Appreciate Life as a Privilege

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

Yes, we are back....not for long though.

We returned yesterday, and will be heading back up to Pasley tomorrow afternoon. The weather has not been / is not the best; and it is not even 60 degrees F yet! We LOVE Pasley; but with heavy rains and winds for this past week, we were just as happy to relocate to 'home' for a short bittidz. We will be restocking / replenishing our supplies; as well as enjoying the running of hot water, electricity etc. before going back to Pasley. Also, the generator was not functional for most of the time; inasmuch as the batteries need to be charged and recharged by light and sunshine. We do have a solar panel; however, the weather was quite dark and damp.

To give a re cap of the week, here goes! You might want or need (LOL!) to pour yourself a cup or glass of something!

On Monday, Aug 25th, found us tidying up the house (like a clean house to come home to!). packing odds and sods of food supplies, already in our fridge and larder. "Waste Not, Want Not" applies! As mentioned, we had a number of telephone calls re: our business (up country) and received some good news as well. Will share that tidbitz when things are in place.

It looks as if our harvested efforts are coming to 'Fruition'. Remember I shared about having FAITH in Him to Provide your needs; and that it takes COURAGE to have the UNSEEN BELIEF / FAITH. It is good to believe in Him etc; but then to actually put it into practice! Alan and I do our best to do that, each and every day; however there are moments when that can be a struggle. ie actually taking the 'Leap of Faith'. Apart from 'things coming to fruition;, we still have some hurdles.

Would like to share an experience I had prior, to us leaving for Pasley. Because the water is such a precious commodity at Pasley, I decided I would enjoy the bath (and water!) all the more. As I was soaking in the tub, I said outloud (in a resigned, yet genuine tone) to Him - "I KNOW You know we are in a bit of a 'sticky wicket' with a few things; however, I KNOW You will Provide for us; as we are Your children. I do not know how, the when, or the where, but I KNOW You have a purpose and a good plan for Alan and I. So, I am going to ENJOY the journey, while we wait for You, to supply our needs. Thank You. Praise You In ALL Things. Amen".

At the very moment I said, 'Amen', sunshine immediately filled / dazzled our bathroom, as it brilliantly shone through our skylight! The skies had just been darkly overcast, threatening rain any second! Although, earlier in the morning, there was a tid of blue sky and a sliver of sunshine. I immediately was in 'AWE' and I thanked Him for the majestic sunshine, that just 'appeared' so glowingly. I felt as if He was 'smiling' and that perhaps by my 'surrendering' with all my heart, that is to RELY and totally DEPEND upon Him. Then, certain 'pieces of the puzzle'(ie the good news, I earlier referred to), started to happen; just like a 'domino effect'. Like, 'WOW!'

Whilst on route to catch the ferry, we picked up a few more reinforcements. The island boat as mentioned, was still out of service, so we had to make alternative arrangements. (You may wish to refer to my post of Oct 8/07 - Thanksgiving re: the exiting 'Cigar Boat' experience). The same gentleman, same sleek boat, cheerfully picked us up. He was just as charming and genuine as before; and in fact, we invited both him and his wife to 'pop in', sometime for a visit.

It was lovely to be back up at our cosy Pasley. We enjoyed a delicious pasta dinner, along with a Caesar Salad (a pre made mix of greens & dressing), French Bread, and a glass or two of South African Red Wine. It was an 'International' evening, as appreciated with the simple and tasty combination. We also fell thankfully asleep; always enjoy the best 'sleeps' up there! Even our Blue, 'comfy comfy', on an old torn up sleeping bag! LOL!

Tuesday, Aug 26th. There are tidbits of sunshine, poking through the clouds and bittids of blue sky; although heavy winds and rainfall is in the forecast. You can well tell by the breezes picking up; both on the ocean and on the island. The branches, the leaves of the trees turn in such a way, that alerts your senses to a stormy downpour. At the moment, we are similar to Ernest Hemingway sitting on the beach deck chairs (I really enjoyed his books; must re read them again!). We are most appreciative of our 'Bohemian' paradise. As a tidbit, there is a wonderful publike restaurant in Oslo, Norway, called 'Bloms'. Apparently, this historical restaurant was one of Ernest Hemingway's favourite haunts; I had occasion to go there and can definitely see why Ernest Hemingway would be drawn to such a unique spot!

I made mention of the word ' PRIVILEGE' in an earlier post; and it is, indeed, a 'privilege' to come up to Pasley. (Actually, Life is a 'privilege'). Alan and I are very Blessed, in our Legacy from my Mum and Dad; and we are forever thankful for this magnificent spot; so dear to our hearts. We equitably share it with my brother and his family; and we are all working towards longterm enjoyment for both families and the ongoing generations. Even when Alan and I visited our neighbours later in the rainy afternoon, the theme of 'entitlement' came up (actually by the 40 yr old and then followed through with his Mum and Dad) that Pasley is not a 'right' but is a 'PRIVILEGE'. Touche!

When my parents were alive, they enjoyed the full 'specialness' of Pasley throughout their lifetimes; and we were included, if we wished to be; and yet we were never allowed to take Pasley for granted. My brother and I respect the same 'privilege' of spending time up there; and eventhough we have had personal issues with one another, we are concentrating on putting our past differences behind us. We trust and Pray that the generations after us, will treat Pasley also as a 'privilege' and not merely as a 'right'. We thoroughly enjoyed seeing our neighbours; a great way of getting caught up on 'island history', as well as being warm and cosy indoors!

Wednesday, August 27th. Rained 'cats and dogs' the night before, along with harsh winds. For a bittid of 30 minutes, when the rains and winds subsided; I squeezed in my morning walk with Blue; and it was so peaceful in amongst all the trees, along the trails. Wonderful mists rising from the treetops and the occasional brightness in open spaces. Fall is very definitely in the air. Later in the afternoon, our neighbours (the parents of the 40 yr old) came over and it was a great time had by all. PLUS, the sun came out in full regalia and warmth for the Pasley hour they were there! Incredible timing! Both Alan and I were joyful to see them; however, I was just extra glad! Do not know why; save that they are lovely, genuine, and 'down to earth people'. They are approx 10 - 12 years older than us; and their 'kids' are approx 15 - 19 yrs younger than us; so we are right tid in the middle; which makes it extra nice. (I enjoy friends of all ages!).

It is said, that you are 'only as old as you feel'. I have always heartily believed that to be the case! 'Laugh and the World laughs with you; Weep and you weep alone'. My Dad always said those wise words to me; and it is true. Alas, there are many sad (even sour) people today; that enable themselves to be in an 'empty' situation. (You can refer to my Aug 20th post - Reflections and Discernment). However, if they turn to Him, and invite Him in to their hearts, they will be forever changed; and will look at life in a much happier and simpler way!

Thursday, Aug 28th. Came and went! Major rains and ocean swells. Miserable actually; but it just made us that much more appreciative of our Blessings. In fact later that evening, we were sitting underneath the partial roof eves, and eventhough it was cold and just pouring with rain, we were happy! Enjoyed a glass of red wine and said, 'Praise Him In ALL Things'. Also, earlier in the afternoon, another neighbour came over, and we enjoyed her visit and hearing what was new with her. In short, we reconnected with quite a few of our neighbours.

Should mention too, that when we are at Pasley, I LOVE to cook! The kitchen may be sparse and spartan; but perhaps it is just the 'bohemian ambience'; and very often, the best meals and / or 'creative concoctions' appear!' LOL! We had glorious salmon steaks; and it was delicious, if I say so myself! LOL! Cooked the salmon in the frying pan (I know that that is not the healthiest way) with oil and margarine; along with honey mustard and brown sugar generously sprinkled on both sides of the salmon. The usual seasonings; but I did not need to apply lemon; as the tid of lime added the extra bit of 'oompf'. Plus some green peppers from our bittid patio vegetable garden; along with store bought yellow and orange peppers cooked much in the same manner; but in a separate pan. Peas were also thrown into the medley; and our tidbit cherry tomatoes (also from our home freshly grown produce), gave a bit of colour!

Friday, August 29th. We came home; via the 'Cigar Boat'; and typically, the sun came out. Then on the ferry, our car was in a 'view spot'; so we had a wonderful vista of the surrounding islands! However, we had to return to the city; as we had our banking and other things that needed doing.

We were tired but contented little puppies last night; and inasmuch as the weather was 'iffier' this am, we made the decision not to go up to Pasley, til tomorrow. Plus the forecast is not looking good for this evening. So after we enjoy our Sunday morning programs (You can refer to my Nov 11th, Nov 18th and other posts, if you wish), we will leisurely head back up to Pasley; doing a bit of shopping on route. Love the above photo, that I took of Pasley 'at sunset'. (You can see actual pictures in post of July 28/08 - Holidays are Good).

Hope I have not worn you out with the last tid few days of journal 'catch up'; as I also wanted to share some special tidbits / bittids with whomever, reads my posts. May be back in a bit of a tid; or if not, next week!

Here is wishing you all a great Labour Day Weekend. Happens to be my birthday on the 2nd of September; and I feel that each and every year is a Blessing. We will be 'celebrating' my birthday up there....just chilling out and being appreciative and joyful for each and every day, let alone each passing year.

God Bless.

Happy August 25th!

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

August 25th! Already the month of August is almost over; and then we are into September, Fall etc.

At the tid moment, it is not raining, and the sun is attempting to poke its head out through the clouds and the bits of scattered blue sky. Forecasted to be an 'iffy' day. We are still not sure as to when we are going up to Pasley. We have received tids of phone calls, starting at 8:00 am this morning; so it may be better for us to go tomorrow; which gives us the appropriate bit time to address any bittid issues / matters before we leave.

Was up early, and admired our glorious front patio 'garden'; which is in full regalia of reds, whites, pinks, corals, violets, and purples. Plus, the early morning dew was impressive as well; and you can definitely feel a tidbit of Fall in the air.

Tidbit - Your attitude and behaviour at the start of the day, shapes the rest of your day! 'Praise Him In ALL Things' is a helpful uplift!

Bittid - Be thankful for ALL your Blessings. ie your garden or whatever gives you joy!

Have to go for now; however, here is wishing you all a good day! Love the above photo image of the 'Queen Elizabeth Rose'. As mentioned in previous posts, we have a couple of these rose bushes in our back patio 'garden'; and they are, indeed, lovely!

God Bless.

'Let Him Reign In You' , And Appreciate The Rain!

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

Today, eventhough it has been pouring with rain all day; am really enjoying the cooler air and our home. It has been most refreshing; and our plants and flowers are also appreciating the downpour.

This morning I watched the three T.V. programs re: 'Hour of Power', 'Enjoying Everyday Life', and 'The Living Truth'. (You can refer to posts of Nov 11/07 etc for background). Basically, Robert Schuller Jr shared that we must place our Faith in the unseen; and he gave some wonderful examples; which you can check into if you wish, on his website.

With Joyce, she was sharing that the 'Word of God has the Power' ( Walking Confidently in Righteousness and Holiness); and that everything IS in the present tense with Him. Also, on earth, people say 'Show me first'; whereas, with Him, you need to Believe first, before He shows you; and He does. Please feel free to view her website.

To me, His plan is the best; rather then dealing with those who are forever saying, 'Show me first'. Just makes me think of banks and other financial institutions in that regard. With all the major scrutiny they are currrently under, they are totally fearful of taking any risks whatsoever. Micro thinking appears to be replacing macro thinking.
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With Charles, he was sharing that we need to have a 'Dependence on Him'' and, 'It is the heart that connects with God'. We are in God's Workshop; and we are 'God's Agents'. He wants us to be in His Service, moment by moment, day by day, for our own personal growth. He wants us to be 'ready'; not just on Sundays; but everyday! You may wish to refer to his website as well.

This morning was absolutely gorgeous with the vividly different shades of green of all the surrounding trees, in our complex. I took some digital pictures; and here is hoping I will add them to the blogs, at some point. The geranium flowers too, were vibrantly alive with colour. Am thinking as per Joyce, 'Let Him Reign in you'. So true! I love the above photo image illustrating an inviting warmth; and because of the rainy weather, we enjoyed a nice fire in our cosy abode.

We had an appointment at the house this afternoon; it went well. We also recently had word that the 'Island Boat' for Pasley is out of commission for the tid time being; however, we do have another tidbit source of transportation. Inasmuch as the forecast looks gloomy and wet tomorrow, we may postpone going to Pasley til either later tomorrow pm or Tues am. We plan to be home on the Friday for the day; as we have our business to attend to.

Just picked a bittid bunch of cherry tomatoes! They look so delicious; and we will enjoy them with our dinner tonight!

Good Night and God Bless.

Reflections and Choices

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

Am glad it is Saturday; am just relaxing, enjoying my cup(s) of coffee, and 'smelling the roses'. Love the above photo image!

As a tid, we have some beautiful climbing yellow roses; and they have wonderfully intertwined themselves with our 'Trumpet Yellow' Clematis, which is growing abundantly along our bit back patio fence.

Have been reflecting; and it gets down to the CHOICES, one makes. All of us learn from our choices we make; particularly if it was not the best choice at the time. That is how one 'grows' and becomes a better person. I know I have mentioned in various posts, that 'yesterday is gone (do not cry over spilt milk), tomorrow is promised to no one (do not be anxious about the next day), and just enjoy today, giving it your best.

Well, there are times too, when one has to take a stand; to touch upon past choices to streamline a smoother path for the future. Sometimes, things that have happened in the past, stick with you, and generally can be problematic later on. ie Blaming others, resentment, whatever. The hardest thing to do, is to acknowledge your own mistakes or inappropriate choices. It is imperative for personal growth to assess your own conduct and its subsequent effects on others. If needed to apologize or attempt to clear the air. So that not only to personally grow from the experience; ie being wrong and apologizing! Now there is a personal growth all around; so that our tomorrows are better with greater levels of communication and understanding.

He already KNOWS everything about us; however, when you turn to Him, and invite Him into your heart, He will never leave; and you are forgiven; because He LOVES you so! For those that have yet to have that experience, once that takes place, they 'change' and look at life in a very different yet simpler way. HE IS THE WAY, THE TRUTH, AND THE LIGHT. The TRUTH, sets you free; and that is where the 'right' CHOICES are easier to make. Ask Him to Guide you each and every day; and it is amazing what happens! Please refer to my post of August 20th, re: Reflections and Discernment; as they may give you tidbits / bittids. There are other posts as well, that offer bittids / tidbits.

Just had an unexpected visitor; our lovely neighbour. She came over to pick some of our freshly home grown produce. ie Sweet Basil, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, chives, whatever she would like. She is the one who kindly offers to water our patio 'garden' plants / flowers, whenever we are at Pasley. We are very Blessed to enjoy her as a wonderful neighbour / friend.

Later this afternoon, we have an appointment and it involves making choices; and we are relying on His Direction, and His Words of Wisdom to Guide us. Some of the choices I have made in the past, were not 'brilliant'; however, that is part of the 'learning curve'. I do not make choices to deliberately cause harm or be vindicative towards others; instead I depend upon Him to be my Advocate of Choice and Truth.

God Bless.

Enjoy the journey!

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

Today has been a very quiet day; almost too quiet! However, very pleasant temperatures with a light soothing bit of a breeze. We have made a number of telephone calls, and it is just a matter of confirming various commitments.

We are in the process of arranging / organizing everything so that we can comfortably leave this Monday for Pasley. Depending on the 'Pasley Schedule', we will be heading back to town next week for a day, to attend to any outstanding business, before returning to Pasley. We will also be replenishing our supplies of ICE and a few other appreciated necessities.

As mentioned in yesterday's post, Alan and I will be enjoying the ambience of a wonderful restaurant this evening. Looking forward to it!

Tidbit - Do your best to 'enjoy the journey', while you 'wait' upon Him to supply your needs. Sometimes that is easier said than done; however, it does become simpler, when you courageously Rely totally on Him to Provide Solution for you. He wants to GIVE you Blessings; just let Him do it.

Bittid - Easier said than done too, but just live your best for today; do not worry about yesterday, and do not fret or 'pre-worry' about tomorrow. Just simply enjoy today; and,'Praise Him In ALL Things'.

Hope this helps give you (as it does to me) some tid encouragement to simply 'enjoy the journey'; living each and every day; one day at a time. I LOVE the above photo image of the man heartily devouring / slurping / gulping down his oysters! (I LOVE oysters; may inhale some tonight! LOL!) We have that particular plate; and every time I pass by it, a smile readily appears on my face! We have much to be thankful for; and all I can say is, 'Thank you!'

God Bless.

P.S. You may wish to refer to my earlier posts; ie 3 of March 15/08; and March 19/08 for background. The above plate reminds me of the amusing antics and comical expressions of our late friend, whom I nicknamed, 'The Almond Roca Man'.

Glorious, peaceful summer skies!

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

Today has come and gone! It is now a lovely summer evening; and a very nice close to the day.

We had a fully productive day; a major appointment in the morning, which went very well. Alan and I had planned to go out for dinner tonight; but our cosy home beckoned to us instead! We will enjoy a movie and just 'chill out'. We will go out tomorrow and appreciate a quiet evening with each other.

We watched 'Lawrence from Arabia' last night. What a fantastic movie; and so well done! I understand, it was Peter O'Toole's movie debut; well he was perfect for the part! I saw the movie as a teenager; but seeing it a second time, really caught my tidbit attention a lot more than many years ago! Probably like most of us, perhaps! Lawrence of Arabia was an amazing human being; and the fact he united the Arabs and helped them to succeed, was just awesome. And to think that he died in a motorcycle accident ( alas, did not negotiate the turn), after all he had endured throughout his life. 'Lawrence of Arabia', had the right idea of how to take 'leadership'; by example, as far as I am concerned. I feel if you want the genuine and loyal respect of others, be prepared to do the same. 'Talk the talk, and walk the walk'. We missed the first bittid, and did not watch the last 1.5 hrs; as the movie was running into the wee morning hours; however, what we saw, was incredible!

The skies are glorious this evening as everything looks so green, fresh, and completely alive with colour. The recent rainfall has been a Godsend. I love the above photo image; very similar to our summery calm skies tonight.

Tidbit - Appreciate your day, good or otherwise. 'Praise Him In ALL Things'.

Bittid - Be thankful for all your Blessings and also, be grateful for the night, when you can solidly rest.

Good Night and God Bless.

Reflections and Discernment

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

Am personally really thankful for the cooler weather and rain. It gives one a nice feeling of 'being at home' and enjoying one's house. Am sure some of you can relate a tid!

Today has been a strange day; productive, nonetheless. Made successful contact with a number of individuals, and later this afternoon, we have an appointment, with drinks and appies / dinner to follow.

Our computer was not functioning earlier today; however, with the wonderful assistance of our internet provider, all is put to right. There was nothing really wrong; save an odd bit of a 'glitch' in the 'system'.

Alan just returned from his doctor re: his knee, which he injured severely last August, when he fell through a rotted part of our deck at Pasley. The deck has recently been rebuilt. Alan has been referred as of today, to a friend of ours; who is # One in his field. Thus things may be resolved sooner, rather than later.

Tidbit - COMMUNICATION is key; as it is vital to be on the same page. When there is direct and straight-up discussion, many of 'so called' problems evaporate. Fostering good will, integrity, honour, respect, and ethics, etc. is so crucial in enjoying positive and genuine relationships.

Bittid - 'Reflections' and 'Discernment' is good; keeps one focused on empathy and a quality conduct / behaviour towards others. 'LOVE THY NEIGHBOUR, AS THYSELF'. At the same time, if you allow yourself to be abused and / or mistreated by others, then you are continually enabling yourself to be treated poorly and without the quality respect you deserve. This can be a 'fine line' at times; however, just as important, is to take a stand for what is Right and Just. ie The TRUTH. 'Nipping things in the bud', is best. 'HE IS THE WAY, THE TRUTH, AND THE LIGHT'. I love the above photo image of 'Seek and Ye Shall Find'.

God Bless.