Complete CONTROL

CONTROL: to have the power of ruling, guiding, or managing, to hold back, the power to direct, restraint.
CONTROLLER: the person in charge
COMPLETE: having no part missing; whole, finished, ended, thorough; perfect

You cannot be in complete control of your life or destiny.
First of all, you are not the one in charge.
Second of all, your life was planned and finished, BEFORE, you were born.
We are part of the controller's plan and a tool for His purpose.
You may think you can control your being and circumstances, but you are in no position to feel you are perfect enough to be in charge of your whole life.
We were not given complete control, only 'choice' in making some circumstances happen, but not change. He knew what the choice would be. God already planned for the change, if it were to be so. If it is not changed, it is not in His plan. Think about it!
God knew what all our choices would have been, throughout our lifetime, long before they even happened. So how is it people feel they can have complete control of their lives. Not so, we are not the controller. God knew I would do as I do, and say the things I say; long before I was even born. He knew I would be who I am and have the imperfections I have. He knows all that goes on in my head and structure. He even knows if the smallest blood vessel or nerve is damaged. He even knows how many hairs are on my head. So how is it we feel we can change what He has in store for us? Let it be and let God be in control.

Prayer

Are you sincere when you pray? Do you ask for a table (food) or personal blessing in haste, just to get it over with? Are you in a hurry to dig-in so much that you really never give thought to what you are saying? Are your prayers repetitious and not really heart-felt? Do you ask for personal blessings in the same way? Are you just saying them, just to say them, and get it over with. I truly believe God will honor the prayer when it comes from the heart, not just out of the mouth. Anyone can say words...but feelings come from the heart.

Have you ever sat down at the table and asked God to bless the meal (on one side of your mouth) and cursed his food with the other side of your mouth. All dieters do!!!! Think about it! God just provided you with some morsels in front of you, but you refuse to eat it. (might have too many calories, or don't like the taste) You would think you would graciously accept His gift, but instead you said 'I don't want this...give me something else...this has way too many calories or I don't like it'. Oh, you can say 'we all were given choices'; but the truth is, not all people have choices. Some people can't afford to buy the artichokes, they have to buy the mac and cheese to suppress the hunger. If a poor person had to wait until they were rich enough to buy a so-called healthy meal, they might die of hunger. Yes, God will provide, and it isn't always fat-free or calorie-free. Thank Him from the heart for whatever is in front of you .... and mean it. Don't insult God by thanking Him with 1/2 your mouth and refusing Him with the other 1/2.

How about your personal prayers? Is it gimme-gimme!!!! ....me-mine!!!!! Or do you think of others and their trials on earth? Do you take time to break it down and give specifics? Yes, He knows all, but He wants to hear them from the mouth and heart...not just passing words that sound pretty. I am sure God will honor the heart-felt prayer before He honors the fancy-word, fast-lane, in praying.

Psalm 23 Greater Understanding

The Lord is my Shepherd- that is relationship

I shall not want- that is supply

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures-that is rest

He leadeth me beside the still waters-that is refreshment

He restoreth my soul- that is healing

He leadeth me in the path of righteousness- that is guidance

For His name sake- that is purpose

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death- that is testing

I will fear no evil- that is protection

For thou art with me- that is faithfulness

Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me- that is discipline

Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies- that is hope

Thou annointest my head with oil- that is consecration

My cup runneth over- that is abundance

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life- that is blessing

And I will dwell in the house of the Lord-that is security

Forever- that is eternity

Such Wonder

Wonderful, wonderful, Ah, such wonder!
How the dark, cloudy night turns into bright day. I sit by my window and am amused, while I watch a bright golden ray.
The sun breaks through the morning clouds, as the dew sparkles on the ground. And the birds are cheerfully singing, as they wake and fly around.
The gentle breeze moves through the trees, as the Almighty moves His loving hand. All things wake, and start their day, with the hand of God, directing His command.
Ah, such wonder, do they know the secret that God holds? Are they singing and praising our loving Father,giving thanks to the new day that unfolds?
Wonderful, wonderful, ah, such wonder, to look upon this land. To see each and every wonderful thing, that was created by God, and His Almighty Hand. svs1997

Your Hand in Mine

October 7, 2001, One evening as I tried to sleep, words kept swimming through my head. I knew I needed to arise and write it down. I knew by morning the words would be gone if I delayed. I sat down and wrote this little poem for an artist friend of mine, Sandy W. I would like to share it with you, so that the next time you have a paint brush or chalk in hand, you will remember the words written; because I am sure it pertains to all who try to put a picture together to explain what words can't tell.

I come to you in the wee hours of the morning and gently brush the brows so dear...I breath upon your face, and whispers from Me, you hear.
I call to you, arise My child, there's much work to be done...Together, as we work today, for the souls that must be won.
I will paint for you a picture, set it deep within your mind... Together we will express the scene, it will touch the hearts of those it finds.
You will put My thoughts on canvas. I will guide you each step of the way... You will paint for them a picture, that will explain the things that are hard to say.
You will show My many emotions, My powers, and My strengths...You will show the things that I can do, I had gone to ultimate lengths.
I had paid the price for all who sinned, My body shows the signs... I have scars to prove My love for them, yet, their uncertainty still binds.
You must paint for them a picture, something for them to see... It will help for them to understand...You must draw them near to Me.
I will take your fragile hand in Mine, I will guide you with such skill... You will touch the hearts of those I love, you will work within my will.
Each and every brush stroke that is made, each color that you use... will be the way I design it, it will be just what I choose.
Remember, I will have your hand in Mine, I will guide you each step of the way...Together, we will accomplish much. You will show, what words can't say.
My child, you have let Me work through you, a willing vessel, that you are... Your works will be appreciated by My other children, near and far.
I will comfort you, I will love you, I will always be at your side...I will pour out My many blessings to you, the desires of your heart, I will not hide.
With Me in your heart and a paintbrush in your hand, we will paint a picture for all to see...It will show the world how much I care, and how I want them drawn to me. svs 2001

Flowing Along the River of Life

Life is like a mighty river, with protecting banks along it's sides, to keep the water flowing, in the direction, God decides.

We are like the water, we flow along, but, within the banks we stay. We must be guided by the path, that God has made, along the way.

No matter what the water's depth, be it high or low, as long as we stay within the banks, we have God's protection and guidance, as we go.

Some places the river bed is dark and rocky, and you don't know which way to go. But God gently guides you around each rock, to a smoother place, where you can flow.

But, be there caution, in your rushing life...don't think that you can flow...without the Almighty's guidance, because ... over the banks, you will go.

You will sit there, on the dry, dusty ground...Only to dry up, from the influence, that's around.

Stay within those river banks, or your life will be a disaster.

Flow along the mighty path, guided by the Master. svs1997

Hypertufa Planter ABC

This is a basic recipe for Hypertufa planter that is light in weight, yet it looks as heavy as those solid cement planters in the Plant Shop. Make sure you wear latex gloves when making these. What you need is a cardboard box or plastic dishpan or kitty-litter box or any large container that would hold the shape you desire. You can use the inside of the container for your shape or the outside of the container to make your shape. You decide! If you are using wood or metal as a pattern, line it with plastic and expect it to take longer to cure. If you are using a plastic pan make sure you spray the mold with Pam or any vegetable oil spray. You will make your pot about 1-1/2 " to 2" thick. Remember the thicker it is , the longer the curing time. And you don't want it too thick that it would crack. You will mix the ingredients with just enough water to make a thick-rough-dough like substance that you will plaster on or inside your mold. Use a 1/2 inch to 1 inch, dowel to make holes on the bottom of the pot. (these will be the drain holes) To measure the thickness of your patted-on substance, use a bar-b-q bamboo stick and poke it through the side walls to see the thickness. Then repair hole. After it is shaped the way you want it, you can embellish it with old jewelry, chains, broken plates or colored glass. Just push them into the sides, gently. Now place your new created container into a a large black plastic bag and close it. Let it dry slowly, at least 3-5 days. Then bring it out into the sun and sun-dry for 2-4 days. Now you can separate the pan from the pot and dry for 2-3 days. Happy Planting!

RECIPE:

• 1 part Portland cement (white)
• 1-1/2 parts peat
• 1-1/2 parts perlite

For a stronger Hypertufa but a little heavier:

• 1 part Portland cement
• 1 part sand
• 1 part peat
• 1 part perlite or vermiclite

For a Hypertufa with mesh (for strength) also much heavier, use this recipe:

• 2 parts portland cement
• 2 parts peat moss
• 1/2 coarse sand or fine gravel
• 1 large handful nylon fiberglass-mesh

REAL MOTHERS

Real mothers don't eat quiche- they don't have time to make it.

Real mothers know their kitchen utensils are probably in the sandbox.

Real mothers often have sticky floors, filthy ovens and happy kids.

Real mothers know that dried play dough doesn't come out of carpets.

Real mothers don't want to know what the vacuum just sucked up.

Real mothers sometimes ask "Why me?" and get their answer when a little voice says, 'Because I love you best.'

Real mothers know that a child is not measured by height, years or grade...

It is marked by the progression of Mommy to Mom to Mother...

Author Unknown

The Beauty of a Woman

The beauty of a woman must be seen from her eyes, because that is the doorway to her heart, the place where love resides. The beauty of a woman is not in make-up or a facial mole, but true beauty is reflected from within her soul. It is the caring that she lovingly gives, the passion that she shows, and the beauty of a woman with passing years...only grows.

Author Unknown

Quotes on Revival

Revival is living Christ life in the home. James A. Stewart

Revival is the heathen saying, "The Lord has done great things for them. James A. Stewart

Revival is the recognition of the ministry of insignificant members of the body, and the deliverance from idol worship of the more prominent members who are in the limelight. James A. Stewart

Revival is the people of God constrained, gripped, overmastered, and overwhelmed by the love of Christ, so that they are feverishly restless to win souls for Christ. James A. Stewart

GETTING OLD and OLDER

This was sent to me years ago by a friend, and I reflect on it every now and then. As time goes by...God knows I need to read it and ponder on the way I should be looking at my self and so on... I don't know who actually wrote it. **********************************

The other day a young person asked me how it felt-like to being old. I was surprised and almost shocked, for I do not think of myself as old. I replied that this was an interesting question and I would ponder it, and let her know. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Old age, I decided, is a gift! I am now, probably for the first time in my life, the person I have always wanted to be. Oh, not my body! I sometimes despair over my body; the wrinkles, the thinning hair, the baggy eyes and the sagging parts. And often I am taken by surprise by that old person that lives in my mirror. (who looks like my mother) But, I don't agonize over those things for too long! I would never trade my friends, my life, or my family, for less gray hair or a flatter belly. As I have aged, I have become more kind to myself and less critical of my body and self. I have become my own friend. I do not scold or punish myself for eating that extra cookie, or for not making up my bed, or for buying that silly cement gecko that I didn't need. But is sure looks great on my garden patio. I am entitled to a treat, to be messy and even to be extravagant, every now and then. I have seen too many dear friends leave this world too soon; before they understood the great freedom and wisdom that comes with aging. Whose business is it if I choose to read or study on the computer eight hours a day, or sit endlessly by the lake? I will sing and dance with myself to those wonderful tunes of the 50's and 60's. And if I, at the same time, wish to weep over a lost friend...I will. I will walk the beach in a swim suit that is stretched over my bulging body, and dive into waves with abandon, if I choose to, despite the pitying glances from the jet-set. They, too, will get old. I know sometimes I am forgetful. But there again, some of life is just as well to be forgotten. I will eventually remember the important things. Sure, over the years my heart has been broken! How can your heart not break when you lose a loved one, or when a child suffers, or even when somebodys beloved pet gets hit by a car? But broken hearts are what gives us strength, understanding and compassion. A heart never broken is pristine and sterile. It will never know the joy of being imperfect. I am so very blessed to have lived long enough to have my hair turn gray, and to have my youthful struggles be forever etched into the deep groves on my face. So many have never laughed, and so many have died before their hair could turn silver. As you get older, it is easier to be positive. You care less about what others think. I don't question myself, anymore. I have earned the right to be wrong. ... So, to answer your question, I LIKE being old. It has set me free...to do as I choose...I like the person I have become. I am not going to live forever, but while I am still here, I will not waste time lamenting what could have been, or worrying about what will be.....And I shall eat dessert every single day. (If I feel like it)

The Images of Mother

• 4 years of age- My Mommy can do anything!
• 8 years of age- My Mom knows alot! A whole lot!
• 12 years of age- My Mother doesn't really know quite everything.
• 14 years of age- Naturally Mother doesn't know that, either.
• 16 years of age- Mother? She's hopelessly old-fashioned.
• 18 years of age- That old woman? She's way out of date!
• 25 years of age- Well, she might know a little bit about it!
• 35 years of age- Before we decide, let's get Mom's opinion.
• 45 years of age- Wonder what Mom would have thought about it?
• 65 years of age- Wish I could talk it over with Mom.

THE 23rd CHANNEL

• The TV is my shepard, I shall not want for entertainment.
• It maketh me to lie down on the sofa.
• It leadeth me away from Scriptures.
• It destroyeth my soul.
• It leadeth me in the path of sex and violence for the sponsor's sake.
• Yea, though I walk in the shadow of my Christian responsibilities,
• There will be no interruption,
• For the TV is with me, its cable and remote, they control me.
• It prepareth a commercial before me in the presence of worldliness;
• It anointeth my head with humanism,
• My coveting runneth over.
• Surely laziness and ignorance shall follow me all the days of my life,
• And I shall dwell in the house watching TV forever. Author Unknown

Good Quotes

God doesn't call the equipped; He equips the called. anonymous

The softest road to hell is a gradual one - the gentle slope, soft underfoot, without sudden turnings, without milestones, without signposts. C.S.Lewis

A man can no more diminish God's glory by refusing to worship Him, than a lunatic can put out the sun by scribbling the word 'darkness' on the walls of his cell. C.S.Lewis

The devil will not be afraid of the person who owns a Bible with dust on it.anonymous

Knowledge is not about what information you have obtained, but how you use it. Korbin Wallace

If I find in myself a desire which no experience in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that I was made for another world. C.S. Lewis

Wrong attitudes in our life will block the blessing of God and cause us to live below God's potential for our lives. John Maxwell

The thought of procrastination is murder to the soul. Charles G. Finney

Do you want to know if Jesus Christ is THE ONLY WAY TO HEAVEN? ... Ask the lost souls in hell. unknown

Dreaming and Planning

Check your mailbox! Overload in catalogues! Plant and Seed catalogues, that is! Everyday I must be getting 2-3 catalogues. Let's put them to good use, before we throw them away. Gaze at the pretty pictures and dream. Start planning your garden. Even if you can't afford the plants, you still can dream and plan what you can do. You might come across a style of garden or that pretty special color. Let your mind wonder and forget about the snow for just awhile. Draw out a newly planned garden, order a few seeds, if you can. Think spring! Before you know it, it will be here. Why not try ordering a few seeds and start them in April-May in a sunny spot on your window sill. More and more people are starting gardens and the supply might be limited. Order seeds early enough, so you will be able to have them on hand when you are ready for them. Be careful of genetically altered seeds and plants, they are not true to form, as the years go by. The offspring plants are never the same as the parent plant. I look for heirloom seeds, the old fashioned kind, then save seeds, if I can. If I am consuming the 'fruits of my labor', then for sure, I use heirloom seeds. There are enough genetically altered things out there to make a person sick...really. Our bodies weren't designed to digest altered compositions of foodsources. Just sit back, dream and plan ahead.

To Make Sourdough Starter

I have purchased my sourdough starter awhile back from King Arthur Flour company on the net. It was started in the early 1800's. But if you can't buy it, you can make it. It just takes some doing and a little extra time. The older the starter, the more organisms to make the yeast growth. You do need to feed it and put it to sleep in the refrigerator if not using right away. There are different starters for making different doughs. Amish starter has sugar or fruit added, while rye starter is made with rye flour and not white, wheat flour for wheat sourdough and plain sourdough for the white breads; the list goes on. Some bakers even cheat and add dry yeast to the mixture to give it a boost. You can purchase a good bread baking book and find out what a science it is, to bake a simple loaf of sourdough bread or muffins.

If my sourdough were to die, I would use the following, to make a new batch.

• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup plain, natural yogurt
• 1 cup flour

Warm milk to 90 degrees and add yogurt. Place in non-metal container, such as a crock or a glass quart jar. Cover with non-metal cover, loosely, such as wax paper. Set in warm area for at least 24 hours. Stir in 1 cup flour and cover with wax paper. Set in warm area for about 3 days. The starter should start to show bubbles and ferment. Place in refrigerator to put to sleep until you are ready to use it. Keep it covered, loosely, to let some air to get in. When you are ready to use it, bring it out and let it get room temperature before using.

****If at any time the mixture starts to turn pink or orange or rancid, THROW IT AWAY. The light brown liquid on top can be stirred back in; but if it is black, pink, orange or moldy, THROW AWAY. Start over!

FEEDING your starter:

Each time you remove starter, you need to replentish it with 1 cup warm milk (90 degrees) and 1 cup flour. Set in warm area for about 8 hours or overnight. It should show signs of bubbling. If you will not be using right away, place back in refrigerator to put to sleep. You DO NEED to feed at least every week to keep the organisms active.

Now you have starter for your favorite sourdough recipe.

Taste of Vienna...'aRoma' carry me away!

Here in northern Wisconsin it gets mighty cold in winter, and a fire in the wood stove is a blessing; not to mention the heat of the gas oven, and the aroma of fresh baked bread in the oven. It brings about a comforting feeling and ... all is well with my soul! Here is one of my all-time favorites. Hope you enjoy it as much as we do. Experiment with a few seeds and unsalted seasonings in the dough, or for a topping, to make different bread or rolls each time.

• 2/3 cup water
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1/3 cup 1/2 & 1/2 or sweet cream
• 3-1/4 cups all purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 2-1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast

I use a bread machine to mix and knead the mixture on a dough setting, only. Do not bake in machine. Place wet ingredients into machine, then add the dry; keeping the salt and sugar to the side of the pan. Place the yeast in the center of the flour. Set on DOUGH setting. Knead about 15-20 minutes in machine. Add any unsalted seasoning ( garlic powder, onion powder, dehydrated vegies, etc...) during last 10 minutes, if flavoring dough. Salted seasonings can be used for the tops. When the dough is finished kneading, turn off machine and transfer dough to a bowl sprayed with Pam. Cover and let rise in a warm area. Grease 2 bread pans, or sheet-pan if making rolls. Transfer dough into 2 bread pans or roll into round balls for rolls (12) and place on sheet pan. Slice the tops and brush with 1 egg white (whipped). Bake 400 degrees for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

If mixing by hand, start out with the dry ingredients in a bowl and add the wet. After it is mixed, follow the same instructions as for the machine, except you will be kneading by hand.

2009 New Year - New Beginings,Fresh Starts...

Happy and Blessed 2009 to all.

I hope that each and everyone of you have a positive attitude toward the year ahead. Yes, the news and circumstances tell us of dismal days ahead, but I feel, God is in control so.... let it roll! It NEEDS to happen, because His word says so. If it didn't, it would make His Word void.

So let us rejoice in our participating in His plan.