Super Simple Sunday

I lift my hands in praise to You my precious Saviour. There is none like You, I could search my whole life, and still there is none as worthy as You. I give everything to You, take me, and make me worthy of Your love and care. I will forever praise You, You are my praise. I love You! I love You!

Cafe Chat

Life is hard, sometimes tragic. If we are not personally in one of life's circumstances that is hard, then we probably know someone who is. As Christians we have a wonderful opportunity to comfort those around us that are living through some of life's worst experiences. However, if you are like me I have said, or done things that were not comforting to my family and friends that were going through intense times. Although my intentions were good, my words or actions were not so good. Why? One answer is that I did not let Jesus lead me as to what I should say or do for those who were hurting. It is not my words that can truly comfort or help those around me, but His.
So today, I would like for us to share some of the words that were said to us, or words we said to others that were not comforting, or maybe even made the situation worse. Today's sharing is not at all an exercise to condemn those around us who may have said things that were not good, but to help our community see what words can do if they are not filtered through Jesus. In Christ, Kim : Last year on June 8th, my big brother passed away from his diabetes. I found out about his death from a group email that was sent to me by my Aunt. So, things really started off in a very bad way. My husband had just shaved my head due to a illness that had taken most of my hair already, he shaved it on June 7th, talk about terrible timing. So, when we went to the funeral home, people were staring at me quite a bit, and some even made remarks, and questioned me. That hurt me, and was so wrong. We were not there to talk about me, and my lack of hair. We were there to pay respect to my dear brother, whom I loved dearly. It really hurts me, and bothers me, when you lose a loved one, and others act as if they loss the person. I appreciated the love, and kind words that were said to me in April 2006, when I loss my precious momma. But, I did not need, or want people saying to me, that they knew exactly how I felt. No, they did not know how I felt, their momma was still living, and praise God she was in great health. For months, I had taken care of my momma, as she faded away. I was the only one there with her at my home on the day she passed away. So, they did not understand my feelings at all. What I needed for them to do, was come along beside me, and just sit with me. Put their arm around me, and pull me close, tell me they loved me, and especially tell me Jesus loved me. Comfort me with the love and care of Jesus, which would have given me the sweet peace that surpasses all understanding. Pray with me, and for me, that is what my heart needed to begin to heal. When someone you love is hurting, be there for them to lean upon. Share the precious , and much needed love of Jesus with them. Please do not keep telling them, that you know how they are feeling, because you don't. Their feelings are their feelings only, please remember that. Walk softly upon their feelings, have an understanding heart.

Fearless Friday

Prayer Request: 1) Renee, her mom is having a breast biopsy today. 2) Angela, pray for financial blessings for her family, and for her sons job situation. 3) Tammy, she is waiting for the results of her MRI. 4) Marsha, her son in-law is having problems with his crohns disease. 5) Michele, as her and her husband are traveling. 6) Peggy, as she is traveling home. 7) Allelulabelle, her husbands health. 8) The restoration of Pias marriage. 9) Tom, his mom has cancer. 10) Vicki, her husband has cancer. Praise Report: My sister got a good report from her kidney doctor this week. Thanks for all your prayers, be blessed.

Whole Heart Faith- Week 4

Hello everybody, praying that you are all doing well on your journey. I have had a really rough week physically.My diabetes is acting crazy again, my blood sugars are way out of control, they are running over 600. Whenever this happens, I get sick. I stay very nauseous, confused, and totally exhausted. I am also having problems with my feet, they are both numb. When I go to stand up, it feels like I am carry boulders on my feet, such a heaviness. But, I did maintain my weight this week, even though I was not able to exercise. I am still weighing 175. I give God all the glory, and praise. Prayerfully, things will be better next week.

Thankful Thursday- The Voice Of God

Today is Thankful Thursday, and I am grateful for another opportunity to praise the Lord. I love Him so very much, and I want to serve Him with all of me, not just some of me. He gave His entire self on the cross for me, not just some of Himself. He is sooooooooo good to me, takes care of me day in, day out. I want to hear His voice always, and to have that happen, I must be obedient. As the song says: Trust, and obey , for there is no other way. I cannot obey only when I choose to, I must obey as He wants me to, which is always. To hear His precious voice, I have to be sin free, and clutter free. The world cannot be all I am listening to, I must clean my ears, eyes, and heart out, and make room to receive the beautiful voice of my Saviour. When His lovely voice falls upon my ears, it is the most wonderful thing I have ever heard, or want to hear. I am Yours Lord, and my true desire is to hear Your voice always. I love having conversations with You.

Word Filled Wednesday

In Other Words Tuesday

“Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in.
Aim at earth and you get neither.”
~ C.S. Lewis : As Christians, we are to walk by faith, and aim for higher things. Seek ye first the Kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added unto you. If we aim our life's toward heaven, God will reward us with a good earthly life. But, unfortunately, so many of us, get our aim so off target. We aim for bigger, and better things here on earth, and lose our souls in the process. My friends, keep your eyes on the ultimate prize, heaven, and all its beauty. Keep your aim headed straight toward heaven, this world is not our home.

Bloggy Love

I saw today, that there are 102 people following Shortybears Place, and 50 following Free To Be Me. That is unreal, I cannot believe it. That makes me want to cry, my heart just overflows with joy. When I first started blogging, I honestly thought that I would probably have no readers. Never did I imagine that I would one day, have over 100 readers. Thank you all so much for embracing me, and my little old blog. I have opened up my heart, and freely shared everything with you my friends, and you have allowed me to. You have seen me through the darkest times of my life, and through the brightest times. Thanks for being my friends, accepting me just as I am, praying for me, and caring about my life. I love you all, and carry you in my heart, and prayers daily. Remember, you are welcome at my blogs always.

Memorial Day

Focus On Missions

Dan & Eva Anderson

Serving in evangelism and leadership development in Spain

Fast Facts

Birthdays Dan (5/27), Eva (6/20)

Anniversary (7/2)

Family Manuel (4/23), David (12/31)

Education Dan: B.A. in general studies, 1997, Eastern Washington University, Spokane; M.A. in intercultural studies, 2000, Western Seminary, Portland, Oregon. Eva: five years of journalism, 1990-1994, Universidad Complutense de Madrid; certificate in partners in ministry, 2000, Western Seminary

Home Churches Fourth Memorial Church, Spokane, Washington; and Greater Portland Bible Church, Portland, Oregon

Ministry-at-a-Glance

Primary Ministry Focus: Creative outreach among North African immigrants in Spain.
The People: North African immigrants in Spain live mainly in the larger cities. They are drawn by the hope of employment and achieving the European lifestyle.
Major Challenges: The Andersons are working to open several "Community Centers" where immigrants can take classes in Spanish and English as a second language.
Prayer Focus: Pray that the community centers would provide an effective bridge into the immigrant communities for the purpose of establishing life impacting relationships.

Mission 4 Monday

You throw away 67.9 pounds of used clothing and rags each year, if you're like the typical American. Collectively, Americans discard two quadrillion pounds (that's a two with fifteen zeroes) of used clothing and textiles into the landfills each year.
The majority of clothing purchased in the United States is for women and, similarly, the amount of used clothing available for reuse, recycling, or disposal in landfills is women's clothing. The good news is that 95 percent of used clothing is reusable or recyclable, and indeed millions of pounds of clothing are spared from landfills each year as people pass along items to other family members or donate their used clothing to nonprofit groups that help the less fortunate, like the Salvation Army, Goodwill, homeless shelters, and thousands of religious- and service-based organizations.
Yet millions of tons of reusable clothing still get added to the solid waste stream annually.
Among those millions of tons of used clothing are items for which there is a tremendous need; namely, quality used clothing for women in special circumstances, such as business and/or career attire for women in financial need who are entering or returning to the workplace; prom and/or wedding dresses for adolescents and women who cannot afford these special occasion clothes; and clothing that addresses specific needs, such as plus-sizes and specialized clothing items for women who have had a mastectomy.
Fortunately, there are many resources to which you can donate these clothes to make sure they reach the women who need them rather than find their way into already-bulging landfills.

You can choose the most appropriate recipients of your used women's clothing donation depending on the type of clothing you have to offer. There are two categories below: Special Needs and General Donations. You are entitled to a tax receipt if you donate to a charitable/nonprofit organization.
Used Clothing – Special Needs
Gently used women's professional clothing is accepted by the Women's Alliance, which has locations in 21 states; and Dress For Success, which has affiliates in 37 states. You can drop off or ship your donated used business clothing and shoes.
Used prom and other formal dresses are collected and made available for young women who otherwise would not be able to attend their high school prom or other formal events. Both The Princess Project and the Glass Slipper Project collect and make available used prom and other formal dresses, as well as formal purses, shoes, jewelry, and unopened cosmetics and hosiery for young women who otherwise would not be able to attend their high school prom or other formal events. If there is no location near you, you can mail the used dress and other accessories to the organization of your choice.
Donate your used wedding dress and accessories to help others. The Brides Against Breast Cancer project accepts donated wedding dresses, veils, and related items and sells them at a discount, then uses the money to fund the wishes of women and men who have metastatic breast cancer.
Heavenly Angels in Need transforms donated wedding and formal dresses into burial gowns and angel wraps for infants of families who do not have anything in which to bury their child. Donated dresses can be mailed to the organization.
Mastectomy bras, swim wear, and other specialty clothing items are needed by breast cancer survivors who often cannot afford these costly items. Contact your local chapter of the American Cancer Society for information on how you can donate these items in your area.
If family, friends, or neighbors do not need your used maternity clothes, contact your area family resource centers, teen parent centers, women's resource center, or family planning clinics (see the Yellow Pages) to see if they have a collection program.
Plus-size women's clothing (size 14 and larger) is typically the most requested type of women's clothing in all categories, from business attire to maternity clothes to everyday wear. Your donation will be greatly appreciated wherever you decide to make it.
Used Clothing – General Donations
Charitable organizations such as the Salvation Army and Goodwill welcome your used clothing.
Clothing drives are often conducted periodically or are ongoing at schools, churches, clinics, homeless shelters, shelters for abuse women, and other institutions. You can contact these organizations in your community for their donation needs and to arrange for a pick up or drop off.
Keep your eyes and ears open to clothing needs by family members, friends, neighbors, coworkers, and others who may have a need for women's clothing and accessories.
Internet sites that provide a means to donate items such as clothing are another option. These free services, including Freecycle and FreeSharing, require a quick registration and then you can offer your items at your convenience.
Don't "dress up" the landfills; donate your usable women's clothing to someone in need today.

Super Simple Sunday

I Have Been Tagged

My sweet friend Anni tagged me. I have to list six things that are unimportant, but make me happy. Here I go: 1) Bubble baths, the more bubbles the better. 2) Sweet&low, I must have it in my tea. 3) Mints, constantly carry them in my purse. 4) Dancing, I love to dance. 5) Carrots dipped in ranch dressing, yummy. 6) Walking around barefoot, love it. Now, I tag anyone who would like to play.

Cafe Chat

This week's Chat will be a little different, but I hope you will leave today feeling challenged in your spirit. A couple of days ago I watched a video that was posted on my friend's Facebook page. After viewing the video I started thinking about how I live out my walk with Jesus. I hope today you will do the same thing.
Before you answer the question, please click here to view a 3-4 minute video of pastor, Francis Chan (Make sure you are viewing the "Balance Beam" video).
In light of the Francis Chan video, how do you live out your Christian walk with Jesus? Do you always play it safe? Or do you take risks?
In one or two sentences, what do you want to be said of you, and how you lived out your life for Jesus when your time on earth is finished.: Wow, this video was awesome, really makes you think. The things he said were so very true. As Christians, so many of us, choose to hold on tightly to that balance beam, never moving in our christian walk. Never moving, or taking any kind of risk. They are ABC Christians, never moving on in their walk for Jesus. I want to be an XYZ christian, going all the way, and beyond for Jesus. I want to dance for Him, praise Him, give Him a praise clap, raise my hands in praise to Him. I want to share Him with others, shine His light everywhere I go. When my time on earth is finished, my hearts prayer is that others will be able to say of me, "She was truly her Fathers daughter".

Fearless Friday

Prayer Requests: 1) Please pray for my friend Beth, she worries about her parents. Pray that God will keep her parents healthy, and that they will be here with her for years to come. 2) Please pray for my friend Pia, ask God to bring restoration to her marriage. 3) Pray that God will bless my friend Lisa's sister financially. 4) Pray that God will watch over my friend Julie, her family is hurting financially right now. 5) Pray for the health and well being of my friend Allubelle, and her dear husband. 6) Pray for the health of my friend Heather. 7) Pray for the salvation of my friend Leas dad, and two brothers. 8) Pray for the restoration of my friend Gina's faith. 9) Pray for a teenage girl at my church, her name is Hayley. I am trying to mentor to her, I have really grown to love her. 10) Continue to pray for my friend Vicki, her husband has prostate cancer. 11) Continue to pray for my friend Tom, his mom has inoperable lung cancer. They also found out this week, she has breast cancer. 11) Continue to pray for my friend Angela, ask God to bless her family financially. 12) Pray for my friend Michele, she and her husband will be traveling. Thank you for joining me in praying. Praise Reports: 1) The time of fasting and praying at my church last weekend was awesome. God is so wonderful, praise Him. 2) My friend Dude got a great report this week, his cancer is still in remission. 3) My friend Laura got great news this week, her heart is fine. God is working people, give Him praise!!

Whole Heart Faith- Week 3

Hello everybody, week three is here already? Wow, time flies!! Well, the scale finally moved this week. it went from 177 to 175. Woo Hoo!! I am so happy, God is so good. I know it had to have moved due to the fact I fasted for almost 40 hours last weekend, and prayed at my church. It was such an amazing time of feeling Gods presence so near. I am looking forward to seeing how God continues to move in my life. Blessings to you all.

Thankful Thursday

Woo Hoo, Thankful Thursday is here. I am so thankful for everything, and everyone. This past weekend was a time of fasting and praying at my church. God was all over that place in a mighty way. I feel like I am a brand new person, and I praise God for that. They anointed me with oil, and prayed over me for healing of my diabetes. The power of their prayers lifted me to lofty places, the Spirit fell over me. My friends, I began to dance like David, except I am Denise, lol I was dancing, jumping up and down, clapping my hands, raising my hands toward heaven, crying one minute, laughing the next. God touched me in such a sweet, beautiful, precious way, that only He could do. I feel so blessed, and so filled with His love and care. I love You Lord, and I will dance for You for the rest of my life, and throughout eternity.

Word Filled Wednesday

In Other Words Tuesday

“What if I stumble, what if I fall? What if I lose my step and I make fools of us all? Will the love continue when my walk becomes a crawl? What if I stumble, and what if I fall?”Chorus from the song, “What if I Stumble?“Artist: DC TalkAlbum: Intermission: I have stumbled, and fallen many times in my life, and my walk has definitely become a crawl before. Did the love continue when my walk became a crawl? Yes, it did, praise God. You see, God does not expect perfection from me, He knows I am only human. He waits, and watches, ready to catch me when I fall. When the moment arrives, and I fall to the floor, He gently picks me up, gives me a good cleaning, and sets me on my feet again. This is life, I am going to mess up, and failure will happen. But, God grants me mercy, and forgives my failures. When my Momma died, and I became a cutter to try to ease my pain, I was truly crawling on the bathroom floor when my Father pulled me into His lap, and forgave me, and comforted me, as only He could. Yes, the love continues, never doubt that my friends.

My Weekend

Hello everybody, praying your weekend was filled with much Sonshine, mine definitely was. I was at my church this weekend, fasting and praying. We were a small group, but that did not matter, for we were mighty warriors. It was my pastor and his wife, my associate pastor and his wife, myself, and four other ladies. It was called the Jericho project, and we knocked down some walls my friends. Many of your names, and your families were prayed over, and continue to be. We prayed intensely for salvation, restoration, healing, finances, jobs, and much more. We walked around our church seven times, and we walked the aisle of our church over and over again. We shouted out praises to God all weekend long, and sang songs to Him. We shouted out like cheerleaders: No more debt!! Thank You Father!! My friends, I felt the power of God so strongly, it was awesome. I prayed so hard, so long, when I got home late Saturday, my voice was gone!! But, I was still praising Him. Saturday afternoon, pastor, and everyone there laid hands upon me, and prayed over me for healing in my body. Hearing my pastor so deeply praying for me, and rebuking diabetes, totally touched my heart. When they were through, I truly experienced God. The Spirit fell upon me, and I began to dance for Jesus. I was raising my hands toward heaven, jumping up and down, clapping my hands, crying, then laughing, and continuously saying over and over: Thank You Jesus, Thank You Jesus, I love You, I love You. I believe in You, I believe in You!! Woo Hoo!! God is so good, amazing!! We have banners hanging up in our church, afterwards, we looked up above where I had been standing, guess what banner was hanging there? The healing banner, nothing is by accident. My God is still in the miracle business. I love You Jesus, You are my healer. You are my King.

Focus On Missions

Greg & Asa Swenson

Preparing to serve in evangelism and discipleship ministries in Japan

Fast Facts

Birthdays Greg (1/9), Asa (9/11)
Anniversary (10/28)
Family Micah (7/8), Jonah (3/16), Karin (5/10), Ellen (10/2)
Education Greg: B.A., 1984, Bethel College, St. Paul, Minnesota; M.A.T.S., 2006, Bethel Seminary, St. Paul. Asa: B.A., 1989, Kanto Gakuin, Yokohama, Japan; M.A.T.S, 1993, Bethel Seminary
Appointed June 2006
Home Church Bethlehem Baptist Church, Minneapolis, Minnesota

Ministry-at-a-Glance

Primary Ministry Focus: Ministering to the Japanese church through discipleship and mobilization efforts, and to unbelievers through outreach ministries.
The People: The Japanese people are polite and hospitable; usually, they prefer to avoid conflict and keep the peace rather than engage in any kind of confrontation. The two major religions are Shintoism and Buddhism.
Ministry Experience: Greg ministered at Japanese Fellowship Church in Minneapolis. Since 1997, he has led the Japanese Evangelical Fellowship (JEF) ministry at Bethlehem Baptist in Minneapolis comprised of both small group and outreach elements. He has also assisted the cooperative effort of the Twin Cities Japanese Concert of Prayer. In addition to partnering with Greg in the JEF ministry, Asa has led a women's Bible study for Japanese mothers. While in Japan, Asa was involved with children's ministry and launched several youth ministry initiatives at the church.
Prayer Focus: That God would grant the Swensons grace, strength and stamina during support discovery. For wisdom and direction concerning the future of the Japanese ministry in the Twin Cities.

Mission 4 Monday

SUPPORT THE HOMELESS, BY GIVING FOOD GIFT CERTIFICATES

Homelessness has been rapidly rising over the last two decades. The National Law Center on Homelessness & Poverty reports that up to 750,000 Americans are homeless every night, while there are only 250,000 spaces available in overcrowded homeless shelters. Sometimes, entire families become homeless, with no place to go, other than the streets.

If you're like most people, you get annoyed when someone asks for a handout. Perhaps you're apprehensive to assist because you think, "they should get a job", or "they're not going to do anything with the money but drink it or smoke it". Fortunately, you have the luxury of frowning down on the less fortunate, rather than living in their shoes.

According to the Department Housing and Urban Development (HUD), there are an estimated 11 million Americans who are at a high risk of homelessness and poverty. Many are either spending over half of their paycheck on housing — often doubled up with others in overcrowded conditions — or live in houses that are falling apart.

Many homeless people put forth great efforts to better themselves. It is not an easy feat for a person to obtain employment, when they have no permanent residence, limited education, mental or physical limitations, and minimum skills. As a result, many of the homeless are forced to earn a living by begging, or by selling items they find while rummaging through the trash. Imagine that.

Like all of us, homeless people need love, support, and a chance to demonstrate what they have to contribute to the world.

Frankly, the homeless have had more than their fair share of 'no' for an answer. There is a way that you can give them the 'yes' that they have been seeking, but probably not expecting.

Admittedly, it is not always easy to decipher whether or not a person who appears homeless is actually a person in need, or just a person who hustles for other purposes. Nonetheless, we should do what our hearts dictate, and not be dissuaded by what someone might do with our good intentions.

A simple meal is a heartfelt gesture. To clear your conscious of "What if they don't spend the money on food?", you can go the extra step and buy meal certificates to feed the homeless.

Fast food establishments such as McDonald's, Burger King, Subway, Pizza Hut, and Dunkin Donuts, among others, all sell gift certificates, and some start at as little as $1. The next time you patronize one of these establishments, or if you are just going passed one, stop in and purchase some gift certificates, in the amount that you can afford.

Then, the next time you see a homeless person on the street, hand them a food gift certificate. It will do your heart good.

Fearless Friday

Prayer Requests:1) Please keep Angela and her family in your prayers. Angela is such a precious woman of faith, and a mighty prayer warrior. Pray for financial blessings to be poured out upon her family. 2) Please pray for my sweet friend Vicki, her husband has prostrate cancer. Pray that he will get the tests that are needed before surgery, and then quickly get scheduled for surgery. 3) Pray for my friend Tom, his mom has inoperable lung cancer. They have said she has 6 months to two years to live. 4) Please continue to pray for Marsha and Michele, as they grief the loss of their beloved stepfather Chris. 5) Please keep Allison in your prayers, she is having problems with her knee, and is in alot of pain. They are going to have to do surgery on her knee. 6) Please pray for the salvation of my brother Jim. 7) Please pray that God will grant financial blessings upon my mother and father in-loves. 8) Pray for healing for my sister Vicki. 9) Pray that my brother in-love will quit drinking and smoking, and totally give his life to God. 10) Pray that my precious lovebug will quit smoking. 11) Pray for the time of fasting and praying at my church this weekend. Thank you all for your prayers, may you be blessed.

Thankful Thursday- Wisdom

Proverbs 16:16 (King James Version)
How much better is it to get wisdom than gold! and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver! : I praise God for His wisdom, I would be lost without it. For all the times You have lead me down the right path, thank You Father. For all the right decisions You have helped me to make, thank You Father. For all the wisdom You have given to various Doctors, helping them to take care of my health, thank You Father. For all the wisdom, and riches found in Your precious Word, thank You Father. For all the wisdom You share with my pastor, helping him to lead our church, thank You Father. Your wisdom amazes me, and blesses me. You are my Teacher, and I want to sit at Your precious feet, and learn from You throughout eternity.

Whole Heart Faith- Week 2

Hello my sweet friends, time to check in. Last week was not so bad, I was a good girl!! lol The scale did not move, I am still weighing 177.8 But, maintaining is much better than gaining. God is so with me in my efforts, He daily gives me strength. I am doing really well with my eating plan, and exercise. But, I do want to improve as far as the exercise goes. This weekend at my church we are having a 24 hour fast and prayer time, I am looking so forward to this time. I know God is going to do amazing things in my life. My new statement is: I must decrease, and He must increase. Well, that is all for now, praying that the scale will move down next week. Sweet blessings to you my friends.

Word Filled Wednesday

In Other Words Tuesday

I learned that faith isn't tested by how often God answers prayers with a yes,
but by my willingness to continue serving Him,
and thanking Him,
even when I don't have a clue as to what He is doing." : In my life, I am very willing to continue serving God, and thanking Him everyday. Even those times when I do not have a clue as to what He is doing. You know why? Because God always knows what He is doing in my life, and why He is doing it. Somethings are not meant for us to understand, one day we might know the reasons why, but we may not ever know the reasons why. I am fine with that, now, and for all eternity. I enjoy riding through life with God as my Pilot, He has everything under control. Take me wherever You choose God, You always know what is best for me. You know where I need to be, and when I need to be there. Your timing is perfect.

Seeking the Face of God:
InThe Path to a More Intimate Relationship with Him

Focus On Missions

Jon & Dot Andrews

Serving in evangelism and church planting in Portugal

Fast Facts

Birthdays Jon (Jonathan) (9/4), Dot (Dorothy) (3/21)
Anniversary (8/2/75)
Children Sarah (4/18), Simeon (10/9)
Education Jon: B.S. in chemistry 1973, Seattle Pacific College, Washington; M.Div. 1977, Western Baptist Seminary, Portland, Oregon; Dot: B.S. nursing 1973, Seattle Pacific College
Appointed July 1981
Home Church Light on the Hill Fellowship, Oregon City, Oregon


Ministry-at-a-Glance

Primary Ministry Focus: Evangelism and church planting.
The People: The Portuguese have a wide mix of beliefs, but their loyalty is to Roman Catholicism. The young people are exchanging religion for materialism and agnosticism.
Major Challenges: To gain a hearing for the gospel. Most Portuguese are either intent on emulating Western material prosperity or blinded by centuries-old traditions.
Prayer Focus: Courage for new believers to take a stand against the pressure from family and friends to forsake their new-found beliefs. A new fire of devotion to Christ among evangelical Christians.

Mission 4 Monday

CONVINCE A BATTERED WOMAN TO SEEK HELP

A battered woman lives under constant stress to say, or do, whatever will keep her safe. Since domestic violence is the single largest cause of injury to women between the ages of 15 and 44, it is a serious public health issue. Abused women come from all economic, social and ethnic backgrounds. The abuse can be physical, emotional, or sexual. Four million women are assaulted yearly, by partners.

Recognizing the signs of domestic abuse is key. Knowing the dynamics of battered woman's syndrome may help you understand why a battered woman delays seeking help. She may fear being killed, being left homeless, or becoming destitute. Her abuser may threaten harm to her children, other family, or pets. A battered woman is often isolated from family, friends and support and sustains a constant barrage of insults which convince her she is unworthy of a better life. Abusers often control a battered woman's money and transportation. Even if a battered wife is affluent and able to leave, she may fear her husband will use his money and connections to track her down.

Domestic abuse is rarely a single episode and escalates over time, but a battered woman alone must decide to seek help. A battered woman is more at risk of being murdered when leaving an abuser.

Yet, refuge does exist for the battered woman and her children, at domestic violence shelters.

Simply telling a battered woman she doesn't deserve abuse can plant the seeds for a new life. Hearing you confirm she has the right to live violence-free and express her thoughts, feelings, and emotions, might be the first time a battered woman has heard the truth. Your kindness and encouragement to seek help can be the catalyst a battered woman needs to seek out her options, and eventually escape domestic violence.

• Learn the different types of abuse that a battered woman might experience in a relationship.
  
• Recognize that a friend, co-worker, classmate, and acquaintance of any age can be a battered woman.
  
• Understand that your words can make a difference. Some battered women have never had anyone express empathy for their situation. You can support a battered woman by saying: "I'm sorry that happened to you. No one deserves to be hit; no one has a right to treat another person that way. The abuse is not your fault."
  
• Encourage any woman you think might be a domestic violence victim to seek help, while always keeping her safety the first priority.

Happy Mothers Day 2009

Happy Mothers Day to all of my dear blogging sisters. I love you all so very much, and I truly honor you today. You are all such beautiful, inspiring women of God. Your children are very blessed to have you as their mothers. Enjoy your day, and thank you for all you do in your daily lifes to make this world a better place for your children. Be blessed, today, and always.

Memories

Cafe Chat

What are things we can do as wife (friend, relative, etc.) when we have a husband (friend, relative, etc) who does not know the Lord?

What are things we can do as wives when are husbands once had a growing relationship with the Lord that now seems to be stagnant? (Remember feel free to substitute the wife/husband relationship if you are not married)

Last, what are things wives can do to help our husbands grow deeper in their walk with Christ? The most important thing we can do for those friends, relatives, or spouses that do not know the Lord, is pray for them constantly. Take them to the Father in prayer, keep them daily bathed in deep prayer. Also, live out what you believe in front of them, be real. Let the Light of the world shine out brightly from you. Let them see clearly that Jesus rules your life, you might be the only Jesus they ever see. If your husband once had a growing relationship with the Lord, but now it seems stagnant, lift him up before the Lord. Ask the Lord to please restore their relationship. Assure your husband that he can feel free to talk to you about anything that is bothering him, suggest he talk to your pastor. Come along beside him, and help him to carry his burden, and always love him. Some things a wife can do to help their husband grow deeper in their walk with Christ, sow seeds with them. Have a prayer time together each day, and a time of daily devotions and Bible study. Get in the Word together, walk the walk together. The journey is much better when taken together.

My Momma

My Momma was born on March 6, 1933. Her proud parents named her Opal Earlene, she was one of six kids. She had three sisters and two brothers. They named her right, she was certainly a shining jewel in this world. My Momma was a strong, courageous woman, everyone that met her, loved her. She always had tons of friends, her magnetic personality just pulled people to her. She was a beautiful woman, with such stunning features. She had gorgeous skin, and a lovely head of hair that I would give anything to have. Her smile always lit up the room with joy, and she was so much fun to be around. One of the many things I loved, and admired greatly about my Momma, was the fact that she was real. She never tried to be, or act like anyone, but herself. She loved to go to yard sales, and have yard sales. Flea markets brought her much joy, as well as going to resale shops. My Momma could spot a bargain a mile away. She loved eating at the waffle house, and IHOP. At any given moment, she would look over at my lovebug, give him that wink of hers, and say: Wanna go to IHOP sweetie? Away we would go, and we would have so much fun. Momma loved life, and lived it to the fullest. After her stroke in 1998, Momma had to learn to talk correctly, and walk correctly, and she did it quickly. She had suffered 40% brain damage, the Doctors were all amazed at her progress, but not me. I knew what my Momma was capable of, and I cheered her on the entire time. After her stroke, her relationship with my two brothers, and my sister changed. Not on Mommas part, but on their part. I think they felt afraid to come around because of the brain damage, they felt Momma was too different. Did the brain damage affect my Momma? Of course it did, she could not remember alot of things, and was childlike in many ways. But, she was still my Momma, and I loved and respected her dearly. I was so proud of the way she fought to come back from her stroke. She did great, until September of 2005. She started having various health problems, bless her heart. She had been living with me and lovebug since 2003. She was constantly having to go to Doctor appointments, and emergency rooms. Finally, in March of 2006, she was in the hospital, and the Doctor told me that my Momma was dying. I asked how long did she have, he said six months or longer. He said I had to make a decision, either put her in a nursing home, the hospice unit at the hospital, or bring her home. I said, my Momma is going back home with me. I will take care of her, and that is what I did. She came home from the hospital on March 21st, one month later on April 21st 2006, I walked in her room, and she had went to heaven. I praise God for the honor, and privilege it was to take care of my dear Momma. She suffered so intensely the last part of her life, but she always smiled through the pain. My Momma taught me such beautiful lessons in courage, faith, and love. She was, and continues to be my inspiration. This year is my fourth mothers day without her, I love and miss her terribly. But, there is coming a day, very soon, when we will be reunited, and will never say goodbye again. Praise God. Happy Mothers Day Sweet Angel Momma, I love you, and forever will.

Fearless Friday

Prayer Requests: 1) My friend Tom, the lung biopsy that was done this week on his mom showed cancer. They think she also has cancer in other areas, they will be doing some scans on her next week. 2) Marsha and Michelle, their dear stepfather passed away this week. Please pray for their mom to get through this, she is 86 years old. 3) Missy, Marshas daughter, pray that she will recover quickly from her second surgery. Ask God to give her strength, and ease her pain. 4) Please pray for all those who will be missing their mothers this Mothers Day. Praise Reports: 1) My sister is feeling much better. 2) Lovebug is getting lots of overtime hours, which will help us to pay our bills, praise God. 3) Marshas husband Mike has no cancer, praise God. Thanks to everyone for your prayers, they are very much appreciated.

Thankful Thursday- Honoring Mom

Dear Angel Momma, this will be my fourth Mothers Day without you. I love and miss you more with each passing day. I thank you so very much for the wonderful Momma that you were to me. The list of things that I thank you for would fill a book, or two. But here are some of the things I sincerely thank you for Angel Momma: 1) Your unconditional love, you loved me just the way I was. You never cared how much I weighed, or how thin my hair was, in your eyes, I was beautiful. 2) Your friendship, you were much more than just my Momma, you were my best friend. 3) Your hugs, there will never be anyone who can hug like you Momma. 4) Your smile, it could light up a room, and always made my heart smile. 5) Your laugh, laughing with you always made me happy, it was so much fun. 6) Your listening ears, as well as your listening heart. You always cared about what I had to say, that meant so much to me. 7) Your advice, you were such a wise woman. I was so blessed to be a recipient of that wonderful advice many times during my life. 8) Thanks so very much for the way you loved my lovebug, you treated him like your son. He loved you very, very much, and he misses you Momma. 9) The life lessons you taught me, they are forever in my heart. 10) The precious memories that I will forever carry with me, I think of you each time my heart beats Momma. Happy Mothers Day Angel Momma. I am blowing kisses up to heaven for you, make sure you catch them. Your baby girl loves you bunches and bunches.

Whole Heart Faith- Week 1

Leigh from Speaking Thru Me, has started a new meme over at her blog. It is called Whole Heart Faith. Please visit her site for more details, you will be glad you did. Here is what she wrote for today: As Moses implored the people to not be afraid, I too beg you to squash that fear. Maybe your Whole Heart Faith issue is to walk in area that is unknown. Maybe it is to obey in area that is not comfortable and quite daunting! He can do this, but we have some instructions...1) Don't be afraid!! 2) Stand Firm 3) And Watch His deliverance! So for this week - I would love to go to your blog and see how for you, you will do the three instructions!! I would love for you to post whatever you want, but include how you will do the three!! Will it be difficult? Will it take work? What is your biggest obstacle? Thank you Leigh for doing this meme, I am so ready to do this. I needed this sweetie. I, like you Leigh, need to lose weight. I have got to do this for my health, emotional well being, and to clean Gods temple. I use to weigh 257 pounds back in 2006, I now weigh 177. I am stuck in the 170's, I bounce somewhere between 173-177. I am only five feet tall, so every pound looks like ten on me. I need to lose so much more, and I know it will not be easy. But, my God is faithful, and He will see me through this weight battle. He will deliver me from this weight. I am not afraid, God is in my corner, and on my side. I will stand firm, and not waver from my battle. I intend to be victorious.

Word Filled Wednesday