Like a Precious Pearl

You say...God says...

2012-01-24T18:46:00.002Z

Click on image to enlarge

My Prayer

2012-01-08T21:43:00.000Z

Dear Lord, deliver me from me. My greatest battle, my arch enemy, my vice, my weakness…is me. Can I blame some disastrous circumstance, can I blame some deep trial? No, my greatest problem…is me! Is the knowledge of the Cross not enough for me? Is the thought of the depth of hell that you brought me from not enough to wake me up? Is your unfailing love not enough to melt a hardened heart? Is the promise of Your return not inevitable enough to snap me into action? Oh heavenly Father have mercy on me and deliver me from the fate of the church of the Laodicea. Help me to not be neither hot nor cold, deliver me from luke warmness. My soul cries out to see! My heart yearns to feel, to burn with the fire and passion of Christ. Jesus I don’t understand why you don’t walk away and my resolutions don’t last the day.

But alas! I will trust in You. There’s nothing left that I can do, today give me the wisdom and strength to TRUST in you!

He Quietens me

2011-11-20T14:00:00.000Z

He quietens me:

My quick tongue,

my raging thoughts,

my unlawful desires and foul temper;

My sharp words,

my acts of contempt,

my vain thoughts and overtalkativness.

my gossiping twitter and my incessant moans.

He quiets me and leads me to peaceful pastures.

He stills me, He anoints my head

and fills my cup till it overflows.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life

and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever?

He quietens me.

And when "I" stands back up and shouts even louder,

He reaches out and shows me His power.

His love and understanding, His enduring love causes me to stop, be still and look above.

He quietens me.

It is my God that is Good.

2011-10-29T17:25:00.000+01:00

It is my God that is Good.

“And the earth was waste and without form; and it was dark on the face of the deep: and the Spirit of God was moving on the face of the waters. And God said, Let there be light: and there was light.” (Genesis 1:2-3)

I was waste, without form, dark and in the deep. I was tired, lonely and afraid. I had pain so deep it showed itself as anger. I had no more tears and doing things the right way was no longer right to me. Every time I tried to lift my head above the water, something would push me back under. “Every man for himself” I screamed in response. “I will be your fool no longer life!” I bellowed. “You’ve dealt your last card against me world, hereon I make my own luck” I cried. I tried to turn to the faith of my childhood but no relief came, no peace, no aid. Every angle I was being hit. My eyes became dim and my heart began to fail from the weight it was under, stone is hard to carry you know?

But one day something moved across the face of the waters. “Let there be light” I heard, far in the distance. “And peace be with you” I heard whispered.

One day I laughed. I laughed. I’d forgotten the feeling. My circumstances had not changed, I even thought it had worsened, but that day I laughed. “Hope? Is this what they call hope?” my soul questioned.

God was moving across the waters of my soul. It was Him who gave me my joy, my smile, my giggle, my laughter. It’s Him who brought me from the pit of despair, pain and loneliness. It’s because of Him why you can assume I’ve never seen a day of hardship, fear, pain, death. Its because of Him I live again. Don’t you know that its for FREEDOM that you are free? And though the darkness rages, in God the battle is already won. He has the power to silence it. Oh child of God, will you let Him help you? Ask Him today. Know that though all else has failed you, you can TRUST Him. There is no depth that you’ve fallen into that He can not forgive you and save you from. Ask Him, trust Him and stand still and see the salvation of Your God!

Don’t you know that its for freedom that you’re free?

Prayer:
Oh God, I want to be free. I believe you gave up Your only Son, Jesus Christ, that I may be free. Forgive me Lord, set me free and help me. I need your help because I can’t do it alone anymore and I know through You, all things are possible. Set me free. In Jesus’ name I pray…Amen

Life's Fireworks

2011-06-11T22:13:00.000+01:00

I was sitting by a lake today, beautiful day, hot, sunny, the water sparkling with the sun dancing off the surface of the water, picture framed with pink English roses framing the lake. I stared out to the water, so serene, so relaxing, almost mesmerising. I could feel the warmth on my skin, the gentle breeze through my hair, the doves cooing in my ear from a near by willow tree lapping its branches into the water. I stretched out onto the lush grass and just gazed out, pondered then pained, laughed and then cried. After a couple of hours of lying there a fly caught in a very large spiders web caught my eye. Its strange since that spiders web had been in my direct line of sight all that time and yet I not once noticed it. It was obviously translucent and despite it being a foot long and only a meter away from me...I never noticed it, until now. Now I'm transfixed on it, disturbed by it and yet not moving from it. I can't make it leave my sight. Being not particularly fond of spiders might have something to do with it but it was more than that.

An immediate parallel to my life as I'm living it has sprung to mind. My walk as a Christian. It's never been so hard ad my biggest battle doesn't consist of hard times, extreme weather, loss of a loved one and nor could I conjure up any excuse. My biggest battle is ME. In confession, everything I know to do, I almost do or want to do. Everything I know not to feel, I almost always feel or want to feel (Romans 7:15-24)....and I NOW know why. I'm fixed on all the attractions life has to offer, all the FIREWORKS (metaphorically speaking), all the basking in what life has to offer both good and bad that I've forgotten where my life ACTUALLY ebbs from. I don't think I could be accused of not practising what I preach because...well I stopped preaching, stopped praising but never stopped yearning.

My sight has been so focused on the sparkliness (if that's a word) of the world and its allures and entertainment that I haven't seen the spiderweb before me, in my direct line of sight, ready and waiting to catch me. Only God can give me the sight I need to run this race, to point out the "spiderwebs" and those which I can't see "He makes straight the paths that crooked lie" (Isaiah 42:16). I NEED Him. Things have been hard, yes, but today, you know what?!....I have not, could not, will not stop fighting. I THIRST for what the Lord has for me. My life over the past few months has reminded me of that old saying "you can lead a horse to water but you can't make it drink". My prayer is that God will make me drink, that He'll give me strength, that He'll cause me to know him deeply.

God IS love, and may I never forget it. Through Him we live and exist.

"I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever and with my mouth will I make known
His faithfulness. " (Psalm 89:1)

Diary Entry: March 2011

Do you feel tired?

2011-02-01T21:16:00.003Z

Do you feel tired? Exhausted from life? Weary from your own plans and plotting? When was the last time you checked to see if you were asking God for help. I mean REALLY ask for help. Really ask for help and in your heart expect an answer. “God help!” has become a terminology in today’s language. People may not even believe in God but yet they cry out “Oh God” or “God help”, never really expecting an answer. I challenge you, ask God for help and EXPECT an answer, BELIEVE for an answer and if you are struggling to believe, when you’ve finished asking God for help, ask Him to “help your unbelief” because God is merciful and He hears our prayers and sees out good intention.

And remember….God hears your prayers, he heard your prayer before you even prayed it and those who ask will receive, according to His will, which ALWAYS works out for the best of those who love Him.

The answer may not always be as quick as we want; that teaches us to trust Him.

The answer may be faster than we expected; that reminds us He loves you

The answer may not be what we expected; but He knows what’s best for you!

But there will be an answer…and always for the best of those who love him…so wait patiently and TRUST in the Lord who loves you and will never let you down like others have.

“And they that know your name will put their trust in you; for You, Lord, have not forsaken them that seek you.” Psalm 9:10

“God will let you laugh again; you’ll raise the roof with shouts of joy!” Job
8:21

What does Freedom mean?

2011-01-16T15:00:00.006Z

I've been singing a song over and over again for a few months now. Very often it pops in my head when I'm feeling down about myself or when I'm forgeting what it REALLY means to be free. In Christ we are FREE and "it is for freedom that Christ has set us free" - Galations 5:1.

Here's the lyrics to the song:

God’s Spirit is upon me, I am anointed to proclaim Good News to you.
For all the captives who are blind but long to see, this is your hour, I have come to set you free.
And Freedom means you’re free to choose, a life in Me you’ll never lose.
To see through this world’s thin veneer and know your future isn’t here.
To feel the sand between your toes, to get a name nobody knows,
To die to self and all its misery.
Don’t you know that it’s for freedom you are free?

Children of the new Jerusalem, your liberation starts with treasuring this truth.
Why would you want to live in sin and slavery? If you will trust Me, I will truly set you free.
And freedom means you’re free to love.
To know that knowing is enough,
To burn your candle at both ends,
To lay your life down for your friends.
Free to have a mind that’s pure, to know your future is secure
To look into an angels palm to see, don’t you know that its for freedom you are free?

Fearfully you have tried to fight your sin and still there has been no freedom there.
I am not asking you to try again but to join me in a Holy love affair [with Christ].
And freedom means you’re free to care
To see the wind blow through My hair
Free to give your life away and know that its going to be ok.
To teach a child to catch a ball
To let Me be you’re All in All
To no longer try to DO but try to BE.
Don’t you know that its for freedom you are free?

Don’t you know that its for freedom you are FREE!

It's been nine longgggggg months!

2011-01-16T13:14:00.006Z

It's been nine of the longest months of my life...but I'm thankful! I very much doubt there is anyone out there reading my Blog anymore since its been almost 9 months since I last posted anything, but I'm going to carry on as I started; to share:

"...thoughts, lessons, recipes, my laughter and pain...and anything else I've picked up on my quest to treasure the greatest pearl of all: The Kingdom of Heaven."

So much has happened over my period of bloggy absence; lots of changes, struggles and victories, which I hope to gradually share as I start posting again...one thing which hasn't changed though, which has been my unchanging help and constant...is God's faithfulness.

"I will help you, says the Lord"- Isaiah 41:14

"Fear not, I am with you, oh, be not dismayed!
I, I am your God, and will still give you aid."

Great Marriage tips!

2010-04-15T18:06:00.003+01:00

Stumbled on this post today when checking up on blogs I follow and thought its SOOO true and useful...super encouraging for the married and those who plan to marry...check it out!

KEYS TO A SUCCESSFUL MARRIAGE

Stay blessed! :)

Hello?!

2010-04-08T21:54:00.002+01:00

Hello?!...Anybody there?!...I'm still here!! just been a little absent. I think I mentioned we have moved into my dads house for a while, well the Internet here is a little unreliable but its better than nothing right?! It just means my posts may be a little fewer and far between than usual :)

Anyhoo, I have to say not much has been happening. We've started to work on the house (dun dun darr!...apologies for the dramatics, I'm in one of those moods :) )so I'm thinking it'be cool if I put up some before and after pictures as I go along! Whatd'ya think?

Tomorrow I'm off to Belgium with a friend for the weekend too which will mean an excuse to post some more pictures! yey! (well yey for me anyway hehe!)

Have a blessed weekend...

À bientôt!

She sells sea shells on the sea shore...etc

2010-03-28T16:52:00.003+01:00

I went to the seaside yesterday while the hubby was doing a course exam not far from the coast. It was sooo nice, I had some authentic seaside fish and chips...picked some nice shells...dipped my feet in the FREEZING sea. It was pouring down with rain and there was only two other people on the whole beach with me having good excuses of walking their dogs. There was me walking along in me pumps, occasionally getting caught up in some shallow sinking sand but after noticing the BIG signs warning me of those areas, I was able to merrily walk along without much havoc; feeling the rain on my face and watching the waves crashing in from a grey skied horizon...it was really refreshing. Been having a tough few months what with exams and so on but it felt soo good. Hubby met me for some fish and chips after his exam and another stroll on the beach once the rain had settled and the sun popped its head out and then we were on our way home again. I dunno why but watching the stormy seemingly uncontrolled sea reminded me how God is COMPLETELY in control of all situations in my life, He knows my needs and no matter how stormy or unclear things may get sometimes, or however sometimes I feel like I'm sinking in the sandy challenges of Christian life...My God is in PERFECT control, ready to strengthen and comfort in perfect timing that I may endure...and the same goes for us ALL who love Him.

14 The Lord thundered from heaven;
the voice of the Most High resounded.
15 He shot arrows and scattered his enemies;
his lightning flashed, and they were confused.
16 Then at the command of the Lord,
at the blast of his breath,
the bottom of the sea could be seen,
and the foundations of
the earth were laid bare.

17 “He reached down from heaven and rescued me;
he drew me out of deep waters.
18 He rescued me from my powerful enemies,
from those who hated me and were too strong for me.
19 They attacked me at a moment when I was weakest,
but the Lord supported me.
20 He led me to a place of safety;
he rescued me because he delights in me...
29 O Lord, you are my lamp.
The Lord lights up my darkness.
30 In your strength I can crush an army;
with my God I can scale any wall.

31 “God’s way is perfect.
All the Lord’s promises prove true.
He is a shield for all who look to him for protection.
32 For who is God except the Lord?
Who but our God is a solid rock?

33 God is my strong fortress,
and he makes my way perfect.
34 He makes me as surefooted as a deer,
enabling me to stand on mountain heights.
35 He trains my hands for battle;
he strengthens my arm to draw a bronze bow.
36 You have given me your shield of victory;
your help has made me great.
37 You have made a
wide path for my feet
to keep them from slipping.

2 Samual 22:14-20, 29-37

My Diary: Nǐ hǎo!!

2010-03-21T18:38:00.000Z

Lots has been happening recently I can barely keep up!

I've started learning Mandarin...for those who don't know me, that may seem a little random but I have wanted to learn Chinese for soooo many years. Ive talked and talked and talked about how I want to do it and well, I just snapped the other day deciding no longer to talk but to DO! So I'm doing :)

We're finally moving into the long awaited house. Having to move into my dads for a while though until we have finished decorating our current place and can hand back the keys to our dear landlord....how exciting!!

Did I tell you we bought a new puppy?! His names Muscat...don't ask me where we get all these weird names, I have no idea but hes so CUTE! :)
While we're staying at my dads we offered before we moved in to help redecorate his house...fun for me but think its going to be a little harder than expected, it hasn't been done for a while...dare I say some 2o YEARS and well...'nuff said....but I'm glad it will be a project we'll do all together :)/div>

Mothers day came and went over some scrummy food and lots of laughs. I do love Mothers Day just for the simple pleasure it seems to give my mum, she seems so happy when we all come together and she has all her little chicks back under her wing. Every year I try and give her a gift which has a personal touch. I saw these mugs and thought I'd paint them with some cute designs which will remind her shes loved every time she has a cup of tea...oh the kid in me was so content hehe!

The mug says 'U R Loved'

With a cute heart design in the bottom of the mug!

Like I said, the kid in me was thoroughly satisfied after this lil' project and my mums face made it all worth it when she reacted like I had drawn and given her the better version of Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa :)

Zàijiàn!!

Count yourself lucky and celebrate!!

2010-03-17T12:19:00.007Z

Psalm 32

A David Psalm

¹ Count yourself lucky, how happy you must be— you get a fresh start,
your slate's wiped clean.

² Count yourself lucky—
God holds nothing against you
and you're holding nothing back from him.

³ When I kept it all inside,
my bones turned to powder,
my words became daylong groans.

⁴ The pressure never let up;
all the juices of my life dried up.

⁵ Then I let it all out;
I said, "I'll make a clean breast of my failures to God."

Suddenly the pressure was gone—
my guilt dissolved,
my sin disappeared.

⁶ These things add up. Every one of us needs to pray;
when all hell breaks loose and the dam bursts
we'll be on high ground, untouched.

⁷ God's my island hideaway,
keeps danger far from the shore,
throws garlands of hosannas around my neck.

⁸ Let me give you some good advice;
I'm looking you in the eye
and giving it to you straight:

⁹ "Don't be ornery like a horse or mule
that needs bit and bridle
to stay on track."

¹⁰ God-defiers are always in trouble;
God-affirmers find themselves loved
every time they turn around.

¹¹ Celebrate God.
Sing together—everyone!
All you honest hearts, raise the roof!

The Message Bible

Where have I been?!...Yup!...Exams!...AGAIN!!

2010-03-10T19:36:00.003Z

I'm back from the land of exams! yey! Have loads of catching up to do in all areas of my life...it seems I've been a bit of a hermit recently, having my head stuck in a pile of books and then spending my days excreting everything I crammed into it out again in FOUR (please note the use of capitals!) hour exams EVERYDAY. Quite a tiring process I have to say and since this is the first time Ive ever worked so hard in all my schooling life (of which has been embarrassingly long), I was intrigued by how my body responded...I was left incapable of doing ANYTHING, even the most basic of tasks seemed too much of a strain...cooking, blogging, emailing, exercising...OK I wasn't going to the gym anyway but still, it made the list a bit longer:)

Anyhoo...Conclusion!- When you stop living...the world keeps spinning! :)

Tree 1 – 0 Orange Bulldozer Thingy

2010-03-02T09:31:00.001Z

As I look out our window today being able to see as far across town as the eye can carry, you wouldn’t believe only yesterday my sight was blocked by high rise buildings and trees. I watched all morning as the workmen in their florescent yellow jackets and hard hats pushed, pulled and bulldozed away everything in their path to make way for whatever it is they are planning on replacing it with. Today they moved or should I say massacred the last of the trees, not a breath of nature can be seen now...just a big mess.

This morning on the menu was the chomping up of the trees. It was quite a sight to watch and for us not a sight you see every day. I watched as these machines just snapped, cracked, pulled and deposited these well established trees with such EASE! Like they were tooth picks! Just torn straight up out of the ground, roots and all! I was amazed how shallow these great trees’ roots had gone, one after the other yanked up out of the ground. The work man controlling the great orange beast looked gleefully on at his handiwork. It was pretty impressive I must admit; executed with skill achieving the quickest result.

He got to the final tree. This one looked different from the rest, stronger, more upright with its proud branches stretching up towards the heavens. I’m not sure whether at this point the workman saw me watching from the window of our flat, from across the road, but he looked at me straight in the eye and smiled... I quickly ducked out of sight, I’m not sure why?! I was in my PJs, hair all tribal and had been watching for an embarrassingly long time...SO! my reaction was ‘duck!’. Anyhoo, as I re-emerged feeling rather silly and slightly rosy in the cheek department the workman and his menacing orange companion was already stood in position. The tree looked almost in mock as if to say ‘HA! Do your worst my lofty friend!’ The machine began its approach, pincers releasing parts of its previous victims from its teeth as it moved. It grabbed the tree and slowly broke off every branch it had with a loud crack for each. At this point my heart ached for this poor tree, I don’t know why and some may think I’m being slightly irrational but it just seemed a sad sight to see. I’ve woken up and looked out of my window every morning and there was this tree letting with me know with its wet leaves or snowy covered tips or glistening branches each element of the season for years. I watched the birds in the sky scatter at each loud CRACK and fly on as if it was just a blip in their busy little schedules.

The shiny pincers this time grabbed the tree at its middle and gave a great pull in the direction away from the road, to protect us busybodies I assume. I expected to suddenly see its base high in the air within seconds, as with the rest but NO! Another heave was made to uproot it but still to no avail, I could have sworn at this point I saw this workman give a quick glance in my direction. His face contorted as he once again made another attempt, this time trying to bend the tree at the same time. He was NOT giving up, pulling harder and harder, the great red tape of health and safety seemed to fly out the window, a seeming matter of pride! Finally a spray of liquid shot into the air and the pincers of the machine gave a groan as it deflated into a metal heap on the soil of its victims. I was left a bit confused but I’m assuming something broke because the workman’s face seemed defeated as he wearily climbed down from his mount.

Do you know what the problem was? The trees roots were just too deep. No matter how many branches were broken, no matter how hard it was pushed, pulled and cracked, it suffered much damage but it just could not be pulled from its roots. I’ve heard that if that tree is left there now, its branches will grow again, its leaves will bud and spread and once again it will stand proudly, branches stretched upwards and its roots even deeper from the lesson learnt. That great orange beast of a machine was SO powerful, it had destroyed everything else in its path but I began to ponder on how so much more powerful God is and yet He doesn’t use His power in anger against His children. He’s slow to anger, quick to forgive, patient, loving and Fatherly in nature. Satan so often tries to uproot the trees of God, the people of this earth and very often thinks he’s succeeded, but those who put their trust and love in God...

‘...shall be like a tree firmly planted [and tended] by the streams of water,
ready to bring forth its fruit in its season; its leaf also shall not fade or
wither; and everything he does shall prosper [and come to maturity].’ Psalm 1:3.

Their roots will go ever down in Christ never to be uprooted by the wiles of the enemy, by life’s pulls, pushes and pains. Mistakes are learnt from and forgiven as if they never took place, loneliness is met with comfort and weaknesses met with strength to persevere. When we trust that God has us in His merciful sight, captivated in His love and upheld in His light WE are those trees firmly planted as described and His word keeps us there; watering our roots and giving us food that we won’t EVER hunger or fear for plans of the future. And if we fall, we merely RISE! Stronger, taller and roots ever deeper from seeing the MERCY of our Lord.

Not quite sure where you’re heading? Have no fear! His plan for you is GREAT, unmatched, unpredictable and PERFECTLY timed!

...and no great orange machine thingy, whatever this may symbolise in your life :) will stand in your way...not because of YOUR strength, YOUR achievements or lack thereof... but because HE loves and lives!!

[Most] blessed is the man who believes in, trusts in, and
relies on the Lord, and whose hope and confidence the Lord is.
For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters that spreads out its roots by the river; and it shall not see and fear when heat comes; but its leaf shall be green. It shall not be anxious and full of care in the year of drought, nor shall it cease yielding fruit.
- Jeremiah 17:7-8

Up for an ETON MESS?!

2010-02-26T09:31:00.001Z

Eton Mess?!?! I never heard of it until a few months ago! But its meant to be associated with Eton College students, consisting of a mixture of strawberries, pieces of meringue and cream and history has it as traditionally being served at Eton College's annual prize-giving celebration picnic on the 4th June.

Well! I'm not an Eton College student, I'm a BCU student and proud of it!...But alas I'm also hungry and would quite like to try a new fun recipe...what could be more fun than a recipe with the word ''Mess'' in?! hehe

The Yummies

4 medium-sized meringues (freshly made or bought)
280 ml double cream
50g icing sugar
10ml (1 tbsp) vanilla essence
150 ml Greek yoghurt
500 g strawberries

How to?

Rinse the strawberries, remove the tops and cut into halves.

Break the meringues into pieces (not too small) and place into a bowl.

Put the double cream, vanilla essence and icing sugar into a bowl and whip until reasonably stiff.

Combine the cream, yoghurt, strawberries and meringue, being careful not to mash the meringue into pieces that are too small.

Serve in bowls or pile onto a small serving dish like a big Mess!-surly only a student could have created this recipe! :)

Hopefully mine will look a little more like this picture than the first!

What are some of the secrets of success in life?

2010-02-22T09:02:00.000Z

My friend got this text the other day and sent it to me...thought I'd share it with you since its so sweet!

A beautiful text I received, I thought that I would share and I pray that you all will be blessed by these words and the message, in particular at the end!

When I woke up this morning lying in bed, I was asking myself: What are some of the secrets of success in life?I then found the answer right there in my very room.

The Fan said - Be cool.

The Roof said - Aim high.

The Window said - See the world.

The Clock said - Every minute is precious.

The Mirror said - Reflect before you act.

The Calender said - Be up to date.

The Door said - Push hard for your goals.

And don't forget,

the Carpet said - Kneel down and pray.

Carry a Heart that never Hates.

Carry a Smile that never Fades.

Carry a Touch that never Hurts.

Have a PURPOSEFUL day!!

My My Look at the Time!...

2010-02-19T16:29:00.009Z

Its been a bit longer than usual since my last post...Ive had no Internet for 4 DAYS! Until now I never knew how sadly Internet dependent I am. I use it for coursework, emailing, watching online TV, Bible reading, Bible studying, reading books and just plain passing the time away...and blogging of course! Its actually got me a bit concerned about how entertainment based Ive slowly become without even realising it! My husband and I even realised how much entertainment plays a role in our spending time together, like watching movies, TV etc, which in my opinion theres nothing wrong with every now and then but we realised how long it had been since we just sat down and just RELAXED with each other. Just truly spending time with each other with no added extras like the TV in the background.

Its reminded me of the importance of spending time with those you love and I'm not just talking about husbands or wives here. I'm talking about those you LOVE; brothers, sisters, friends, grandparents etc. Making sure you know what they're going through everyday, their needs, smiles and tears. Only then can you truly bless those around you or encourage them if needed or even get the encouragement we ALL need sometimes. This time apart from my usual 'entertainment' routes has given me a much needed reminder of the importance of not getting sooo busy with our day to day schedules and 'pass times' to while away the time, because time doesn't stop for us; parents get older, siblings grow and start their own lives/families and friendships need working on just as marriages do.

Thank you God that you give us the grace to redeem lost time when we ask for Your help.

This encouraged me today...

2010-02-14T13:02:00.000Z

I'm free...praise the Lord!, We're FREE!

Book Review: The Count of Monte Cristo- Author: Alexandre Dumas 1844

2010-02-11T13:53:00.000Z

The first book I've read on my new gadget (see last review post) is The Count of Monte Cristo and WHAT A BOOK!!!

I've heard many people say how great this book is but because I've seen the film I didn't really make it my priority. The film was pretty good, Ive watched both the old and the 2002 version of which you can watch here. But the film has got NOTHING on the book as expected and in good order. I LOVED THIS BOOK as you can tell from my excessive use of capital punctuation :)

In case you don't know the story line, briefly....

'Falsely accused of treason, the young sailor Edmond Dantes is arrested on his wedding day and imprisoned in the island fortress of the Chateau d'If. Having endured years of incarceration, he stages a daring and dramatic escape and sets out to discover the fabulous treasure of Monte Cristo, and to catch up with his enemies.'

This book has action, romance, tension and excitement all in one book! I give it ***** and is now officially one of my favourites!

My prayer today...

2010-02-07T15:35:00.000Z

“Turn away mine eyes from beholding vanity; and quicken thou me in thy way.” Psalm 119:37

“Quicken thou me in thy way.”

The Psalmist confesses that he is dull, heavy, lumpy, all but dead. Perhaps, dear reader, you feel the same. We are so sluggish that the best motives cannot quicken us, apart from the Lord himself. What! will not hell quicken me? Shall I think of sinners perishing, and yet not be awakened? Will not heaven quicken me? Can I think of the reward that awaits the righteous, and yet be cold? Will not death quicken me? Can I think of dying, and standing before my God, and yet be slothful in my Master’s service? Will not Christ’s love constrain me? Can I think of his dear wounds, can I sit at the foot of his cross, and not be stirred with fervency and zeal? It seems so! No mere consideration can quicken us to zeal, but God himself must do it, hence the cry, “Quicken thou me.” The Psalmist breathes out his whole soul in vehement pleadings: his body and his soul unite in prayer. “Turn away mine eyes,” says the body: “Quicken thou me,” cries the soul. This is a fit prayer for every day. O Lord, hear it in my case this night.

Extracted from Spurgeon Daily Devotional 21/01

My new toy!!

2010-02-03T11:38:00.000Z

After some well needed encouragement a few months back and a time management 'overhaul'! (woopee!), I've got back into snuggling with a good cup of coffee, having some me time and reading a good book! :)....It's been GREAT!!! Its taking me longer than usual to finish but better late than never ey?

Anyhoo, I recently got given a Nintendo DSi which at first I thought all you can do is play games on it?!?...but no no no, you'd be mistaken! I bought a DS Classic Books disc which goes in it and now I can take in my handbag and wherever I go over 100 electronic books!! Talk about taking my time management, multi tasking to a whole new height, now there is never an excuse not to have a good old read of my favourite classics! AND! I can even download MORE books to the DS...wahay!...mines in black which I thought looked a little more mature hehe

This may sound a little strange but at first I thought I'd miss the whole holding a 'real' book in my hands and turning the pages and getting all sad / excited when I see I'm getting near the end of the book judging by how many pages I have left. But I didnt! This gadget even mimicks the sound of the pages turning as I read each page! haha! (by the way, Nintendo are not paying me!).

Anyhoo...I'll keep you posted on the books I read as I go!....Adieu!

My Diary: Things I need to remember!

2010-01-30T17:32:00.000Z

My God is:

Patient, loving, gracious, kind, gentle, peaceful, merciful, slow to anger, quick to forgive; to help, to forget, to make up, to smile, to rejoice, to encourage, to guide, to strengthen, to restore.

I love you God because:

-You loved me first
-You saw me when no one else did
-You forgive me over and over, past present and future
-You are my helper, my friend
-You understand me...weaknesses and all!
-You know whats best for me
-You showed me my Saviour
-You gave me a best friend
-You gave me life!
-You are patient with me
-You teach me and have taught me things which have touched my heart
-You have given me love I can share

I thank you Lord because:

-You are awesome
-You save!
-You washed me of my sins and gave me my salvation
-You gave me my husband to share my life with and learn together to overcome
-You gave me a vision, an aim, a reason, a goal, a journey!
-You will save my family and friends leading every knee to bow to You
-You are holy and righteous and a just God whom I can put my hope in!
-I can trust you
-You are the Almighty and You set me free
-You brought me up out of the pit and out of the miry clay and set my feet upon a Rock and established my way!
-You gave me a song to sing....and I will praise You

Forever!

But You have lovingly delivered my soul from the pit of corruption

2010-01-25T14:22:00.001Z

God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him. In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins.

Who is a God like You, pardoning iniquity and passing over the transgression of the remnant of His heritage? He does not retain His anger forever, because He delights in mercy. He will again have compassion on us, and will subdue our iniquities. You will cast all our sins into the depths of the sea. - O Lord my God, I cried out to You, and You healed me. O Lord, You brought my soul up from the grave; You have kept me alive, that I should not go down into the pit.- When my soul fainted within me, I remembered the Lord; and my prayer went up to You, into Your holy temple.- I waited patiently for the Lord. He...brought me up out of a horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my steps.

Isaiah 38:17, 1 John 4:9-10, Micah 7:1-19,

Psalm 30:2-3, Jonah 2:7, Psalm 40:1-2

This made me smile!!

2010-01-22T20:28:00.000Z

I stumbled on this video and couldn't help but smile...I hope it makes you smile too :)

Recipe: Spiced Mixed Berry Pie

2010-01-18T17:14:00.000Z

I baked a pie the other day and dutifully decided to share it with you...if only I could give you a slice!

The Yummies

Pie Crust:

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
4 teaspoons of sugar
1/2 cup chilled shortening
1/2 cup cold butter
1/2 to 1 cup ice water

Pie Filling:

1 cup blackberries, fresh or frozen
2 cups raspberries, fresh or frozen
1 cup peeled Clementines / oranges, fresh or frozen
1 cup sugar
1 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 ½ teaspoon ginger

How to?

For the crust:

Process the flour, salt, sugar, shortening and butter in a food processor until you get the visual consistency of fine breadcrumbs. Alternatively, if you don’t have a food processor you can do all this by hand just as easily!

Place the crumb like mixture into a bowl. With a fork make a hole in the middle of the mixture. Pour the ice water in the hole and gently mix the water into the mixture. Continue this process until the crumb like mixture has the consistency of play dough. Use your hands if you have to but make sure your hands are cold and avoid too much handling...it looks like play dough but it’s not :) The warmer your dough gets, the less flaky the final pastry will be so handle as little as possible!

Flour your board and rolling pin, and then roll out the dough. Divide the dough in half and roll out dough for a 2 crust 9-inch pie. Place into a well greased pie tin and bake for 15min in a medium heated oven. If you have one, use a pastry shield to stop your edges getting too golden. Once almost cooked and not quite golden, take out and leave to cool.

Alternatively, if you are in a rush and want a quick pie to get your teeth into, ignore everything I have just said, go to your local supermarket and buy a pre-made pastry base and ready-made roll out pastry for the lid which are still yummy but wouldn't it be nice to make it fresh?..go on...have a go!

For the filling:

If using frozen fruit, measure first, then thaw and drain fruit.

Preheat the oven to a medium heat.In a pan on a medium-high heat, combine all the fruit, sugar, cinnamon and ginger and stir until the sugar melts and the fruit start to give out their liquids and soften. If its stating to look a bit dry add ¼ cup of water and simmer until it has a loose jam consistency.

Allow to cool slightly and then spread the jam mixture into your pie base.

Using the remainder of your pastry dough, roll out and cut strips long enough to reach the length of your pie tin. Be creative if you’d like! As you can see I’m not very tidy myself and I like to create shapes for deco- I did a star this time! Wet the edges of the bottom crust by dipping your finger in the ice water and rubbing it around the edge of the crust. Then carefully place your pastry strips and shapes and gently press the top crust to the bottom, trim with a knife and roll under to create neat edges. Once again, if you have one, use a pastry shield to protect the edges from getting burnt. Bake for 20-25 minutes on a medium heat or until golden....eat!

Vintage Car Show 2009

2010-01-13T15:38:00.000Z

We went to a Vintage Car show a few months back! Anyone who knows me knows I love ALL things vintage and this was a treat! So, for the good of all vintage car lovers out there I've posted a few pics for you...before you think it! I know they are not ALL vintage but they're cute none the less! :)...enjoy....

That's all folks!!

My Diary: Exams...why?!

2010-01-11T16:06:00.011Z

So...I had my first REAL exam, since being on my course, today...after almost 6 longggggg years of trying to get myself, no...push myself...hang on...DRAG myself through Law school, it boils down to a few hours dotted over here and there. *Sigh*...*Bigger sigh*...I dunno....sometimes I ask myself why am I doing it? Do I enjoy it? Is it MY dream I'm following or just something I created along the way because for an apparently 'abnormal' amount of time I didn't know what I wanted to do. I say 'apparently abnormal' because that's what I've always been made to feel, every school I've been to has been VERY career motivated with people knowing what they've wanted to be when they 'grow up' since day one...I'm not saying theres anything wrong with that, I'm just saying that the 'one size fits all'...doesn't always fit everybody.

This Law career journey has consistently been an arm wrestle for me but I've stuck with it, maybe not with flying colours all the way through, but I've stuck with it and I've felt God help me every step of the way...like today when in the middle of the exam when I knew I was running out of time. I could clearly see the calculation in front me...2 hour exam, three questions to do and you have spent almost 1 1/2 hours on ONE question...you are out of time!! I wanted to give up, to slap my head down on the desk (even if everyone was looking at me!) and give up..."Now what?". As I stared to the front of the exam hallway and the exam supervisor looking at me suspiciously while everybody elses heads were down; pens scratching away at what sounded to me like a million decibels taunting my complete inability to time keep arghh! all I could do was ask God to help me...no big words, nothing fancy, just plain old "Help! Yup...me again! Ive messed up and I'm giving up and I just thought I'd let you know first." The response? Somehow and only God knows, I managed to finish my exam and I don't think its gone too badly too...and I'm thankful.

I know I haven't finished the course but its fast approaching. I've maintained that I'm here for a reason, that God got me here, living the life that I lead instead of the life that I had, and its GOT to be for a reason. I 'spose I'm just concerned that the thought 'now what?' seems to more and more play on my mind. 'Don't YOU have a plan?!' seems to pounce on me every time I know I'm not working as hard as I should be, could be or whatever. I know the usual response to this is...hang on! you're almost finished...it'll pay off...but why? what if I qualify as a solicitor but feel no more satisfied or motivated than I am now, still just liking law as an interest...has it paid off? Do you have a dream? or is it time for me to put my goals and dreams in Christ? but don't we still have dreams here on earth? Goals, careers, aspirations, charities...dreams? Hmphh....

Anyhoo, don't get me wrong...I'm not being ungrateful, in fact I'm more than grateful for the opportunity and that's why I'm sticking with it....as well as the whole 'finish what I've started' thing. I like law, I like Gods law more hehe and by Gods grace I'll finish this course.....I just feel a little discouraged sometimes....reoccuringly....recently more and more...

I know I have a home...

2010-01-10T12:03:00.001Z

My husband, Bobby, said something which really encouraged me today. We were just sharing with each other our difficulties: times when we feel weak, when we feel like we don't have the strength to go on or even losing sight of dreams we may have. He said "...in times like that, its then that 'I know I have a Home'. When things get difficult I know I have a home in Christ. When I'm out in the world and pressures get too much, I know where my Home is and it brings me peace.''

"I know I have a home...my home is in Christ"

"Yes, I am the gate. Those who come in through me will be saved."- John 10:9

Hey! Guess what?...

2010-01-06T18:13:00.001Z

Hey! Guess what?...I've started writing a DIARY! OK so not very interesting I admit for most people since I know many of you have had diaries since FOREVER...but its exciting for me! I've always wanted to have a diary but never had the time for it but what! with my whole new resolution thing...why wait!!

Anyways, I thought since I started this blog with the purpose of sharing my walk with Christ and the issues, joys, challenges and encouragement I come across in my life...what better way than to share a few entries with YOU every now and then!

...Well I'm rather excited anyway! hehe :)

I'm Back!!!!

2010-01-02T12:24:00.004Z

Ok so I'm back!!! I took a bit of an unplanned blog holiday. As most people who know me know I went back to University recently to finish off a course I started...but sadly I have had little time to do ANYTHING else literally. I haven't even had time to read any books other than some time in the morning to spend with the Lord. I partially (only partially!) put this down to my not so strong time planning....

So! to bring in the New Year, I bring in a new years resolution(....yeah I said it!) I've never really liked the idea of new years resolutions (perhaps because they've never really worked for me?!?) but this year I make an exception. This year is going to bring a new time efficient me!!...hopefully ;)

Anyhoo! to bring you up to speed with all that's happened in the past few months of my absence:

I'm half way through an (unreasonably) time consuming (yet fun) Uni course

I've had exams to prepare for...arghhh who likes them?!?

My cousin passed away :(

Moving house!

bought a new puppy (Monsieur Muscat!...Muscat for short..hehe)

my husband has been cooking again (shock horror!!...do you remember last time?)

All of which I will post on slowly but surely! I'm not sure where to start so bear with me if the next post seems a bit random...I hope you haven't gone far! :)

Happy New Year!!!

There through it all

2009-11-17T17:51:00.004Z

Jesus is there through it all

When you're tired of crying, tired of trying

Feeling Empty and tempted to fall

There is one there beside you

to comfort and guide you

Jesus is there through it all

He is there when your load is too heavy to bear
He is there
Through it all
And He knows when you need Him
Before you even call
Jesus is there through it all

When blessings abound or when burdens surround you
When you have no defenses at all
He will hold you so you can't see the battle with the enemy
He is faithful He is there through it all

He is there when your load is too heavy to bear
He is there
Through it all
And He knows when you need Him
Before you even call
Jesus is there through it all

With downcast eyes you may only find
one set of footprints in the hot desert sand
but lift your head high and you'll find in these times
we are cradled in the palm of his hands

He's a refuge, strong tower, no matter the hour
Jesus is there throught it all
Jesus is there throught it all

Song by The Isaacs

Are you tired?

2009-11-11T09:12:00.000Z

'Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to Me. Get away with Me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with Me and work with Me-watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill fitting on you. Keep company with Me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly.'

Matthew 11:28-30

(Women of Faith-Message Bible)

Things which have encouraged me today...

2009-11-06T11:11:00.002Z

The words of this song encouraged me this morning so thought I'd share it with you since I think it will do the same for someone out there...listen to the words and be blessed...

'Stand Still' by The Isaacs

A List of Grace

2009-10-29T14:25:00.009Z

I have been a bit overwhelmed recently and oh I could list all the trials and tribulations Ive been through recently...but I don't think that would be much good to anyone. I do have a list Id like to share with you though. Ive been thinking you see...nothing over strenuous :) but some good clear thinking and it began with this:

"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."
Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.' 2 Corinthians 12:9

I could list all my weaknesses, for how I know them, but more importantly God knows them and yet He says to me that His grace is sufficient: that whatever I think Ive got wrong with me, however much satan likes to rub it in our face or fill our hearts with doubt or discouragement- HIS GRACE IS SUFFICIENT FOR ME...for you! If anyone is reading this and struggling to understand Gods grace for you despite going through some difficult times, I encourage you to do what I was encouraged to do today: MAKE A LIST! Physically pick up a pen and some paper and make a list...not a shopping list...or a list of wants/needs...not a list of everything your mind can conjure up of all the difficulties you've been through, hurtful words said or mistakes made but a list of GRACE. Write a list of all the things in your life you have been blessed with and if you cant think of any then you are not looking deep enough. Have you had breakfast today? Good! write it down because there really are places where there is no food on the table for days. Do you or have you ever had parents who love you or a wife/husband who loves you?...write it down! many people don't. Clothes on your back?...how blessed you are! Some have seen the tears of children who's mothers couldn't afford to clothe. Keep going...we all have our own blessings, some we may even take for granted.

I had to take a good look at that list with open eyes to remember those blessings did not come from 'nowhere'...they came from God since EVERY good thing (no matter how seemingly small) comes from God (James 1:17)...don't let anything make you forget that and be encouraged...

My List of Grace

I have food on the table more than I should eat every day
I have a husband who loves me
I have family who care for me even if we don't always get along
I don't have many friends but the few I have are GOOD friends
My In Laws are great people- that's something in itself!
I can travel to university without having to walk miles and miles and miles and...
I have a roof over my head but from my window I can see someone who doesn't- oh may His grace overflow to those who need it!
The bills get paid...sometimes a bit late but paid none the less
My shoes don't have holes in!! How uncomfortable that would be!...simple yet functionally vital!
I'm on my computer doing a blog because God encouraged me...lil'old me

Its not an exhaustive list but its A list!

Today I Pray...

2009-10-09T15:36:00.004+01:00

Now therefore, I pray You, if I have found favor in Your sight,
let me know Your ways that I may know You,
so that I may find favor in Your sight...Exodus 33:13

Book Review- Catch Up!

2009-10-07T16:40:00.000+01:00

I'm back! Its been a while hasn't it?! So...I have a huge pile of books that I've read and just haven't had time to keep up on the book reviews for them *sowy!*. So to bring us up to date I will take a leaf out of Flowershop girls method (with a twist!) and do a list of some of my favourite books I've read since my last book review. Here it goes...

Good Wives
by Louisa May Alcott

We were helping my mum move some furniture a few months back and in the midst of her mass of books we found what looks like quite an old copy of Louisa May Alcott's 'Good Wives'. This beautiful book is the sequel to the famous 'Little Women' set in the nineteenth century, which has also been made into a film not so long ago.

I have to say these kind of novels have never really been my kind of thing...BUT...I absolutely LOVED it! It was just so sweet and gentle and every other adjective you can think which covers cuteness! Following on a few years later, we see the March sisters of Little Women turning from young ladies to women and having families of their own. This book has romance and its share of tragedy...its now one of my new favourites! I give it: *****(!)

Little Men
by Louisa May Alcott

Synopsis: Jo March, the heroine of Little Women, is back in a charming sequel to that beloved book. She and her husband open their hearts to a host of endearing little mischief-makers in an effort to teach them "how to help themselves and be useful men."

This book is the sequel to the above 'Good Wives' and the second sequel to Little Women and what can I say...once again I loved it! I think I have become a bit of a fan of Louisa May Alcott books. I was forced to read these kind of classics when I was a child in school and so my natural reaction was to snub them as...well...a bit boring. Now that I am older, I can appreciate the struggles some of these characters went through, the sweetness of Jo's little boys faith and the sacrifices Jo and her husband made for young children less fortunate than most....definitely something to aspire to as a woman and a mother. I give it: *****

And The Shofar Blew
By Francine Rivers

Synopsis: In the Old Testament, God called his people to action with the blast of the shofar, a ram's horn. God still calls his people today. In this relevant and timely novel, dynamic young preacher Paul Hudson is committed to building his church...but at what cost? As Paul's zeal and ambition build, he loses sight of the One who called him. As Paul and those around him struggle to discern what it truly means to live out their faith, they must ultimately choose between their own will or God's plan.

I found this book a real eye opener with Rivers touching on issues and scenarios all too common in modern churches of today. As outlined by another reviewer its also 'an excellent portrayal of how easily we can get wrapped up in doing things in the name of the Lord and lose God in our plans altogether' but also how merciful the Lord is that no matter how far we go, God is always willing to receive us back. I give this: ****

Redeeming Love
By Francine Rivers

Synopsis: Francine Rivers skillfully retells the biblical love story of Gomer and Hosea in a tale set against the exciting backdrop of the California Gold Rush. The heroine, Angel, is a young woman who was sold into prostitution as a child. Michael Hosea is a godly man sent into Angel’s life to draw her into the Savior’s redeeming love. As Rivers describes “Writing Redeeming Love was a form of worship for me. Through it, I was able to thank God for loving me even when I was defiant, rebellious, contemptuous of what I thought being a Christian meant, and afraid to give my heart away. I had wanted to be my own god and have control of my life the way Eve did in the Garden of Eden. Now I know to be loved by Christ is the ultimate joy and fulfillment."- (I think that sums it up perfectly!)

Ok.....If I could put neon lights around this book for you, I would! Inevitably I will give this book five stars but if I could give it ten I would...hang on...this is my blog and I CAN! So...I give this: ********** hehe. This book was brilliant, touching, moving and inspiring and I was literally (well not literally) glued to this book from page one! I will here on recommend this book to everyone I come across until I find a book which tops it. To give a disclaimer, although this book is a christian novel as almost all books I review are, there are some heavy issues touched upon in this book, however the issues are no more heavy than that which is covered in the Book of Hosea.

Lineage of Grace
By Francine Rivers

Synopsis: In 'Lineage of Grace', a compilation of five books in one, we meet the five women whom God chose—Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba, and Mary. Each was faced with extraordinary —even scandalous— challenges. Each took great personal risk to fulfill her calling. Each was destined to play a key role in the lineage of Jesus Christ, the Savior of the World.

Once again, as I have mentioned in the review for 'Redeeming Love' I would give this book more than five stars and perhaps put one neon light above it for you...not as many lights as Redeeming Love but a flashing light none the less!

I learnt a lot from this book and when returning to the relevant bible passages from which they were based, I understood them and saw the characters in a whole new and inspiring light. Truly, we as women should take the time to study the "Women of Old" such as those mentioned in this book...there is so much we can learn and this book has inspired me to start.
I give this: ***** (and more if I could!)

------

Wooh! So! Hows that? That's brought us up to date so far! I'm in the middle of reading the final sequel to Louisa May Alcott's Little Women called 'Joys Boys'. Its lovely so far but no doubt will keep you posted. I'll try not to leave it so long between posts next time...have a blessed day! :)

This Encouraged Me Today...

2009-09-11T20:05:00.004+01:00

"Be ye separate."—2 Corinthians 6:17

HE Christian, while in the world, is not to be of the world. He should be distinguished from it in the great object of his life. To him, "to live," should be "Christ." Whether he eats, or drinks, or whatever he does, he should do all to God's glory. You may lay up treasure; but lay it up in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, where thieves break not through nor steal. You may strive to be rich; but be it your ambition to be "rich in faith," and good works. You may have pleasure; but when you are merry, sing psalms and make melody in your hearts to the Lord. In your spirit, as well as in your aim, you should differ from the world. Waiting humbly before God, always conscious of His presence, delighting in communion with Him, and seeking to know His will, you will prove that you are of heavenly race. And you should be separate from the world in your actions. If a thing be right, though you lose by it, it must be done; if it be wrong, though you would gain by it, you must scorn the sin for your Master's sake. You must have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. Walk worthy of your high calling and dignity.

Remember, O Christian, that thou art a son of the King of kings. Therefore, keep thyself unspotted from the world. Soil not the fingers which are soon to sweep celestial strings; let not these eyes become the windows of lust which are soon to see the King in His beauty—let not those feet be defiled in miry places, which are soon to walk the golden streets—let not those hearts be filled with pride and bitterness which are ere long to be filled with heaven, and to overflow with ecstatic joy.

Then rise my soul! and soar away,

Above the thoughtless crowd;

Above the pleasures of the gay,

And splendours of the proud;

Up where eternal beauties bloom,

And pleasures all divine;

Where wealth, that never can consume,

And endless glories shine.

C. H. Spurgeon, Daily Devotional

Where have I been?!

2009-09-02T17:51:00.007+01:00

Its been a while hasn't it? Where have I been?.....I'm not quite sure! What with...course assignments *arghhh*...preparing to start yet another course *eek!*...fellowship conventions *refreshing!*...celebrating our 2 year wedding anniversary *Praise God*...re decorating the bathroom...working and keeping house....and the list goes on.....I just haven't had time to post!!

But alas! I am back from my ventures now so should have a post up in good order sooner rather than later : )

There Is a River...

2009-08-13T18:16:00.000+01:00

Jesus and the Samaritan Woman- John 4:1-42

'...Jacob’s well was there; and Jesus, tired from the long walk, sat wearily beside the well about noontime. Soon a Samaritan woman came to draw water, and Jesus said to her, “Please give me a drink.” He was alone at the time because his disciples had gone into the village to buy some food.
The woman was surprised, for Jews refuse to have anything to do with Samaritans. She said to Jesus, “You are a Jew, and I am a Samaritan woman. Why are you asking me for a drink?”
Jesus replied, “If you only knew the gift God has for you and who you are speaking to, you would ask me, and I would give you living water.”
... “Anyone who drinks this [well] water will soon become thirsty again. But those who drink the water I give will never be thirsty again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them, giving them eternal life.”
“Please, sir,” the woman said, “give me this water! Then I’ll never be thirsty again, and I won’t have to come here to get water.”

I was once this thirsty woman, drawing from a well I thought would give me life and quench my thirst. Pained and frustrated I thought I had all the answers to my problems, to life, any answer and every answer. One day the Lord showed me my sin, and He offered me this river which could flow deep within and wash me clean of my guilt, of my frustration, anger and pain. He freed me. He reached into the pit of despair where I was, where no one else could see me and He set my soul free! He exchanged my worries and gave me LOVE.

This is our promise, that this river will never run dry. We will never thirst again if we drink of it and theres a vast supply for us all and everyone. I still have a lot to learn but this I know...

There is a river...

Authentic Vs. Religious- Part 3

2009-08-11T19:24:00.003+01:00

For more see:

Introduction

Part One

Part Two

All Things Bright and Beautiful

2009-08-01T17:49:00.005+01:00

I saw these flowers and I just couldn't help myself but buy them; with their bright pinks, yellows and blue!...they're so pwetty....

It was only when I was adding the above pictures from my phone, that I realised I have an abnormal amount of pictures of flowers on my phone. I must be taking pictures of them everywhere I go. They're not the best pictures but here are just a few:

I don't even remember taking these!

These I remember, I was strolling back to my car and thought they looked so pretty compared to the mass of cars, shops and cement which surrounded them.

I think this one was when we were walking home one sunny day.

Flowers on the brain!

Let not one of them escape

2009-07-30T23:19:00.000+01:00

"Let not one of them escape."—1 Kings 18:40

HEN the prophet Elijah had received the answer to his prayer, and the fire from heaven had consumed the sacrifice in the presence of all the people, he called upon the assembled Israelites to take the priests of Baal, and sternly cried, "Let not one of them escape." He took them all down to the brook Kishon, and slew them there. So must it be with our sins—they are all doomed, not one must be preserved. Our darling sin must die. Spare it not for its much crying. Strike, though it be as dear as an Isaac. Strike, for God struck at sin when it was laid upon His own Son. With stern unflinching purpose must you condemn to death that sin which was once the idol of your heart. Do you ask how you are to accomplish this? Jesus will be your power. You have grace to overcome sin given you in the covenant of grace; you have strength to win the victory in the crusade against inward lusts, because Christ Jesus has promised to be with you even unto the end. If you would triumph over darkness, set yourself in the presence of the Sun of Righteousness.

There is no place so well adapted for the discovery of sin, and recovery from its power and guilt, as the immediate presence of God. Job never knew how to get rid of sin half so well as he did when his eye of faith rested upon God, and then he abhorred himself, and repented in dust and ashes. The fine gold of the Christian is oft becoming dim. We need the sacred fire to consume the dross. Let us fly to our God, He is a consuming fire; He will not consume our spirit, but our sins. Let the goodness of God excite us to a sacred jealousy, and to a holy revenge against those iniquities which are hateful in His sight. Go forth to battle with Amalek in His strength, and utterly destroy the accursed crew: let not one of them escape.

C.H. Spurgeon

Authentic Vs. Religious- Part 2

2009-07-27T23:32:00.006+01:00

Introduction

Part One

Fromage Burgers

2009-07-26T20:49:00.007+01:00

It's recipe time! I found this recipe in a cook book my mother-in-law gave me to help me with my diet. Thought I'd try it out but with a few amendments of course!

Yummies!

Serves 6 or 1 very hungry person!

900g/2lb minced beef

1 tablespoon chopped chives

1 tablespoon chopped tarragon or 3/4 teaspoon dried

1 tablespoon chopped parsley

2 oxo/maggi/season all cubes ( or 3tsp)

1 fresh red chilli finely chopped (optional- add if you want some spice)

2 teaspoons salt

30g/1oz finely chopped spring onions

1 small tomato, finely chopped

1 egg, beaten

175g/6oz Cheddar cheese coarsely grated (Below, I used Roulade which is a softer cheese with a lovely herb & garlic flavour)

40g/11/2 oz butter (optional)

How to?

Combine the beef, chives, tarragon, parsley, salt, spring onions, tomato, seasoning, chilli (exclude the seeds if you would like a milder spice) and egg and mix well. Shape the mixture into 12 equal-sized balls then flatten each ball to make a thin disc.

Divide the grated cheese into 6 piles and press each pile of cheese together. Place 1 pile of the cheese in the centre of 6 of the meat discs.

Place the second burger discs on top and press the edges together to seal them. These will be great cooked on an outdoor barbecue but if one is not available, grill or sauté the burgers in butter in a non-stick frying pan for 5 minutes on each side. I grilled ours and they still came out yummy.

These were served with a Summery avocado salad but of course nothing will beat a burger in fresh bread buns...*sigh*...until next time!

Tis Summer After All!

2009-07-25T22:27:00.004+01:00

Well since the sun has decided to shine through the rain once again, resembling the closest to summer England will probably see all year, I decided to add a new summery template to match...hope you like it!

Oh busy bee! where are you going?!

2009-07-15T21:40:00.008+01:00

My husband and I came home today and slumped onto the sofa...exhausted. We've been working so hard and could barely change, make food or do much else other than relax. I suddenly started to think about Bees, you know, those funny insects which always look like they're on a mission whenever you see them. You should watch one sometime, a bit like ants, its amazing what you can learn from them. They buzz onto a yellow flower, collect the pollen, move to the next yellow flower, repeat the process, move to a lady in a yellow top, try and repeat the process as she flaps around frantically trying to escape this dear little fellow on its mission.

We felt like those bees today. The problem is we realised we have been so busy, a bit like the 'busy bee', it reminded us to keep an eye on where we're going. ''Look up for our redemption draweth nigh!" Jesus tells us. There is sooo much in this world to keep us looking down, to keep us 'busy', to forget whats above us and before us. Like the busy Bee on a mission who tried to pollinate a ladies yellow top, we need to make sure we're not getting so busy that we lose vision of where we're going and what our sights are set on. I think we were both reminded today to not let life and the things of this world force us to live and work in haste, for a servant of the Lord does not move in haste.

Let us not be such busy bees that we lose sight of where we're going.

“Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” Hebrews 12:2-3

Authentic Vs. Religious- Part 1

2009-07-11T13:28:00.000+01:00

We Shall Not Fear

2009-07-08T12:30:00.002+01:00

We will not fear what the devil may say
We will not fear what the devil may do
But we will walk in the path of the righteous one
For it is ordered of the Lord

My son the time has come for the strongholds to be taken down
The flesh has no place to stay
The battle rages on but now its time to stand the storm
and see the victory of your Lord

And we will not bow to the prince of the air
And we will not bow to dumb idols or despair
But we will bow to the King of the Universe
For it is ordered of the Lord

My son the time has come for the strongholds to be taken down
The flesh has no place to stay
The battle rages on but now its time to stand the storm
And see the victory of your God

We will not fear what the devil may say
We will not fear what the devil may do
But we will walk in the path of the righteous one,
For it is ordered of the Lord

We will not fear, we will not fear,
For it is ordered of the Lord!

Song by Jerry Gadwa

http://thegospelofthekingdom.net/Musicians/jerry.html

Authentic Vs. Religious- Intro

2009-07-04T13:46:00.002+01:00

This may not make much sense yet but I will be posting the next part to this every few days, each part based on the Book of Ephesians.

Each part will give a short but humorous message on the importance of being authentic in our christian walk and not succumb to religiousness. Our testimony is our song of praise which God has put within our hearts...it is our lifestyle, our walk with Him and the light and love we show to others through Jesus. When we slip into religiousness, love can not prevail because we lose the glimmer of understanding given to us of the GREATEST ACT OF LOVE shown to us of all. For we forget that we can not be made right by the law but by the love and mercy of God, our obedience to Him and our faith in Christ Jesus.

PLOP?!

2009-06-29T21:15:00.009+01:00

So all this time I haven't realised that I've never formally explained what I mean by 'PLOP' which is a label you may see now and then added to various posts.

Just as when you drop a pebble into a stream making that PLOPing sound as ripples sweetly spread out from the centre of which. So as I am hoping that the effect of the little snippets of inspiration, testimonies and random bits of love will have on your heart. I hope they will PLOP in your heart giving encouragement and radiate ripples of love and light to all those we come in contact with.

Sometimes these PLOPs may be in the form of laughter or tears, scriptures or just the sharing of honesty and struggles where I may need encouragement, comforting each other as we run the race with endurance in our quest to treasure the greatest pearl of all:

'that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort herewith we ourselves are comforted of God.'
- 2 Corinthians 1:4.

With love,

God is Faithful

2009-06-27T20:28:00.007+01:00

For as the earth brings forth its bud,

As the garden causes the things that are sown in it to spring forth,

So the Lord GOD will cause righteousness and praise to spring

forth before all the nations. (Isaiah 61:11)

-
And it shall come to pass, that before they call, I

will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear. (Isaiah 65:24)

Book Review: A catch up!

2009-06-18T17:59:00.024+01:00

So I usually post just one review of a book I’ve been reading but due to the little 'holiday' I in avertedly took from bloggin, I have a slightly longer list of books than usual. Part of the reason for the longer list is because I have discovered the world of Francine Rivers books...I LOVE them!...I'll post more on her books in my next book review. The two books I have read so far were sooo good they deserve to be posted on their own. Until then!...

Redemption by Karen Kingsbury & Gary Smalley

Snippet:

When Kari Baxter Jacobs finds out that her husband is involved in an adulterous relationship and wants a divorce, she decides she will love him and remain faithful to her marriage at all costs. This book shows how God can redeem seemingly hopeless relationships

Redemption is the first book in the Redemption Series, all of which follow a family's trials and triumphs which many people may identify with.

Although I found this book an interesting read with surprising twists I wouldn’t have expected from most of Kingsbury's novels, I appreciate this may not be everyones cup of tea. There was a lot of sadness before the happy bit came...in fact I'm not sure now which bit was even happy? Since I like happy...wasn’t a hit for me. I give it: ***

Every Now & Then by Karen Kingsbury

Part three of the 9/11 series. Inspired by the events of September 11, 2001, these books follow the emotionally gripping journey of several people whose lives were directly affected by the tragedies of 9-11.

Snippet:

He's on a desperate quest to rid the city of heartache, but first he must find a way to deal with his own. Sheriff’s deputy Alex Brady and his K-9 partner Bo, are on a mission to protect the people of Los Angeles. Domestic terrorists are trying to make this the worst fire season in California’s history. Can Alex stop this senseless destruction in time, or will he lose himself in the process?

This book was great. It wasn’t a direct follow up to part two but still included some of the characters. I give it: ***

One Tuesday Morning by Karen Kingsbury

Part One to the 9/11 series (Part two here and part three reviewed above).

Snippet:

Karen Kingsbury wrote this novel as a way of grieving the events of September 11, 2001. One Tuesday Morning is the emotionally-gripping story of a devoted firefighter, and a driven businessman, strangers from opposite sides of the country with the same face. They meet in the stairwell of the South Tower that fateful Tuesday morning, but only one of them will leave the building alive. Battling amnesia, the survivor must learn how to be the husband and father he never was, by living in the shoes of a man who no longer is. Ultimately he will only find his way home because of the love and faith of one very special woman.

I really liked this book, very gripping and got me to appreciate in the only way I could, the bravery of those involved in the aftermath of 9/11. I give it: ****

Oceans Apart by Karen Kingsbury

Snippet:

A riveting story of secret sin and the healing power of forgiveness. Airline pilot Connor Evans and his wife, Michele, seem to be the perfect couple living what looks like a perfect life. Then a plane goes down in the Pacific Ocean. One of the casualties is Kiahna Siefert, a flight attendant Connor knew well. Too well. Kiahna's will is very clear: before her seven-year-old son, Max, can be turned over to the state, he must spend the summer with the father he's never met, the father who doesn't know he exists: Connor Evans. Now will the presence of one lonely child and the truth he represents destroy Connor's family? Or is it possible that healing and hope might come in the shape of a seven-year-old boy?

The first chapter was so gripping with the rest of the book unravelling a really sweet story. I give it: ***

Leota's Garden by Francine Rivers

Snippet:

Leota's Garden uses the image of the garden as a metaphor for the cycles of life that the characters experience. While the story spins around a number of lives, they are all connected through Leota, an 84 year old grandmother and her garden, which was once a place of beauty and hope but has in recent years gone to ruin. Beginning in desolation, Leota has been neglected by her self-centred daughter, the novel slowly shows the weaving together of lives in the mysterious ways of grace: a proud and narrow-minded college student and the granddaughter Leota had never been allowed to know shows up looking for some answers. A garden blooms, the novel suggests, by getting the hands a little dirty doing the hard work of love.

I learnt a lot from reading this book and surprisingly a lot about myself along the way too (the good and the bad)! Thank God His grace is sufficient for us all. I give it: ****

----

P.S. I just wanted to remind everyone that the above are MY PERSONAL OPINIONS of books I have been reading along with snippets from online reviews and synopses.

As always, one should research a book thoroughly for ones self before reading a book since what is gold for one man may be trash for another.

I believe no number of Christian literatures should take up the time and place of the bible in our lives. However I have come to learn that the experiences we can learn from these type of books (or any other scripturally sound texts) can teach us, with the Lords direction, how to apply Gods love and teachings to our everyday lives, issues and issues for others around us.

Stay blessed!

We love Him because He first loved us

2009-06-11T22:37:00.004+01:00

"We love Him because He first loved us."—1 John 4:19.

HERE is no light in the planet but that which proceedeth from the sun; and there is no true love to Jesus in the heart but that which cometh from the Lord Jesus himself. From this overflowing fountain of the infinite love of God, all our love to God must spring. This must ever be a great and certain truth, that we love Him for no other reason than because He first loved us. Our love to Him is the fair offspring of His love to us. Cold admiration, when studying the works of God, anyone may have, but the warmth of love can only be kindled in the heart by God's Spirit. How great the wonder that such as we should ever have been brought to love Jesus at all! How marvellous that when we had rebelled against Him, He should, by a display of such amazing love, seek to draw us back. No! never should we have had a grain of love towards God unless it had been sown in us by the sweet seed of His love to us. Love, then, has for its parent the love of God shed abroad in the heart: but after it is thus divinely born, it must be divinely nourished. Love is an exotic; it is not a plant which will flourish naturally in human soil, it must be watered from above. Love to Jesus is a flower of a delicate nature, and if it received no nourishment but that which could be drawn from the rock of our hearts it would soon wither. As love comes from heaven, so it must feed on heavenly bread. It cannot exist in the wilderness unless it be fed by manna from on high. Love must feed on love. The very soul and life of our love to God is His love to us.

"I love thee, Lord, but with no love of mine,
For I have none to give;
I love thee, Lord; but all the love is thine,
For by thy love I live.
I am as nothing, and rejoice to be
Emptied, and lost, and swallowed up in thee."

C. H. Spurgeon

For He Washes Us White As Snow

2009-06-02T16:40:00.006+01:00

Psalm 32

A psalm of King David.

1 Oh, what joy for Those
whose disobedience is forgiven,
whose sin is put out of sight!

2 Yes, what joy for those
whose record the Lord has cleared of guilt,
whose lives are lived in complete honesty!

3 When I refused to confess my sin, my body wasted away, and I groaned all day long.
4 Day and night your hand of discipline was heavy on me.
My strength evaporated like water in the summer heat.

5 Finally, I confessed all my sins to you
and stopped trying to hide my guilt.
I said to myself, “I will confess my rebellion to the Lord.”
And you forgave me! All my guilt is gone.

6 Therefore, let all the godly pray to you while there is still time, that they may not drown in the floodwaters of judgment.

7 For you are my hiding place;
you protect me from trouble.
You surround me with songs of victory.

8 The Lord says, “I will guide you along the
best pathway for your life.
I will advise you and watch over you.

9 Do not be like a senseless horse or mule
that needs a bit and bridle to keep it under control.”

10 Many sorrows come to the wicked,
but unfailing love surrounds those who trust the Lord.

11 So rejoice in the Lord and be glad,
all you who obey him!
Shout for joy, all you whose hearts are pure!

Have you ever felt like you’re just not good enough? You know your heart and your mind, your thoughts and your past. You know how your mouth can come out with sharp words of their own accord and what you’d really do if you let your emotions rip.

Well God knew as well and Jesus knew your thoughts, heart and past when He surrendered Himself to the cross, when He took those stripes and the nails within His wrists...and yet still He says to you....I FORGIVE YOU, past, present and future. For He has paid the price so that you can go boldly to God with your mistakes, with your tears and fears, with your pain, low self esteem and troubles.

This world loves to remind us of our weaknesses, sometimes people around us can remind us of our weaknesses and sometimes it’s just plain old us! picking on ourselves, fellowshipping with our failures and lack of fulfilment of our dreams. I’m speaking to myself and whoever is out there who just doesn’t feel good enough or maybe feels alone or is really struggling to grip onto the truth that there is a plan for you. There IS a plan for you and there is no sin which He has not already seen and forgiven you for. There is no sin that He cannot cleanse you for and make you as white as snow. And He will keep on cleansing you, over and over and over and yes...over again, if you’ll just ask Him. If you’ll just stop looking at yourself and see yourself through HIS eyes, for He sees the blood of Jesus which has paid the price for your failures. He will not turn you away, though father or mother or anyone else forsakes you...HE WILL NOT TURN YOU AWAY. He is not like man; there is no shadow or turning with Him. There is no “Oh maybe he’s changed his mind now, after all...” etc etc. He has promised you and He will never fail.

Just trust Him.

I once asked the Lord to show me what it meant to be cleansed by His blood. One morning I woke up and had my shower as usual and half asleep watched the soap suds swirl down the drain...and it clicked, as if He put the thought in my mind Himself. His blood is just as this! just as water washes you clean of the dirt and grime you’ve accumulated from the previous day. His blood washes deeper and further than we could ever reach. His blood reaches across time, across the accumulated lifetime of dirt and grime we’ve picked up, never to be remembered again. We can never clean our hearts, our souls, the desires and our thoughts with water! But His blood can and He washes our sins away as far as the east is from the west.

I say it again. Just trust Him.

Cream Seared Salmon & Prawn Simmer

2009-05-30T15:08:00.004+01:00

I love fish especially salmon and all seafood but don’t often get to cook it since my husband is not that keen on fish. So I thought I'd get me some good quality salmon and prawns and make something yummy:

The Yummies:

Serves 1 -if cooking for more, multiply recipe by number of people :

Salmon fillet
Fresh king prawns
Double cream (or low fat greek yoghurt) (3tbsp)
Chopped fresh Coriander (2 tbsp) or dried (2tsp)
3 sprigs of parsley
Garlic oil (2 tbsp)
Course ground black pepper
1 cube fish seasoning or all purpose seasoning to taste
1 small fresh red chilli finely chopped (leave out if desired)
Salt (if required, please taste to ensure)

How to?

Wash the fish and the prawns (you don’t know where it’s been!) Heat the garlic oil in a good non stick frying pan/Wok and carefully add the salmon fillet with the skin underneath and the flesh facing upwards. Surround the salmon with the prawns. Sprinkle the fish and prawns with the fish seasoning and black pepper and allow to fry on a medium high heat until the base of the fish has browned. Turn down the heat and add the cream and spoon some over the prawns and fish so the fish is gently paddling in a pool of cream. Add two sprigs of parsley, the coriander and the fresh chilli.

Cover and allow to gently simmer (do not boil!) until the salmon it cooked through (approx 15-20mins). NB: If you find your cream is disappearing just add a little more cream or a dash of water-not too much however).

Serve with more black pepper sprinkled on top and garnish with the remaining sprig of parsley and a slice of lemon. Yum!

For the birthday boy!

2009-05-25T22:30:00.005+01:00

It was my husbands birthday yesterday...yay! I love birthdays, the planning of what present to get, the presents, then the wrapping...that's the best bit...I LOVE it. I always like to take my time and pick some new exciting wrapping paper and some jazzy bow and tissue and anything else I can lay my hands on to make it look loverlay. The look on my husbands or the recipient's face when I give it to them, even if I'd wrapped a pair of socks it still feels special. Of course its the thought that counts and times of celebration comes by Gods grace alone but this just adds some fun to it for me and my little way of showing that some thought has gone into the gift even if at the time I cant afford a very exciting gift.

This year I went for a sheek (but manly enough) Edwardian wall paper look, very textured and of cause with a little sparkle teehee. I sound so arty don't I...not at all what went through my mind when I bought it. It was more of a "Waaow nice paper, cool, itttss spaaarrrrklyyy!" and I bought it.

I also did him a cake, I say 'did' him a cake cause I bought it and then decorated it myself. Cake making is not a strong point of mine, nor a back up to any strong point I may possess (as described here). So I decorate cakes instead! Gotta start somewhere right?!

It was a good day! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!

Can you sleep while the wind blows?

2009-05-24T09:57:00.012+01:00

I'm sure you've seen this floating round your email box but I just thought it was so true I wanted to share it with you in case you hadnt seen it.

Can You Sleep While the Wind Blows?

Years ago, a farmer owned land along the Atlantic seacoast. He constantly advertised for hired hands. Most people were reluctant to work on farms along the Atlantic . They dreaded the awful storms that raged across the Atlantic, wreaking havoc on the buildings and crops. As the farmer interviewed applicants for the job, he received a steady stream of refusals.. Finally, a short, thin man, well past middle age, approached the farmer. 'Are you a good farm hand?' the farmer asked him. 'Well, I can sleep when the wind blows,' answered the little man. Although puzzled by this answer, the farmer, desperate for help, hired him. The little man worked well around the farm, busy from dawn to dusk, and the farmer felt satisfied with the man's work. Then one night the wind howled loudly in from offshore.. Jumping out of bed, the farmer grabbed a lantern and rushed next door to the hired hand's sleeping quarters. He shook the little man and yelled, 'Get up! A storm is coming! Tie things down before they blow away!' The little man rolled over in bed and said firmly, 'No sir. I told you, I can sleep when the wind blows.' Enraged by the response, the farmer was tempted to fire him on the spot. Instead, he hurried outside to prepare for the storm. To his amazement, he discovered that all of the haystacks had been covered with tarpaulins. The cows were in the barn, the chickens were in the coops, and the doors were barred. The shutters were tightly secured. Everything was tied down. Nothing could blow away. The farmer then understood what his hired hand meant, so he returned to his bed to also sleep while The wind blew.

Moral of the Story

When you're prepared, spiritually, mentally, and physically, you have nothing to fear. Can you sleep when the wind blows through your life? The hired hand in the story was able to sleep because he had secured the farm against the storm. We secure ourselves against the storms of life by grounding ourselves in the Word of God. We don't need to understand, we just need to hold His hand to have peace in the middle of storms.

I hope you enjoy your day and you sleep well. May God bless you!

This Is How He Made Me

2009-05-21T15:44:00.009+01:00

Yet, O Lord, You are our Father; we are the clay, and You our Potter, and we are all the work of Your hand- Isaiah 64:8

A couple went into an antique shop one day and found a beautiful teacup sitting on a shelf. They
took it off the shelf so they could look at it more closely, and they said, ‘We really want to buy this gorgeous cup.’

All of a sudden, the teacup began to talk, saying, ‘I wasn’t always like this. There was a time when I was just a cold, hard, colourless lump of clay. One day my master picked me up and said, “I could do something with this.” Then he started to pat me, and roll me, and change my shape. I said, “What are you doing? That hurts. I don’t know if I want to look like this! Stop!” But he said, “Not yet”.’

‘Then he put me on a wheel and began to spin me around and around and around, until I screamed, “Let me off, I am getting dizzy!” “Not yet”, he said. Then he shaped me into a cup and put me in the oven. I cried, “Let me out! It’s hot in here, I am suffocating”. But he just looked at me through that little glass window and smiled and said, “Not yet”.

‘When he took me out, I thought his work on me was over, but then he started to paint me. I couldn't believe what he did next. He put me back into the oven, and I said, “You have to believe me; I can’t stand this! Please let me out!” But he said, “Not yet”. Finally he took me out of the oven and set me up on a shelf where I thought he had forgotten me. Then one day he took me off the shelf and held me before a mirror. I couldn't believe my eyes, I had become a beautiful teacup that everyone wants to buy.’

There may be things going on inside us that we do not understand. But when we finally arrive at the place where God wants to bring us, we will see how it has prepared us for what God wanted for us all along.

Meyer J, New Day, New You

Whatever you face, whatever you've done, He will never forsake you.

He has not brought you this far to throw you away for He has promised He will finish the good work He has started within you. Do not be afraid, for He is with you. Do not be dismayed, for He is your God. He will strengthen you. He will help you. He will uphold you with His victorious right hand. (Isaiah 41:9-10 NLT paraphrased)

'I am holding you by your right hand- I, the Lord your God. And I say to you, 'Do not be afraid. I am here to help you...I am the Lord, your Redeemer.' (Isaiah 41:13-14 NLT)

Here Fishy Fishy!

2009-05-18T18:16:00.025+01:00

In case you hadn’t already guessed from the link I posted, we went to the Sea life centre last bank holiday! Yay! Ok so from what I heard it’s got nothing on the Sea life centre world thingy in USA [that’s our next stop, just need to save some pennies!] but we had great fun none the less and the weather behaved itself. I’ve finally managed to post some pictures, they don’t do the fishies justice but they were amazing. God is so good, He’s made so much beauty!

[Sorry the pictures arent great...but you get the idea!]

The Happy Couple!

A Lion fish (roahhhh!)

A Sting Ray popping his/her head up to say hey...or sting me?

This one was just cute!...not sure what it is though...other than a fish of course.

This huge turtle was hanging around as we walked through a water tunnel...as soon as I go to take a picture its off...how rude!

Time flies when your having FUN!!

2009-04-27T22:58:00.004+01:00

SORRY! I know I haven't posted a real post in ages and as much as I'd like to put it down to my title...FUN hasn't exactly come into it. Ive just been so busy!

The good news though is that I have a back log of posts to do so stay tuned!

With Love

2009-04-22T13:27:00.000+01:00

One step at a time, one step at a time. We're climbing a mountain with Jesus by our side!

A Heartache Shared

2009-04-14T16:25:00.004+01:00

I had a sad weekend :( ....not only was it raining but after much deliberation we decided to have our little white fluffy dog, Pigsy, re homed.

*tears*.

This might sound silly but it was one of the hardest things I've ever had to do. We've had him for almost a year always with the intention of moving into a house (we live in an apartment at the moment). However we recently decided that we should hold off moving into a house for at least a while longer...and while I'm fine with that decision, an apartment is no place for an almost grown dog....in short he wasn't having much of a life with us having less and less time to walk him and give him the time he deserved.

On a happy note, he has gone to a great home with stay at home folks and lots of open space to do what he likes doing best lol

Ill miss you Pigsy!!

A Dinner Date With My Love

2009-04-05T17:27:00.017+01:00

This weekend something eventful happened...something ground breaking...something to make you say "Is it a bird?!" "Is it a plane?!" "No its neither!" happened....(I know I have you on the edge of your seats but please don't get too excited)....my husband...COOKED DINNER!!!!

Starter: Lemon Bread
(A Soft slice of french bread topped with lemon Carzer Sauce and melted cheese)

OK! I'm sorry, I know it isn't quite the a million pounds you thought I'd won and was going to so dutifully share around with my dear bloggy friends but if you look at it from my point of view, you'll see why I'm so excited.

Main Course: Plum Glazed Roast Beef

(Roast Beef Glazed with Special Plum Sauce & Shrimp Stir fry Noodle)

You see cooking has never been his strong point which is perfectly natural since we both have our strong points which each work together for the unity of the home. Plus! the last time he made dinner was 5 years ago! and I think we both concluded that perhaps it would be best if I stick to the cooking since its something I really enjoy anyway (NB: I mention 'cooking' twice in my interests profile :) )

Grande Finale: Toffee & Vienetta

(A slice of Original Vienetta topped in Toffee sauce)

However not only did the food taste culinary SUPERB, I was left baffled on the point of "Where did he learn to cook sooo good" and perhaps I'm going to have to up my skills a bit! :)

I am way impressed and most grateful xxx

All there is left is Him

2009-03-24T11:31:00.007Z

Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit...says the Lord of hosts

- Zechariah 4:6

I want you to face the mountain
So that you can see,
When the mountain is out of the way
All there is left is Me.
Only I can move the mountain,
Only I can push it away,
Only I can conquer the problems
That you face today.
Your only job is to believe, to listen
To My voice,
And when you hear what I command,
Obedience is your choice.
But I will fill you with My Spirit and through
You My grace will shine.
Not when you are perfect,
Like you think you need to be,
But when your heart is willing to become more
And more like Me.

Author Unknown

Shiney new template!

2009-03-22T21:09:00.005Z

It's been nice and sunny recently, I saw some daffodils today, looked like they were waving Spring in as they danced in the breeze...or maybe that was just me; too much longing for warmer weather! Either way, thought it was time for a more Springy/Summery template to match...hope you like! :)

The Timothy Diary- Author: Gene Edwards

2009-03-21T14:41:00.005Z

The Timothy Diary is the third volume in the First Century Diaries being five of them in all. Based on the book of Acts, it follows the Apostle Paul’s adventurous journeys; from the creation of the church in Ephesus to his letters to the church in Corinth. We see the book of Acts being portrayed through the eyes of the young Christian Timothy, giving an inspiring account of one man’s impact on the early Christian church.

It took me a bit longer than usual to get into this book but once I did I couldn’t put it down! I have access to all five of the books in this series but chose to read this one first since it follows a segment of Paul’s life through the eyes of Timothy. Timothy was a young Christian, a soldier in Christ as described in the bible. I suppose I picked this book because sometimes we younger Christians need encouragement to keep pressing on in Christ despite the temptations, mistakes or trials, to not feel alone and remain strong... I suppose that applies to us all.

I found this book both adventurous, amusing at times and thought provoking and since reading it, my whole perspective when reading the book of Acts, and the various letters written to the churches, has a whole new light. Occasionally, when reading the bible we see these words as to apply to some far off people in a distant time where cars didn’t exist and shepherding and carpentry were the occupation of the year. But after reading this book it really brings home to you how the bible applies to us here and now more than ever. I will definitely be reading the next books in the series, my only "NB" for these books will be that although the book is based closely on the book of Acts and the epistles, just continue as with all such books to differentiate between what is scriptural and when it’s, although beautifully written, a narrative.

All in all, an inspiring book!

Others in the set:

My Small Beginnings

2009-03-05T20:43:00.028Z

Who [with reason] despises the day of small things? -Zechariah 4:10

My husband and I bought a computer chair from Ikea which needed assembling once we got it home. My husband had already spent the afternoon assembling a bookshelf amongst other things and was so tired so I offered to do it. I’m not sure why I offered since we both know I am useless at DIY stuff, I feel proud of myself when I change a light bulb so putting a chair together was going to be a challenge. To give you some background, throughout my life finishing things I have started has never been something I found easy. Perhaps I never laid any importance on it but never the less, I was the kid on sports day who didn’t quite see the importance of getting to the finish line if you were last anyway. When I was 8 years old I tried to learn the Piano, that went great for a while but then I quit just before my first exam...my excuse? It was too hard. A few years later I took up the flute and quit after 4 weeks of lessons...I don’t have an excuse here, I suppose it was hard? I tried to learn to bake cakes and instead created a new version of cement nearly poisoning everybody...so I gave up. So when the opportunity came to really start something and finish it the best I can for the sake of someone else...it was on!

I pulled up my sleeves and ripped open the cardboard box and all the parts came tumbling out onto the floor resembling nothing like a computer chair...I gulped, perhaps this is going to be harder than I thought, maybe I should stick to changing light bulbs? No! A wave of determination washed over me. This may seem terribly melodramatic but this single act of determination for something which for some seems so simple meant a lot to me. Law books I can do...but this for me was another ball game....a challenge on my growth and I was up for the duel!

I decided a good place to start was the instructions and carefully read them...great...pictures! I can do this! Just match up the pictures! I diligently laid out all the parts and once I had done this I was already tired...I needed a pitstop. After a light refreshment the ball was rolling again. After a while I had completed almost half of it but my hands were raw from tightening so many screws, I wanted to give up, disappointment was already starting to kick in, “Why can’t you ever finish things?! I asked myself. I felt the discouragement kick off its shoes and find a nice comfy chair in my heart. And then a small voice, a small whisper of love washed over me, a scripture I had read a few days before Philippians 4:13:

‘You can do all things through Christ who will strengthen you.’

A burst of resolve reigned...“Yeah! I CAN do all things through Christ who strengthens me!” I pondered, I didn’t have Christ in my life when I was learning to play the piano or the flute all those many years ago but now I do, now I have that promise. I picked up the screwdriver like a sword from my sheath and began the process all over again, beads of sweat (or as my mother would say: perspiration) gathered on my forehead as I finally carefully lowered the seat of the chair into place. I stepped back and a smile from ear to ear broke across my face.

The finished result! Think I can put this on my CV?

So what’s the point of me telling you all that I hear you say :) Well, for me that little but eventful happening was a small beginning, a little reminder that the Lord is working with me, changing me, helping me and strengthening me. He sees my needs, my fears, my doubts and failures and yet still He loves me. We often get so entangled in life with our failures, those things we feel God could never forgive us for or never change. For some of us it may be that we have had so much pain in our lives and let downs that perhaps we are feeling like we can never see the sun through the rain. But one thing I know, beyond all doubt is that when we trust in God, when we give our weaknesses, pain, anger and failures to Jesus He will never let us down.

I’m sure most of us are believing God for something but often we get discouraged because we feel like we can’t see the movement, the change or the evidence of what we are praying for. I heard a saying recently which got me thinking:

“Sometimes we stare so long at the closed door we fail to see the one that is opening.” (Alexander Graham Bell)

We miss those little seeds of change, those small beginnings, those signs of greater things to come. Sometimes we see those seeds, those glimmers of hope given to us as a gift from God and we complain over them, as the above scriptures says, we despise them rather than taking the seeds in thanks and rejoicing and planting it. My little experience of fixing up a computer chair is my small beginning, an answering of prayers, a sign of greater things to come and I know that what God begins He finishes (Philippians 1:6). Jesus said “I tell you the truth, if you had faith even as small as a mustard seed, you could say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it would move. Nothing would be impossible.” (Matthew 17:20). If we take the little seeds of hope given to us even if it’s as small as a mustard seed like this:

Mustard Seeds

If we take our small beginnings and be thankful over them and have faith in God he will cause our faith to grow as big as this:

Mustard Tree

We will be able to say to our mountain, whatever our mountain may be in our lives; pain, hurt, weaknesses and failures and say MOVE!! God will take whatever you are believing over, whatever small beginning he has given you and make it grow because you held your faith firm until the end.

Don’t despise your small beginnings, rejoice and again I say rejoice!

Finger Lickin Chicken!

2009-02-27T21:51:00.005Z

Well it’s the end of what feels like a very lonnnggg week: I have a cold *snivel sniff cough*, my course feels like its dragging into the rest of my life and there’s a pile of work I have to do which doesn’t look like its getting any smaller no matter how much I will it to.
So! I thought I’d whip up some comfort food for dinner tonight. Everybody’s idea of comfort food is different but mine?... is anything chicken and my favourite...finger lickin chicken!!

I’ve only tried to make this once, usually I just go to the nearest chicken hut but I thought I’d attempt to make mine a bit healthier... (I know... who am I kiddin?!)

The Yummies:

For the marinade:
400g chicken drumsticks, skinless
6 tbsp coriander, chopped
6 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 tsp dried chilli flakes
1 tsp jerk seasoning
3 tsp tomatao ketchup
1 tsp Light Soy sausce
1 tsp maggi liquid seasoning
2 chicken oxo cubes

For the coating:
8 tbsp plain flour
3 tsp salt
3 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp everyday seasoning
1 tsp turmeric

To make it stick mix!:
3 eggs beaten
1tbsp butter milk or whole milk or cream

How to?

1. For the marinade, combine all the ingredients for the marinade and coat the chicken in a shallow dish. Cover and leave to marinate for as long as you can- or like me... just until you’ve made the next bit :)
2. Combine all the ingredients for the coating. In a separate bowl beat the eggs and milk together and remove the chicken from the marinade and dip into the egg mixture.
3. Then dip the chicken into the flour mixture and coat thoroughly. Repeat this process two more times so there’s a nice thick layer.
4. Preheat the oven to 200C/400F/Gas 6.
5. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep heavy-bottomed saucepan, until a breadcrumb sizzles and browns when dropped in it. (CAUTION: hot oil can be dangerous - do not leave unattended!). Drop your yummy coated chicken into the oil and fry until golden all over. Remove and place on a baking sheet.
6. Transfer to the oven and cook for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
7. And eat!

True Love

2009-02-14T01:13:00.012Z

I love the LORD, for he heard my voice;

he heard my cry for mercy- Psalm 116:1
For great is his love toward us,

and the faithfulness of the LORD endures forever. Praise the LORD- Psalm 117:2
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son,

that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life- John 3:16

Greater love has no one than this,

that he lay down his life for his friends-John 15:13
"This is my command: Love each other"- John 15:17

But God demonstrates his own love for us in this:

While we were still sinners, Christ died for us- Romans 5:8
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?

Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine

or nakedness or danger or sword?-Romans 8:35
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us-Romans 8:37
neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord- Romans 8:39

Love is patient, love is kind.

It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud- 1 Corinthians 13:4.
Do everything in love- 1 Corinthians 16:14

I urge you, therefore, to reaffirm your love for him- 2 Corinthians 2:8

My love to all of you in Christ Jesus. Amen- 1 Corinthians 16:24

The Duck in Our Life

2009-02-07T18:18:00.015Z

There was a little boy visiting his grandparents on their farm. He was given a slingshot to play with out in the woods. He practiced in the woods, but he could never hit the target. Getting a little discouraged, he headed back for dinner. As he was walking back he saw Grandma's pet duck. Just out of impulse, he let the slingshot fly, hit the duck square in the head, and killed it. He was shocked and grieved. In a panic, he hid the dead duck in the wood pile, only to see his sister watching! Sally had seen it all, but she said nothing.

After lunch the next day Grandma said, “Sally, let's wash the dishes.” But Sally said, “Grandma, Johnny told me he wanted to help in the kitchen.” Then she whispered to him, “Remember the duck?” So Johnny did the dishes. Later that day, Grandpa asked if the children wanted to go fishing and Grandma said, “I'm sorry but I need Sally to help make supper.” Sally just smiled and said, “Well, that’s all right because Johnny told me he wanted to help.” She whispered again, “Remember the duck?” So Sally went fishing and Johnny stayed to help.

After several days of Johnny doing both his chores and Sally’s he finally couldn’t stand it any longer He came to Grandma and confessed that he had killed the duck. Grandma knelt down, gave him a hug, and said, “Sweetheart, I know. You see, I was standing at the window and I saw the whole thing. But because I love you, I forgave you. I was just wondering how long you would let Sally make a slave of you.”

Thought for the day and every day thereafter: Whatever is in your past, whatever you have done - and the devil keeps throwing it up in your face (lying, debt, fear, hatred, anger, unforgiveness, bitterness, etc.) whatever it is, you need to know that God was standing at the window and He saw the whole thing. He has seen your whole life. He wants you to know that He loves you and that you are forgiven. He’s just wondering how long you will let the devil make a slave of you.

The great thing about God is that when you ask for forgiveness, He not only forgives you, but He forgets - it is by God's grace and mercy that we are saved...

Always remember...

God is at the window!

Author Unknown

Let it snow! Let it snow! Let it snow!

2009-02-02T19:14:00.004Z

ITS SNOWING!!!! To my fellow international friends, this may seem like a mere dandruff amount of snow but its the most England has seen in 18 YEARS!! Admittedly it has brought the whole country to a stand still...schools closed for the day, children playing happily as they should...cant get to work, extra lazy day in...I cant get to university, who's complaining? Not me! Let it snow! Let it snow! Let it snow!

Not the prettiest of pictures but this is the view out our kitchen window and look!! two cars!! This is rush hour!...its usually heaving with people trying to make their way home...I think they're all in bed!

Even Pigsy is amazed!!

Recipe: Mission Accomplished

2009-01-31T20:08:00.012Z

Finally, I made the Jamaican patties!!

I know I didn't put it in the recipe but I decided to add a few chopped mixed sweet peppers into the mince to make it colourful.

8 little patties sitting in a pan!...8 little patties sitting in a pan! [I sing merrily]

By the way...don't ask why some are a different colour: I made two batches of dough and somewhere something changed!?

We wait patiently...the smell beginning to hit my husbands nostrils...he bursts into the kitchen after a good game of basketball, 'Is that pie I smell?' he exclaims [not quite as dramatically as I'm making it sound]

And the finished result served with my husbands favourite- fried rice! Wotdya think? Shall I pass you a slice over tea?

As mentioned in my previous post, since this was an attempt to get my husband to eat a different kind of pie...soooo...whats the verdict?

From the looks of his plate I'd say its a thumbs up! Mission a success!!

Beyond Tuesday Morning- Author: Karen Kingsbury

2009-01-29T23:15:00.013Z

Here is yet another attempt at breaking things up on the studying front and I have to say the book somewhat dominated my studying time...I couldn't put the book down!

BEYOND TUESDAY MORNING is the sequel to Karen Kingsburys 'One Tuesday Morning'. Both books are based around the tragic events that took place in the Twin Towers 9/11 terrorist attacks. The book focuses on a firefighters widow, Jamie Bryan, who after 3 years passing of the fateful event is trying to find meaning in her life and a reason to get up every morning after the man she had loved since a child is no longer with her. Spurred on by a journal left behind by her dead husband and encouragement from her little daughter, she finds the possibility to find love and meaning in her life. The question is left whether she can leave her guilt behind and choose life filled with love and healing or continue to live in a continuous memorial to her husband and the memories of all she lost on 9/11.

Extract from the book:

"Jamie Bryan took her position at the far end of the Staten Island Ferry, pressed her body against the railing, eyes on the place where the Twin Towers once stood. She could face it now, every day if she had to. The terrorist attacks had happened, the World Trade Center had collapsed, and the only man she'd ever loved had gone down with them.
Late fall was warmer than usual, and the breeze across the water washed over Jamie's face. If she could do this, if she could make this journey three times a week while Sierra was in school, then she could convince herself to get through another long, dark night. She could face the empty place in the bed beside her, face the longing for the man who had been her best friend, the one she'd fallen for when she was only a girl."

This book is not your average love story and although I may not have conveyed this well in the above summary, it is full of unexpected twists,which left me not being able to put the book down; laughs, tears and perfect for those who love a happy ending.

On a personal note this book gave me a great reminder of Gods grace. Reminding me that we really are saved by GODS GRACE- His mercy and unconditional love...NOT by what I do right or wrong or how and when I read my bible or how many mistakes I make etc etc. God loves us all no matter where we have come from, our life experiences or where we are going. He takes us JUST AS WE ARE with no terms and conditions, all He wants us to do is TRUST Him and believe in the one He sent, Jesus Christ. When we realise this, truly we will be free and have the kind of peace that passes all understanding.

Jamaican Beef Patties

2009-01-22T09:23:00.008Z

My husband loves pie...any pie....beef pie, chicken pie, lamb pie...apple pie! But I am starting to get bored of the same old methods of making pie, there are only so many twists you can do with a pie over the years before it just becomes a morph of the same thing. So!...I decided (in the midst of a day dream when I should have been doing my coursework) that I would go on a recipe hunt to find something a lil' different. That's when I remembered some great Patties my mum occasionally made when I was younger and I found the recipe! These are delicious curry-flavored beef pastries that can be found in Jamaica and other Caribbean islands but you can make them with chicken, vegetable, lamb or whatever you like!

The Yummies:

250 g all-purpose flour
3 g curry powder
1 dash salt
55 g margarine
50 g shortening
80 ml water

25 g margarine
455 g ground beef
1 small onion, finely diced
3 teaspoons curry powder
1 g dried thyme
6 g salt (I usually use less salt and add 2 Maggi/OXO/seasoning cubes)
2 g ground black pepper
1 fresh red chilli (or more if you want a kick!)
2 cloves of garlic
1 desert spoon of Tomato Ketchup (my-now not so secret-recipe...don't knock it till you've tried it!)
120 ml beef broth
55 g dry bread crumbs
1 egg, beaten

How to?

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). In a large bowl, combine flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons curry powder, and pinch of salt. Cut in 1/4 cup margarine and shortening until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in water until mixture forms a ball. Shape dough into a log, and cut into 10 equal sections. Roll each section into a six inch circle (approximately 1/8 inch thick). Set aside somewhere cool.
Melt margarine in a skillet over medium heat. Saute onion and garlic until soft and translucent. Stir in ground beef. Season with 2 teaspoons curry powder, thyme, 1 teaspoon salt or 2 seasoning cubes, pepper, red chilli and tomato ketchup. Cook until beef is evenly brown, stirring constantly. Stir in beef broth and bread crumbs. Simmer until liquid is fully absorbed. Taste a bit to make sure it tastes yummy...and add any extras where you see fit. Remove from heat.
Spoon equal amounts of filling into each pastry circle. Fold over and press edges together, making a half circle. Use a fork to press edges, and brush the top of each patty with beaten egg.
Bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until golden brown.

Hope you like! Will let you know how I get on with mine...with pictures of course! :)

Meet Pigsy!!

2009-01-15T17:16:00.000Z

Wanted to introduce our 3rd member of the family....Pigsy!!

Go Pigsy!!...Go!!

He got a bit tired...or is he laughing?...hang on, dogs don't laugh!

Finally he keeps still...for 1 second!

The Penny- Author: Joyce Meyer

2009-01-14T23:20:00.000Z

As promised in previous post, here's my first 'anti brain exploding ploy' book read:

THE PENNY, which is a novel inspired by the author, Joyce Meyers' own life, is the captivating story of a young girl, named Jenny, from an abusive background. Her home life was a wreck, not at all the safe refuge a home should be, with her only place of refuge in life being the Grace Kelly movies her and her sister would regularly escape to.The story unravels when Jenny decides to pick up a shiny penny, catapulting her into a series of events which would change her life as she knew it. Jenny is left with the capability to confront her demons or let them destroy her. The story is full of hope in the midst of despair and Light shining through the darkness.

I was a bit cynical at first when reading this book due to being aware that the authors profession/calling is a TV evangelist and therefore perhaps not the strongest of novel writers BUT i loved this book! and although I'm NOT necessarily recommending this book, I did personally find it inspiring and full of hope, with love conquering all. I haven't given away the content of the book at all but here are some quotes I thought were great:

Best Quotes:

Grace Kelly- 'I wish I could be creative'
Jimmy Stewart- 'Oh, sweetie, you are,' 'You have a great talent for creating difficult situations.'

'You've got a seed of greatness in you!'
'The Lord saves his anointed; he answers them from his holy heaven with the saving power of his right hand. Those who look to him are radiant. Their faces are never covered with shame.'

'Have you fallen off the roof yet?'

'If God has something big planned for my life, then I'd better start acting like it!'

'You have the strength to trust! You hold onto that because its been given to you.'

'Don't ever let someone pass off this earth without forgiving them. Unforgiveness will hurt you everyday of your life.'

'Reaching out to hurting people even in small ways helps to heal our own hurts.'
'It can be catching, believing in miracles.'

'Even if God should send suffering and loss, I will still rejoice in my Saviour! Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord! I will be joyful in God my Saviour!'
'You watch out for those little reminders of me right in front of your face, and I'll be the one to take care of the big things.'
"In that light, it wasn't gemstones that glittered; it was facets of her character I saw."
"God puts his love right in the middle of your path. He drops it right there to catch your eye, to show that he can change your life if you'll just let him."
"...little decisions sometimes transform everything."

My 'Anti Brain Exploding Ploy'

2009-01-10T17:02:00.000Z

For those of you who don't know me personally, I spend my days as a full time post graduate law student...which involves reading a whole load of very (admittedly boring) big, kinda smelly books. A desire for reading is not something which comes naturally to me, if at all. So! amid the swamp of coursework I'm drowning in at the moment, Ive decided to start doing a bit more reading! (Make sense?.....no?...welcome to my world!). My logic is that I'm hoping a bit of inspirational reading will break things up a bit and hopefully prevent my brain from exploding...or imploding (whichever would have come first). So...for a bit of encouragement, I thought it would be kinda nice to post a lil' snippet of each book I read as I go along.

Hope you like it!!

New Year...New Life...New Perspective!!

2009-01-07T21:08:00.001Z

A New Year is finally here by God’s Grace and I thought I'd start it the way I mean to go on by finally posting a personal blog rather than inflicting you with random bits of information I’ve picked up here there and everywhere as I have been doing. I haven’t been sure what I was going to put on this blog and so its been sitting dormant for the last few months. Three days ago my brother brought a beautiful baby boy into the world which has caused me to reflect a bit...so I thought what better time than now.

So much has happened over this past year I wanted to share with you a few things I’ve learnt and maybe things I’ve decided to drop. The biggest thing (literally) I have decided to drop is...pounds! Oh yes...I have decided to ease up again...this time with the Lords help! For those of you who have not met me before, weight has been an issue for me since a kid, many a time I have put on weight and many a time I have lost weight...always in my own effort. The Lord has been laying on my heart recently not to get so hung up on these things: what to eat...what to drink...what to wear- a good name speaks far better than silver or gold. Like much else, if I want to live a healthy lifestyle which will reflect the Light the Lord has put within me, I’m not going to achieve it by my own efforts (and have lasting life changing results anyway) but can only do it by His Spirit. So I’ve decided to Let go and Let God!

Like I mentioned earlier my brother has just had a beautiful baby boy...I’m an Aunty...woohoo!! I held him today for the first time, they’ve named him Jack which means God is Gracious. GOD IS SO GRACIOUS. So many things I allowed myself to get hung up on over 2008! You could put me in a box away from all the common worries of life and I could still worry my way out of it...which seems reasonable when I think about the poor example I’ve given :) ...I digress. The point I’m making is this: another year has passed with all its seeming worrys and strains I allowed myself get worked up over and a new life entered into the world single handedly making all my worries seem futile. We have a choice, we can let the stresses and strains of the present day/ economy/ weight issue/ whatever is your THING disrupt our peace or we can walk the walk with the Lord who IS our Prince of Peace. If we TRUST in Him, His Grace is sufficient. People!...I have a new perspective :)

Links I love!

2008-12-25T21:10:00.000Z

Click on the links below to take you to some of my favourite sites!

Music I Love:

Music by Jerry Gadwa:

http://thegospelofthekingdom.net/Musicians/jerry.html

Music by David Wickboldt:
http://www.davidwickboldt.com/?page_id=7

Music by Jill Moore:

http://www.godlychristianmusic.com/Music_Artist_Details.aspx?id=6&groups=0&name=Jill%20Moore

Free Godly Music: http://www.godlychristianmusic.com/Music_Artist.aspx

Companies I Love:

Marketing by Xambi:
http://www.xambi.co.uk/

Marketing & Distribution by Gasker:
http://www.gaskermarketing.co.uk/

Sports by The Office of Basketball:
http://www.officeofbasketball.co.uk/

Clothing by Pure Clothing:
http://www.pureclothing.co.uk/

About

2008-12-25T20:38:00.004Z

Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls: Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it.

-Matthew 13:45-46

Welcome to Like A Precious Pearl!

Here you will find a little cave of pearls in the form of thoughts, lessons, recipes, my laugher and pain...and anything else I’ve picked up on my quest to treasure the greatest pearl of all: The Kingdom of Heaven.

You are welcome! Please feel free to leave any comments and thoughts; I would love to hear from you! Stay blessed, with love.

God will make a way!

2008-12-06T23:27:00.004Z

I always find this picture really inspiring! Reminds me I have something and somewhere to work to...the Kingdom of heaven!!

Isaiah 40:31: But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

The Universal Song

2008-12-06T21:23:00.000Z

I found this on a sisters blog which she got from another blog and it really touched and encouraged me in a time of need. Thought I'd share it with you:

"There are songs which can only be learned in the valley. No art can teach them; no rules of voice can make them perfectly sung. Their music is in the heart. They are songs of memory, of personal experience. They bring out their burden from the shadow of the past; they mount on the wings of yesterday.

Even in Heaven there will be a song that can only be fully sung by the sons of earth--the strain of redemption. Doubtless it is a song of triumph, a hymn of victory to the Christ who made us free. But the sense of triumph must come from the memory of the chain.

No angel, no archangel can sing it so sweetly as I can. To sing it as I sing it, they must pass through my exile, and this they cannot do. None can learn it but the children of the cross. "And no man could learn that song but the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth." Revelation 14:3.

And so, my soul, thou art receiving a music lesson from thy Father. Thou art being educated for the choir invisible. There are parts of the symphony that none can take but thee.

"There are chords too minor for the angels. There may be heights in the symphony which are beyond the scale--heights which angels alone can reach; but there are depths which belong to thee, and can only be touched by thee.

"Thy Father is training thee for the part the angels cannot sing; and the school is sorrow. I have heard many say that He sends sorrow to prove thee; nay, He sends sorrow to educate thee, to train thee for the choir invisible.

"In the night He is preparing thy song. In the valley He is tuning thy voice. In the cloud He is deepening thy chords. In the rain He is sweetening thy melody. In the cold He is molding thy expression. In the transition from hope to fear He is perfecting thy lights.

Despise not thy school of sorrow, O my soul; it will give thee a unique part in the universal song."

Is the midnight closing round you?
Are the shadows dark and long?
Ask Him to come close beside you,
And He'll give you a new, sweet song.
He'll give it and sing it with you;
And when weakness lets it down,
He'll take up the broken cadence,
And blend it with His own.

And many a rapturous minstrel
Among those sons of light,
Will say of His sweetest music"I learned it in the night."
And many a rolling anthem,
That fills the Father's home,
Sobbed out its first rehearsal,
In the shade of a darkened room.
~George Matheson