In memory of our beloved Blue Heeler, Blue

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

It is in the 'wee' tid hours of the morning here. However, I could not sleep and thought I would write a post.

Our beloved 'pup' of seven years, passed away at midnight on February 12th. We are just devasted and feel so sad. Blue was our 24/7 wonderful family companion for seven years. Our house feels totally empty without him. I keep thinking the noises I hear are him and even can smell his presence. Weird.

He had his moments of ups and downs; and over the weekend, he just went downhill. We took him into the vet on Sunday, to have some of the fluid build up drained, as he was not able to eat, had trouble walking, etc. His stool was black to boot. The vet took out app seven cups of fluid and apparently there were many more litres of fluid still within him. We had the option of leaving him overnight at the vet's but decided we wanted him home with us, where he could rest more comfortably etc.

We also had the hope that because some of the fluid had been drained, his appetite would return etc and that in a few days, we would take him back to the vet for a bit more of fluid drainage. It is a very fine line procedure; can not take out too much fluid, as there had to be enough fluid still left. However, Blue had lots remaining and we were prepared to take him in every few days or whatever, to gently continue with the drainage treatment. The liver was so damaged that everything else went wonky and closed down.

The prognosis was not good and it was simply a matter of bittidz time. Me, being the eternal optimist, suggested that Blue just might 'pull through' by a miracle. The kind vet had compassion and empathy but both he and Alan had the more pragmatic approach.

Will mention that when we picked Blue up from the vet (a few hours later on Sunday afternoon), the dog walked just fine (well perhaps a tid wobbley), wagging his tail all the while. When he came home, he just wanted to remain outside on the covered patio (like the Saturday night before). He was lying on his blue quilt, all nicely wrapped up and warm. We sat bundled up with him for several hours, taking turns until he came in.

On Sunday evening, it was raining and as the damp goes right through one, we carried him in and up the stairs, when we turned in for the night. However, a couple of tidbit tales. Blue was not hungry and turned his nose up at everything (save a bit of water) and I ultimately gave him a piece of a cookie, which he took somehow very gently with his mouth and paw. He then very carefully placed the cookie piece in his paw and lay down on his pillow, with his head tenderly resting on his paw. That provided me with such a comfort, that I knew I would never forget. The other tale that will be etched forever in my memory, was a short bittid later, I was silently Praying and asking God as to what His Will was for Blue. If Blue was suffering, then I know He would take care of Blue; be it in Blue moving on and / or rising up and living. Well, as I was thinking these thoughts, I happened to open my eyes and there was Blue, SITTING UP, LOOKING UP ABOVE (for a few minutes), THEN GAZING STEADILY AT ME (with his beautiful blue eyes)FOR WHAT SEEMED LIKE A LONG TIME, AND THEN HE LOOKED BACK UP (above) and then lay down very quietly (almost resigned). Again, I sensed Blue knew something I did not or put it this way, he had some form of communication from above.

The cookie was one of the 100 cookies I baked that Sunday afternoon, when we brought Blue back from the vet. The house was filled with the smell of freshly baked cookies. Small wonder Blue was happy to remain close to the kitchen at that time, eventhough his appetite had not returned. I am not a great baker; however, I wanted to bake up some bite size sugar cookies for our twin grandsons for Valentine's Day. The plan was to give them each their own little care package of cookies, cinnamon hearts, gummie hearts, and jelly jube jubes. Plus a nice card. I liked the tidbit message so much, that I gave them both the same 'Grandson' card."You are always loved (every single minute) That's why this special Valentine has so much love tucked in it! Happy Valentine's Day. XOXO" Also, in the cards I included, 'may each and every little bite be full of love!'

Blue passed away upstairs. We think his heart finally gave out etc. Alan and I wrapped him up very carefully in a sheet and a bag of sorts (did not cover his head) and carried him awkwardly to the car. (actually Alan carried him, I just opened all the doors etc). It was not funny; but it was 'funny' to be carrying a body, under the guise of night and in pouring rain.

We took Blue to the vet on Monday morning. We made the decision to have him 'communally' cremated as opposed to having him privately cremated, whereby we would have his ashes in a nice little urn. Well, we do not need an urn and it was a lot cheaper to have it done communally. But get this, the communal ashes are all scattered in a farmer's field(s). I thought what a great idea; as that will wonderfully fertilize all the crops. We still have our other dog, Rocky's ashes, (in a cardboard box), and I am going to give the vet his ashes as well for the same purpose. We had had another spot designated for our Rocky, but we were not able to work out the bittid details, put it that way. So, this is actually a much better plan!

I did ask God about Blue, as to His Will, Purpose, and Plan. Well, with the passing of Blue, I believe that his death has brought family members more together. Everyone was kind and generous in their condolances. Alan and I are very appreciative of their genuine gestures. We are very thankful for family and in these types of situations, when the family comes together and rallies around, that really touches our hearts (my eyes are welling up with tears). Even the vet sent us a beautiful basket of yellow spring flowers. I had earlier said to Alan that it would be nice to have a flower on our coffee table. (I am thinking for Valentine's Day. LOL!) Then presto, the refreshing and uplifting flowers arrive, a short time after we arrived home from the vet's.

As you can imagine, we were pretty bunged out. The day (Monday) itself was a magnificent one, with brilliant warm sunshine glowing everywhere! We sat outside on our patio and had a couple of stiff drinks. A mini wake, if you will. We thanked Him for Blue and the fact that we were given him as a Blessing for seven years. We basked in the gentle rays of the sun and that was a bit of soothing comfort.

I hope dogs are in Heaven and if so, perhaps God has given our special Blue Heeler the task of herding all the dogs etc in Heaven. Alan suggested perhaps even the sheep. I added that I hope that Blue will be amongst the first of the line to welcome us into Heaven, when it is our time. And may he now and always be at peace, joyful, happy, and wagging his tail all the while! A tidbitz, a friend of ours has a picture in his Bible of an 'angel' holding a fish, and there is also a dog with blue eyes standing beside him, who looks exactly like our Blue. Uncanny!

My son and his girl friend invited us over for dinner and that was all the more appreciated; and a far nicer way to spend the evening; and particularly under the circumstances. The next morning (Valentine's Day), Alan and I surprised the little grandsons at 8:00 am before they left for kindergarten. They were finishing their valentine day cards for their classmates. Brings back so many memories to me, as if it were yesterday when I was doing the same thing, both with my children and when I was a child.

Also on February 14th, Alan's Mum passed away. Hard to believe that was four years ago. So, it was a day of sadness, of reflection, and of thankfulness. When Alan's Mum passed away on the 14th, I immediately said to Alan (more as a bittidz of comfort), that as she was full of love and so special, it was the perfect day for her to go to Heaven.

Before I sign off (the sandman is beckoning. I think I will be able to sleep better tonight), wanted to share something that Joel Osteen said in an earlier Vision T.V. service. Basically, Be Bold when Asking God for what you want. It is fine to Ask Him for your needs, but go further, do not limit Him. Expand your thinking into macro. ie. Ask your request, but Ask for it in abundance, and add something extra that will also benefit somebody else. Anyway, that made a huge impact om me. I have been following what he was saying, and it does make a difference! I have to admit that eventhough I am sad about Blue, I have to think that Blue's passing has a Purpose.

The above is a picture of our Blue. We will get another pup, but we will let the dust settle first. We would like to find another 'Blue', that is a Blue Heeler, with the beautiful blue eyes and wonderful markings. Blue was a cross between a Blue Heeler and an Australian Shepherd; but he had more Blue Heeler in him. (He looks very similar to a Blue Heeler / Border Collie cross too). Guess you can guess what name we would call him! When the timing is right, we will do our due diligence in Prayer and Ask Him to send us another Blue!

Well, I am dozing off. Thank you for reading this. I Thank Our Heavenly Father for our Blessings too. 'Praise Him in ALL Things.'

Peace, and God Bless.

Living with Grace, Faith, and Hope

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

It has been a few tid weeks since I last wrote a post. However, today is a new day, a new month. The morning is gorgeous, like spring! Not warm, but brilliant with sunshine and blue skies! Glad too, it is the weekend, as it has been a rather 'up and down' time.

Our 'pup' Blue (7 yrs young), is 'hanging in there.' (his eyes are becoming blue again!). He has had his good and not so good days. One not so good, was in the wee bit hours of this morning, where he had us up a few times. Sadly he can not speak, so we are not able to understand the full degree of whatever it is, that he is going through. It is the liver. We are not sure as to where, how things came up so suddenly. Our vet suggested that the toxins could have been there for a long time and then finally appeared, just like that. Alan and I and a few others have our tidbitz thoughts as to what may have caused the situation, but it is a bittidz 'tricky' to prove. That being said, we have him on a new food regime, especially designated for liver disease. We are giving him anti oxidants, vitamins (Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Omega 3), antibiotics, predisone (small doses), and a medication to help eliminate bile / poisons etc. Fortunately, Blue has maintained a good appetite. In other matters, he is holding his own; eventhough he has his moments. He is receiving lots of rest and extra TLC. The other day we had to drive into the 'Big City' (app 45 minutes to an hour journey; depends on traffic etc) and we took him with us and the drive was good for his spirits. Plus his quilted blue 'blankey' was a comfort to him, as he curled up in the back seat.

All we know is, we are doing our tidbit best; as is our Blue. To 'open Blue up', would cost thousands of dollars; but more importantly, chances are he would not wake up from the surgery. So, we are focused on him getting well with meds. It will take time; but well worth it, as he is a trendendous family member.

Also, it would appear that we finally have 'closure' in a matter that has been ongoing. We have been through two years of grief and hardship. To make a long story short, we turned everything over to Christ and Asked Him for His Direction as to the outcome, as per His Will. Hence, a Solution turned up and we believe it is in Accordance with His Will, His Purpose, and His Plan for us.

Tidbit - When He closes a door, another door opens. Continue to live in Faith.

Bittid - Always focus on God each day, regardless of your 'ups and downs.' Continue to live with Grace towards all you meet. "Do unto others, as you would have them do unto you."

Eventhough, we may feel fatigued etc, we have been strengthened within by experiencing and weathering the various bittid 'trials and tribulations.' He has SUSTAINED us! We may look 'tattered' (as in the old cat in 'Cats') to others, but we are JOYFUL and THANKFUL for our daily Blessings! Was watching the Vision Channel last Sunday and Joyce Meyer and Joel Osteen were so inspiring! They have their hearts in the right place! Joyce was sharing about tests and having the Faith to endure; and Joel basically, added 'Turn your tests into testimonies.' I like that one! As I have mentioned before, there are NO coincidences, folks!

Personally, I have really appreciated the Vision Channel with their various ministerial programs. Thank you again! Each has an invaluable message to impart! For those of you, who are seeking more clarity etc about Him, tune into the ministries, as they offer genuine tidbits of encouragement and hope.

When one has experienced 'trials and tribulations,', there is more empathy and compassion shown towards others. Plus, when one invites Christ into one's heart, one changes. Many people appear to take offense to that 'change.' ie. "What is wrong with you? You have changed. Or he / she has changed you. Go back to your old ways. We like and prefer you better that way. What has happened to you?" It is as if by their 'words, actions, and deeds', aspersions are cast and 'divisions' are rife. An ephifany for me is that I have to continue to have 'understanding' for those who truly do not understand. I have to continue to Pray for them; so that they will invite Him genuinely into their hearts; sooner rather than later. Revelation is in the works, just a matter of time when the Rapture happens. We feel it could be in our life time.

Hope this post offers you some uplifting bittids. I love the above photo of Blue, taken last year. A lot of people think he is 'Fido.' A similar looking dog is pictured on the Science Diet food package. He is a very wonderful pet and we are Prayful that he will pull through this. He is very tired; however, it could be due too, to the medications that are at work to restore the liver.

It is a gorgeous day; so am going to go outside on our patio to embrace the beauty of today.

Peace and God Bless.

Appreciating Blessings!

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

Am glad it is the weekend and it has been a quiet yet lovely R & R day for us three. Over night, it snowed about 4 inches and winter has left its mark. Our power even went off during the night.

Earlier this afternoon, we were outside and appreciated the warm rays of the sun; albeit cold temperatures.

The antibiotics are starting to work on Blue; along with other vitamins and antioxidants, as well as a change in his diet, which will assist his liver functions. The new vet we have, is a lovely guy. Perhaps this was a 'Blessing in Disguise." Our old vet was and is still on vacation (a well deserved rest, I am sure!) but because Blue had to see a vet asap, we were given the name of a vet, who is close to where we have recently relocated. Instead of an hour's drive, it is a few minutes.

Have discovered that our dog loves music! It is on now, as I type and our 'pup' is contentedly curled up on the sofa bed. Methinks, the music is a calming effect upon him! He maintains a healthy appetite and we will be seeing the vet this coming week, as well as putting Blue on another round of antibiotics etc. His eyes have a bit of blue in them now; but he is still not out of the woods. He is receiving tons of TLC and rest. Made some homemade chicken soup last night, along with a bittid of rice and we add a tid of that to mix in with his food. I have to laugh; I cook for our 'pup' and yet Alan does the cooking for us! LOL!

Alan was exploring into further career options on Thursday and it is a matter of tidbitz timing. While he was out, it was a also a time of yet more reflection and ephifanies for me! I ended up reading in full, the Book of Proverbs from the Bible; and it offers so much understanding and wisdom. Particularly, during these times! One of the verses that really impacts me, is Proverbs 28:1 - "The wicked flee when no one is pursuing, But the righteous are bold as a lion." I LOVE that one; and for whatever reason, that is a major tidbit of strength to me!

Alan and I have experienced many a 'trial and tribulation'; and yet the insights from Proverbs are empowering in its Truth. While I was embracing knowledge, Blue was resting comfortably at my feet, in front of our gas fireplace, with the gentle sounds of music in the background. I am looking forward to reading the Book of Isaiah next. Invaluable insights! I have become like a sponge, soaking up as much as I can.

Have always been "slow to boil;' hence when I reach the point of 'enough is enough', then that is simply and very calmly the case. One might say, 'quietly on the warpath' when the 'line has been crossed.' Alan and I have done our utmost to put our best feet forward in working things out with certain people; but it has not been receptive. So, I have 'let go' as 'enough is enough.' Nonetheless, because we love them, we will continue to Pray for genuine reconciliation in time.

With the serious situation of our Blue etc, we have been taking a hard look at our lives. We know what the Truth has been and is; and for those who wish to mock, ridicule, be unkind, divisive, mean spirited, whatever, fine. We will continue to continue and keep trekking forward in Faith in Christ. He has a good Plan for each and every one of us. It is not too late to turn to Him and genuinely invite Him into your heart. Once that happens, He never leaves you and when you experience your 'trials and tribulations', just remember He IS always present as your Advocate, both in good and bad times.

The Bible is the TRUTH. Also, Alan and I have enjoyed reading daily messages from the little booklets by Pastor Charles Price (www.livingtruth.ca) and by Dr. David Jeremiah (www.DavidJeremiah.org) as well as watching their ministries and others on the T.V. Vision Channel. A big thank you to them for sharing their teachings and insights.

Tidbit - Ask Him to Provide you with understanding and wisdom. Trust in Him to Sustain you daily, Also, Rely upon Him to Direct your path.

Bittid - Do not let your heart become 'hardened' regardless of circumstances, or how poorly you may have been treated or maligned. Continue to Pray for them and leave it to Him to work things through.

The picture is of this evening's sky; which is a gorgeous colour of white and blue grey; and with the white rooftops as a stark contrast, it is a pretty specactular sight. We have much to be thankful for. Another one of His many majestic Creations / Blessings! The photo to the side is of our bittidz garden. As you can see, the sun had melted the snow from the trees. Love the little statue!

Here is wishing you a nice weekend.

Peace and God Bless.

Love conquers all!

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

Since I last tid wrote, we have experienced our 'ups and downs.' A lot of things have been occuring all at once! You wonder why does that happen?

Have been appreciative of Dr. David Jeremiah's insights from 'Turning Point', be it from the T.V and / or his free monthly booklets. ie. One of the messages from his booklet is: "We are to bring God's Stipulations to bear on life's situations and circumstances." This message from the 'Turning Point' booklet really helped me in embracing a greater level of tidbit understanding and courage in our daily walk in His Service. I recommend for those of you who wish to know more and / or to seek an encouraging positive uplift in you life, to tune into 'www.davidjeremiah.org.' as he is right on with his solid teachings of the Bible.

We are living in very uncertain and questionable times and all I can say is: "Be ready." Revelation is definitely in the works. Read the best selling Book, 'The Bible' and that will provide you with the TRUTH. Plus, it will help to instil within in, FAITH and TRUST in Christ. Believe you me, at the end of your bit life, which address do you want to live at? I wish I had known this much earlier in my life; and it has taken me til now to realize things. Particularly now too, with all the unrest etc that is literally going on around the world!

Our current situations are exactly where He wants us to be. To take tidbitz stock, in other words. Alan and I are definitely doing that and hence Relying upon Him to handle the several bittidz situations confronting us. We are going to stand strong and take solace, knowing that He is Our Provider and Sustainer!!!!

Today, from Dr. David Jeremiah's 'Turning Point' booklet, the daily message is 'Sustained.; ie. "Cast your burdens on the Lordl and He shall sustain you; He shall never permit the righteous to be moved." (Psalm 55:22). NO COINCIDENCES, HERE FOLKS!

Also, earlier this evening, I saw a magnificent sunset! Golden golden golden clouds amongst blue egg shell colourd skies. Was blown away by this 'ethereal' beauty! I thanked Him for that Blessing and as soon as I said those words of thanks, it appeared to 'shine' more brilliantly than ever! Wow! That was a major Blessing unfolding, methinks! (Even with all the 'stuff' going on around us, I thought this is totally awesome and THANK YOU!!!). Then, a short bittid time later, the same clouds became purple/red amidst these 'heavenly' blue skies!!!!! What a majestic sight! So, that gave me an even further resolve and JOY to just trek on; albeit we are facing many 'trials and tribulations' and being 'marginalized' all the more. Alan and I have been reassured more positvely than ever, to stay the course of holding fast to our firm trust in Him to Sustain us!

Our beloved pup, Blue, is hanging in there. He is on antibiotics; and it is a matter of time when they kick in. The good thing however, is that Blue continues to have an appetite; which is good. For whatever reason, he likes music and I guess, as a 'Mum,' I want to make sure he has all the TLC tidbits needed; even if it means some gentle ongong music in the background. If you refer to my earlier post, you will have some more bittids about Blue.

Tidbit - Continue to continue with FAITH and TRUST in Him to Sustain you.

Vittid - Always have a joyful and thankful heart; regardless of any and all circumstances.

The above photo image says it ALL. Regardless of your circumstances, situations etc, remember LOVE is the greatest of all! FORGIVE!!!!

Good Night, Peace, and God Bless.

Keep the Faith!

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

First of all, Happy New Year! May this year be the best one yet for you!

To recap, Alan and I enjoyed a nice quiet Christmas; albeit sad in some ways. Regardless though, we were truly joyful in celebrating the Birth of Jesus Christ!

However, on New Year's Day, our dog took a sudden tid turn for the worse. Long story made short, we made an appointment for him to see the vet. The earliest time the doctor could see us, was on Tuesday evening. A series of tests were done on Blue and he was given immediate medication and a prescription for antibiotics for the following day. It would appear on first bittid blush, that he has a bacterial infection, which is seriously affecting his liver. We are still waiting for the final test results and prayfully, it is not viral or even a worse case scenario. We have had to alter and change Blue's food diet; and thank goodness for Alan's homemade turkey soup (carrots etc), which is also helping to provide nourishment and protein to our 'pup.'

Alan and I have been very sad about this; yet we are doing our best to keep a positive attitude for our Blue. Dogs are smart and they can intuitively sense sadness. So, to boost his spirits and ours, I have been going about the house saying "Happy happy happy dog, good boy, waggy waggy waggy your tail. We love you!" (fighting back tears all the while). Blue has been experiencing his 'ups and his downs' and for those of you, who have beloved family pets, am sure you can relate; just how big a part they play in your life. The good tidbitz thing is though, Blue still has his appetite and is receiving lots of rest and extra TLC.

Today, I watched a part of the 'Hour of Power' and Jim Penner was giving a message ('An Audience with the King'), which was very heartfelt to my heart. I totally related and for those of you who are feeling a bittidz down, tune into today's www.hourofpower.org.

Also, want to mention about Ed Arnold, who has been a volunteer with the Crystal Cathedral Ministries for FIFTY years!!!!! Wow! He was also saying that blogs etc were suggesting that the ministry was not going to continue etc. Well, I just want to write in encouragement, that I think the 'Hour of Power' is fantastic and they are being wonderfully and powerfully Directed by God's Plan. ie. Genuinely uplifting others and spreading the message of the good news! Going back though to Ed Arnold, I think he is a very special human being; and good on him to have the courage to state that the ministry is NOT closing!!! I am very appreciative for their ministry; and I think they are doing an empowering job of regenerating and rebuilding during these tough times throughout the world. So a big THANK YOU to them!!!

Tidbit - Keep on smiling. "Laugh and the world laughs with you. Weep and you weep alone." My Dad used to always say that and you know, it is true.

Bittid - Be thankful ALWAYS, regardless of circumstances and any unexpected curve balls that come 'out of left field.' In fact, turn things around, RELYING upon Him to show you the way, as per His Plan, His Purpose, and in accordance with His Will.

Today Jim Penner was saying that just put 'your glasses of Faith on' and Trust in God. Here is his Prayer that he concluded with in his message, that I find to be very uplifting!!!! "So if you want to hear God’s voice, if you want God’s glory in your life, stand up. Because God’s going to do this and it’s going to be different for everybody, but God will reveal His glory to you, if you ask for it. You have to ask for it. You have to say, “Please, God, show me Your glory.” This might be a scary thing for you. It might be a scary thing to let God just come in and take over your house, right here, completely take it over. I know you’ve accepted Jesus. But you crave something more. You crave His presence all over your life. If that’s where you’re at this morning, just close your eyes and pray this prayer: “Please, God, show me Your glory. Rain down on me. Take over. Show me Your glory."

Methinks, there are NO coincidences. With all that has lately been going on in Alan's and my life, Jim Penner's Prayer came right at the right time! Hope this is an uplift to those who would be appreciative of a bit of 'good cheer.' I recommend highly the 'Hour of Power'; and Jim's message and all those associcated with the Crystal Cathedral, was / is totally 'right on' and 'down to earth.'

Interestingly enough too, here is the start of Jim Penner's message from today's message. Methinks, the QB had / has an Audience and Help from On High!!! No coincidences here folks!

(ie.from Jim Penner) - "I love this series called “The King and I” because God, our King, is still actively working in this world. We do not serve a passive God. We serve a God who heals. We serve a God who saves. We serve a God who delivers according to His will. Amen? Amen. God is King. And in case you haven’t figured it out yet, God is sovereign. God can do anything He pleases because He is the King. And He is still actively working in this world.

One of the great comforts in my life is the knowledge that God is the King of continuity. Now what do I mean by “God is the King of continuity?” What that means is that God will never, ever contradict what He has already declared or what He has already spoken. Because He is God, He will never, ever contradict Himself. He will never go against something He has already spoken. If it’s in His word, He has declared it; He will never, ever contradict His word. He’s the King of continuity.

Now why does that give me such great comfort in my life? Two reasons:

Many people say, “God doesn’t exist because I’ve never seen Him.” I was listening to a radio show the other day, and they were saying something similar. They were saying, “If God exists, why in the world would He insert Himself into my particular circumstances?” They happened to be complaining about a football player who prays regularly; who’s become national news because he gives God all the glory and all the praise. I don’t even have to mention his name. Most of you know who he is. So, this guy called radio station criticizing, asking why would God insert Himself into this particular person’s or player’s circumstance.

Well, the same holds true for you and me. Why would God insert Himself into our particular circumstances? Out of all the problems in the world, why would He insert Himself into my circumstance? That question is the reason I’m so thrilled that God is the King of continuity, that He won’t contradict His word. Because God said in Jeremiah 29:13 - and if you remember nothing else this morning, remember this - “You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.” That’s a word from the Lord for somebody. And I’ve got to ask the question: When was the last time you really sought the Lord? I mean really sought the Lord? Sought an audience with the King?"

In conclusion, the Christian Quarter Back of the Denver Broncos pulled it off against the Pittsburgh Steelers! Alan just passed on the news to me!

The above picture was taken of Blue a year ago! He was a good sport again this year, putting up wtih the reindeer antlers! LOL!

Peace and God Bless.

May the New Year be a great one!

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

Well, here it is. New Year's Eve and going into a new year. I think most of us will be glad to see the tid back end of this year and hence looking forward to a much better year!

Alan and I are preparing for the New Year; eventhough it is a bit of a 'holiday' time for most people. We plan to make 2012 a good year.

To recap, we had our bittidz ups and downs over the Christmas season; but 'onwards and upwards' as the tidbitz saying goes. We are working through numerous changes; and Alan is retrenching himself in a past career that he was very successful in. Timing of course, is everything. All we know is, that we are moving forward. We are all the more thankful to have each other and our pup, Blue.

We are grateful for our close friends (they know who they are) and also for family. Life is too short and we will appreciate those who want to genuinely be around us. Alan and I have much to give; however, "You can take a horse to water; but you can not make it drink." My Dad used to tell me that; and there is a lot of truth to that tidbit expression. We are hopeful and Prayful that in time, things will sort themselves out; so that we may enjoy happier family relationships.

Tidbit - Have a thankful heart, always! Be grateful for any and all Blessings that come your way. Be happy for others too.

Bittid - Be of genuine good cheer and provide an encouraging uplift to all those you meet, each and every day.

Tonight is New Year's Eve. Alan and I will be opening a bottle of 'bubbly' that was given to us by a dear friend. Skal! We will enjoy a bittid and look forward to savouring the rest tomorrow. Alan and I have been re evaluating and thankfully reflecting upon much. All we can simply say is: "Thank You!" and "Praise Him In ALL Things."

Here is wishing you all a Happy 2012!

Peace and God Bless.

The Spirit of Christmas each day!

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

It has been eleven days since I last wrote a tidbitz post. The time has just evaporated, or so it would appear.

Alan, I, and Blue have much to be thankful for. Eventhough, we still have some difficulties ahead of us; we are taking time out to celebrate the Birth of Jesus Christ. We are totally appreciative of our daily Blessings and 'keeping things simple' helps us to live each day on a day to day basis. 'Keeping it simple' is a lot easier to work with / surviving / whatever shoe fits.

Alan and I really enjoyed our Christmas dinner with my son. We had it earlier this year; and in a way, it is nicer that it is behind us; because now we can delight in coasting on the leftovers! Thanks to him and his kindness to us, we were re invigorated to partake in the Christmas spirit. There have been some events that have been very sad. We are prayful that those things do not happen to those in question; that is, when they reach their later years. I have always loved Christmas. Have always believed it to be a joyful and festive time. Sadly, that is not always the bittidz case.

Am writing this bittid post for those of you, who feel sad and that if there is division within your family, just to take heart and carry on. I am dedicating this post to some good friends in particular (they know who they are) and our hearts go out big time to them!

Today, Alan and I dropped off some homemade Christmas cookies (I am not a great baker) to our grandsons and may they enjoy each and every little tidbit mouthful with the love that went into preparing the TLC goodies. We love the little ones and perhaps with the 'day after' the 25th, they may have some uninterrupted time to appreciate the bite sized cookies and the candies.

Tidbit - "Praise Him in ALL Things." Be appreciative for the daily Blessings you are given; as well as enduring and withstanding all 'trials and tribulations' that show up. Your Faith will sustain and strengthen you; as "He IS our Refuge and Strength."

Bittid - Remember, that He has already OVERCOME. So, keep on trekking in that trusting knowledge, understanding, and empathy. Turn your sadness, despair, etc by uplifting all those you meet, in a genuine and loving way. You never know whose lives you may happen to touch, or impact, and / or change; even just with a warm smile, or a gentle word, and / or doing a random act of kindness.

Alan has made up a large annual batch of turkey soup; we will be enjoying some tonight. We have various people (ex neighbours) who we know will appreciate this soup again; as well as some of our new neighbours. (We are the new neighbours! LOL!).

Writing of food, glorious food, we are grateful we have food. In other parts of the world, that is not the tid case. We normally cook a special recipe for a 'Christmas' breakfast; but this year with all the fraught and wrought, we thought 'keep it simple.' Hence, we enjoyed breakfast sausages, waffles, and 'eggs over easy' for Christmas and Boxing Day brunch.

We appreciated toasting in Christmas Day with champagne given to us, by my son. We also added a bit of Orange juice (Voila! 'Mimosa') to the champagne; and apart from its beneficial Vitamin C, the O.J. is a wonderful way to further 'stretch' the champagne! LOL! We have been listening to Christmas music, and our gas fireplace has been a restful touch as well.

Here are two pictures; one of Alan and our dancing 'Fido' Blue. (We think Blue is even better! LOL!) and our festive Christmas tree. We had a traumatic move; however, we have lovingly made this abode into a cosy new home.

Alan and I are looking forward to a much better year; and I am sure most people are as well! It has definitely been a time of growth and major change for us. However, through it all, we continue to embrace each and every day with thankful and hopeful hearts. Hope those who are sad, forlorn, etc, will take comfort and solace in Him; as, "He IS the Way, the Truth, and the Life."

Peace and God Bless.