2021 RESET NEEDED

These days, we all need a "shot in the arm." Literally! We stand and wait for our turn for the COVID vaccine. But as we wait, let's ponder resetting our HOPE!

Type A folks can have trouble letting go of control. I know, I am a 'just in case" person trying to cover all plans in case Plan A doesn't pan out. It is not a healthy place to be. It's stressful---the one aspect of my life my stroke neurologist is trying to "temper"---don't give up on me Dr. Bhole.

In Mexico, my teammates dubbed me "girl scout" because I had packed lots of "just in case" meds, toys, snacks, etc. which I shared.

But....2020 blew "my" plans out the window. God only has a Plan A. 

Having meditated on Lamentations 3 for several days, I began to focus on verse 24.

"The Lord is my portion says my soul therefore I will hope in Him." (ESV)

His "Plan A" doesn't mean hope changes my circumstances, it reminds me who is control and in the midst of pain, suffering and uncertainty, He is with me.

Allen Bible Church's sermon closed 12/27/2020 with Dan Martin, reading the "My Hope is Built" hymn lyrics.

"My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus blood and righteousness......on Christ the solid Rock I stand," are the familiar parts of the hymn. 

Earlier that day I had the hymn whirring thru my mind and in my old Cokesbury Hymnal, (publication date unknown but cost was 30¢ for a single copy) it was on p. 24. 

I dare not trust the sweet-est frame, But wholly lean on Jesus name.....In every high and stormy gale, my anchor holds with-in the veil......When all a-round me then gives way, He then is all my hope and stay! (emphasis mine)

Thanks to Edward Mote for those phrases  that jumped into my psyche and soul to help reset my hope for 2021. I'm still humming it as I seek to reset my focus each day.

BLURRS-DAY

Let's see---what day is this??????

What day is tomorrow----oh yea, Blurrsday, like every other day!

Will it be the last? At least it will be the last of 2020.

**This little rounder couldn't even make it to his crib!

WORDSMITH REFLECTIONS

It's that time again---the drawing close of one year opening up to the coming of 2021!

OED had so many words to choose from for "Word of the Year" they expanded and encompassed several as "Words of an Unprecedented Year." A restating of "unprecedented" seems all encompassing, albeit over-used to me. According to the article, the use of pandemic increased 57,000% in 2020.

WARNING--Don't multiply words without knowledge. (Job 35:16)

All of this intellectual repartee had me considering what few words (Ecclesiastes 6:11, Proverbs 10:19) defined my year with the underlying word of HOPE.......

JANUARY--Pause & Listen (before seeking)

FEBRUARY--Angst---it was a leap year and there was no February 29 in my devotional book

MARCH--New Normal (w/COVID-19)

APRIL--COVID testing--my first of 2, both negative

MAY--FOHOF (Fear Of Hurting Others Feelings--text talk hard for the aged)

JUNE--DRIVE-BY (Birthdays)

JULY--Social-distancing

AUGUST--STROKE

SEPTEMBER--Fishing

OCTOBER--Wearisome

NOVEMBER--Twosome

DECEMBER--BLURRS-DAY

Mask up, Memphis. I still want to be vigilant & hopeful in my word gathering in 2021.

SEASON'S READINGS 2020!

People are always asking, "What are you reading?" 

Usually inspirational books and cozy mysteries top my list. Quite a dichotomy.

Again, the opposite ends of the spectrum---so like me. Actually both were rereads, one from college days and one from Children's Lit workshop days.

Obviously reading is a part of all my seasons, especially during a pandemic.

BLESSING UPON BLESSING!

Grateful for Google Meet and a niece willing to set it up.....for the Adams family. (Snap. Snap.) Not all folks made it in the pix because Kentuckians were traveling, youngest ones moved too fast & 2 folks were sick. 

After discussing pandemics effects in NY, MA, TX & TN & the recent bombing in Nashville we turned to family favorites---food, haircuts, college and family jokes.

Some of pix were blurry because I was laughing.....especially when Corey came out with big hair.

For a pandemic Christmas, it was a huge blessing for me.....how grateful I am!

AMAZING GRACE

We all know that God' Grace is amazing and it's new every morning. FRESH! ABUNDANT!

His grace is full of mercies. 

His mercies never fail. They are new every morning. (Lamentations 3:22-23)

I know. This morning 's sadness had me seeking a long soak in a hot bath. Tranquility and relaxation were calling my name. I found mercy instead.

A sweet friend gave me a Musee ** Amazing Grace bath balm. The ball of bath milk dissolves from white to red. However I carefully rationed mine---using when most needed, so it would last longer. & water became pinkish for me. This morning, I used my last bit and I was SHOCKED!

Out dropped a cross!

Mercy me. What a reminder for me---God with me. He is in control. His grace is sufficient 

(2 Corinthians 12:9) & AMAZING! 

**I'm a big fan a of Philosophy's Amazing Grace fragrance in lotions and shower gels but never knew of the Musee company which also has similar fragrance. Musee bath products are handcrafted in Madison, MS. The company has a mission of restoring lives by providing dignified work for vulnerable people, primarily women in recovery, the disabled, and impoverished. WOW--a gift that blessed me and others at the same time. A gift that keeps on giving is the best kind!

ATTITUDE OF GLADITUDE

Remembering the First Noel and waiting to celebrate 2020 "Noel" as only a "twosome" for first time ever!

A reminder....gladness is a choice. Sip a cuppa glad-TEA-tude this Christmas and continue to "serve the Lord with gladness! (Psalm 100:2)

Each day, "is the day the Lord hath made"---so we will choose "to rejoice and be glad in it." (Psalm 118:24, emphasis mine)

GREAT CONJUNCTION!

Tonight's the night for the "Great Conjunction" of Jupiter and Saturn. A winter solstice for our viewing.

In our city look toward the south west after sunset and before 7PM.

In our New Yorkers' city I loved the photo alluding to  the Christmas star. (Thx NBC)

Look closely! Grandson O's shot might be a little harder to see but it's legit of both planets.....as it shows what the naked eye saw in our neck of the woods.

A Great Family event seeing the Great Conjunction together!

Advent 2020

Oh Happy Day!

PONDERING PERTINENT PREPOSITIONS

Two days, ago as I awaited my hubby's outpatient cataract surgery, I opened the DTS Advent story sent by Allen Bible Church. 

It was just what I needed. Of course it was!

Dr. Charles W. Dickens, DTS Professor had me at the timely title.

"IT MIGHT BE THE BEST OF TIMES OR THE WORST OF TIMES BUT GOD IS WITH US."

Doesn't that sound like 2020!

After the title, prepositions along the line of "with-ness" theology started jumping out at me.

• WITH is more than near or close. God's people understand this "with-ness. 
• A "with-us" quality of God that is a believer's indicator OF hope FOR the future. 
• Think, "VICTORY IN JESUS" and FOR hope of survival during these difficult times.

Emmanuel, God with us is the One who gives us a future and a hope! (Colossians 1:27)

PATHWAYS TO PEACE

Not only have I continued to ponder "path" options in life. I have realized that I am seeking peace.....in a nation that these days seem to be without peace. As a "type A" planner......am I seeking God's way or mine.

Journal jottings from this morning show the path that leads to me peace. 

Its not my path but His for me---Imagine that!!!

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you aa the world gives. Do not let your heart be troubled and do not be afraid. (John 14:27)

Peace is an inner treasure that all my planning cannot accomplish. 

For His path of peace in my life, I need to keep my focus on the One who is my peace. 

(His) Presence = Promise and Protection....

His Promise and Protection = Peace!

STOCKINGS WERE HUNG...................2020

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care......

.......but this year no grands will even be there!

2020 has had its restrictions! COVID has given us a Thanksgiving for two and now we prepare for a Christmas for two. 

2 is 15 too few!

Proverbs 17:6a says it well, "Grandchildren are the crown of the elderly."

Grandchildren together number 9. 

Nine stockings all in a line.

 "May you live to enjoy your grandchildren." (Psalm 128:6)

Why would you hang their stockings, some would say.......

Especially if you know they won't be coming your way?"

 A grandchild fills a space in your heart that you never knew was empty. (unknown)

The stockings may remain empty but seeing them refills my heart everyday!

A GIFT IS GIVEN: FROM THE CRADLE TO THE CROSS

Preparing for Christmas it's easy to focus on the warmness of the manger and the coming of baby Jesus.

However, just a few days ago we passed this roadside cross -- a big reminder of why God sent His Son. For us.

From the roadside cross to the front yard manger, compliments of Adam Templeton, the two together are the best reminder of John 3:16. 

His love for us!

For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. (NIV)

Eternal life is the BEST gift ever given.

joy......Joy......JOY!

Struggling lately. Depressed spirit. Enveloped by a pall of sadness and grief.

Lethargy looms.

Knowing joy is a choice.......guilt ensued.

Joy is a by-product of an attitude of gratitude.

I had taken off my dance shoes. 

The Bible is a book of joy! (Deuteronomy 16:15)

Exercise needed. More time in His Word. (Psalm 94:19) D.

Acceptance. Keep on keeping on. (Philippians 4:4) A.

Fulness of Joy RX. (Psalm 16:11, I Thessalonians 5:16-18) 

Don't lose hope. (Romans 12:12) N.

Consolations from friends. (Psalm 94:19) Thanks, Dixie! C.

I need to find my D.A.N.C.E. shoes. E. 

Exercise joy.....Joy.....until it gets to JOY!----

                            my basic "barre exercise" for abunDANCE. 

NATIONAL ADOPTION DAY

National Adoption Day.

A day to celebrate. 

That is so true for our family. 

Book was one of "his" first words.

When he would "empty" his bookshelf, we called him our circulation librarian. 

Nowadays his books are everywhere. He chooses the ones he wants to read or for you to read to him.

Books at bedtime are essential and sometimes he wants to help the experience! Now you can enjoy that experience. I bet it will make you smile.

ELECTION 2020!

The election is over. The results are in.

Our "choice" won.

Our granddaughter won! She was elected vice-president of her school and she's only in the 4th grade.

Proverbs 17:6 says it well. "Grandchildren are the crown of the aged."

IMPORTANT INFINITIVES

Today's morning devotional, All to Jesus, (Day 301) listed verses in Proverbs dealing with word usage and speech patterns. 

Author, Robert Morgan, listed 3 infinitives:

1. to shut up (Proverbs 10:19) There are definitely times we need to close our mouths. In 2020, My One Word has been "listen." I have learned, sometimes the hard way, the necessity of listening in order to hear from others.
2. to build up (Hebrews 10:25b) Edification and encouragement are so needed especially this year of COVID & elections. Political ads tear one another down yet, God's word continues to remind us..."but encourage one another."
3. to speak up (Proverbs 31:8) "Speak up for the ones who have no voice." "Be prepared (in gentleness and respect) to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give an answer for the hope within you." (Hebrews 10:25b, my paraphrase) Two excellent times to choose to use your voice.

So there you have it----speech patterns from the Proverbs that give "important infinitives" for life.

SHOP LOCAL

I am a big fan of public libraries. I go there often to pick up the many books they "hold" for me. I love "my" librarians at the Poplar White Station Branch. They even recognize me behind my mask! 

I also read a local magazine publications. Think 4MEMPHIS. Not for the society news but for the From the Publisher page that always has Jeremiah 29:7 at the top!

Recently when reading was difficult, due to an "episode" in my occipital lobe, I counted on their Libby app for audio books.

But.....when I am unable to get a much desired book..............I shopped local!

I think that's scriptural. 

Seek the Peace and Prosperity of the City in which I have placed you. (Jeremiah 29:7)

Put Jeremiah 29:7 into action. After praying for our city where the Lord has placed each of us........... SHOP LOCAL!

HAIR-RAISING EXPERIENCES : A COMPARISON

Hair Raising Experiences! We've all had them! Some more pleasant than others.

How different my hair-raising experiences were years ago---rafting "Olympic" size rapids, zip-lining in the mountains and tent camping in the snow. Now keeping up with what day it is and taking all required meds and supplement--- when either my eensy blood pressure pill doesn't quite make it to my mouth or my almost daily "on hands and knees" occurrence of  trying to find my Vitamin D which "rolled" somewhere. The hair-raising part is when I try to get-up again!

A recent hair-raising occurred---on my day out with a two-year old.

His hair-raising experiences become a little hair-raising for me as I try to keep up. For him, it's all about running and exploring, resulting in lots of physical exercise. 

Lately, for me it's been about a sedentary exercise of "one-anothering" (1 Thessalonians 5:11) from my computer or through a phone text or USPS card to another who needs a little encouragement or extra measure of love. (Hebrews10:24) 

And that's okay....if the inevitable outward effects of aging are evident, I'll need to accept "inner aliveness" (DayBrightener, 10/20) as a result of His Presence. 

Inner aliveness.

Inner hair-raising experiences. I'll settle for that. 

PATH PONDERINGS

"Why does she have a path to nowhere?" grandson, Owen, asked years ago. He was looking at the rocky runoff at Master Gardner neighbor's yard. 

Sometimes I feel like I'm looking at a path to nowhere. I can't seem to see beyond the rocky steps I'm encountering right in front of me. What's a gal to do? Look up? Look ahead? Maybe a little of each?

Where does one find the right path in life?

 

Certainly there are plenty of junctures. A wrong turn, just a few steps away can lead one into pitfalls of "self-pity and despair, or plateaus of pride" (Jesus Calling 10/15) or slippery slopes of self-reliance.

Proverbs 3:17 says, Her (wisdom) ways are pleasant and all her paths, peaceful.

Path pondering began yesterday and has continued to keep popping up today---looks like I might be on this path for awhile.

20/20 VISION FOR 2020

Entry to celebrate yesterday.

SERENE SABBATH SOUGHT! Circled all the upcoming Sabbath dates on my October 2020 calendar!

Nothing but prayer, a walk, time with hubby and checking the entire Bible (hard copy) for books with 20 + chapters that had at least 20 verses. One resonated with me.......Ezekiel 20:20......

........and keep my Sabbath holy that they might be a sign between me and you that you may know that 

I am the LORD your God.

SERENE SABBATH FOUND!

Camping out in the Psalms 9/2020

SEASONS OF FIRSTS

2020 has been a "FIRST" for our world as we have suffered through a COVID 19.

In our nation it has been a "first" of social unrest like I have never known.

At my age there are not too many "firsts" in my life......tho I did have my first visit to ICU.

But....I need to focus on fun firsts. 

So......I enjoy the "firsts" of the young, & younger. (Proverbs 17:6, Psalm 127:5)

Baby sister walks "big" sister to first day of "hybrid" school in NY.

First day of "home" pre-school. Laundry dumping must be part of the curriculum.

First year of tackle football for my youngest Texan.

First year of college at AUBURN for my oldest Texan.

Daughter's first Adobe sketch creation.

LOVE STEPS

Love steps are intimate......

baby steps 

giant steps 

single step

step back

step up

stumbling steps, limping steps

every step of the way.....first steps to last steps. (Job 23:11)

Love steps similar to having one foot on earth and one in heaven---can include slow steps to a toe tapping foot step that is in rhythm with the "new dance" the Lord is teaching you to follow his every lead. Follow His stepping stones on life's path so that you will not fall headlong. (Psalm 37:24)

Love-light tends to shine on the path when my steps are choosing to follow Him. Those are the love-steps I desire for every child on my "Kids for the Kingdom" prayer list to follow. (Psalm 16:11)

UNANSWERED QUESTIONS

Many medical questions still unanswered BUT this time it's an intriguing unanswered question!

A fun one no matter what the actual answer is.

#20 in 2020

Will let you now when I know!

And the answer is ......a "masked" expedition to explore Tannenbaum, trip # 20 for my T-Cup friends.

Behold how good and how pleasant it is when brethren dwell together in unity. (Psalm 133:1)

A HEAPING SERVING OF SALT FOR MEMPHIS

Who would have thought that a "social" magazine would have more than just pictures of the party crowd.

4memphis was left at the end of  my driveway a few days ago and I left it on the bench. It's free at the grocery stores but who "goes" to grocery stores these days? Who goes to parties these days?

But..........the editorial page had me at the get-go! Jim Walker writes from the heart and he starts with scripture. A scripture worth heeding for the sake of our city.

Seek the Peace and Prosperity of the City in which I have placed you.

 (Jeremiah 29:7, emphasis mine)

INFLUENCE--a word that can sound impressive but have no meaning. Today, especially in the media, influence can be used to move the heart or actions of someone else---whether for good or evil. Do these influencers care about truth anymore, he asks.

His next word, SALT reminded us of Lot's wife, who became a "pillar of salt" in Genesis 19:6. Salt, the very substance that preserves everything from decay. Salt, is not a flashy spice as Walker describes but an essential one, basic yet essential. Salt is not self-promoting but brings out the "flavor" of other ingredients. He commends the people and organizations he is associated with as full of salt, bringing joy and taste to the culture of our city. They are the seasoned with the "salt of service" often laboring and serving with little or no attention. Often underfunded, they continue to promote and nurture our city.

Jim Walter's editorial challenges all Memphians to be salt in the community by "ignoring the negative influence of the broadcast and social media and reach out in compassion to all God puts in your daily path. HEAR! HEAR! (Matthew 5:13)

Pick up a copy of "4MEMPHIS"from your driveway or  the next time you're at the grocery store. If you discarded it immediately, go dig it out of your recycle bin. Not for the social events though many of them are charities that benefit our 901 community, but for "From the Publisher" comments. 

For those of us who care about our city, it's worth the read. 

A CUPPA Tranquili-TEA Needed

More info when I calm the qualm with a cuppa.....

....a cuppa tranquili-TEA!

LAUGHTER IS CONTAGIOUS!

Laughter is also the best medicine! It lifts one’s spirit! It warms one’s heart!

Click the arrow, make sure it's unmuted and enjoy!
I bet it will change your countenance and have you chuckling. Laughter is contagious-there’s no doubt about it. 

SERENE SABBATH

Grace and Peace. Blessings from God’s hand. 

From Thessalonica, Philippi and Corinth of old to those in present - day Memphis, it’s available. 

So grateful to be a benefactor during this latest struggle 

“My” Molly’s pre-surgery (8/31/2020) pillow says it all for believers whose anxious thoughts multiply that within them.......

give it to God and go to sleep

.....allowing God’s Grace and Peace to envelop them

S. T. R. E. N. G. T. H.

S.

T.

R.

E.

N.

G.

H.

T.

In order to follow my newest medical protocol of keeping physically active and intellectually challenged, I will be working on an acrostic for S.T.R.E.N.G.T.H. A spiritually inclined acrostic. 

STRENGTH being our Women's Ministry word for next year is spot-on...as is the verse, Psalm 59:16.

 I shall sing of Your strength; I will sing of your steadfast love in the morning. For you have been to me a fortress and a refuge in the day of my distress. 

If anyone has some strength verses or strength acrostics to share I would appreciate the info.

*Crickett, our Women's Ministry director, used S.T.R.E.N.G.T.H. to show the attributes of God.
S tronghold
T trustworthy
R efuge
E verlasting
N ourishment
G ood
T triumphant
H elp

SMILING IS GOOD FOR THE SOUL & ONE'S HEALTH

When not feeling "up to snuff" I am grateful for encouraging friends and family who know me so well.

ljj is one of those! A "friend who loves at al times....(Proverbs 17:17)

Though miles now separate us, she has sent me creative little humorous clips or cartoons since I've been in the hospital. After she heard about my hallucinations in ICU, she texted a pic of one of "my" little people participants.....a cartoon of "The Family Circus," Jeffy sittng on an exam table with a doctor listening to his chest. Jeffy asks, "Do you need me to talk louder so you can hear me?" Not exactly the Dolly, Billy, Jeffy and PJ  dancing in a circle on grass at the foot of my bed but I liked the connection and poking fun at my crazy-mixed-up brain.

Today I received this gem from her. It defines me as I'm following doc orders "to rest"!

It made me smile!

Dancing DANCING AGAIN

To all my prayer warriors & encouragers, I want you to know that I appreciate your prayers, love, wit, puns, Encouragement and concern! I am dancing again but this time it is at Baptist East Hospital ICU room 215! Once again the Lord has turned my mourning into dancing! I am just doing it while I am all wired up—figuratively & literally.

Next test will be at 4:30 PM central standard time.

🥰 & hugs to all! I hope you dance! It’s the life of abunDANCE. I know that for sure exclamation

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways  acknowledge Him and He will direct your path. (Proverbs 3:5-6)

  

MOUNTAIN MAGIC

Hooray! Hooray!! We're on our way. 
Our social distancing vacation in the Great Smoky Mountains begins today!
......and it's suppose to rain everyday!.....
But that's the mountain way!

KEEP ON DANCING!

Do you feel sometimes as if you're stumbling backwards during this pandemic?

My "feelings" are trying to keep me overwhelmed, anxious, frustrated, IRRITABLE! (note all CAPS)

As I pulled out a napkin for my morning cuppa, from my "clean out/use up Cover-19 pare down stuff stack", I was astounded.

Like a tap on my shoulder, the napkin said it all. I was soon tapping my toes and humming, "Lord of the Dance". "Dance, then, wherever you maybe, ..........I'll lead you all, wherever you may be,....I'll lead you all in the Dance, said he" (S. Carter's English Hymn with melody from Shaker hymn, "Simple Gifts")

Don't give up when you stumble. Remember who your dance partner is---look up, not at your feet, and let Him lead with a new unique step, turn or dip.

Don't quit! Just keep on dancing with your eyes on the LORD. It's when we look down at our feet, (those overwhelming, anxious, frustrating, irritating, circumstances) that we stumble. Turn up the music so you can hear from Him not from the discouraging words in your head.

Though he (she) may stumble, he will not fall (be hurled headlong), for the LORD upholds him with his hand. (Psalm 37:24)

Remember who has your hand in His when you're dancing, allowing Him to guide you with His righteous right hand and...............KEEP ON DANCING!

G.R.A.C.E.

Acronyms of Grace for Wordsmith Wednesday.

Acrostics often help me to recall truth, especially as I age. I often remember  EGO= Edges God Out. GRACE= God's Redemption At Christ's Expense.

All to Jesus, my Robert Morgan devotional guide, has seemed to emphasize "grace" this week.

8/10 Indeed we have all received grace after grace. (John 1:16)

ended with, a new to me, acronym for G.R.A.C.E.

God's Riches Available to Claim Everyday!

Hubby reads Bob Goff's, Live in Grace-Walk in Love to me each night. Last night grace jumped off the title page and right into my psyche. Love to others is an overflow of God's grace to us. Grace's practical application =Walking in love! 

This morning, (8/12) Titus 2:11-12 was the "grace" intro to Morgan's entry.

For the grace of God......teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled....lives in this present age.

One more "grace" filled verse had me humming, "Grace, grace, God's grace" as I stirred in extra measures of God's grace in my  morning cuppa and praying Acts 4:33 for our country during these tumultuous times......that we might be of one heart and one soul with...."much grace upon us all". (Acts 4:33)

G.R.A.C.E. acrostic as prayer prompts for our nation....

God Releases Altruism, Compassion & Empathy....so that we might give

Give Real Assistance & Care to Everyone! 

CELEBRATION OF LIFE

Can anyone find a positive during this pandemic?

Coral Ridge Presbyterian church in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida did. 

They chose to honor the death of one of their saints with masks, social distancing and livestream. 

For me, that broadcast allowed me to attend the service of Kaye Carlson, my dear friend Julie's mom. My fiesty, fearless, comforter and best friend was how Julie described her.

A beautiful organ prelude had a few notes changed by one of her former choir members as a way to honor "Miss Kaye" beyond the ordinary funeral fare. 

Her memorial service began with praises and honor to Jesus.....a celebration of Kaye's life with Him as her Lord and Savior. "Great is Thy Faithfulness," sung by all, echoed that relationship.

Scripture reading of Psalm 121:2--reminded us all that our "help comes from the Lord"; John 14:1-6--comforted all with assurance that Jesus, "the way the truth and the Life," is the way to the Father; and Romans 8:37--was a powerful proclamation that nothing will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

How spot on was the pastor when "and so it is" concluded his reading! Amen!

Friends and family thanked God for every remembrance of her in their lives and  descriptors shared of Kaye are way too lengthy to mention here. All rejoiced in knowing her, saw her as the "Queen of Hospitality" whose door was always open to extras. Kaye fed the multitudes and was famous for her potato salad. Daughter, Julie, shared that her mom was such an anchor for all their souls as wife and "life of the party" to their dad, a mom to Steve and her, a surrogate mom, a foster mom, a grandmother, a Gigi, a sister, a choir member, etc. With an affinity for all the writings of "The Bard," Julie had to read the works of Shakespeare to fully converse with her. My favorite part of Julie's sharing was Carlson Family's Friday Fun Night---attendance was required and her mom orchestrating many trips, from campgrounds (not w/ tents) to IA and MN. Her brother Steve found "FIREWORKS" in Tennessee. That really resonated with me because Tennessee is where my path crossed with Julie and I got to meet Kaye.

She is her mother's daughter. Together we tag-teamed in caring for mutual friends, Claudia and Terry Parlow, through both paralysis and cancer. I'm sure we were strengthened with prayers from her parents, Kaye and Jim, along the way. 

Kaye's memorial today was also the day she married Jim 60 years ago! What a memory for a life well-lived with her spouse.

The service ended as it had begun-- honoring Jesus with the standing and singing of the "Hallelujah Chorus" followed by a bagpiper playing "Amazing Grace" as the family exited.

What a celebration of life and of two funerals---Kaye's and Jesus'.