tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-82390674851571958932024-03-13T07:28:11.753-05:00At Home With Loretta Online~From Our House To Yours~ ~Welcome~Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14457976530332166377noreply@blogger.comBlogger97125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8239067485157195893.post-61764251376096664412016-02-29T08:55:00.000-06:002016-02-29T08:55:10.771-06:00It feels Like Spring<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I was walking down the path to my Grandparents old home place and spotted this huge bouquet-like</div>
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arrangement of Jonquils. It is hard to believe it is February and there are so many blooms on such a cold morning. Of course, with temps in the high seventies and near eighty degrees it doesn't come as a total surprise. Today, seventy-six. Tomorrow, highs back down in the low fifties! It is so confusing, we have to carry jackets umbrellas and boots for protection against the elements because you never know what today's weather will be. But, what can we say or do ... we must endure!</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EQfttKJzO4M/VtRTo2KaXmI/AAAAAAAAGuE/DKJA1XGYg4c/s1600/_Narcissus-jonquil-hybrid-mix.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EQfttKJzO4M/VtRTo2KaXmI/AAAAAAAAGuE/DKJA1XGYg4c/s320/_Narcissus-jonquil-hybrid-mix.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;"> </span><span style="text-align: center;">I've been keeping myself quite active since my last visit, trying to get around to friends relatives and acquaintances, importantly, not overdoing it! I have learned the true meaning of "no" and it feels good. </span><br />
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<span style="text-align: center;"> I have so much to share with you, especially my latest project, however, I need to finish therapy (the last phase) then, I'll be able to devote more time to blogging. I hope your day is filled with rays-of -sunshine and hope. B</span><span style="text-align: center;">ut, if not...create warmth and happiness in your heart...</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">Warmest Regards...</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">LT </span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14457976530332166377noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8239067485157195893.post-46436482576529509662014-04-27T08:09:00.001-05:002014-04-27T08:09:16.214-05:00Don't Put It Off...Do It Now! <br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>From the pages of the </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Enterprise Newspaper</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Columnist: Loretta T.</i></span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L3MaXHm11ow/U1p3WmowJgI/AAAAAAAAGm0/itlqa_2OYnM/s1600/procrastination.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L3MaXHm11ow/U1p3WmowJgI/AAAAAAAAGm0/itlqa_2OYnM/s1600/procrastination.jpg" height="182" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-large;"><i> I had to laugh at my visual this week because it really says a lot about this week’s column.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-large;"><i>Like me, I am sure we all have at one time or another, made personal resolves to do something then, put it off…and, keep pushing it back repeatedly. Soon, the entire day is gone and that task to be done is still waiting for us, right?</i></span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-large;"><i> </i></span><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: xx-large;">Oh dear, I am so guilty…sad to say! I am sitting here at my desk typing this and thinking about several things I have push to the side since the weekend. I dislike the word…”eventually” because this is how it all gets started. My resolves of…I’ll get to it eventually, I’ll do it late or, tomorrow, or just simply not get it done at all really reflects a laziness about myself that I hate to admit. </i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-large;"><i> The phone will ring when I’ve started a task and I sit and talk especially to Mom, and when she’s done someone else calls. Then, yeah, you guessed it…I’ve allowed other things to cause me to put it off!</i></span><br />
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<i style="color: #cc0000; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: xx-large;"> </i><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: xx-large;">Unless we promptly carry out the task at hand while the desire is burning brightly in our hearts, we may find that we will continually put it off! Sometimes, when this happens with me, it leads to my forgetting about it or, I’ll give up on the whole idea. To avoid falling in this regard, we need to recognize that the complexities of modern-day living make us forget our good intentions. Matters do come up unexpectedly, some of which demand our immediate attention.</i><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RdmtV7dFz1A/UYvRZpBSeZI/AAAAAAAAFss/M5da8is5G0A/s1600/page+divide.GIF" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RdmtV7dFz1A/UYvRZpBSeZI/AAAAAAAAFss/M5da8is5G0A/s1600/page+divide.GIF" height="24" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: xx-large;"> However, by not letting small matters </i><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: xx-large;">dictate our course of action, we will more likely fulfill our good intentions much to the joy of our family. Procrastination or, the putting off of matters for another time is nourished by the tendency to take thing for granted. How is this? Example: husbands and wives need to guard against the complacent feeling of taking each other for granted. </i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-large;"><i><span style="color: #cc0000;"> </span> They should take advantage of the numerous opportunities to do thoughtful little things for each other. Do not get into the habit of delaying doing good things for the other because none of us knows what the next day will bring, let along the next week! </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-large;"><i><span style="color: #cc0000;"> </span> You don’t need to wait to make an elaborate gesture to express how you feel about your spouse, then postpone giving to him/her. Today there are many persons who are plagued in this world with remorse and regrets. Among them are those who never appreciated what they had until they've lost it. </i></span><br />
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<i> Then, there are others who kept putting off what they wanted to do until it as too late…the spouse either died or they divorced. That left this one haunted by memories of what could have been but was not. </i></div>
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<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: xx-large;">I hope, like me, you realize why putting thing off is such a serious matter. We need to overcome the tendency to put off doing things, especially that which is beneficial and good.</i></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-large;"><i>Be resolved …Don’t put it off; do it now!</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-large;"><i>Thanks for stopping by to visit and we welcome your comments...</i></span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14457976530332166377noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8239067485157195893.post-18009785945580587992014-02-01T18:28:00.001-06:002014-02-01T18:28:02.069-06:00Equal Work Deserves Equal Pay <i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: xx-large;">Taken from the pages of...</i><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-large;"><i>The Mansfield Enterprise</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-large;"><i>Columnist Loretta Thomas</i></span><br />
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<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: xx-large;"> Are Worker Worthy of Their Wages...</i><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lSfOVBFHvvA/UumpBix37BI/AAAAAAAAGcI/1EmG0XfxFcU/s1600/equal_pay_2-20-121.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lSfOVBFHvvA/UumpBix37BI/AAAAAAAAGcI/1EmG0XfxFcU/s1600/equal_pay_2-20-121.jpg" height="222" width="320" /></a></div>
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 <i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">You see them dirty muddy blacken with dust; some bent laboring in broiling heat, then, trying to straighten their backs. From sun up to sun down six and seven days a week they toil in factories, mines, quarries, driving trucks and equipment…working hard to finish the task assigned to them. Many do so because they have concluded, “I’ll probably be doing this my whole life…what else am I going to do; we are already at the bottom of the barrel!” To add insult to injury their wages are at poverty level according to American Standards!</i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> If you look at what type of jobs these worker have you will see…they are the ones who help to bring food to our tables, build our roads and bridges, bring electricity gas and oil to us…all the necessary daily needs that we depend on, and they do so in most cases for meager wages with no raise, bonus…and are among the ones living in poverty! Residents in Mansfield with income below 50% of the poverty level is 10.6% whereas, the whole State is 7.2%! This, people, is significant percentages of residents living in poverty!</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> In some form or the other in all businesses here you will see “EQUALITY”… It has to be especially if there are employees. By law, equal work does deserve equal pay according to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights Article 23 where it states: “Everyone who works has the right to just and favorable remuneration ensuring for himself and his family as existence worthy of human dignity.” Sadly, It is evident that most of these Articles remain unfulfilled promises considering how some of the lofty rights mentioned in the declaration works out in everyday life!</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Is it fair for me to ask, “Are you aware of the things I’ve mentioned above? Do you know that when we come into work each and everyday, perform and carry out all duties assigned, and when we leave there, we are returning to our families who are hungry cold and living in substandard homes…are you aware we don’t have food for our children to eat?” You see, I know this because…I have seen it…faced it…and yes, lived it! </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Mortgages or rent, insurances, utilities and doctor bills will rip through a paycheck with little left for anything else. That is why we are called…The Working Poor! That is why our children are poor…it is like a vicious cycle from generation to generation…</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Cost of living is rising…folks feel as if they’re doing the same job for less pay each year. Is it possible that you as employees can adjust your pay according to the cost of living? Or offer fair incentives, bonuses? Thinking through your compensation strategy will help to retain and motivate good workers cut down on turnovers absenteeism, negative morale, and workers will take pride in their accomplishments!</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> In that same Declaration, Article 25 states: “Everyone has the right to a standard of living adequate for the health and well-being of himself and his family, including food, clothing housing and medical care.”</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vhpsjTUBsrk/Up51TLsN2XI/AAAAAAAAGT0/ipitifOaft4/s1600/blue-swirl-divider-hi.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vhpsjTUBsrk/Up51TLsN2XI/AAAAAAAAGT0/ipitifOaft4/s1600/blue-swirl-divider-hi.png" height="41" width="320" /></a></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> We work hard, but still…we can’t make it…we have sore backs but empty purses! Please, consider making adjustments for your loyal faithful and hard workers who have stuck by you through it all…we need you just as you’ve needed us! Don’t you think we are worthy?</i></span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14457976530332166377noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8239067485157195893.post-24036443010678025102014-01-17T18:48:00.000-06:002014-01-17T18:56:26.194-06:00The Devil More Than Just Superstition<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Taken from the pages of The Enterprise...</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> By Columnist: Loretta Thomas </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Do you watch television or go to movies, especially when a new movie premieres? If you answered yes, then, I’d like to ask, “Have you noticed the subject matter of new movies now, not to mention some old and new television shows? Think a bit before you answer. My point is: now, all attention is drawn to vampires, werewolves, witches, devil, e.g. devil babies; worshipers, etc.; bloody killings, guns, drugs and other gory things…if these are your recollections then, you are so right! </i></span><br />
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<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"> I realize we are living in a constant changing world…in different times but, why are all the above debasing things we see so prevalent, yes, common in the world today? Do you have any ideas or justifications as to why? Let’s reason on this for a moment. </i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>For centuries old superstitions always depicted the devil as half human and half beast. They thought of him as a horned cloven-hoofed creature clad in red and using a pitchfork to cast wicked into hell. Well, the Bible does not support these ideas. Undoubtedly, such misconceptions have cause millions to question the existence of the Devil or to think that the term only applies to a principle of evil.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> </i></span><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Let’s put this to rest now! If the devil didn’t exist, why did Jesus believe he was real? Our Lord believed it because He saw the devil in the spirit realm! Too, it was a real being that attacks Him and tried to tempt Him with his kingdom and who is called the “ruler of this world”! Read Scriptural prove at: John 14:30; Matthew 4: 1-11 NKJV.</span></i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Further, Jesus knew there were other creatures supporting Satan in his wicked schemes. Didn’t He when on earth cure “demon possessed” people?” In His ministry Jesus spoke of the devil and his demons…we can learn a lot about them when considering His words to the religious leaders in John 8:44 NKJV.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Don’t for one instance underestimate the devil! He is a formidable foe (enemy) 1 Peter 5:6-9 NIV tells us in part: “Your enemy prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” He is no vague principle of evil residing in our imperfect flesh. We have a daily struggle against our own sinful inclinations, Romans 7:18-20 NKJV. But the real struggle is “against the world ruler of this darkness, against the wicked spirit forces in the heavenly places.” (Ephesians 6:12 NKJV.)</i></span><br />
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<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"> How widespread is the devil’s influence? His influence encompasses the whole world. (1Jonh 5:19) We don’t want to become obsessed with the devil or allow superstitious fear of him to paralyze us. However, we are wise to stay alert to his efforts to blind us to the truth and to break our integrity to God. The devil does not always use brutal means to attack those who want to serve God. Too, we don’t want to play into his hands by dabbling into anything connected to his schemes. We want to be like Jesus and repeatedly refer to God’s word for guidance. We want to pray incessantly!</i><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Our Lord Jesus said, “He, the devil, has no hold on me.” (John 14:30 NWT) May satan the devil never get a hold on us! </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Please feel free to leave a comment. We wish you a Happy Weekend... May God Bless!</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Loretta</i></span><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14457976530332166377noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8239067485157195893.post-72063931920482959652013-12-20T07:21:00.001-06:002013-12-20T07:21:13.318-06:00A Perfect Ransom for All Mankind<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>From the pages of the Enterprise Newspaper</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>By Loretta Thomas...</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> The birth of a baby…a miraculous conception, who as an adult became King of Kings, and He was a Mighty God…the Son of Almighty God! This man was Jesus Christ. How did God’s Son become a perfect ransom for all mankind?</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> During the course of history, there have been people who sacrificed their lives so that fellow humans might continue to live a few more years. What these people did has been viewed as noble and praiseworthy. Among those, laying down their lives was one whose death accomplished far more than that of all the others combined. This man was Jesus Christ. But, why was such a costly ransom price needed? </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> His sacrificial death on an execution stake laid the basis for humans to gain, not just a few additional years of life, but unending life. (Acts 5:30-31 NI). That Jesus Christ death accomplished so much has not been easy for most people to understand. When people’s lives are threatened by fire, floods, and the likes, the need for action and the benefits resulting there can be readily seen. But, it has proved to be an entirely different matter with Jesus laying down His life. Many have allowed His sacrificial death to be an obstacle to their embracing Worship of the Living and True God.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> The ransom involved needed to be one that could balance matters. What did this entail? At the time, the first man Adam transgressed God’s law; he forfeited perfect human life with its rights and prospects. Adam as an imperfect man now could only father imperfect offspring; men and women who would be incapable of measuring up to the Creator’s perfect standards. As the Bible puts it, “One man’s fall brought condemnation on everyone”. – Romans 5:18 Jerusalem Bible.</i></span><br />
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<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"> Such a ransom for humankind must result in a balancing on the scale of justice…of what was forfeited. Adam lost perfect human life! So, the ransom price for the human race would have to be a perfect human life. Only a perfect human life could balance the scale of perfect justice. Not one of Adams descendants could provide such a precious price for himself or for anyone else. The incapability of mankind is well described in Scripture at Psalms 49: 7-9 NI, “No man can redeem the life of another or give to God a ransom for him…the ransom for a life is costly; no payment is ever enough…that he should live on forever and not see decay.” </i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> So, the Son of God lay down His perfect human life in sacrifice, thereby furnishing the valuable price needed for ransoming the human race Luke 1:35. He voluntarily stepped in and accepted the penalty that was meant for us. Notice what the apostle Peter wrote at 1 Peter 2:24 NI. In thus giving His soul, a ransom in exchange for many Jesus Christ brought the human race Matthew 20:28. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Thanks to our God for His boundless mercy in providing the ransom price needed for counterbalancing what was lost for us through Adam’s sin. Only the precious life of Jesus could meet the requirements of perfect justice. May God’s provisions move everyone to “want” to measure up to His requirements for having the sin atoning benefits of His Son’s sacrifice applied in their behalf. </i></span><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14457976530332166377noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8239067485157195893.post-4558846648370235872013-12-03T18:44:00.000-06:002013-12-03T18:44:16.399-06:00Today's Moral Breakdown<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-large;"><i>At Home with Loretta...</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-large;"><i>From The Pages Of The Enterprise Newspaper...</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Today's Moral Breakdown</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> I was trying to find a nice old movie to watch on television Sunday since LBP, public broadcasting station, has been fundraising. It was hard to find anything decent for my husband and me to watch together. I wince, yes cringe when some scenes come on the screen; and to think, children have access to the same basic cable channels.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><i> Yes, this breakdown is everywhere infecting every facet of society. Today, society seemingly is in a values vacuum. Reasoning of the majority seems to be: ‘each lifestyle is an acceptable alternative, be tolerant of mine and I’ll be tolerant of yours’. You do your thing and I’ll do mine. To each his own…there are many ways to go, and each is right; nothing is wrong! There is no sin anymore! Stand up for your rights. </i></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><i> Why whisper peacefully when you can turn up the volume with violence…it’s a form of free speech. Sex is open to expression with whomever you choose and in any way you want. Obscenity is art. Live and let live.’ Or, is it ‘die and let die’? Surely, you have heard some, if not all of these phrases. What was your reaction?</i></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> People have very precise ideas about what’s right and wrong. What is moral and immoral; what’s honorable and dishonorable. The entire inventory of ideas about virtue, morality, honor, and ethics has been made to seem illogical, inhumane and unacceptable. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> The ideas that became dominant exalted individuality, asserted the views of each to live according to self-determined goals. Now the acceptable mores are to be tolerated. Unfortunately, in this new philosophy, it is forbidden to forbid! The disastrous consequences of this philosophy have continued to escalate.</i></span><br />
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<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"> Everyday newspapers, magazines, newscast, movies and television programs reflect the decline in traditional values. The barrage of this is so steady and unrelenting people have become numb to it! They are no longer scandalized by scandals as we were during our times. People are no longer outraged by news of the things happening in the world today that were shocking to older ones during our times.</i><br />
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<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"> A good example is today’s music…it generates contempt for parents, for older generations, race and social institutions that oppose their lifestyle. Their goal is to offend, shock and grab attention with lyric that are outpourings of crude, uncouth, vile and loathsome gutter filth, crammed full of brutal abuse and degradation of women; sex, violence, drug use, violent rapes. There is no limit to the gross obscenities glorified. What a dying, decaying society we find ourselves living in today!</i><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Sadly, pretending it doesn't touch us is irrational…it is all around us! We need stabilizing limits and guidelines. We need desperately to work in the direction of human dignity. We need to return to the original source of true morals and values. Is it even possible in all this degradation that is permeating our world today? </span></i><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-large;">Submitted By: Loretta Thomas</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> </span></i><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14457976530332166377noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8239067485157195893.post-67978523553819276102013-11-26T18:10:00.003-06:002013-11-26T18:10:24.377-06:00 Another Article from the pages of The Mansfield Enterprise... <span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>At Home with Loretta... </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>It Never Stops…Hurting...Domestic Violence</i></span><br />
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<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Some women go through abuse to protect their children, to save their lives or the lives of other family members. They pray no one ever knows... however, something always tells them everyone does. Somehow, they get through the madness, through the brutal beatings, through the heartless humiliation done to them and against them. They know they are not doing this alone because daily they pray fervently for help!</i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> However, sometimes when you pray for deliverance seemingly, it doesn't come..."How Lord can I take anymore beatings," you plead. Then, you find yourself praying death will end it all. You quickly block this thought from your mind as you think about the girls...what will happen to them? Will he beat them? Will be assault them too? "Oh Lord, please let me endure this abuse for the sake of my girls. I have to live...I want to live...Please don't let me leave them Lord...please don't let me die!"</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">Hello, you know my name from blogging these few years...but what you don't know is... I was a victim of domestic violence!</span></i></span><br />
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<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"> </i><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">God answered my prayers! </span></i><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Somehow I made it through the years; even though the abuser is no longer here, I still live traumatized. Dreams and reminders are vividly persistent. </i><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Screams leave my lips with sounds that are unfamiliar even to me as I awaken in the night terrified and in a cold sweat. It’s still very real in my mind and especially my dreams when I wake screaming for mercy only to realize it’s just a dream. </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> The profanity, the hurtful degrading words and degrading actions against my body and the bloody beatings the name-calling all are indelible in my memory.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> </i></span><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">The brutal beatings have left my body weakened with pain from broken bones that have obviously healed improperly. Doctor visits…unheard of for fear my secret will come out. And, if I did muster up courage to go...doors, falls, foreign objects and my clumsiness were the fists and feet that assaulted me.</i><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5a40GgRsApc/UpTcFKDjP2I/AAAAAAAAGRU/MRV5InJHjrM/s1600/stop+hurting+us.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5a40GgRsApc/UpTcFKDjP2I/AAAAAAAAGRU/MRV5InJHjrM/s320/stop+hurting+us.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"> The disfigurements, especially the ones you can’t hide vulgarly stares back at you from mirrors. The diseases, others filth visited upon you make the affliction unbearable to live with. And when the depression set in, you pray this most foul existence ends.</i><br />
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<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"> </i><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Children living in the home of an abuser</span></i><br />
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<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"> You are even more horrified when your child grows up to use this same violence and abuse he’s witnessed against you. You pray it hasn't rubbed off on him, but in your heart, you know its true…inescapably so! </i><br />
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I </i><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">am so thankful that I have God in my life and I am living my life and walking in His way. Yes, </i><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">I was a victim of domestic violence when I was younger. </i><br />
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<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">But, walking in the way of the Lord and having a husband like James has taught us both how He intend couples to live in harmony together. </i><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Now,</span></i><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"> </i><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">I am a Survivor!</span></i><br />
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<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"> This secret behind closed doors and shuttered windows is the worst against families in the history of its arrangement. Lives are shattered. It affects us all. It leaves its mark on innocent babies, children, teens, and adults.</i><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"> Abuse always hurt! </span></i><br />
<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"> It is a pattern of behavior that’s used to establish power and control over one who is intimated by their abuser with threats, and acts of violence. </i><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Yes, domestic abuse knows no boundaries; it affects persons of all cultures, ages, education, religions, and nationality.</span></i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Violence begins in the heart and mind. James 1:14,15 explains the way one act begins with how one thinks. So, the abuser needs to transform his way of thinking Romans 12:2. God’s word has the power to change a person. It says, “So husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies, he who loves his wife loves himself. For no one ever hated his own flesh Ephesians 5: 28, 29 (A part is quoted here). 1 Peter 3:7 tell husbands to assign his wife “honor as a weaker vessel”. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FczAV1ISi0Q/UpTUthmlE1I/AAAAAAAAGRA/OnDE0bk6fq4/s1600/stop+d+viplense+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="227" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FczAV1ISi0Q/UpTUthmlE1I/AAAAAAAAGRA/OnDE0bk6fq4/s320/stop+d+viplense+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></i></span></div>
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<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"> Our Creator purposed families to live in love and peace, not violence and smiling behind fear and pain. Men, husbands, fathers, “Use your “hands” and “hearts” to help and love your families, not to hurt them!</i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><span style="font-size: large;"> Click on the chart above to see the signs Of domestic violence. Don't suffer in silence...report abuse! Domestic Violence is against the </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">LAW REPORT IT TODAY!!</span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Please leave your comment...we welcome them, but they are moderated by the author of this blog!</i></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14457976530332166377noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8239067485157195893.post-84265852635477813242013-11-17T15:07:00.001-06:002013-11-17T15:07:52.185-06:00What Brought Our Savoir To Tears <br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>From the Pages of our hometown paper</i></span><br />
the column... <br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>At Home with Loretta Thomas </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">Jesus weeping </span></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> When a loved one dies, we naturally shed tears because we will miss him/her. Though Jesus had affection for Lazarus, he did not give way to tears because Lazarus died, rather he shed tears out of compassion for the bereaved, as indicated by the context of John’s account. (John 11:36)</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> When our Lord Jesus first heard that Lazarus was sick he did not rush to Lazarus’ bedside to cure him. The account says: “When Jesus heard that Lazarus was sick, then he actually remained two day in the place where he was.” (John 11:6) You are no doubt wondering, just as I, why did Jesus delay going to him? Well, he had a purpose in doing so. Notice what Jesus said in John 11:4. Now, can you see why Jesus waited to see Lazarus? </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Let’s explain it a bit further. Death was not the “object” or end result of Lazarus’ sickness. Jesus intended to use Lazarus’ death “for the glory of God.” How? Jesus was about to perform a spectacular miracle by raising his dear friend from the grave! </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> In his discussion with his disciples on this occasion Jesus compared death to a sleeplike state. That is why he told them he was “journeying there to awaken Lazarus from sleep.” (John 11:11) To Jesus, raising Lazarus from the dead would be like a parent waking his child from a nap. So there was no reason for him to be pained over Lazarus’ death itself.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> What, then, moved Jesus to give way to tears? Again, the context provides the answer. When Jesus met Lazarus’ sister Mary and saw her and others weeping, he ‘groaned in the spirit.’ That was why “Jesus gave way to tears.” It greatly saddened Jesus to see his beloved friends stricken with grief. (John 11: 33, 35)</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> This account demonstrates that Jesus has the power and ability to bring our loved ones back to life and health in the coming new world. It also helps us to appreciate that Jesus has fellow feelings for those who have lost loved ones to Adamic death. Another lesson we can learn from this account is that we should have compassion for those who are grieving over the death of their loved ones. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Jesus knew that he was going to resurrect Lazarus. Still, he gave way to tears, moved by his deep love and compassion for his friend. Likewise, our empathy may move us to “weep with people who weep.” (Romans 12:15) How appropriate, then, that Jesus set an example of showing sympathy for the bereaved by sincerely shedding tears even though he was about to raise Lazarus. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Too, what a wonderful promise from The Grand Creator… resurrecting our loved ones…Jesus demonstrated what the resurrection will mean for mankind in general…He will raise them from sleeping in death just as he did Lazarus to the possibility of an everlasting perfect life in a righteous new world! What a thrilling prospect for all who chose to live according to His way... </i></span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14457976530332166377noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8239067485157195893.post-77188433077057943462013-11-07T16:00:00.001-06:002013-11-07T16:00:58.146-06:00The World As We Know It<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Taken from the pages of the </i><br />
<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Mansfield Enterprise Newspaper By Loretta</i><br />
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<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Living in Today’s World</i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> </i></span><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Living in this world and in these times today are brutal…have you noticed? “In these last days it’s going to be hard to be a Christian.” Scripture tells us from 2 Timothy 3:1 LBV.</i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Everything is and has changed so much we live in a morally depleted world! People just don’t have natural affection for others anymore. You know, feelings of empathy, because apathy rules! Lying, stealing cheating are all normal occurrences. They have no self-control; they are fierce brutal against their fellow man. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Look at the recent crime perpetrated against another right here among us, and how the victim’s remains were hidden. How an eight year old took his 90 year old's life after watching a game. Who can forget the young singer Miley C vulgar performance on national TV? Gyrating sexual suggestive moves in a flesh colored skimpy attire that made even other entertainers react shocked. How degrading…an enormous insult against all women’s dignity, and decency! What was your reaction? And, the male singer with his vulgar words that are beeped to a song…appalling! </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Lastly, the horrific crime of using chemicals in Syria against women and children…how inhumane! This merciless brutal atrocity was shown on television…Oh the suffering and their pain was too hard to watch! All because of man’s hatred…they supposedly have a form of Godly devotion but, are proving false to its power. The True God would never approve such carnage in the name of Worship! Instead of following in the footsteps of Christ, they are blindly following men to their end. Jeremiah 10:23. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Besides this crime and violence…there are home invasions, kidnappings, and now we have to protect our precious pets from being snatched also. What’s next? You and I well know there isn’t anything or anyone here on earth that will/can change the scene of this world. There has to be a higher power just as it was back in Noah’s day and all other times when our God intervened. Would you agree man will never be able to put an end to what’s happening in the world today?</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> People have changes…their views, morals, personalities and the world has too. Language is another area that has drastically changes. One noted celebrity Katie C commented, “Others around her are quite comfortable with today’s language…since when is cursing in public okay?” What has happened to standards? That F*** word is so disgusting to me! However, most have no problems with hearing or using it! It rolls of their tongues with the greatest of ease. Isn't it obvious…the more curse words that are used the less shocking it is hearing them to most. With some, every other word form their mouth is a curse word. You see and hear them everywhere…TV, internet, social medias. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> The casual use of cursing is a prominent sign of the changes we are living with in this old world. The way we interact with one another is indicative of how we treat and respect each other. </i></span><br />
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<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"> Don’t expect respect from others…if you don’t have respect for yourself! Does this make sense? Yes, changes are good even beneficial but, cursing/profanity is not. </i><br />
<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Read Ephesians 5: 1-3 & Colossians 3: 8 both in the NIV. </i><br />
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<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"> Go to: </i><a href="http://www.mansfieldenterprise.com/">http://www.mansfieldenterprise.com/</a> <span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>my hometown newspaper to see what's happening in our small town and meet our town folk...</i></span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14457976530332166377noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8239067485157195893.post-30644298737610279472013-08-28T18:59:00.001-05:002013-08-28T18:59:14.204-05:00Funny Quotes & Sayings<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>I've always believed the old saying, "If you can't beat 'em join 'em"! I needed a little laughter in my day and I went out searching for a source...rather poor source, but hey...it got the job done!</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Join me as I read these funny quotes and sayings...I'm sure they will bring a little hilarity to your day too. Let's begin...</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>I know just seeing if you're paying attention!</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>I love these things, and believe me...if I don't get a laugh from them they sure will put a big smile on my face! </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Hope you enjoyed them... come on back to visit, maybe we'll have some more! Until then stay happy and be happy... laughter is good for what ails ya!" </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Have-a-good-one!</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Loretta</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14457976530332166377noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8239067485157195893.post-18077341508062512272013-08-20T19:10:00.001-05:002013-08-20T19:10:11.512-05:00Country Household Hints<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Taken from</i></span> the Mansfield Enterprise, my hometown newspaper written by columnist Loretta Thomas <br />
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<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">For generations country folk like us passed down straightforward approach's to life. Back then we made do with whatever material and resources we had on hand to take care of home. You remember…a little of this and a dollop of down-home ingenuity with a good bit of old-fashioned elbow grease. </i><br />
<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"> It was good commonsense practical and a frugal way of life…not always easy but, a good hard working and rewarding life. </i><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> This week we are concentrating on hints about laundry…while we don’t need to return to the days of hand-washing every piece of clothing or scrubbing grime and stains out with a washboard (although, I have one that comes in handy for a number of stubborn stains and such) taking advantage of some old-fashioned low cost tried-n-true laundry tips may end up turning your wash day into much less a chore. </i></span><br />
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<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"></i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> These tips-n-hints are not orderly by any means…I’m writing them as they come to me starting with your detergent…</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>1. To boost the cleaning and deodorizing powers of your usual detergent, add ½ cup borax to each load. You can find it in the laundry aisle in your stores.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>2. Your dedicates can be safely and effectively laundered in warm water and add a small amount of mild dish liquid (not the fancy antibacterial brand.) </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>3. I learned this one when I was getting my certification as Executive Housekeeper. To remove spots of blood from clothing, bedding, etc., use 3% hydrogen peroxide (the kind you find in the first-aid section) </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Soak the stain with the peroxide, the blood will bubble or boil and loosen, if it doesn't completely gently scrape to help take the blood away with your fingernail or a flat knife. (Of course, I would not do this unless I was geared up safely and the knives used can be thrown out…safety first!) Then, rinse it again with peroxide. It would be much easier if you would do this procedure immediately after it happen before the blood dries and set. (Peroxide has a bleaching effect…test your fabrics.)</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>4. The best scent ever for your laundered sheets…try hanging them outside if you have a place. I guarantee you will have the best night of sleep ever…those sheets will have a soothing scent that will rock your care away and you’ll sleep like a baby! </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>5. Speaking of bedding…oily stains on pillowcases can be removed with plain shampoo. Just pour some on the stained area, rub it in, rinse thoroughly and launder the pillowcases as usual.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>6. Oh, I almost forgot…to help make the fabric of new pillowcases more resistant to stains from natural skin oils and oily products, starch the pillowcases lightly before use. I love them ironed!</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>7. Lift a fresh grease spot from fabric by sprinkling the spot with cornstarch. Allow this to soak up the grease for a few minutes, and then brush it away.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>8. Speaking of your iron…if it clogs pour white vinegar into it and let it steam for 5 minutes. Unplug and let it cool, then empty the vinegar out and rinse the iron thoroughly by pouring clean water in and out. </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Sure hope you can use these tips-n-hints and if you have them, this article will be a written reminder for your future reference. </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> You can view The Mansfield Enterprise online at: mansfield enterprise.com & Like us on facebook: Mansfield Enterprise Newspaper.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Best Wishes,</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Loretta</i></span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14457976530332166377noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8239067485157195893.post-51800407524416872872013-05-26T15:21:00.001-05:002013-05-26T15:24:16.978-05:00Has God Left Us...Inspirational Sunday <br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> </i></span><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I've often written about the times we live in today, however, a mere glance at news reports corroborate that we live “in times of distress.” And when tragedy hits home…when we personally are affected by crime, a serious accident, or the death of a loved one…we might well ask, does God see? Is He even there? Does He care?</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></i>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Nevertheless, have you considered the possibility that our expectation of God could be based on a faulty premise? To illustrate: Imagine a small child crying because he misses his dad and wishes he can come home, knowing he has gone to work. He feels abandoned, and repeatedly asks, “Where is Daddy?” Can you detect the flaw in the child’s thinking? After all, he well knows his dad is working to provide for the entire family. Could our thinking be similarly flawed when we cry out, “where is God?”</i></span><br />
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<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">For example, some might wish for God to be an executioner whose primary function is to bring swift punishment on the perpetrator of some wrong. Others view God as little more than a celestial Santa Claus, whose role is to bestow gifts…a job, a spouse, or even a winning lottery ticket. Both of those views assume that if God does not bring justice immediately or if He does not grant the favor asked for then, He must be insensitive to our suffering and unaware of our needs. Why, I might ask, is this assumption many conclude? Nothing could be further from the truth! </i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"> He is working to provide for the entire human family, yet not in a way that many are asking. We need to look back to the beginning of human history, when man’s relationship with God was severely damaged…but not beyond repair.</i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> </i></span><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">The first sin caused damaging effects. Imagine a house that had been in good condition, but after many years is now a shamble. The roof is caved in, the doors have fallen off their hinges, and the exterior vandalized. Considering the extent of the damage, restoration will be no small task; and it will not happen overnight. Now consider the damage that occurred to mankind some 6,000 years ago when an unseen spirit induced Adam and Eve to rebel against God.</i><br />
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<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Prior to that event, the first human couple enjoyed perfect health with the prospect of living forever along with future generations of their offspring. (Genesis 1:28) When they sinned, however, it was as if Adam and Eve vandalized the human family yet to be born. Do not underestimate the damaging effects of that rebellion. </i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Notice what Romans 5:12 tells us. Besides bringing death, sin has impaired our relationship with our Creator and has affected us physically, mentally, and emotionally. As a result, our condition is similar to that of a run-down house. The righteous man Job realistically summed up our situation when he described man as being “short of days and full of trouble.” Job 4:1, Holman Christian Standard Bible.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>We can take comfort in knowing God has not left us, in fact, from then until now, He has been working in behalf of the human family (Romans 16:20; 1 John 3:8) And, giving all the opportune time to come to Him willingly proving Satan a liar. </i></span><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14457976530332166377noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8239067485157195893.post-34400371210774727492013-05-10T09:19:00.001-05:002013-05-10T09:19:46.719-05:00Inner Peace<br />
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<br />
 <i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Henry Thoreau wrote: “The mass of men lead lives of quiet desperation.” Evidently, in his day most people did not enjoy inner peace. That, however, was almost 150 years ago! Are things different today? Are you content, at peace? Or, are you insecure, uncertain about the future, ’quietly desperate,’ to paraphrase Thoreau’s words?</i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Unhappily, there are many things in this world that rob people of inner peace. With their competitive lifestyle, most find themselves living a life that brings anxiety not peace. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Illness, war, crime, injustice, and oppression also rob people of peace. Many folks seeking inner peace…unlike Thoreau times, find there is no shortage of advice on how to gain peace of mind. Psychologists, writers of self-help books, even newspaper columnists offer their short lived advice, however something more profound is needed…Knowledge!</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Inner peace is the result of a quiet mind an inner quietness that allows you to see yourself and the world around you as it is, without any aggression, desires, frustration or stress. You can feel content simple just to be you…you don’t need to be rich, successful pretty or popular to feel this inner calm. All you need is to be able to take control of your mind and stop the constant thoughts that repeat themselves over and over again. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> People that are peaceful are calm tranquil quiet and soothing to others. Inner peace is not a fleeting emotion…it is a state of mind. However, people who find this peace do not simply live every moment with a smile on their face. They still are ill and feel sorrow, after all…they are human! The only difference is there is a vast comforting space around such difficult times and an inner knowing that such times will pass. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> There is also a light uplifting and joyful feeling toward others and yourself that makes you feel complete. People who achieve this inner quietness generally show a kindness towards all living things and a deep appreciation for the natural world around them. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> </i></span><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"> How can you find this inner peace? Finding peace of mind is not something you can buy anywhere, nor is it achieved overnight. It is a gradual process of self discovery and understanding. It is the most important journey you can ever set out on. Many who have achieved this peace can testify it only comes from Our God! Yes, it takes great dedication and a genuine thirst to want to be peaceful for yourself and others. </i><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Within us there is already a peaceful mind but, it has been covered over in layers of disturbing and repetitive thoughts. You must have a genuine feeling to want this peace, more than a mere curiosity…it demands a great deal of inner strength and determination. It can be achieve by anyone whose thirst for inner contentment is strong enough. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Yes, peace of mind in this troubled world can be attained through knowledge of God and Jesus Christ that leads to an intimate relationship with God. In harmony with the words of the angels, Jesus brought a measure of inner peace to the meek. At the end of his ministry, notice what he said to his disciples at John 14:27 KJV. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>We sure hope this has given you a measure of solace. With prayer and yes, knowledge you can have inner peace/peace of mind...</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Love to you all! </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Loretta</i></span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14457976530332166377noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8239067485157195893.post-10234305239922125492013-05-04T14:28:00.002-05:002013-05-04T14:30:49.227-05:00Those Crazy Funny Signs <br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Hello all you good folks I'm so glad you're here with me today! </i></span><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">I thought I would post something different this week.</i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Hey, you asked for them...here they are...those crazy funny road and church signs... Enjoy!</i></span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WFyHyLL1UXc/UYVMjtFWVVI/AAAAAAAAFns/UGX0M7uMabc/s1600/road+sign+10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WFyHyLL1UXc/UYVMjtFWVVI/AAAAAAAAFns/UGX0M7uMabc/s320/road+sign+10.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XTDYDotb5dk/UYVPMUTBsdI/AAAAAAAAFn8/0Kybb-t5ztQ/s1600/road+funny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XTDYDotb5dk/UYVPMUTBsdI/AAAAAAAAFn8/0Kybb-t5ztQ/s320/road+funny.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Oh Wow... great customer service, huh?</i></span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5GpJhvCBqKw/UYVPZPkgKjI/AAAAAAAAFoE/hLSuC1t3lfg/s1600/road+church+8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="286" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5GpJhvCBqKw/UYVPZPkgKjI/AAAAAAAAFoE/hLSuC1t3lfg/s320/road+church+8.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>LOL!</i></span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EvJWv9pTWYg/UYVPjsXcL0I/AAAAAAAAFoM/LHIl77-FqtM/s1600/road+bushbillboard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EvJWv9pTWYg/UYVPjsXcL0I/AAAAAAAAFoM/LHIl77-FqtM/s320/road+bushbillboard.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Ha-haaaa as if... we wanted too!!</i></span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qUwNKtnRu8M/UYVQEqr-tkI/AAAAAAAAFoU/6qIOnlOF0E8/s1600/road+chursr+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qUwNKtnRu8M/UYVQEqr-tkI/AAAAAAAAFoU/6qIOnlOF0E8/s320/road+chursr+5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>LOL! </i></span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rrp4uDWK5OY/UYVRK6skiOI/AAAAAAAAFoc/_YMN53FXlks/s1600/road+tongue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rrp4uDWK5OY/UYVRK6skiOI/AAAAAAAAFoc/_YMN53FXlks/s1600/road+tongue.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Pole Line...</i></span> <span style="font-size: x-small;"> Pics from Bing</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XFVq8LbbYlM/UYVRU-EIvRI/AAAAAAAAFok/1WkduY86TJY/s1600/roadSigns6+slow+down.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="206" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XFVq8LbbYlM/UYVRU-EIvRI/AAAAAAAAFok/1WkduY86TJY/s320/roadSigns6+slow+down.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jAD5utMC6_Y/UYVRl2GhEbI/AAAAAAAAFos/4kbMkxhjs-A/s1600/road_above_sign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jAD5utMC6_Y/UYVRl2GhEbI/AAAAAAAAFos/4kbMkxhjs-A/s320/road_above_sign.jpg" width="222" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Is this crazy or what?</i></span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j5hqtFXv6v0/UYVRzlxY1xI/AAAAAAAAFo0/xdeGJ_MCAjw/s1600/road+welcome.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j5hqtFXv6v0/UYVRzlxY1xI/AAAAAAAAFo0/xdeGJ_MCAjw/s1600/road+welcome.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Ha-ha</i></span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Cfxw5TZuTx0/UYVR_ZQu_UI/AAAAAAAAFo8/dKuS9B6KrwU/s1600/road-sign-fail-63.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Cfxw5TZuTx0/UYVR_ZQu_UI/AAAAAAAAFo8/dKuS9B6KrwU/s320/road-sign-fail-63.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Yep, that about says it all...</i></span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e5Pv6BXRZZM/UYVSuVeogyI/AAAAAAAAFpI/ay5nh51S2wM/s1600/road+funny+church+signs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e5Pv6BXRZZM/UYVSuVeogyI/AAAAAAAAFpI/ay5nh51S2wM/s320/road+funny+church+signs.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>And, just when you thought it couldn't get any funnier... Maury....? LOL!</i></span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NqE1SMWdrSo/UYVTBUR0scI/AAAAAAAAFpQ/Ct-yV9hU65o/s1600/roadfunny_church_sign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NqE1SMWdrSo/UYVTBUR0scI/AAAAAAAAFpQ/Ct-yV9hU65o/s320/roadfunny_church_sign.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Ha-ha...the barbque, hilarious!!! </i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Well, I think this is enough said...hope you enjoyed them. Sometimes we all need a good belly-shaker to improve the old disposition, right? </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Wishing you a wonderful Fantastic Weekend...watch out for those crazy funny road-signs...they can be funnnnnnny!</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>All The Best,</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Loretta </i></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14457976530332166377noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8239067485157195893.post-11993326892049720472013-04-27T15:42:00.004-05:002013-04-27T15:42:53.425-05:00Happy Sunday Everyone<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RFjDLjHJPnY/UXw3jtcO-sI/AAAAAAAAFf8/uYqCFy_EAMQ/s1600/Sunday_Blessings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RFjDLjHJPnY/UXw3jtcO-sI/AAAAAAAAFf8/uYqCFy_EAMQ/s320/Sunday_Blessings.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>It is our wish that you all have a Blessed Sunday with Family Friends and Loved Ones. From Our House To Yours....</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Warmest Regards,</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Loretta</i></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14457976530332166377noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8239067485157195893.post-79030567789808573482013-04-20T20:39:00.001-05:002013-04-20T20:39:19.668-05:00<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>The Word Of God... </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Cause For Discouragements</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> A young woman is left a bedridden paralytic because of a drunk driver’s callousness. A parent watches helplessly as her young child ravaged with cancer weakens, and then dies. </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Other parents have become discouraged by the increasing rebellious attitudes of their youths; some even afraid living in their own homes. The life altering troubles, endless shame, grief, and tragic losses their children have visited upon them have taken their toll on their lives and existence. We see countless heartbreaking tragedies such as these…yes, even worse in today’s world. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Today as the pressures of life increases, it seems that the causes of discouragement multiply. When a child has no respect or human regard for his or her own mother, then don’t expect him or her to respect any other person. This has been true of many who seemingly have no natural feelings, no remorse…only depraved indifference for others. Have you noticed this? Parents have given up on them and these wayward youths are left to wander the streets and extort their violence and rage on innocent people. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> The effects of mankind’s discouragements can be seen deeply etched in the sad faces of countless today. Many factors cause discouragement. With the stresses of trying to raise delinquent children, it’s not surprising the health of a parent becomes apparent. When one does not feel well, especially over a period of time, there is a natural tendency to become withdrawn; one is robbed of strength and motivation. A parent having to face such problems along with everyday occurrences such as poverty, severe oppression; grief and sorrow, all contributes to severe discouragement.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Do not underestimate the effects discouragement can have on a person; it can be compared to a virus that spreads and becomes so contagious it acts like a personality trait. It can creep in when you least expect it to, and if you allow it…it can destroy you! If you are a parent who is discouraged…to fight against this thief that’s robbing you of your health, well-being…you must keep your mind fixed on your faith in God and, have explicit confidence that He will not fail you; that He will not fail in giving you comfort and assistance. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> It takes time to recover from any tragic incident. Some people can be brutal with words that are insensitive, sometimes cold bloodied. To beat back any feelings of despair and anxiety keep close to God, read Scripture…it will never fail you. Constantly pray and don’t stop. You may not be able to do anything to change the rebellious attitudes of your child, but you will draw comfort from God, regardless of the overwhelming problems you may face. Never forget to pray…even if you are at your lowest, draw comfort from the Scripture. Psalm 91 is encouraging. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Discouragement tests all of us. We have to face problems in some form however, our Creator has not left us without help (Psalm 55:22). Also, Psalm 34:18a: “He’s near to those who have a broken heart.”</i></span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14457976530332166377noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8239067485157195893.post-7941681437107256132013-04-13T10:29:00.001-05:002013-04-13T10:29:11.724-05:00Do You Admit To Your Mistakes<br />
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<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"> “The only people who make no mistakes are dead people.” This statement has been said of imperfect humans. And when you think about matters, which is not wrong at times? Who among us does not make mistakes? “There is not a righteous man on earth who does what is right and never sins.” Ecclesiastes 7: 20. Yet, as common it is to make a mistake, to sin…it is difficult to admit! </i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Seemingly, it is human nature to try to justify ourselves. A person may try to rationalize that what he did was not actually wrong, that someone else really was at fault, or that unusual circumstances were to blame. Especially does it seem difficult for those in positions of responsibility to admit being wrong. No doubt due to pride. They are concerned with what others may think; or, to “save face”. One may feel that his position is threatened if he admits a mistake.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> They may be reluctant to admit that they are wrong because of losing their job; or going to prison. Moreover, the heart may harbor emotions that prevent us from admitting our error. Yes, “The heart is more treacherous than anything else…Who can know it?” Jeremiah 17:9. Shortsighted self-interest may prompt us to justify ourselves rather that admitting that we are wrong; regardless of our reasoning, refusing to admit when we are wrong has unfavorable consequences. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Still more serious is the fact that wrongdoing burdens us with a guilty conscience, especially if someone else gets the blame for what we have done. Having refused to admit making small mistakes, one may soon refuse to admit making large ones, all to their undoing, and it can soon become a habit. Such a course is bound to harm your relationship with your Creator.</i></span><br />
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<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"> Clearly, we need help if we are to overcome this tendency of admitting wrong. Often a sense of humor will be a help, especially if the mistake wasn't too serious. A sense of humor will keep us from taking ourselves too seriously. Honesty and Empathy also enters the picture. If certain persons are entitled to know that we have erred, be willing to admit the wrong: especially should empathy move us to admit it if another person would otherwise be blamed and would suffer for our mistake. Humility also will help us to admit a mistake. </i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Refusing to admit that one has made a mistake is like claiming infallibility and borders on hypocrisy. The claim of infallibility does incalculable harm to the credibility of anyone professing it. No human knows everything; we all keep learning. Repeatedly, due to insufficient knowledge, we make mistakes. Admitting mistakes will impress it so on our mind that we will be less likely to repeat that mistake, if for no other reason than because of the humiliation that was involved. So, be willing to say, “I made a mistake and I’m sorry.” Then try very hard not to repeat it.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Thanks you for stopping by this week for another Weekly Topic from the Bible. Please leave comments if you so desire... Loretta</i></span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14457976530332166377noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8239067485157195893.post-78237950287445526102013-04-06T17:17:00.002-05:002013-04-06T17:17:33.833-05:00Do You Have A Good Conscience<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> The Bible...The Holy Words Of God </i></span><br />
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<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">I suppose you’re wondering, why is she asking this question? Well, I thought it to be an appropriate question, especially since it means having a good conscience before God!</i><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Has this ever crossed your mind? Yes, I have thought about it! I've also thought about God seeing what we do! Did you know this? He can see us because He has all of the attributes that He gave to us. He sees what we do, feel hear and so forth. It is not a joke…read it for yourself…He actually see all that we do! Proverb 15:3. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> He also knows when we are honest, even before speaking. How, you ask? Because He sees one heart!! 1 Samuel 16:7, 1 Chronicles 28:9, Jeremiah 17:10 Psalms 139:16 (another translation uses the word embryo) </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Yes, our Heavenly Father knows all of us! So, I ask you again, do you have a good conscience? Can you stand before God?</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Remembering Adam and Eve…could they stand before God with a good conscience? Hardly! As soon as they broke God’s law, they hid themselves. Why? Because God created them with a conscience and it was then they realized they were naked, so, they hid from God! </i></span><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Genesis 3:7, (conscience is inherent from Adam.) </i><br />
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<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><i> Even back in the day, those folks’ who didn't have the law knew it, because it was in their hearts. Romans 2:14, 15. </i></i></div>
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<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">So if that little voice ever comes to you in a situation, you better not ignore it…it’s sounding a warning! </i><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Your conscience is an inward realization or sense of right or wrong that excuses or accuses one…so conscience judges.</i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> However, it can be trained by a person’s thoughts acts convictions and rules that are implanted in ones mind by study and experience. It sounds a warning when the rules and the course conflict, unless your conscience is “seared”, made unfeeling by continued violations of its warning. </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>One must work on their conscience, train it, and enlighten it. If not, it can deceive if you haven’t trained it...if you don’t do so…trouble arises!</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> So if you want to be able to stand before Christ and your Creator with a clean and good conscience, then you have to strive for an honest conscience at all times. The Apostle Paul was a shining example for all to imitate. (Acts 24:14, 16) Yes, Paul continually steered and corrected his course of life according to God’s Word and Christ’s teachings, because in the final analysis, God and not his own conscience, was his ultimate Judge. (1 Corinthians 4:4.) </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>We hope you enjoyed reading this Weeks' Scriptural Message From God's Words The Bible...</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> Please leave your comments to these writings...</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Warmest Regards,</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Loretta</i></span><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14457976530332166377noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8239067485157195893.post-7740703764600451872013-03-23T13:30:00.001-05:002013-03-23T13:30:46.281-05:00Secret Sin<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>This is a long post. Perhaps, reading it at your leisure will help you to get it done. </i></span><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">It is inspirational, in fact Bible based.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>God Sees All Sin</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> It's not easy being a christian in this amoral world we live in today...in fact, it's downright hard! 2 Timothy 3:1 states in part from The Living Bible, "It's going to be hard to be a Christian in the last days." </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> There are too many temptations; loose conduct,immorality, and perversions... some folks have started to rationalize their actions. </i></span><br />
<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"> You might hear such words as: "I'll do this one thing...no one will see me, nor will I get caught. Then, I'll be good for now on...I promise." Sounds familiar?</i><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> What most of these folks fail to realize is...in a sense, there is no such thing as a "Secret Sin." Hebrews 4:13 NI. Although, you may be able to hide things from mankind, and this is not a certainty...you simply cannot hide from the Sovereign Lord God! "Why?" You may ask. It is really quite simple...</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> </span></i><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Because He does not simply look at us; He examines us!</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Psalm 17:3; Psalm 11:4. He is a Judge who examines our deepest motives and He responds to wrong-doing in a way that reflects perfect justice. Yes, He knows the heart and He sees all!</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Nurturing sinful thoughts or developing a scheming heart will certainly merit God's displeasure. Too, it results in giving birth to sin. Notice what James 1: 12-15 warns.</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> "We are tried by being drawn out and enticed by our own desires, and if those desires become fertile, gives birth to sin; in turn, sin when it is accomplished, brings forth death."</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">So, none of us can say we are being tried by God, because He doesn't try us, especially with evil things!</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> The question is: How can one resist wrong desires or ideas?</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The Apostle Paul, perhaps more than any other apostle, worked hard to promote the lofty principles of Christianity.</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Remember what he said at Romans 7:21 NI: "When I want to do good, evil is right there with me."</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Yes, this was a candid admission on his behalf. He experienced a continual conflict between his mind and his wrong desires. Perhaps you've felt the way the Apostle Paul felt? Really, as imperfect creatures, possibly we have all experienced this same inner conflict. And, for many, the battle to overcome wrong desires is especially intense. </span></i><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> However, knowing God's beaming eyes are examining us, it should be our sincere desire to please Him. Shouldn't we want to do what is right in His eyes?</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> God lovingly watches us like a caring parent. David expressed it best at Psalm 130:3. His watchful eyes are for our own good, because He wants to protect us. </span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> I always think about this when tempted to do wrong. How can I do this when I know God can see what I am doing is wrong? I certainly do not want to be like those we mentioned at the outset of this post. Yes, t</span></i><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">his encourages me to do what is right knowing God's eyes are on me. When we fall short of His requirements, He will lovingly discipline us just as a father would. </span></i><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> So, when those wrong desires start to entice you, remember...</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">God's eyes are upon you. Pray for His help and do not allow those sinful desires to become fertile leading to sin. </span></i><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">How do you feel about the contents of this post? Leave a comment to let me know. </span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> </span></i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14457976530332166377noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8239067485157195893.post-41648602498358274982013-02-02T18:41:00.000-06:002013-02-02T18:41:09.465-06:00Deep Things to Ponder<br />
<em><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"> Good Evening Friends & Neighbors</span></em><br />
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<em><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">Most of the time , if not all, when a thought provoking question is asked, I can answer them with a spiritual reply. </span></em></div>
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<em><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">Simply put, I think of the way I feel, the way I think or reason on a subject. </span></em></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"><em>Deep thought provoking questions have an immediate and indelible effect on the mind. Once a Powerful Question has been introduced to the mind it will immediately mobilize itself to find an answer. </em></span></div>
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<em><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Today, let's start with a simple question...</span></em></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"><em></em></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"><em> </em></span><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3USFTnnixQg/UQ2tnIUr4fI/AAAAAAAAFKY/Twbn_o4BjD4/s1600/page-divider%2525202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="89" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3USFTnnixQg/UQ2tnIUr4fI/AAAAAAAAFKY/Twbn_o4BjD4/s320/page-divider%2525202.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<em><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">"What is the Meaning of Peace to You?" </span></em><br />
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<em><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">This is a question that should be asked, if not by someone...</span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">Then, to yourself...</span></em><br />
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<em><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;"> "Something To Remember"</span></em><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mmhMiXyFywM/UQ2pIM4hQkI/AAAAAAAAFKQ/QvyWGO1Gc6U/s1600/words+of+wisdom+romers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mmhMiXyFywM/UQ2pIM4hQkI/AAAAAAAAFKQ/QvyWGO1Gc6U/s320/words+of+wisdom+romers.jpg" width="257" /></a></div>
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<em><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Wishing you a lovely evening & a Blessed Sunday!</span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">Loretta</span></em><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14457976530332166377noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8239067485157195893.post-32183179677706849092013-01-26T12:52:00.001-06:002013-01-26T12:52:02.249-06:00Words of Wisdom<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<em><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">To Our Dear Friends & Readers,</span></em></div>
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<em><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">We are so thankful you have chosen to visit our blog and leave comments for us to read. It really means so much for you to have done so. </span></em></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W22qNB73tvg/UQPomhzpVxI/AAAAAAAAFFY/McOCcrDg1Gw/w275-h220-n-k/words+of+wisdom+for+online.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W22qNB73tvg/UQPomhzpVxI/AAAAAAAAFFY/McOCcrDg1Gw/w275-h220-n-k/words+of+wisdom+for+online.jpg" /></a></div>
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<em><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Our words of wisdom may be short, but they carry much weight. We are quick to fault God when things go wrong in our lives. Some even go so far and say words like: "Why have you done this to me!" </span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"> </span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"> "What did I do to deserve this?" Or, "Why did you let my baby die?" "Why did you let this happen?" And, the list goes on. Have you heard these words said to God...and most of the time they are done so venomously? What total disregard for God's Sovereignty, etc.</span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"></span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"> Why not me...or you? We all experience hardships, failures and loss in our lives during these hard times today. These are the things that are put to, and against us </span></em><em><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">by God's adversary. Things that causes one to lose faith.</span></em><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"><em>But, to us, He has given us these words...simply put:"He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered." Proverbs 28:26 KJV.</em></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"><em>Wishing you a Peaceful & Lovely Evening with Family & Friends,</em></span><br />
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<em><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">Warmly,</span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">Loretta & Family</span></em><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14457976530332166377noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8239067485157195893.post-26982199579579912052013-01-18T14:53:00.001-06:002013-01-18T14:53:15.879-06:00 Have A Blessed Weekend<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lE48XR2XBj8/UPbpOHQdLxE/AAAAAAAAE_s/iVN6F2O2TSM/s318-c/ElementsOfTheEarthMoonRainbowSnowTwoRoadDilvEtc" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lE48XR2XBj8/UPbpOHQdLxE/AAAAAAAAE_s/iVN6F2O2TSM/s318-c/ElementsOfTheEarthMoonRainbowSnowTwoRoadDilvEtc" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"><em>"Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning." ...James 1:17</em></span><br />
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<em><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">"Sing, O heavens; and be joyful, O earth: and break forth into singing, O mountains; for the Lord hath comforted his people,and will have mercy upon his afflicted"... </span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Isaiah 49:13...</span></em><br />
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<em><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">From His creations...Heaven and Earth...there is irrefutable prove that He is "Almighty God"...an "Awesome God"....</span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">and to Him alone...We Worship!</span></em><br />
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<em><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">Wishing you all a Blessed Weekend,</span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">Loretta & Family</span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;"></span></em>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14457976530332166377noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8239067485157195893.post-71784300736499373912013-01-12T21:38:00.002-06:002013-01-12T21:38:54.968-06:00 Thank Goodness For Sunday<em><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"></span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">Good Evening Ya'll, How are you doing? I am so far behind and can't seem to catch up. I suppose the old saying is true... I just have too many irons in the fire! </span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;"> I have gotten my second wind today and just kept on going.</span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">I' ve gotten a lot of things done that begged for my attention.</span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">I thought I would say hello to you and share a little. </span></em><br />
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<em><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;"> The weather is gearing up for another round of rain tonite and morning. It was 79 degrees today after all those cold days, and will be back in the 30's Sunday morning! </span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;"> There are so many folks sick and walking around, I hate going out. They are not careful with their sickness....so it spreads. Flu is really bad here this year. </span></em><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e4VWuUDTZn4/TxGmMd3fwoI/AAAAAAAACIo/hd8t8Iz05VQ/s1600/red%252Bcandles%252B86360.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e4VWuUDTZn4/TxGmMd3fwoI/AAAAAAAACIo/hd8t8Iz05VQ/s320/red%252Bcandles%252B86360.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<em><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">On a Spiritual note: 2 Corinthians 4:16 from the NKJV... Scripture I've researched this week: </span></em><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;"><em> </em> "Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day." </span><br />
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<em><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">What meaning does this hold for me and how can I apply it in my life?</span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;"> I may become physically tired , but never tired of serving God...for He gives me power, and energizes me on a daily basis. I pray to Him and meditate on His words from the Bible...learning His ways and qualities day to day regularly. </span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;"> I'm revived with the spirit as my love grows for the Father.</span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">What a Blessing we have in being able to tell Him how we feel!</span></em><br />
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<em><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">We sure hope you have a Blessed evening...I'm finally feeling the sleep now so, I bid you good-night, and good health!</span></em><br />
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<em><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">Warmly,</span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">Loretta</span></em>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14457976530332166377noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8239067485157195893.post-22610069635238446892012-12-25T14:41:00.001-06:002012-12-25T14:41:20.130-06:00Best Wishes...<em><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"></span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">Welcome... </span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">Wishing you all a Happy Healthy and Prosperous 2013!</span></em><br />
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<em><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;"> To our followers, and to those of you who just stop by to visit...we appreciate your being here and invite you to come visit with us again!</span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;"> Pleave a comment just to say hello...I would love hearing from you! Don't forget...You are always welcome at our house!</span></em><br />
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<em><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">Peace and Happiness to You and Your Family,</span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">From All Of Us!</span></em>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14457976530332166377noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8239067485157195893.post-4612388386880740952012-12-21T10:42:00.002-06:002012-12-21T10:42:59.649-06:00From Miss Kitty-Kelly<span lang="EN"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"><em> </em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"><em> Miss Kitty’s Greetings To You</em></span><br />
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<span lang="EN"> <span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"><em>“I Wishes You Much Peace, Happiness & Joy Throughout The Year”!</em></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"><em>Best Wishes,</em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"><em>
Miss Kitty, Mommy & Daddy</em></span></span><br />
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