our thriving Camelia tree. The flowers in the antique crystal bowl (the bowl reflects wonderful prisms from the light) are closer in their acutal colour than seen on the tree. I love the vibrant colour of pink!

As Joyce Meyer says, 'Make it a good day!'

Peace and God Bless.