The Scrappin Ladybug

{HSCRC12} Hymn #3, How Great Thou Art

2012-01-29T17:16:00.000-08:00

Happy Sunday
It's time for Week #3 of the HSCRC!@ hosted by Patter Cross. Here is the awesome blog entries for HSCRC12 - week #3. How Great thou Art - is another one of my old time favorite Hymns, I have a selection of this song on my Ipod which was sang at my Church in NYC, {Convent Ave Baptist Church in Harlem}.

Check out Patter Cross blog for her complete blog entire, it's awesome what you can find out about these Hymns. Thank you Patter for your dedication to once another awesome challenge. I'm so excited to be taking a part in this Awesome challenge. Patter Cross blog link - http://triplethescraps.blogspot.com/.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!~Love Barbara~

Genuine Friends 1-29-1012

2012-01-29T17:00:00.000-08:00

WOW! Can you believe were already at the end of January......Come on SPRING!
Experts who track the changing vocabulary of the English language chose unfriend as the New Oxford American Dictionary Word of the Year for 2009. They defined it as a verb, “to remove someone as a friend on a social networking Web site,” such as Facebook. On that site, friends allow each other to access the personal information on their Facebook pages. They may never meet face to face or even exchange greetings online. In our world of fleeting cyber acquaintances, we are beginning to realize that having a true friend means more now than ever before.
When Jesus called His disciples “friends” (John 15:15), He spoke of a unique relationship involving mutual commitment. He was only hours from laying down His life (v.13), and He asked them to show their friendship by keeping His commands (v.14). Most astonishing, perhaps, is Jesus’ statement: “No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I heard from My Father I have made known to you” (v.15).
In a genuine friendship, one’s faithfulness can shore up the other’s in times of discouragement or fear. That is what Jesus is to us—our always faithful, forever Friend.

Hallelujah! What a Savior!
Hallelujah! What a Friend!
Saving, helping, keeping, loving,
He is with me to the end. —Chapman

The dearest friend on earth
is but a mere shadow compared to Jesus.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!~Love Barbara~

Feeding Frenzy 1/28/2012

2012-01-28T07:51:00.000-08:00

Have a Great Saturday !

People who study sharks tell us that they are most likely to attack when they sense blood in the water. The blood acts as a trigger to their feeding mechanism and they attack, often in a group, creating a deadly feeding frenzy. Blood in the water marks the vulnerability of the target.

Sadly, this is sometimes how people in the church respond to those who are hurting. Instead of being a community where people are loved, cared for, and nurtured, it can become a dangerous environment where predators are looking for the “blood in the water” of someone’s failings or faults. And then the feeding frenzy is on.

Instead of kicking people when they are down, we should be offering the encouragement of Christ by helping to restore the fallen. Of course, we’re not to condone sinful behavior, but our Lord calls us to display mercy. He said, “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy” (Matt. 5:7). Mercy has been described as not getting what we deserve, and we all deserve eternal judgment. The same God who shows us mercy in Christ calls us to show mercy to one another.

So when we see “blood in the water,” let’s seek to show mercy. The day may come when we will want someone to show mercy to us!

Lord, help us to be merciful
To those who fall in sin,
Remembering You rescued us
And cleansed us from within. —Sper

We can stop showing mercy to others
when Christ stops showing mercy to us.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨) (¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day! ~Love Barbara~

Hidden In The Rock - Jan 27th, 2012

2012-01-27T08:47:00.000-08:00

Good Morning and Happy Friday!

The story is told of a young preacher named Augustus Toplady, who was taking a walk through the English countryside when a sudden storm swept across the landscape. Toplady spotted a wide rock formation with an opening—a cleft—where he sought shelter until the storm passed. As he sat out the deluge, he contemplated the connection between his shelter and God’s help in life’s storms.

He had no paper to write on but found a playing card on the floor of the cavelike structure and began to write the words to the beloved hymn “Rock of Ages.”

Written on that stormy day in 1775, this hymn has been a source of strength for Christians ever since.

Rock of ages, cleft for me,
Let me hide myself in Thee;
Let the water and the blood,
From Thy wounded side which flowed,
Be of sin the double cure,
Save from wrath and make me pure.

Think of your struggles. Do you need a place to hide? Do you need Someone to shelter you from life’s assaults? Do you need the assurance that you’ve been forgiven? As Toplady experienced, we can find shelter and assurance in God.

Don’t stand out in life’s storms alone. Seek God’s shelter. Ask Him to protect you. Make sure you have received His forgiveness. Get close to the Rock of Ages. It’s life’s safest spot.

When the world around you is crumbling,
God is the rock on which you can stand.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨) (¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day! ~Love Barbara~

Soon and very soon - It's Valentines Day - I'm working on two mini albums.

2012-01-26T09:09:00.000-08:00

Sneak peek at the mini album almost done: Y'all know I love mini albums

Above 6x6 mini {inside Brown Lunch Bag}

Above & Below - TP Roll - My Minds Eyes - Jadore

Below - Maya road Heart Chipboard

Below - My Minds Eyes TP Roll

I will be posting complete album when done...

Also working on:

Wall Art

Spiritual Layouts

Bible Verse layouts: 6x6 to total a 12x12 layout page

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!

~Love Barbara~

Girlfriends in God

2012-01-26T08:48:00.000-08:00

I love reading Girlfriends in God everyday . I'm adding this link so that you can go take a sneak peek, maybe it will bless you like it has blessed me.. Stay prayed up..... Girlfriends in God

Here is a Sneak peek of the Prayers -
Let’s Pray Lord, I want to please You and obey You. So many times, I make the wrong choice and give in to the sin that constantly draws me. Today, I choose against that sin and give myself to You. Thank You for the power of Your Word and for the precious gift of prayer, through which I find the strength to stand firm. In Jesus’ name,Amen.

Now It’s Your Turn - Pray and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal the sin in your life that you have refused to face. Write that sin down, confess it and ask God to forgive you. Now destroy the paper on which you wrote the sin and thank God for His forgiving power. Consider the following questions and
write your responses in your journal. What is the most powerful sin in my life?How does this sin influence my relationships, behavior, attitudes, etc?What is the first step I need to take to rid my life of this sin?What specific actions can I take to strengthen the choice I have made to turn from this sin?
Read, memorize and record the following verses in your journal.
2 Thessalonians 3:3 “But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen and
protect you from the evil one” (NIV).
Isaiah 41:10 “Don’t be afraid, for I am
with you. Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you. I will
help you. I will uphold you with my victorious right hand” (NLT).
*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!~Love Barbara~

Jan 26th 2012 - The Land Of And

2012-01-26T08:23:00.000-08:00

In a TV commercial I saw recently, the kids argued in the back seat of the car about where to stop for dinner. One wanted pizza; another chicken. Mom, in the front passenger seat, said, “No, we’ll stop for a hamburger.”
Dad quickly solved the family disagreement with this idea: “We’ll stop at the buffet restaurant, and you can each have what you want and all you want.” The commercial closes with the words, “Take care of family squabbles about what’s for dinner. Go to _____ Buffet, the ‘Land of And.’”
When I saw that commercial, I thought of another “Land of And”: heaven. It is a place that will have all we need. Foremost, we will be in the very presence of Almighty God. In describing heaven, the apostle John said, “The throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it” (Rev. 22:3). Our thirsty souls will be completely satisfied from the “pure river of water of life” that proceeds from His throne (22:1), for He says to His people, “I will give . . . freely to him who thirsts” (21:6). Another “and” in this land will be the tree of life for “the healing of the nations” (22:2). What we won’t find in this Land of And are the curse (22:3), death, sorrow, and tears (21:4).
We’ll be completely satisfied in that Land of And. Are you ready to go?

There is a land of pure delight,
Where saints immortal reign;
Infinite day excludes the night,
And pleasures banish pain. —Watts

Earth—the land of trials; heaven—the land of joys.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨) (¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day! ~Love Barbara~

Worth The Effort? Jan 25th, 2012

2012-01-25T06:55:00.000-08:00

I once resolved to read all 38 of Shakespeare’s plays in one year. To my surprise, fulfilling the task seemed far more like entertainment than work. I expected to learn about Shakespeare’s world and the people who inhabited it, but I found that Shakespeare mainly taught me about my world.

I went through precisely that same process in encountering the Old Testament. Why does it spend so much time on temples, priests, and rules about sacrifices that no longer exist? How can we make sense of the Old Testament, and how does it apply to our lives today?

As I worked past some of the barriers, I came to feel a need to read because of what it was teaching me. Eventually I found myself wanting to read those 39 books. They were satisfying a hunger in me that nothing else had. They taught me about life with God.

The Old Testament speaks to our hunger. It gives an advanced course of “Life With God,” expressed in a style both personal and passionate.

The rewards offered do not come easily. All achievements require a similar process of hard work; we persevere because the rewards will come.

A glory gilds the sacred page,
Majestic like the sun;
It gives a light to every age,
It gives, but borrows none. —Cowper

The Bible gives us a picture of who we really are.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨) (¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!

~Love Barbara~

I love playing with Glitter.

2012-01-22T17:59:00.000-08:00

Yesterday at Achiever's I found a new item that works , oh so well with Glitter.... Oh so Easy to do....
No glue needed, and very little clean up.....Easy Peazy.....

1 - Design Adhesive by Clear snap...
http://www.clearsnap.com/products.cfm/85/Design-Adhesives

This style is the Feuilles Hojas - and you get 6 sheets (18 images)

Cut out the image your going to use from the other images, possion on cardstock and, press down before removing the top plastic sheet..

This image below is of the sticky... top of the image, sprinkle the glitter on to the sticky image, press down don't rub, I let my image sit for 5 minutes.. and tapped off the extra glitter and below is what I came out with...

The completed Cards.. I love it....Love the look on the Kraft Cardstock...

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!
~Love Barbara~

Toilet Paper Roll Gifts Cards Assorted

2012-01-22T17:45:00.000-08:00

Here are some of my Gifts cards that I have made with TP Rolls....

Birthday
Christmas
Baby Shower
Graduation 2012

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!
~Love Barbara~

Thank God For Music 1-21-2012

2012-01-22T12:35:00.000-08:00

Music plays a big part in the Bible. From Genesis to Revelation, God enlists musicians to work on His behalf. He uses music to call people to worship and to send them to war, to soothe ragged emotions and to ignite spiritual passion, to celebrate victories and to mourn losses. Music is an all-occasion, all-inclusive art form. There are followers and leaders, simple songs and complex songs, easy instruments and difficult instruments, melodies and harmonies, fast rhythms and slow rhythms, high notes and low notes.
Marvin Sapp - He Has His Hands On You

Music is a wonderful metaphor for the church because everyone participates by doing what he or she does best. We all sing or play different notes at different times, but we all perform the same song. The better we know our parts, and the better we follow the conductor, the more beautiful the music.
One of the best uses for music is praise. When Solomon’s temple was completed, the musicians praised and thanked God. As they did, “the glory of the Lord filled the house of God” (2 Chron. 5:14).
We thank God for beautiful music, for it’s like a preview of heaven, where the glory of God will dwell forever and where praise for Him will never cease.

Bless the Lord and sing His praises,
Bless the Lord now, O my soul;
Join the song all heaven raises,
Let the anthem loudly roll! —Peterson

Those who praise God on earth will feel at home in heaven

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!~Love Barbara~

Purge Out The Old 1/21/12

2012-01-21T12:31:00.000-08:00

Sorry i've missed ya'll all week.....

Several days before their New Year celebration, many Chinese families give their home a thorough cleaning. There’s a Cantonese saying that goes: “Wash away the dirt on ninyabaat” (28th day of month 12). They practice this tradition because it is believed the cleaning sweeps away the bad luck of the preceding year and makes their homes ready for good luck.

When the apostle Paul wrote to the believers at Corinth, he asked them to give their lives a thorough cleansing—not for good luck but to please God. He told them to “purge out the old leaven” (1 Cor. 5:7).

Paul used the Jewish feasts of Passover and Unleavened Bread (Ex. 12:1-28) as a backdrop for this statement. Leaven (yeast) was a symbol of sin and corruption and was to be removed from Jewish homes to celebrate these festivals (Deut. 16:3-4). Because Jesus is the Passover Lamb who cleanses us from sin, the Corinthians were to scour their hearts and remove the leaven of sexual immorality, malice, and wickedness from their lives and their assembly (1 Cor. 5:9-13).

Out of gratitude to Jesus for His sacrifice, let us purge out the sin in our lives and celebrate the holiness that only He can bring.

The holiness of God demands
A heart that’s pure within,
Yet grace unites with holiness
To purge the heart from sin. —D. De Haan

Sin’s contamination requires the Savior’s cleansing.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!~Love Barbara~

I'm taking some time today !

2012-01-15T20:10:00.000-08:00

This is something that I should do everyday, I'm didn't do it as much as I should have in 2011, but I'm getting better in 2012.. Taking my private time to read my Bible, so I pulled out my KJV Bible and also my Sanctuary Devotional Bible for Women....
I enjoy reading different version of the Bible saying the same things but sometime other version are easier for me to understand. Today I started in Psalm, {did I mention that's one of my favorite book of the Bible}....And as I continue to read other themes/prompt/ideas hit me.... check out some listed below...

Journaling prompt for some scripture layouts this weekend..

O Give Thanks - Psalm 135, 136

Praise ye the LORD - Praise him - Psalm 117, 150

Praise ye the Lord - Be Blessed - Psalm 111, 112

{I will be posted the rest of the Layout as they are completd}

Where would I be? - Psalm 124 ( Thank you Jesus)

Living a Purposed filled Life! - Romans 8:28, Ecclesiastes 3:17

Judgement day - Ecclesiastes 3:17

Sermon Theme from 11/20/2011 " I'm a Thankful Follower" - Luke 17:11-19

Just have Faith - Hebrews 11:1, Luke 17:19, Psalm 103:1-3{healing}, Hebrews 11:6

Building Up Faith {life pressures} Hebrews 10:35-36

Thanks for taking the time to view my blog, I'll be working on these layout this weekend....I'll post the layouts as they come completed.....

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!
~Love Barbara~

HSCRC12- Hymn Challenge #2: Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus

2012-01-15T16:35:00.000-08:00

Happy Sunday all, below is my entry for the HSCRC12 - Challenge hosted once again by Patter Cross, check out here blog at - http://triplethescraps.blogspot.com/
for the complete entry.....
added to the mini album:

Have a Great Sunday !

Hebrews 12:2 "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."

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!~Love Barbara~

Unhook The Chain 1/13/2012

2012-01-13T08:04:00.000-08:00

I pray today daily word helped you it really Blessed me.. Have a GREAT DAY! Be BLESSED,,,

Jesus made it clear to His disciples that He is “the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). He is the only way to the Father, and our belief and commitment to Him results in love and obedience—and leads to an eternal home in heaven.
Christina, a Bible student in Minsk, Belarus, wrote this testimony: “Jesus died for everyone, even the most desperate sinner. The worst criminal who comes to Him in faith, the Lord will accept.
“For a very long time, Jesus had been knocking at my door. Figuratively speaking, the door to my heart was open. I was a believer. But I kept the safety chain in place. I would not turn my life over to Him.”
Christina knew this was not right, and she felt that God was compelling her to make a change. “I knelt before Him and opened the door as wide as I could.” She took off the chain.
Committed followers of Jesus will do what He commands—without safety chains or back doors. No reserving little corners of our lives all for ourselves. No secret sins.
If, like Christina, you’ve been holding back from surrendering to God, it’s time to unhook that safety chain. Let go of those reservations. Throw open the doors of your life, and experience the joy of obedient discipleship.

Less of self and more of Jesus,
More and more each day like Thee;
Just to live in full surrender
For my Lord who ransomed me. —Wonder

No life is more secure than a life surrendered to God.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨) (¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day! ~Love Barbara~

Attracting The Lost 1/12/2012

2012-01-12T12:13:00.000-08:00

My friend Anna often has people stop her on the street and ask for directions. This has happened to her even in countries where she is a foreigner. She wonders if it’s because she has an honest face and looks trustworthy. I suggested that perhaps it’s because she looks as if she knows where she’s going. Another friend said that maybe she attracts the lost.

All of those attributes should be true of God’s people in the spiritual sense. As believers, we have purpose and direction, we know where we’re going, and we know how to get there. This gives us confidence as we go about fulfilling God’s call in our lives. When this kind of confidence is evident to others, the lost will look to us for direction.

God has always maintained a presence on earth so that people could find Him. His first light for the world was the nation of Israel (Isa. 42:6). Then Solomon prayed that God’s great name would draw people to Himself (1 Kings 8:41-43). The light of the Jewish nation culminated in Jesus, “the light of the world” (John 9:5). And now, followers of Jesus are to be the light of the world (Matt. 5:14). As such, it is our responsibility to show people the way to be reconciled to God (2 Cor. 5:18).

You are called with a holy calling
The light of the world to be;
To lift up the lamp of the Savior
That others His light may see. —Anon.

To lead others out of the darkness of sin, let them see your light.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨) (¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day! ~Love Barbara~

A Perfect Fit 1/11/2012

2012-01-11T07:30:00.000-08:00

I had to check on The Daily word, for my message on today. Just got a call to accept a position at the company that everyone in Raleigh know is a HOT mess to work for .. never heard anything nice about this work location......But this is about the 12th call I've gotten from different agency about this job... So I'm guessing there is a message behind this madness. I'm going to Step out on faith and truss in GOD and knock there sock off come Monday if the accept me to start.....

Today daily word....
“What kind of skill set do you bring?” That question, posed in a job interview, was intended to determine if my friend would be a good fit for a position. My friend quickly did a mental review of his skills and talents, hoping to emphasize the unique characteristics he possessed that would contribute to the success of the company.
What if we already had the perfect set of skills required to accomplish what God wants us to do? Well—as a matter of fact—we do! The spiritual gifts we possess, along with our experiences, training, natural talents, and a submissive heart make up a unique individual who has the skills needed for the “good works” that God has “prepared beforehand” (Eph. 2:10). If God has something He wants to accomplish and that you feel He is calling you to do, He will provide what you need to complete the task. Or, as one paraphrase emphasizes, God wants us “to join Him in the work He does, the good work He has gotten ready for us to do” (Eph. 2:10 The Message). The one thing He requires of us is that we “be found faithful” (1 Cor. 4:2).
Have you found a place in God’s service where you can be used of Him? Let’s “do good” and “be rich in good works” (1 Tim. 6:18).

Think not that you are limited
Because of what you cannot do,
But think instead of all you have—
The talents God has given you. —D. De Haan

Spiritual gifts are meant to be used, not admired.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨) (¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day! ~Love Barbara~

Surprised By God 1-10-2011

2012-01-10T08:21:00.000-08:00

If Naomi had dreamed about returning to her former home prosperous and successful, entering Bethlehem would have been a nightmare. While living in a foreign land, she had lost her husband and two sons and returned with only her daughter-in-law Ruth and a heart full of sorrow. “Do not call me Naomi [pleasant]; call me Mara [bitter],” she told her former neighbors, “for the Almighty has dealt very bitterly with me” (Ruth 1:20).

But this wasn’t the end of the story. When the discouraged Naomi saw God’s hand in Ruth’s life, she said, “The Lord . . . has not forsaken His kindness to the living and the dead!” (2:20). What appeared to be a dead-end had become a doorway for these two women who had lost so much.
The Old Testament book of Ruth is a wonderful story. The brief narrative is infused with an amazing sweetness and grace as “the Lord” is mentioned time after time.
Through Naomi and Ruth, we are reminded that God works in surprising ways to make His love known and to accomplish His purposes—even during difficult times.
God’s surprises continue so we can take heart. He has not stopped showing His kindness to you and me.

He whose heart is kind beyond all measure
Gives unto each day what He deems best—
Lovingly, its part of pain and pleasure,
Mingling toil with peace and rest. —Berg

What we see of God’s provisions teaches us to trust Him for what we cannot see of His purposes.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!~Love Barbara~

Another Awesome Paper Pack - Year-O-Graphy

2012-01-07T14:05:00.000-08:00

Another Awesome Paper Pack from - Simple Stories

I love this company for there paper pack.

I did my vacation Album with the Destination pack,

and now here is the Year-O-Graphy.... I'm so loving this paper pack.

Other Paper Pack I have and love:

Destination, Fun day of summer, Life Documented.

I have a couple of pages from the year-o-graphy collection picked them up at Archivers ...

This is the collection I'm going to use for my "EMBRACE LIFE" 2012 Album...

Yes out of paper bag - prefect color match...

Some random ideas: {Brain Storming}

Chipboard letters

Glimmer mist

Inked edges (Vintage Photo- TH)

Prima Flowers-glimmer mist

Inked Edges of paper bags

Distress Ink - Vintage Photo

Ribbon and Threads

Washi tapes

Collision Course 1-7-2012

2012-01-07T12:01:00.000-08:00

Have a Great Day - Live Love laugh

My wife and I were driving on an expressway when we saw a driver turn left into a median turnaround that was intended for emergency vehicles only. He was planning to make a U-turn and head back the other way.

Looking to his right, the driver waited for an opening in oncoming traffic, so he failed to notice that a police car was backing up toward him on his left. Finally seeing an opening in traffic, the U-turn driver pulled out and rammed into the back of the police car.

It’s not unusual for us to think we can get away with doing something wrong. After King David committed adultery with Bathsheba, he too was focused on “getting away with it.” But he was on a collision course with Nathan. His adultery, deceit, and murder “displeased the Lord” (2 Sam. 11:27), so when Nathan exposed David’s grievous sin, the king was deeply remorseful. He confessed, repented, and received God’s forgiveness. But the consequences of his sin never departed from his household (12:10).

If you’ve been trying to get away with something, remember that “your sin will find you out” (Num. 32:23). Turn yourself in to God. Don’t hide. Instead, seek His gracious forgiveness.

God knows all you’ve thought or done—
From Him you cannot hide;
Confess to Him and He’ll forgive
Through Christ the crucified. —Hess

We have to face our sins before we can put them behind us.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨) (¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!

~Love Barbara~

Facing The Future Jan 5th, 2012

2012-01-05T09:56:00.000-08:00

While going through some old files, I came across a 1992 special issue of TIME magazine titled “Beyond the Year 2000: What To Expect in the New Millennium.” It was fascinating to read the predictions made 2 decades ago about what the future would hold. Some general observations were on target, but no one foresaw many of the events and innovations that have radically changed our lives. The most telling statement to me was, “The first rule of forecasting should be that the unforeseen keeps making the future unforeseeable.”

James reminds us that any view of the future that omits God is foolish and proud. “Come now, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit’; whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. . . . Instead you ought to say, ‘If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that’” (James 4:13-15).

Many people used to begin their statement of plans with, “Lord willing.” The phrase may have become trite, but the acknowledgment of God’s overruling hand is not.

As we look ahead with God firmly in view, we can face the future with confidence in His loving plan.

God holds the future in His hands
With grace sufficient day by day,
Through good or ill He gently leads,
If we but let Him have His way. —Rohrs

Those who know Christ as Savior can face the future with joy.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!

~Love Barbara~

Thank You Ursula's for the Paper bag tutorial....I've gotta do it...

2012-01-04T08:08:00.000-08:00

Good Afternoon - Let's call this Paper Bag Mini Album Wednesday....
<><><><><>Have not decided on a theme yet, might just be something completed just in case I need a quick Gift. But I'm loving how it's coming out, have not decide if I'll bind it or use rings to hold it all together....

Good Afternoon friends, My Scrapping Buddy on 2peas posted an awesome entry on her blog, (link is below)....So I'm going to take it on myself to complete yet another kind of Paper bag Album....Check out Ursula's Blog link Under Scarlet Bird's Wing

From Ursula's Blog (copied and pasted)- I'm up with a tutorial for making a paper bag album. Hope you check it out. Paper Bag Album Tutorial.

I love mini album and this is my first {1st} Mini Album for 2012....I'm excited....

I'm going to start picking out some paper and start my Paper bag album, {HOORAY} I'm going to be using the lunch bag size 6 1/8 x 12 3/8, cut in half....

here is a sneak peek of some of the pages in the mini paper bag album....

Thanks for viewing...Thanks you Ursula.

´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!
~Love Barbara~

An Exercise In Godliness

2012-01-04T07:47:00.000-08:00

Jan 4th, 2012
The New Year is often the time when we resolve to take better care of ourselves—to exercise, eat right, and perhaps shed some of the pounds we gained over the holidays. Paul says, “Exercise profits a little” (1 Tim. 4:8), so I struggle to be as fit as I can be. I try to eat right, more or less, though I do love fried chicken. I lift weights and walk, but I know that my body is not long for this world. Its strength is fading.
It’s better to concentrate on godliness, because it holds promise for this life and the life to come (v.8). Contrary to the old adage, we can take something with us after all.

{Photo Taken by me in Summer 2010 @ The SAAM - Butterfly Garden Exhibit in Durham}

Godliness may sound dull, scary, and unattainable, but the essence of godliness is simply self-giving love—caring more for others than we care for ourselves. This kind of love is hard to come by, but it’s one that grows in the presence of love. We grow loving and more lovely by sitting at Jesus’ feet, listening to Him, talking things over—gaining in likeness to the One who is love (1 John 4:8).
Life is a journey into love, it seems to me, and there’s nothing so beautiful as a godly soul. Physical exercise is good, no doubt, but there is something far, far better: It is to love.

That I may love Him is my soul’s ambition—
Love Him with all my mind and strength and heart,
Seek out His will and choose it, in submission,
And with the joy He only can impart. —Anon.

Love is godliness in action

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨) (¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!
~Love Barbara~

The Pursuit 1/3/2012

2012-01-03T09:52:00.000-08:00

When my husband, Carl, pursued a relationship with me while we were dating, he was serious about it. He called. He wrote notes. He asked thoughtful questions. He bought me flowers, candy, books, dinner, and other gifts. He spent a lot of time and effort in his pursuit of me.

Way back in the 10th century bc, Solomon recommended that kind of serious commitment when pursuing something else—wisdom. A dictionary definition of wisdom, “understanding what is true, right, or lasting,” sounds crucial if we want a life that glorifies our holy God.

Maybe that’s why Solomon used so many active verbs in Proverbs 2 to describe our needed efforts to gain wisdom. He said, “incline your ear,” “apply your heart,” “cry out,” “lift up your voice,” “seek her,” “search for her” (vv.2-4).

Seeking wisdom takes effort, and Scripture tells us where it can be found: “For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” He isn’t storing up wisdom for Himself; “He stores up sound wisdom for the upright” (vv.6-7).

Seek God with all your heart. He is the source of all wisdom for your life.

What will it profit when life here is o’er,
Though great worldly wisdom I gain,
If seeking knowledge I utterly fail
The wisdom of God to obtain? —Nelson

You can acquire much knowledge,
but true wisdom comes only from God.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!

~Love Barbara~

{HSCRC12} Hymn #1 Amazing Grace 1/1/2012

2012-01-01T21:23:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year everyone, This year one of the many Challenges that I have decided to take part in is one hosted by Patter cross, she is awesome. you can read the Entire article on her blog, http://triplethescraps.blogspot.com/ come one come all bookmark her blog and work along even if your not a scrapbooker, your can just journal the entire year and have a great time in Dec reading thru you entries.

Copied and pasted from Patter Blog: Questions, what is your answer ?

So, do you know God's amazing grace for yourself? If not, why not? Will you not only accept the gift of His Son but unwrap it and live fully for Him? If you do know His amazing grace, how about your family members and friends? How might God have you share the gift with them this year? And how are you extending grace to others through kind gestures, forgiveness, a pleasant surprise, a smile and loving words when least expected, etc.? How can you bless someone this week by extending God's grace to them? God meets us where we are, and He wants us to meet others where they are with compassion. Pray about ways you can do that.

My Journaling - I remember going to church as a very young girl with my great auntie, and almost every Sunday they would sing Amazing Grace, it grew to be one of my all time favorite hymns. Even the newest version of today sang by CeCe Winans "Amazing Grace what would I do without Grace" that also an awesome song.

When I think about God's Grace.What would I do ? what would I be? without his Grace. God gives me new Graces everyday, And I thank Him so much, I stay faithful because I truly know it could have been much different without his Grace. Spreading God word is the work of all of us, I love to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ either thru the Sermon Notes ( from my awesome Pastor Dr. T.L.Carmichael Sr.), thru the daily word, or on my facebook page or even in my scrapbooking layouts. I often find myself scrapbooking and journaling more and more about Christ and Spiritual related theme, to God be the glory for working thur me to spread the word.

Blessing People thru Encouraging words! - I try my best to encourage people everyday. I feel so much better when I can encourage someone and they feeling better than before, I truly think God uses me to bless other, Not always finical lybut Thur an encouraging word. Blessing come in all shape and sizes, so when some in the body of Christ tell you your going to be RICH, don't think Money..... In God kingdom RICHES could be RICH in Health, Blessing, Spiritual Riches these are some thing money can't buy. When I tell my testimony to some people and they feel better, It's touches my heart, and my heart goes into an instant Praise Dance. It's not about me, I know without God's Grace on my Life I would not be able to spread his word. It's not easy spreading the word there are always people that wanna challenge you but, I tell them try him, try GOD and he can make a difference in your life if you stay Faithful and truss in him.

I thank God for all my spiritual gifts (highest 3) Craftsmanship, Faith, Service, I'm not surprise by them at all. That's what spells Barbara.....

Ephesians 2:8-9 "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—-and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—-not by works, so that no one can boast."
Ephesians 1:6-7 "To the praise of His glorious grace, which He has freely given us in the One He loves. In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace.

Front cover -

I'm using a Paper Bag mini album.. bind by me (bind it all) and made with red Lunch bags.

Hoping I'll have enough space on the pages to journal.

Inside front cover

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!
~Love Barbara~

Let’s Be Ready 1/1/2012

2012-01-01T19:02:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! Looking forward to what this new year might bring, I can’t help but wonder if 2012 will be the year when Jesus comes back. But then I also wonder if I’m ready.
All of my life I’ve had to “be ready.” As a child, I had to be ready for dinner by washing my hands. As an adult, being ready for important responsibilities continues to be an ongoing reality. But I’ve come to realize that nothing is more important than being ready for our reunion with Jesus.
Speaking of Christ’s return, John tells us that “everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself” (1 John 3:3). Looking forward to Jesus’ return fills us with hope—not a wish-list kind of hope, but a solid expectation that motivates us to keep our hearts from sinful distractions and rivets our attention on becoming more like Him. If we really believe that this might be the year of His return, we will be more ready to forgive, to seek forgiveness, and to share God’s unconditional love with others.
As we consider the possibility that Jesus could return this year, let’s be sure that we are ready. Let’s strive to be pure as He is pure, anticipating the day when tears and sorrow, pain and death will all be replaced with the everlasting joy of His presence.

Expecting Jesus’ soon return
Will help us live a life that’s pure;
For if we’re ready when He comes,
We will not be ashamed but sure. —Sper

Wanting to be ready for Christ’s return will make a difference in the way we live.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!
~Love Barbara~

Playing Your Part 12-30-11

2011-12-30T11:09:00.000-08:00

For the past several years, my daughter Rosie has been the director of drama at a local middle school. Students come to audition and a few are selected to play the lead roles. But there are still many other important supporting roles that must be cast—roles that are vital to the production.There are other young people who want to be a part of the show but don’t relish being in the spotlight. They are the ones who will change scenery, open and close the curtains, run the lights, and assist with makeup and costume changes. Then there are the parents from the community who provide pizza and cookies for rehearsals, donate goods, build sets, sew costumes, make signs, and hand out programs.
The success of the performances are the culmination of an intense 4- to 5-month process that is dependent on the hard work of a wide range of dedicated volunteers.
Similarly, for the body of Christ to function fully, each of us must play a part. Every believer is uniquely gifted for service. When these gifts are combined in a cooperative relationship, “every part does its share” (Eph. 4:16), and the separate parts make up the whole (Rom. 12:5).
We need each other. What part are you playing in the life of the church?

For the church to function fully,
We must all fulfill our role;
While the Spirit’s gifts are many,
They combine to serve the whole. —Sper

For a church to be healthy,
its members must exercise their spiritual gifts.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!~Love Barbara~

Yet I Will Rejoice - 12/29/11

2011-12-29T10:05:00.000-08:00

Life in our world can be difficult. At some point, most of us have wondered, Where is God in my trouble? And we may have thought, It seems like injustice is winning and God is silent. We have a choice as to how we respond to our troubles. The prophet Habakkuk had an attitude worth following: He made the choice to rejoice.

Habakkuk saw the rapid increase in Judah’s moral and spiritual failings, and this disturbed him deeply. But God’s response troubled him even more. God would use the wicked nation of Babylon to punish Judah. Habakkuk did not fully understand this, but he could rejoice because he had learned to rely on the wisdom, justice, and sovereignty of God. He concluded his book with a wonderful affirmation: “Yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation” (3:18). Though it was not clear how Judah would survive, Habakkuk had learned to trust God amid injustice, suffering, and loss. He would live by his faith in God alone. With this kind of faith came joy in God, despite the circumstances surrounding him.
We too can rejoice in our trials, have surefooted confidence in God, and live on the heights of His sovereignty.
Be this the purpose of my soul
My solemn, my determined choice:
To yield to God’s supreme control,
And in my every trial rejoice. —Anon.

Praising God in our trials turns burdens into blessings.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!~Love Barbara~

Another TP Roll mini Album.....

2011-12-29T10:02:00.000-08:00

Another TP Roll mini Album...Also selling on my Etsy site...

Sorry in advance on the glare on some of the pictures.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!~Love Barbara~

Sneak peek COZY NECKWRAP

2011-12-28T11:17:00.000-08:00

It's a Chucky Neckwrap...

Almost done.. looking for some large button and or some chop sticks.(YES I said chopsticks)..

for closure that is....

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!

~Love Barbara~

Christmas stars Mini TP Roll Album

2011-12-28T10:34:00.000-08:00

These little minis are made with the inside of that Toilet Tissue roll. You know as Crafters we will use everything that we possible can, I found this idea on You Tube, ( this is not my idea)....Take a look on you tube they have some awesome creation. You can also search the 2peas galley under (TP ROLL) they also have some awesome work posted.

Items needed:

5 TP Rolls

5 pcs - 4 1/4 x 6" pattern paper

2 - metal rings

1 - pc of card stock to cut tags

and embellishment of your choice.

Christmas eve I was able to create about 6 of these mini abums.
I'll be posting this all this week.

Hint: The easiest way I found to cover the roll - is to cut a 12 x 12 pc of paper into a 4 1/4 x 12 inch pc. .. and then cut that pc in 1/2, so now you have 2 pieces that measure 4 1/4 x 6.
To get started you will wrap the pcs around the roll over lapping in the back....
Nice and clean finish....

Most of the embellishments were in my Christmas Craft box.

The Front and Back of tag that go inside the pockets.
You can post journaling on tag or photos.

Thanks for viewing I hope you enjoyed see my creation..

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!

~Love Barbara~

Michaels Crafts is selling a Brand New Yarn - Waverly by Bernat

2011-12-24T08:50:00.000-08:00

Michael's Crafts Has a brand new yarn - I only purchased one to see how well it works....Love the colors there so Vibrant... I purchased this color which I was thinking it was like a dark aqua, but it turned out to be Classic Navy.....I have the perfect Vest to go with it.....see picture below...

Waverly for Bernat
All Shades (164155)
Knitting Tension
18 sts - 24 rows = 4" (10 cm)
Crochet Tension
12 sts - 14 rows = 4" (10 cm)
Suggested Knitting Needle
5.00 mm, US - 8
Suggested Crochet Hook
5.00 mm, US - H/8
All Shades (164155)
Content: 100% Acrylic
Put-up: 3.50 oz / 100 g, 3 Balls / Package
Length: 197 yd / 180 m

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!
~Love Barbara~

Another sneak Peek...Mambi Sheet pad " Family"

2011-12-22T11:59:00.000-08:00

This paper pack is awesome... I'm working on this mini album themed " Family". I love this paper pack it made of high quality card stock, and some pages have glitter and some have shimmer, and the pages that specify mom, dad, family,sister and brother awesome....

as you can see I'm excited.. I love mini albums....

Got the measurements for the pockets from www.youtube.com, followthepapertrail she has some awesome work on you tube check here out...

I've used one sheet of 8 1/2 x 11 cardtsock, above cut 8 1/2 x 6 3/4....

(scored at 2 1/8 and then 3/4 on bottom) pictures shown above....

Below - leftover paper cut tag 4 1/4 x 6 1/2....now that saving paper...

left over piece measures 2 x 4 (scraps)....Hopw this helps someone..

Thanks for viewing and please feel free to leave a comment...

I will post completed album when it done.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!
~Love Barbara~

Sneak Peek of Mini Albums...one TP Roll Album

2011-12-20T11:31:00.000-08:00

Having a wonderful day.....

Just wanted to take a minute to show case some mini albums I'm working on..

I will post detailed pictures when there completed...

Just a sneak peek right now....

My Interview for the I AM HEALED article on FACEBOOK!

2011-12-20T10:17:00.000-08:00

I AM Healed

I was interview by Jamie McKnight - Thanks Jamie for bring out the best in my.

Thanks Jacks for the reviewing of the article before publication..

I created a facebook page for those in need of physical and/or emotional healing. This is my first interview of a good friend of mine who has been CANCER FREE for 5 years now. I pray you share this post with others.www.facebook.com/IamHealed

On June 15, 2006, I was tested and diagnosed with cancer. After having a bone marrow test, it became clear to me that God truly had my back. It’s something when you go through an experience so heartfelt and life threatening. I felt God say to me back in March of the following year: “Everything is going to be ok as long as you stay focused on Me.” That’s what I did! I stayed prayed up. I was in church every Sunday and bible study on Wednesday (when I could go). On June 16, 2006, I had the pleasure of meeting a missionary/prophet for Christ Jesus, Barbara Mason, of South Carolina. Barbara told me to continue to pray for healing and read and commit to memory: Psalm 103:1-3: "Praise the Lord, my soul; all my inmost being, praise His holy name. Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all His benefits--who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases." This is indeed, my healing Psalm. After the re-dedication of my life in August 2006 at Convent Avenue Baptist Church in Harlem NYC, I started working the word in my life and God started working in miracles, signs, and wonders in my life. Then in December 2007, Dr. Hyde in Brooklyn, NY, called me into her office to and said, “WHATEVER YOU’VE BEEN DOING YOU NEED TO KEEP DOING BECAUSE WE CAN’T FIND THE CANCER!!!!!”

Q: Do you believe your faith is the main contributing factor to your healing?

I believe I have always been a person of faith. Not until back in 2007, when I took my first spiritual gifts test, was I excited to realize that faith and craftsmanship were two of my highest rated spiritual gifts. God said in Matthew 17:20 “Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there’, and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.”I remember during that time, I would collect every bible I could get my hands on. I bought the Joyce Meyers bible, women version, mom version, and the women of faith version. You name it; I bought it and read it. God totally showed himself strong and mighty in my life. I have been cancer-free for the last 5 years.

What advice would you give to people who are still waiting for God to answer their prayer?Remember God will not ever give you more than you can not handle nor will he assign you a task without giving you what is needed to complete that task. For me, I know God keeps blessing me every day. When I moved down to Raleigh NC in 2008 and I stepped out on faith trusting in GOD, and his will on my life. I had been unemployed for a year, and God still took care of me and my son. For people that are still waiting on God to answer. DON’T GIVE UP!!! You might be praying for healing, financial blessing or your children are going haywire. Keep the faith. Remember Matthew 17:20: God will watch over you. Remember joy comes in the morning. Stay faithful, don’t give up. Your breakthrough is right around the corner.

Q: Any other advice you want to give the readers out there?

· You can’t do it alone. Don’t try to do it alone. Find a prayer partner, talk to your pastor/and or first lady in a private meeting and ask them for help and/or guidance. I do believe in corporate prayer. (Shameless plug you can also join our online community of believers at www.facebook.com/IamHealed )

· Pity parties won’t help. Keep your eyes and ears open so that you can see the signs and wonders. When God does send the message, you can hear Him. Best way for that to work is you have to have a personal relationship with God.

· It was not an easy road, so I don’t want it to seem that way. Stay faithful and have that personal relationship of your own with the almighty God. I stay focused on God in spite of my circumstances and He healed me. Please understand when God heals you or delivers you from something, go out to the hedges and highways and tell somebody. Your healing and deliverance is for the masses, you never know who’s going through and your testimony might just be what they need to keep going on there journey.

Barbara is a member of Elevation Baptist Church of Raleigh/Knightdale NC, (under the great leadership of Pastor T.L. Carmichael and First Lady Elder Rebecca Carmichael). I feel so blessed to be a part of this awesome ministry. Barbara serves in the Youth Ministry, Missionary Ministry, Usher Ministry, and the Christian Education Ministry.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨) (¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day! ~Love Barbara~

Enourage me Give-away WINNERS!

2011-12-20T09:59:00.000-08:00

The Giveaway Winners are -
ScrappnBee said...

good luck with your giveaway!-Amanda

December 07, 2011 10:18 AM

Denise said...

What a nice give-away. Thanks for sharing your talents

December 07, 2011 2:48 PM

Thank You for doing my giveaway, because only you two ladies followed my Blog and comment you Guys are the winners....

Email me at Blessedladybug@bellsouth.net your address.. package ready to mail just waiting on address.. Thank you taking the time....

Have a blessed day.....

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!
~Love Barbara~

All Is Well - Stay blessed.....

2011-12-19T10:59:00.000-08:00

Recently, my husband and I were reacquainted with a young man we had known as a child many years ago. We fondly reminisced about a Christmas program when Matthew had sung—in a perfect boy soprano—the song “All Is Well” by Wayne Kirkpatrick and Michael W. Smith. It was a wonderful memory of a song beautifully sung.

All is well, all is well;
Lift up your voice and sing.
Born is now Emmanuel,
Born is our Lord and Savior.
Sing Alleluia, sing Alleluia, all is well.

To hear the words of that song at Christmastime is comforting to many. But some people are unable to absorb the message because their lives are in turmoil. They’ve experienced the loss of a loved one, persistent unemployment, a serious illness, or depression that will not go away. Their hearts loudly cry out, “All is not well—not for me!”
But for those of us who celebrate the birth of our Savior—despite the dark night of the soul we may experience—all is well because of Christ. We are not alone in our pain. God is beside us and promises never to leave (Heb. 13:5). He promises that His grace will be sufficient (2 Cor. 12:9). He promises to supply all our needs (Phil. 4:19). And He promises us the amazing gift of eternal life (John 10:27-28).
As we review God’s promises, we can agree with the poet John Greenleaf Whittier, who wrote, “Before me, even as behind, God is, and all is well.”

God’s peace pillows the head when God’s promises calm the heart.
*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨) (¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day! ~Love Barbara~

All over Journaling - I'm praying for you! ( cause I don't see you Praying for yourself)!

2011-12-14T12:09:00.000-08:00

I love these two sketches - Theme Title might be I pray for you cause I don't see you praying for yourself. Theme for one of my son pages, maybe be both....

Not sure what Alpha letters I'll be using.

But it will capture what I'm trying to say and it will be posted as wall art...

Have a great day!

( stay tuned for posted layouts)

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!

~Love Barbara~

The Horse And Her Boy - 12/14/11

2011-12-14T12:02:00.000-08:00

When I was about 5 years old, my father decided that I needed a horse of my own to care for. So he bought an old bay mare and brought her home to me. I named her Dixie.Dixie was a formidable beast for me at my age and small stature. No saddle was small enough, no stirrups short enough for my legs, so I rode bareback most of the time.
Dixie was plump, which meant that my feet stuck straight out, making it difficult to stay astride. But whenever I fell off, Dixie would simply stop, look at me, and wait while I tried to climb on her back again. This leads me to Dixie’s most admirable trait: She was wonderfully patient.

I, on the other hand, was less than patient with Dixie. Yet she bore my childish tantrums with stoic patience, never once retaliating. I wish I could be more like Dixie, having patience that overlooks a multitude of offenses. I have to ask myself, “How do I react when others aggravate me?” Do I respond with humility, meekness, and patience? (Col. 3:12). Or with intolerance and indignation?
To overlook an offense. To forgive 70 times 7. To bear with human frailty and failure. To show mercy and kindness to those who exasperate us. To gain such control over our souls—this is the work of God.

God of grace and God of goodness,
Teach me to be ever kind,
Always gentle and forgiving
With the Savior first in mind. —Brandt

Love that is born at Calvary bears and forbears, gives and forgives.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨) (¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day! ~Love Barbara~

Free Pizza!

2011-12-13T09:07:00.000-08:00

Money is tight when you’re a college student. So when free food is available, students will show up anytime, anywhere. If a company wants to recruit new employees, it will entice young people on college campuses to come to a presentation by offering free pizza. Some students attend presentation after presentation—just for the pizza. The food in the present seems to be more important than the job for the future.

Jesus fed a crowd of 5,000, and the next day many searched for Him (John 6:10-11,24-25). He challenged them: “You seek Me, not because you saw the signs, but because you ate of the loaves and were filled” (v.26). It seems that the food was more important to some of the people than the everlasting life Jesus offered in Himself. He told them He was “the bread of God . . . who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world” (v.33). Some didn’t believe, wouldn’t accept His teaching, and “walked with Him no more” (v.66). They had wanted the food, but they didn’t want Him and what would be required of them to follow Him.
Jesus calls us today to come to Him—not for the blessings from His hand but to receive the eternal life He offers and to follow Him, “the bread of God.”

Examining our motives
For following the Lord
Will show if we’re authentically
Believing in His Word. —Sper

Only Christ the Living Bread can satisfy our spiritual hunger.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!~Love Barbara~

I Snatched two Card Sketches -

2011-12-13T08:56:00.001-08:00

Good Morning
I've snatched two cards sketches from Blogs that I've surfed, Trying to get the cards done so I'm going to be mailing out my Christmas cards ASAP..... see sketches below:

( I'll be posting my cards today) let me get to work....

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!
~Love Barbara~

Michelle Obama helps break world record for jumping jacks.

2011-12-12T11:13:00.000-08:00

Michelle Obama has earned her family another place in history. This time, Mrs. Obama will share the honor with more than 300,000 other participants who in October set the record for most people doing jumping jacks in a 24-hour period.

The previous world record was just 20,000.

In a video from the White House, Mrs. Obama thanked National Geographic Kids and the Guinness Book of World Records, who helped organize the event as part of Obama's Let's Move! initiative to promote physical fitness and healthy eating for children. She also said she hopes that physical fitness will be a priority for the kids who participated.

"More than anything, I want to say, thanks to every single young person who showed that exercise isn't just good for you, but that it's fun too," Mrs. Obama said.

In the event, Mrs. Obama led about 400 kids from elementary and middle schools in the Washington area on the South Lawn of the White House. Other jumping jack events were held around the world to reach the world-record mark.

you can also watch the Video - http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=TULYxKSm9KA
*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨) (¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day! ~Love Barbara~

Encourage one another Paper Giveway!

2011-12-06T09:09:00.001-08:00

Encourage one another ! Paper giveaway...
As many of you might know as a scrapbooker we collect so much paper. I have papers/cardstock from CTMH, Stampin Up, DCWV, and so many others, so here it is..

Instruction below on what you have to do.....

(Opening date from today 12/5/2011 to 12/14/2011)

On 12/15/2011 I will have my son pick two name/numbers out of a hat and those two special winners will win over 25 sheets ( each winner) of various kinds of papers.....Glitter, Core dinations foundations, Gemstones, your name It I got it....

Here is what you have to do.....

1- Click on the link to Follow...

2- Leave me a comment on my blog... on this Post.... after checking out my Etsy store and give me some feedback on what you guys think I can change, or even leave the same...
www.etsy.com shop ladybugbronxny

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!

~Love Barbara~

New cards for sale !

2011-12-06T09:03:00.001-08:00

Happy tuesday - Here are some more cards that i'm selling on etsy.com - shop (ladybugbronxny)...

Embossed Snowflakes

Shimmer on Tree

Season Greeting - Snowflakes

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!
~Love Barbara~

Sorry Don'T Forget!!!! Your Neckwrap....

2011-11-29T01:03:00.001-08:00

Fern and Deep Green

Grey and Fall Foliage,

Pink and Green - Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority

Black and Cream for my BFF..

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!
~Love Barbara~

Added some items to my store....JUST ADDED

2011-11-29T00:57:00.001-08:00

If you have a minute ...please take a look at what's selling in my Etsy store.... shop name LADYBUGBRONXNY -

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!
~Love Barbara~

Are you Up for another yearly Challenge.....Patter's Cross HSCRC12.

2011-11-26T09:17:00.000-08:00

Announcing {Hymn & Scripture Challenge} for 2012.
I'm in Are you!
This is not the entire post... check out the link below..
Patter Cross is at it again.. I truly love this Women of Christ. I know for me I'm so Glad that God connected us here on the blogger network.... I have done all here yearly challenges.
You can read the Entire Article on here blog at http://triplethescraps.blogspot.com/.
I truly love here work.....
So i guess you know I'm in.....
Announcing {Hymn & Scripture Challenge} for 2012

Since we do not have a post for this weekend, I wanted to share where the Lord has led me for 2012. Some of you have asked, and I know I certainly have been asking the Lord too. And just as last year, He wasn't clearly calling me to stop these challenges, so I will continue on. They are a blessing to me, and I certainly pray they have been for you too! One thing He has showed me recently is how many truths are in old hymns. I love old hymns, and I am always singing a hymn. How about you? Have you seen God's truths in hymns?
This year I will be using a book called "Then Sings My Soul" to find the hymns we will use. I will also use my hymnal but this particular book has information on the author of the hymn and background on the writing of the hymn.

There is also a scripture reference for each hymn. I will then use the scripture reference to prepare a study over the scripture and truths from the hymn. Our study will always be taken back to the Bible.

Stop but and check out Patter's Blog - http://triplethescraps.blogspot.com/.
2012 Hymn and Scripture Challenge Schedule:
Challenge 1: January 1
Challenge 2: January 15
Challenge 3: January 29
Challenge 4: February 12
Challenge 5: February 26
Challenge 6: March 11
Challenge 7: March 25
Challenge 8: April 8
Challenge 9: April 22
Challenge 10: May 6
Challenge 11: May 20
Challenge 12: June 3
Challenge 13: June 17
Challenge 14: July 1
Challenge 15: July 15
Challenge 16: July 29
Challenge 17: August 12
Challenge 18: August 26
Challenge 19: September 9
Challenge 20: September 23
Challenge 21: October 7
Challenge 22: October 21
Challenge 23: November 4
Challenge 24: November 18
Challenge 25: December 2
Challenge 26: December 16
*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨) (¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day! ~Love Barbara~

More Completed Neckwraps -

2011-11-26T07:31:00.001-08:00

This Scarf will be located on my www.etsy.com ( shop- Ladybugbronxny)...

It's made in the Alpha Kappa Alpha..

(Pink and Green)

Please take a minute to stop by....and check out the site...

( Made in Charcoal and Fall Surprise)

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!

~Love Barbara~

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone ....

2011-11-23T22:55:00.000-08:00

Take this time to Thank God for all that he has done....

Happy Thanksgiving to all my Friends and Family..

Grace and mercy on all of you!

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨) (¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day! ~Love Barbara~

A special gift from my homie in NYC....

2011-11-22T09:46:00.001-08:00

When my loved one see ladybug stuff they usually send it to me thanks Tanya Carter love you sis...
*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!
~Love Barbara~

Some holiday sneek peak - for 2 peas swaps....This might be for you!

2011-11-22T09:32:00.000-08:00

I'm in a couple of secret pal swap on 2teas and scrap jazz......

her are some of the sneak peeks....photo are in no special order.....

LOL.....Your going to be so surprised...

Note : no every item going in every box... I hope i totally confused y'all...

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨) (¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!
~Love Barbara~

ACCEPTANCE - Wednesday, November 16, 2011

2011-11-16T08:54:00.000-08:00

I accept and bless myself and others.

Acceptance is a powerful word, for it implies a willingness to listen and be open. Acceptance does not necessarily mean that I adopt another's point of view; it means I accept the right of another to have views different from my own. I accept people of different faiths, cultures and lifestyles. Each person is a child of God--divinely created and divinely guided.

I accept myself as well. I do not judge harshly my past mistakes or perceived short-comings. I give myself the freedom to make mistakes, to have a unique point of view and to continue to learn and grow as a spiritual being. By accepting myself and others, I embrace differences and celebrate the uniqueness of every individual.

Do not judge, so that you may not be judged.--Matthew 7:1

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨) (¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!

~Love Barbara~

Neckwraps made to order!

2011-11-15T21:00:00.001-08:00

I would have never combined these two colors together but it came out very nice......

Deep green and True Grey love it....

But I love this Blue and True Grey together...

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!
~Love Barbara~

Be Who You Are {NOV 13TH, 2011}

2011-11-13T11:16:00.001-08:00

While awaiting a routine medical procedure in a local hospital, I noticed a wall plaque showing Christ on a cross. Later, a nurse asked me several administrative questions, in-cluding, “Do you have any spiritual needs you’d like to discuss with a chaplain?” I said that I appreciated her asking that question, which I found unusual in today’s world. She replied with a smile that they are a faith-based hospital and “that’s part of our mission.” I was impressed that the people were not afraid to be who they are in an increasingly secular and pluralistic society.

Peter urged the first-century believers who had been scattered by persecution and were living in a hostile world to consider it a blessing to suffer for the sake of what is right. “But even if you suffer for doing what is right, God will reward you for it. So don’t worry or be afraid of their threats. Instead, you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your Christian hope, always be ready to explain it” (1 Peter 3:14-15 NLT).

Just as the woman at the hospital freely stated their faith, so we can express ours. And if we are criticized or treated unfairly because of our belief in Christ, we should respond with gentleness and respect. We should never be afraid to be who we are in Him.

Whenever people judge and say
They don’t like what we believe,
We need to show a Christlike grace—
Then our Lord they might receive. —Branon

It’s better to suffer for the cause of Christ
than for the cause of Christ to suffer.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!

~Love Barbara~

Snapshots of finished Neckwraps...

2011-11-08T09:54:00.000-08:00

Quick snap shots of some finished Neckwraps.

Place your christmas gift order on Etsy - shop {search} under Ladybugbronxny..

Thanks for stopping by....

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!
~Love Barbara~

What A Great Neighborhood {11-08-2011}

2011-11-08T09:48:00.000-08:00

Where you live has a way of making certain demands on how you live. In my neighborhood, the garbage collector comes on Tuesday mornings, so it’s my responsibility to get our garbage can out to the curb the night before. Letting the trash pile up on the curb for days before doesn’t make for happy neighbors. And we have lots of children playing outside, so signs are posted everywhere reminding drivers to slow down. That means I drive slowly and watch for little ones who, without looking, chase wayward balls into the street.

It’s important to remember that God has placed us into the “kingdom of the Son” (Col. 1:13). Living in His neighborhood means there are life-transforming behavior patterns that should clearly reflect our spiritual location. This is why Paul reminds us that God’s kingdom is not about arguing and bickering over earthly stuff but about “righteousness and peace and joy” (Rom. 14:17). Living by God’s right standards, living to be a peacemaker, and living to be a source of joy in our relationships are what kingdom life is all about. And, when we live like this, our lives please God and bless others (v.18).

Sounds like the kind of neighborhood anyone would love to live in!

The world gets a glimpse of God
When those who claim to be
The followers of Jesus Christ
Are living righteously. —Sper

If you’re part of the kingdom of God,
it will make a difference in how you live.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!

~Love Barbara~

Plowing Straight Lines - November 7th 2011

2011-11-07T08:39:00.000-08:00

It’s my first day on the tractor! A crisp morning breeze brushes across the field. Crickets and country silence yield to the roar of the engine. Dropping the plow into the soil, I head out across the field. I look down at the gauges and gearshift, squeeze the cold steel of the steering wheel, and admire the power at my disposal. Finally, I look back to view the results. Instead of the ramrod straight line I was expecting, I see what looks like a slithering snake, with more bends and curves than the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

We know better. “Plow with your eye on the fence post,” we’ve been told. By staying focused on a point across the field, a person plowing is assured of a straight line. On the return I comply, with telling results: The line is straight. The row was messed up only when I didn’t have a focus point.

Paul had similar wisdom when he wrote of having his focus on Jesus Christ and the impact it had on him. Not only did he ignore distractions (Phil. 3:8,13), he set the focus (vv.8,14), noted the result (vv.9-11), and observed the pattern it sets for others (vv.16-17).

Like Paul, if we focus on Christ, we will plow a straight path and accomplish God’s purpose in our lives.

Lord, help us keep our eyes on You
And focused on the task
Of bringing glory to Your name
By doing what You ask. —Sper

When you keep your eyes on Christ,
everything will come into focus.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨) (¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!

~Love Barbara~

You know I love the Thursday Sketches... 11-3-2011

2011-11-03T10:11:00.001-07:00

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!
~Love Barbara~

Looking for Water 11-3-2011

2011-11-03T10:03:00.000-07:00

The United States has spent millions of dollars looking for water on Mars. A few years ago, NASA sent twin robots, Opportunity and Spirit, to the red planet to see if water was present or had been present at one time. Why did the US do this? The scientists who are poring over data sent back from those two little Martian rovers are trying to figure out if life ever existed on Mars. And for that to have happened, there had to be water. No water, no life.Two thousand years ago, a couple of “rovers” set out across the countryside of an Earth-outpost called Samaria looking for water. One was a woman who lived nearby. The other was a man from Galilee. They ended up meeting at a well near the village of Sychar. When they did, Jesus found the water He was looking for, and the woman found the water she didn’t know she needed (John 4:5-15).

Water is essential for both physical and spiritual life. Jesus had a surprise for the woman at the well. He offered her the Water of Life—Himself. He is the refreshing, renewing “fountain of water springing up into everlasting life” (John 4:14).
Do you know anyone looking for water? Someone who is spiritually thirsty? Introduce that person to Jesus, the Living Water. It’s the greatest discovery of all time.

Gracious and Almighty Savior,

Source of all that shall endure,
Quench my thirst with living water,
Living water, clear and pure. —Vinal

Only Jesus, the Living Water, can satisfy the thirsty soul.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!~Love Barbara~

Mouth Guard -November 2nd, 2011

2011-11-02T09:26:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Everyone...

What a wonderful word on today ! We all need to guard what comes out, even me speak life...

I was walking in a subway in Minsk, Belarus, with my friend Yuliya and her daughter Anastasia when I suddenly fell face first onto the dirty concrete floor. I don’t remember the fall, but I do remember suddenly having a mouth filled with sand, gravel, and grit. Ugh! I couldn’t get that stuff out of my mouth quickly enough!

I didn’t enjoy what went into my mouth on that embarrassing occasion. But Scripture teaches that it’s more important to guard what comes out of our mouths. When the writer of Proverbs 15 said that “the mouth of fools pours forth foolishness” (v.2), the word translated pours forth literally means “explodes out.” Rash accusations, angry words, and verbal abuse can do immeasurable and lifelong harm. The apostle Paul spoke bluntly about this: “Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth” (Eph. 4:29)—no dirty talk. He also said to “[put] away lying” and to “speak truth” (v.25)—no lies. And later, “Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you” (v.31)—no character assassination. What comes out of our mouths should be wholesome and uplifting.

We guard carefully what goes into our mouths—and rightly so. To honor God, let’s also keep tight control on the words that come out of our mouths.

Lord, help us to control our tongues,
To clean up what we say,
To use words that will edify,
To honor You today. —Sper

Be careful of your thoughts—they may become words at any time.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨) (¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!

~Love Barbara~

Etsy store now open...stop by take a peek...

2011-11-01T07:21:00.000-07:00

Hi guys - Happy Tuesday

When you get a Chance stop by my etsy store and please leave me a comment on what you think, what i can do better, and comment or suggestion greatly appreciated...

Etsy store is now open - http://www.etsy.com/shop/ladybugbronxny

sneak peeks

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!

~Love Barbara~

Happy Birthday Rulisa Galloway-Perry

2011-11-01T07:18:00.000-07:00

Happy November 1st.. happy Birthday to my best childhood friends Rulisa Galloway-Perry , wow we have been friends since 1981... wow friendship like out take a lifetime to build....Girl I love you.... Mom said to tell you happy birthday also.... Much love on your day.. I pray you stay Blessed and Highly favored...
snapshots of me a Lisa.. Love you girl.... birthday package in the mail.. love you have a great day!

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!
~Love Barbara~

Staying Clean - November 1st, 2011

2011-11-01T07:09:00.001-07:00

During a business trip to Philadelphia, I walked down Broad Street toward City Hall each morning to catch the subway. Each day I passed a long line of people waiting for something. They were a cross-section of humanity in age, ethnic origin, and appearance. After wondering about it for 3 days, I asked a man on the sidewalk why all those people were standing in line. He told me that they were on probation or parole after breaking the law and had to take a daily drug test to show that they were staying clean.This struck me as a vivid illustration of my need to stay spiritually clean before God. When the psalmist pondered how he could live a pure life, he concluded that the key was to consider and obey God’s teaching. “Your Word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You. Blessed are You, O Lord! Teach me Your statutes. . . . I will delight myself in Your statutes; I will not forget Your Word” (Ps. 119:11-12,16).
In the light of God’s Word, we see our sin, but we also see God’s love in Christ. “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).
By His grace . . . staying clean.

Lord, grant that we may hear You speak
As truth within Your Word we seek;
And may it show us all our sin
And make us clean without, within. —D. De Haan

Read the Bible to be wise, believe it to be safe,
practice it to be holy.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨) (¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day! ~Love Barbara~

Thursday Sketch Challenge -

2011-10-28T08:23:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday Y'all excited about this weekend, Neighborhood Fall Festive party, and Millie's annual Halloween party.... Might be posting picture not sure yet.... But stay tuned and check back for pictures....

I'll be working on this sketch this weekend.
And I'll be working with some of my washi tape as well....check out what i got.....Thanks to my scrapbook buddies that posted all the great prices on Washi tape is, it is Japenese masking tape, I've got some great deals...

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!~Love Barbara~

Daily word on Faith

2011-10-26T08:39:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Faith

I ask in faith and know that it is given.

There is no spiritual test I need to pass to receive what I desire. I do not need to beg or plead to God. I need only look inside myself, connect with Spirit and know with faith and gratitude that my needs are being met.
Through prayer I connect to Spirit within. I have faith that the wisest answer, the right and perfect situation and abundant blessings are forthcoming. I prepare the way and do any work that my inner guidance leads me to do. I then let go and allow everything to unfold. My life is unfolding just as it should, and I am exactly where I need to be.
My faith is strengthened as I pray and give thanks. I connect in faith to Spirit within and know that all is well.

Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace, and be healed of your disease.--Mark 5:34

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!
~Love Barbara~

Just released - Oct 15th - Praying for a Cure!

2011-10-26T08:35:00.000-07:00

Because Breast Cancer has touched so many, me personally.....I love to help in my part of the cure, I usually try my best to do the Breast cancer walk fora cure and on NOV. 19 here in NC I'll be walking for a cure for childhood cancer for St. Jude's...I saw this set on Patter Cross blog, http://triplethescraps.blogspot.com/, she had an awesome blog......

If you can take some time and stop by here blog or stop by http://www.ourdailybreaddesigns.com/PrayingforaCure.html, and join in on the Hope for a cure challenge.....
Have a great Day..
Happy Crafting....
*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨) (¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day! ~Love Barbara~

Poetic Justice 10-25-2011

2011-10-25T10:06:00.000-07:00

For nearly a year, a former publishing colleague lived under a cloud of fear that he would be fired. A new boss in the department, for reasons unknown, began filling his personnel file with negative comments. Then, on the day my friend expected to lose his job, the new boss was fired instead.
When the Israelites were taken as captives to Babylon, a Jew named Mordecai found himself in this kind of situation. Haman, the highest noble of King Xerxes, expected every royal official to kneel down and honor him, but Mordecai refused to bow to anyone but God (Est. 3:1-2). This outraged Haman and he set out to destroy not only Mordecai but every Jew in the whole Persian empire (vv.5-6). Haman convinced Xerxes to sign a decree authorizing the destruction of all Jews and started building a gallows for the execution of Mordecai (5:14). But, in a startling turn of events, Haman was executed on the gallows he had built for Mordecai, and the Jewish people were spared (7:9-10; 8).
In literature, this is called poetic justice. Not everyone gets justice in such dramatic fashion, but Scripture promises that God will one day avenge all injustice (Rom. 12:19). While we wait, we are to do what we can to work for justice and leave the results in God’s hands.

The call for justice must be strong
To show what’s right, to thwart what’s wrong,
But let’s reject the smallest part
Of vengeance harbored in the heart. —D. De Haan

The scales of Divine justice always balance—
if not here, then hereafter.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!~Love Barbara~

Stay Tuned for Monday -- 2 Launches Approaching....

2011-10-21T08:57:00.000-07:00

Monday I'm expecting to Launch my new www.esty.com store as well as my website to take donation for my St. Jude's walk here in Raleigh, NC....As many of you might know Cancer is near and dear to me, so near I try to forget, But without Gods' Grace and Mercy I would've never been Delivered from what a dangerous Illness.. That why many of you always see me praising him in Advance....

And now for today Daily word......WHY! cause I love My Daily Word!

Quaker John Woolman was an itinerant preacher who waged his own personal campaign to end slavery in colonial America. Woolman met with slave-holders to speak of the injustice of holding other human beings as property. Although Woolman did not eradicate slavery completely, he did persuade many masters to free their slaves. His success was due to individual, personal persuasion.

The book of Philemon contains a similar one-on-one appeal. Onesimus was a runaway slave who had escaped from his Christian master Philemon. Onesimus had come to faith through Paul’s ministry, and now Paul was sending him back to Philemon with these words: “Perhaps he departed for a while for this purpose, that you might receive him forever, no longer as a slave but more than a slave—a beloved brother” (vv.15-16). Although we don’t know if Onesimus was set free from slavery, his new faith in Jesus had changed his relationship with his Christian master. He was now also a brother in Christ. Paul was influencing his world one heart at a time.

By the transforming power of the gospel, people and situations can change. Like Woolman and like Paul, let’s seek to influence our world one heart at a time.

If I can help some wounded heart,
If I can by my love impart
Some blessing that will help more now—
Lord, just show me how. —Brandt

The kindest thing you can do for another is to show him the truth.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨) (¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!
~Love Barbara~

My Fingernails Or His Hand? 10-20-2011

2011-10-20T09:17:00.001-07:00

Tough times can cause us to get our perspective turned around. I was reminded of this recently as I talked to a fellow-griever—another parent who, like Sue and me, lost a teenage daughter to death suddenly and without warning.

She told me she had been missing her daughter terribly, and she told God she felt as if she were hanging on by her fingernails. Then she felt as if God reminded her that His hand of protection was there to hold her up—that she could let go, and He would catch her.

That’s a better perspective, isn’t it? This picture reminds us that when troubles come and we feel least able to hold on to our faith, it’s not up to us. It’s up to God to support us with His mighty hand.

Psalm 37:23-24 says: “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord . . . . Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down; for the Lord upholds him with His hand.” And Psalm 63:8 tells us: “My soul follows close behind You; Your right hand upholds me.”

In tough times, we can become so preoccupied with our role in “clinging to God” that we forget about His promised protection. It’s not our fingernails that sustain us—it’s His loving, upholding hand.

God’s hand that holds the ocean’s depths
Can hold my small affairs;
His hand that guides the universe,
Can carry all my cares. —Anon.

No one is more secure than the one who is held in God’s hand.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨) (¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!

~Love Barbara~

Investing in the Future {10-19-2011}

2011-10-19T07:18:00.000-07:00

Jason Bohn was a college student when he made a hole-in-one golf shot that won him a million dollars. While others may have squandered that money, Bohn had a plan. Wanting to be a pro golfer, he used the money as a living-and-training fund to improve his golf skills. The cash became an investment in his future—an investment that paid off when Bohn won the PGA Tour’s 2005 B.C. Open. Bohn’s decision to invest in the future instead of living for the moment was a wise one indeed.

In a sense, that is what Jesus calls us to do. We have been entrusted with resources—time, ability, opportunity— and we decide how to use them. Our challenge is to see those resources as an opportunity to invest long-term. “Lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven,” is how Jesus put it in Matthew 6:20. Those protected treasures cannot be destroyed nor taken away, Jesus assures us.

Think of your resources: talent, time, knowledge. These are temporal and limited. But if you invest them with an eye toward eternity, these temporary things can have enduring impact. What is your focus? Now or forever? Invest in the future. It will not only have an eternal impact, but it will also change the way you view life each day.

Whatever is done in love for Christ
Will one day have heaven’s reward;
Today let’s do what we can for Him,
Our loving Savior and Lord. —Hess

The richest people on earth
are those who invest their lives in heaven

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨) (¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!

~Love Barbara~

Character At Play 10-17-2011

2011-10-17T09:39:00.000-07:00

I'm always looking for an encouraging word from the LORD! I need thee Oh I need thee...

A college football coach in the Bronx (New York) built his team around good character qualities. Instead of displaying their names on the back of their jerseys, the Maritime College players displayed words like family, respect, accountability, and character. Before each game, coach Clayton Kendrick-Holmes reminded his team to play by those principles on the field.

The apostle Peter had his own list of Christian qualities (2 Peter 1:5-7) that he encouraged believers to add to their life of faith:
Virtue. Fulfilling God’s design for a life with moral excellence.
Knowledge. Studying God’s Word to gain wisdom to combat falsehood.
Self-control. Revering God so much that we choose godly behavior.
Perseverance. Having a hopeful attitude even in difficulties because we’re confident in God’s character.
Godliness. Honoring the Lord in every relationship in life.
Brotherly kindness. Displaying a warmhearted affection for fellow believers.
Love. Sacrificing for the good of others.
Let’s develop these qualities in increasing measure and integrate them into every part of our life.

Just as the body grows in strength
With exercise each day,
Our spirit grows in godliness
By living life God’s way. —D. De Haan

Godly exercise is the key to godly character.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨) (¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day! ~Love Barbara~

Font Quiz Try it out!

2011-10-14T09:20:00.000-07:00

I took the Font Quiz on http://minted.com/quiz/font-quiz .... this is what I scored..Pretty much sums me up!

You are...

For the perfectionist who is always in style. Bold yet classic, Helveticas are balanced, confident, and strong - they can always be counted on in a pinch.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!
~Love Barbara~

The Way We Walk 10-14-2011

2011-10-14T07:19:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday everyone... Have a Blessed Day!
A television program that I enjoy watching has a segment called Ambush Makeover. Two women are chosen to undergo 3 hours of pampering to update their hair, makeup, and wardrobe. The change is often dramatic. When the women step from behind a curtain, the audience gasps. Friends and family members sometimes start to cry. After all of this, the person with the new look finally gets to see herself. Some are so shocked that they keep looking in the mirror as if to find proof that it’s really them.

As the women walk across the set to join their companions, the former self becomes evident. Most do not know how to walk in their new shoes. Although they look chic, their clumsy walk gives them away. Their transformation is incomplete.
This is true in our Christian lives as well. God does the work in us to give us a new start, but to walk in the way of the Lord (Deut. 11:22) requires time, effort, and lots of practice. If we just stand still and smile, we can pass as being transformed. But the way we walk tells how far along we are in living out that transformation. Being changed means giving up our previous way of life and learning a new way to walk (Rom. 6:4).

The new life in Christ has begun—
The past with its darkness is gone;
Look closer to see what the Savior has done,
For change is beginning to dawn. —Hess

A change in behavior begins with a change in the heart.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨) (¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day! ~Love Barbara~

Too Busy To Know God? October 13th, 2011

2011-10-13T08:37:00.001-07:00

One day when I was waiting to board a plane, a stranger who had overheard me mention that I was a chaplain began to describe to me his life before he met Christ. He said it was marked by “sin and self-absorption. Then I met Jesus.”I listened with interest to a list of changes he had made to his life and good deeds he had done. But because everything he told me was about his busyness for God and not his fellowship with God, I wasn’t surprised when he added, “Frankly, chaplain, I thought I’d feel better about myself by now.”
I think the New Testament character Martha would have understood that stranger’s observation. Having invited Jesus to be a guest at her home, she set about doing what she thought were the important things. But this meant she couldn’t focus on Jesus. Because Mary wasn’t helping, Martha felt justified asking Jesus to chide her. It’s a mistake many of us make: We’re so busy doing good that we don’t spend time getting to know God better.
My advice to my new airplane friend came from the core of Jesus’ words to Martha in Luke 10:41-42. I said to him: “Slow down and invest yourself in knowing God; let His Word reveal Himself to you.” If we’re too busy to spend time with God, we’re simply too busy.

Savior, let me walk beside Thee,
Let me feel my hand in Thine;
Let me know the joy of walking
In Thy strength and not in mine. —Sidebotham

Our heavenly Father longs to spend time with His children.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨) (¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!
~Love Barbara~

Drained Of All Strength - Wednesday

2011-10-12T10:15:00.001-07:00

When I was a teenager, my dad and I went on many hunting and fishing trips together. Most became happy memories, but one fishing expedition was nearly a disaster. We drove up into a high mountain range and set up camp in a remote area. Then Dad and I trudged a long way down the mountain to get to a stream to fish. After a long day fishing in the hot sun, it was time to return to camp. But as we began to head back, Dad’s face grew pale. He was dizzy and nauseated, and he had almost no strength.Trying not to panic, I had him sit down and drink liquids. Then I prayed aloud to God for help. Bolstered by prayer, rest, and nourishment, Dad improved, and we began to go slowly back up the mountain. He held on to my loosened belt as I crawled upward—leading the way back to camp.
Sometimes we find ourselves in what feels like a hopeless valley without the strength to go on. When this happens, it’s important to recall God’s promise: “He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might He increases strength” (Isa. 40:29).
Do you feel drained? Exhausted? Ask God for help. Depend on Him for the power to go on and the strength to make it through the valley.

When circumstances overwhelm
And seem too much to bear,
Depend upon the Lord for strength
And trust His tender care. —Sper

When we have nothing left but God,
we discover that God is enough.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!
~Love Barbara~

Thanksgiving Sneal peek !

2011-10-11T09:56:00.000-07:00

You would sign your name on the panel below..

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!
~Love Barbara~

Sneak Peek - Halloween Candy bag !

2011-10-11T09:23:00.000-07:00

Label for two other bags...

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!

~Love Barbara~

Halloween cards for 3 of my Favorite Kids!

2011-10-11T08:41:00.000-07:00

This is the making on the Easel Cards.

( Gift bags willbe posted later)

Cardstock needed for one card:

1 pcs - 5 1/2 x 8, scored at 2in then 4 in.( leaving a side that 4in wide)

1pc - 2x5 1/4 the under mat section

1pc 1 3/4x 5in. (top layer of Mat) -

Note: picture below that white section that said Halloween with

the webs.

Cards section: 4 x 5 1/2 (That's the pc you glue to Easel)

matted 1st pc 3 3/4 x 5 1/4

Top matted pc 3 1/2 x 5 ( in picture below High Spirits saying)

Once cards it put together it will stand like the easel.

Because only Ladybug Count...LMAO...

These are the cards laying Flat for mailing...

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!

~Love Barbara~

The Forgotten God 10-11-11 { Have a great Day}

2011-10-11T07:52:00.000-07:00

The Forgotten God

When we quote The Apostles’ Creed, we say, “I believe in the Holy Spirit.” Author J. B. Phillips said, “Every time we say [this] we mean that we believe that [the Spirit] is a living God able and willing to enter human personality and change it.”

Sometimes we forget that the Holy Spirit is not an impersonal force. The Bible describes Him as God. He possesses the attributes of God: He is present everywhere (Ps. 139:7-8), He knows all things (1 Cor. 2:10-11), and He has infinite power (Luke 1:35). He also does things that only God can do: create (Gen. 1:2) and give life (Rom. 8:2). He is equal in every way with the other Persons of the Trinity—the Father and the Son.

The Holy Spirit is a Person who engages in personal ways with us. He grieves when we sin (Eph. 4:30). He teaches us (1 Cor. 2:13), prays for us (Rom. 8:26), guides us (John 16:13), gives us spiritual gifts (1 Cor. 12:11), and assures us of salvation (Rom. 8:16).

The Holy Spirit indwells us if we have received forgiveness of sin through Jesus. He desires to transform us so that we become more and more like Jesus. Let’s cooperate with the Spirit by reading God’s Word and relying on His power to obey what we learn.

God’s guidance and help that we need day to day
Is given to all who believe;
The Spirit has sealed us—He’s God’s guarantee
Of power that we can receive. —Branon

The Christian who neglects the Holy Spirit
is like a lamp that’s not plugged in.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!

~Love Barbara~

Crafters - I need your help!

2011-10-10T09:28:00.000-07:00

Hello Crafter I need your help!
Can anyone tell me what I should do if my Crackle accent and/or Diamond glaze/Liquid Glass start to get thick.....is there anything that I can use to loosing it up so that it not so thick ... It's really flowing thicker thank usual.

Thanks in Advance for all the comments...of help...

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!
~Love Barbara~

Recipe cards - COMPLETED...

2011-10-10T08:18:00.000-07:00

Here are some Recipe cards I've been working on for a secret swap on 2peas....

Above: Are the completed cards.

Below: I'm showing one on the cards on the Easel stand that I came up with after watching the video on you tube about Easel Card ...

Completed cards upclose.

Found the recipe crads in Micheals in the 1.00 section 20 cards,

heaveweight cardstock.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!

~Love Barbara~

The Joy Of Remembering {10-10-11}

2011-10-10T08:06:00.000-07:00

A long-time friend described the days surrounding his 90th birthday as “a time . . . to do a little reflecting, looking in the rearview mirror of my life, and spending many hours in what I call ‘The Grace of Remembrance.’ It’s so easy to forget all the ways that the Lord has led! ‘Forget not all His benefits’”
(Ps. 103:2).

This was typical of the person I’ve known and admired for more than 50 years. Rather than reviewing disappointments, his letter was filled with thankfulness and praise to God.

First, he recalled the Lord’s temporal mercies—his good health, the enjoyment of his wife and children, the joy and success of work, his enriching friendships, and the opportunities he’d had to serve God. He considered them all gifts—none deserved, but all gratefully received.

Next, he reviewed God’s spiritual mercies—the influence of Christian parents and the experience of God’s forgiveness when he accepted Christ as a teenager. He concluded with the encouragement he’d received from churches, schools, and Christian men who cared and prayed for each other.

It’s a model we should follow on a regular basis—the joy of remembering. “Bless the Lord, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His holy name!” (v.1).

*****

He knoweth best! His will for me
Is better than my plans.
Do not all good and perfect gifts
Come from my Father’s hand? —Doonan

Give loving thanks for the Lord’s lavish gifts.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨) (¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!

~Love Barbara~

Back on You Tube again.....EASEL CARD

2011-10-09T13:45:00.000-07:00

I was back surfing You tube again last night..... well I mean in the weeeeeeeeeeeee hours of this morning.. I found this cards....
Thanks you Splitcoaststampers for another awesome video...

The EASEL card awesome, so after watching some videos.. this is what I came up with .. then I incorporated it into the 5 Recipe cards that I have to do for a swap and made a standing EASEL for the recipe cards... I really seem to out do myself sometimes..

Check it out below....

Above - Easel card front.

Easel cards side to show easel.

above easel show card flat for mailing.

This will be a Christmas cards no yet finished.

This is pictures of the easel that I'm making to hold Recipe cards, I'm not making the recipe cards will post them when there done.

Thinking about placing a mini cloths pink or a mini clip to hold card the board

while cooking in the kitchen...

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨) (¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!

~Love Barbara~

Providence 365, Week 41: Wisdom from Above {10-9-2011}

2011-10-09T13:00:00.000-07:00

Most of us would like to be wise, wouldn't we? Perhaps not older and wiser, though, just wiser! But, what exactly is wisdom? Where does it come from? And, most importantly, how do we acquire it?
{will be posting my layout soon}I have a giant, (really, it's over 6 inches thick) Webster's Unabridged Dictionary from 1947. The definition of wisdom from it reads, in part:

"...the faculty of making the best use of knowledge...In Scripture, right judgment,

concerning religious and moral truth...the knowledge and fear of God,

and sincere and uniform obedience to his commands."

Wisdom isn't just knowledge; like Webster said, it's making the best use of that knowledge. There's an old quip that's appropiate: "A smart man knows that a tomato is a fruit; a wise man knows not to put it in a fruit salad."

I chose Job 38: 36 for this week's verse:

"Who has put wisdom in the innermost being, or given understanding to the mind?"

This is obviously a rhetorical question, as God asked this of Job to bring Job to point of complete and utter submission to God's rule and reign in his life, to a place of wisdom. Are you in that place? Do you know and fear (have deep respect for) God, having sincere and uniform obedience to His commands? Most of us would fall short, if we are honest with ourselves.

So, if we are lacking, what are we to do? Again, Scripture has the answer! Proverbs 8 tells us that wisdom:

"lifts up her vioce, on top of the heights beside the way, where the paths meet,...

beside the gates, at the opening to the city, at the entrance to the doors."

Today's equilivent would be, "in the mall, at Target, on your street, all over the internet." Wisdom is there, waiting for us to seek and find her, Providentially placed in our path. IF we would only have eyes to see!

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨) (¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!
~Love Barbara~

ABC Scripture Challenge {Word #21}, Useful {10-9-2011}

2011-10-09T12:53:00.000-07:00

Challenge Word #21: Useful

Useful: being of use or service; serving some purpose; helpful.
{copied and pasted from http://triplethescraps.blogspot.com/ will post my layout later today}Has anyone ever told you that you are helpful or useful to them? How are you useful to your family? Your employer? Do you think God sees you as useful in those place and elsewhere? Do you want to be used for His purpose? We see in Romans 8:28 “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”

Each of us that believe in the Lord Jesus Christ has been called by Him for a special purpose. Do you know what that is? Maybe you are thinking that you are not good enough to be useful to God, that you don’t have a talent or skill, or that you don’t know how to serve Him. Well you were created by Him. He has a special plan, purpose, and ministry just for you.

Jeremiah 29:11 “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’”

Ephesians 2:8-10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

He has created you. He has prepared something for you to do. But there are two important things to remember. First, our usefulness to Him is not of most importance to Him. He is all-powerful and does not need our help to accomplish His work. He is most concerned about our hearts. He doesn’t want to use us so we can boast. The glory only belongs to Him.

Proverbs 21:2-3 “A person may think their own ways are right, but the LORD weighs the heart. To do what is right and just is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.”

Psalm 62:11-12 “One thing God has spoken, two things I have heard: ‘Power belongs to you, God, and with you, Lord, is unfailing love.’”

He desires for us to serve Him and be useful to Him because we love Him. Can you say that you love Him so much that you can’t help but want to be useful to Him?

Second, being useful or used by God does not get us into Heaven. Works gain us nothing. You are already loved tremendously by your Creator God. Jesus Christ already paid the price for you and for me. He loves us so much that He died to pay for my sins and for your sins so that we might spend eternity with Him. Our reward is in heaven, not here on earth.

Colossians 3:23-24 “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.”

Are you making yourself available to be useful to God because you love Him or are you too busy with your own plans?*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨) (¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day! ~Love Barbara~

Free To Choose 10-8-2011

2011-10-08T07:14:00.000-07:00

Good morning everyone Just a little inspiartion this morning.. Have a great Day!

When it was learned that the biggest football game of the 2011 season was scheduled to be played on Yom Kippur, the student government at the University of Texas petitioned school officials to change the date. They said it was unfair to make Jewish students choose between the classic football rivalry with Oklahoma and observing their most important and sacred holy day of the year. But the date was not changed. Even in societies where people have religious freedom, difficult choices are still required of every person of faith.

Daniel demonstrated the courage to obey God no matter what the consequences. When his political rivals set a trap to eliminate him from their path to power (Dan. 6:1-9), he didn’t challenge the law or complain that he had been wronged. “When Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went home. And in his upper room, with his windows open toward Jerusalem, he knelt down on his knees three times that day, and prayed and gave thanks before his God, as was his custom since early days” (v.10).

Daniel didn’t know if God would save him from the lions’ den, but it didn’t matter. He chose to honor God in his life whatever the outcome. Like Daniel, we are free to choose to follow the Lord.

What freedom lies with all who choose
To live for God each day!
But chains of bondage shackle those
Who choose some other way. —D. De Haan

You can never go wrong when you choose to follow Christ.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!

~Love Barbara~

A No-Smiling Policy 10-7-2011

2011-10-07T07:55:00.000-07:00

Usually we’re told to smile before someone takes our picture. But in some parts of the US, a no-smiling policy is enforced when getting your photo taken for a driver’s license. Because of identity theft, these motor vehicle departments carefully check new photos that are taken to be sure they don’t match photos already in the system. If someone gets a picture taken under a false name, an alarm is sent to the operator. From 1999 to 2009, one state stopped 6,000 people from getting fraudulent licenses. But why no smiling? The technology recognizes a face more easily if the person has a neutral facial expression.

Jesus prescribed a good way to recognize a Christian. He told His disciples, “By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35). The ways to show love to fellow believers are as endless as there are people with needs: a note of encouragement, a visit, a meal, a gentle rebuke, a prayer, a Bible verse, a listening ear, even just a friendly smile.

The apostle John wrote, “We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love the brethren” (1 John 3:14). Can others recognize, by our care for fellow Christians, that we know and love the Lord?

For Christians to be recognized
As people who follow the Lord,
Their love for one another is
A virtue that can’t be ignored. —Sper

One measure of our love for God
is how much we show love to His children.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!

~Love Barbara~

I call this Quick Card THURSDAY! LOL

2011-10-06T09:35:00.000-07:00

Here are some cards i just finished...Going to some very special people....Check your mail...

Happy Birthday Dani - Much love to a wonderful young lady that has blessed my life...

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!

~Love Barbara~

Thursday Sketch 10-6-2011

2011-10-06T09:19:00.000-07:00

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!

~Love Barbara~

Shine On! - October 6th, 2011

2011-10-06T09:16:00.000-07:00

I was frustrated that despite my repeated calls, the streetlight in front of my house was still out. Because we don’t have sidewalks and there is such a large distance between the streetlights, it’s important that each light is functional to illuminate the darkness. I worried that I might hit one of the school kids as I pulled out of my driveway in the early morning hours.

The idea of light is used frequently in the Bible. Jesus said that He is the Light of the world (John 9:5). We are told to “put on the armor of light” by clothing ourselves with the Lord (Rom. 13:12-14). AndMatthew 5:16 instructs that we should “let [our] light so shine before men, that they may see [our] good works and glorify [our] Father in heaven.”

A light that doesn’t shine has lost its usefulness. Jesus said that no one hides a light under a basket but puts it on a lampstand to illuminate everything around it (Matt. 5:15). Our light (our actions) should point people to the One who is the Light. We don’t have any light in ourselves, but we shine with the reflection of Christ (Eph. 5:8).

God has placed each of us in a specific environment that will best allow us to shine with His light. Don’t be like a burned-out streetlight. Shine on!

Lord, help us always put You first
In everything we say and do
So that Your light will shine through us
And show the world their need of You. —Sper

Whether you’re a candle in a corner
or a beacon on a hill, let your light shine

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!

~Love Barbara~

2011-10-05T08:03:00.000-07:00

TODAY IS WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2011

Luke 21:19. In Your patience possess ye your souls.

Thought for the Day: Stay Calm The Lord Is With You

Reflection for the Day: In The End You Shall Be Victorious

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!

~Love Barbara~

if it's a ladybug ... i'll find it.. i'm excited

2011-10-04T18:33:00.001-07:00

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨) (¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day! ~Love Barbara~

No Authority? 10-4-2011

2011-10-04T18:30:00.001-07:00

When the deck behind our house began caving in, I knew its repair would exceed my abilities. So I made some calls, got some bids, and picked a builder to construct a new deck.

Once the contractor was done, I took a close look at his work and noticed some problems. Seeking a second opinion, I called the local building inspector and got a surprise. The deck guy had not obtained a building permit. Working without official oversight, he had violated many points of the building code.

This incident reminded me of an important truth (other than asking to see the building permit): We often do less than our best if we don’t have any accountability to the authority over us.

In Scripture, we see this principle explained in two of Jesus’ parables (Matt. 24:45-51; 25:14-30). In both cases, at least one unsupervised worker failed when the master was gone. But then we see a different approach in Proverbs 6. We see the example of the ant, which does good work without a visible supervisor. It intrinsically does its work without being monitored.

What about us? Do we do good work only when someone is watching? Or do we recognize that all our service is for God, and so do our best at all times—even when no human authority is watching?

God sees and knows the work we do:
Our faithfulness He will reward;
With His authority in view,
Let’s do our best for Christ the Lord. —Hess

No matter who your boss is, you are really working for God.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨) (¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!

~Love Barbara~

2011-10-03T08:00:00.000-07:00

Good morning To all,
Hope everyone had a great and Blessed weekend, Church was awesome on yesterday and My Pastor, Dr. T.L. Carmichael of Elevation Baptist Church is an awesome Pastor. Preached and teach on the word "IF" part 2....

Luke 17: 3-6
king James Version
Take heed to yourselves. If your brother sins against you,rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him. And if he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times in a day returns to you, saying, ‘I repent,’ you shall forgive him.” And the apostles said to the Lord, “Increase our faith.”
So the Lord said, “If you have faith as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be pulled up by the roots and be planted in the sea,’ and it would obey you.

New Living Translation
Teachings about Forgiveness and Faith
So watch yourselves! “If another believersins, rebuke that person; then if there is repentance, forgive. Even if that person wrongs you seven times a day and each time turns again and asks forgiveness, you must forgive.” The apostles said to the Lord, “Show us how to increase our faith.”
The Lord answered, “If you had faith even as small as a mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, ‘May you be uprooted and thrown into the sea,’ and it would obey you! “When a servant comes in from plowing or taking care of sheep.

So as you Go thru your week know and understand that Forgiveness will make your Faith greater, and unforgiveness will BLOCK YOUR BLESSINGS!

Matthew 17:20
Just have Faith - He replied, “Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.”

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!~Love Barbara~

Happy Monday - A Healing From Heaven - 10-3-2011

2011-10-03T07:02:00.000-07:00

Thomas Moore (1779–1852) was an Irish songwriter, singer, and poet. His talents brought joy to many who saw him perform or who sang his music. Yet, tragically, his personal life was troubled by repeated heartaches, including the death of all five of his children during his lifetime. Moore’s personal wounds make these words of his all the more meaningful: “Here bring your wounded hearts, here tell your anguish; earth hath no sorrow that heaven cannot heal.” This moving statement reminds us that meeting with God in prayer can bring healing to the troubled soul.

The apostle Paul also saw how our heavenly Father can provide solace to the hurting heart. To the believers at Corinth he wrote: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation” (2 Cor. 1:3-4). Sometimes, though, we can be so preoccupied with an inner sorrow that we isolate ourselves from the One who can offer consolation. We need to be reminded that God’s comfort and healing come through prayer.

As we confide in our Father, we can experience peace and the beginning of healing for our wounded hearts. For truly “earth hath no sorrow that heaven cannot heal.”

Under His wings, what a refuge in sorrow!
How the heart yearningly turns to His rest!
Often when earth has no balm for my healing,
There I find comfort, and there I am blessed. —Cushing

Prayer is the soil in which hope and healing grow best.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!

~Love Barbara~

Thursday Sketch - 9-29-2011

2011-09-29T08:24:00.000-07:00

***

My Layout completed Above...

Love to scrapbook and the ideas for these two sketches already running rapid in my mind.... I think, eat, and dream of scrapbooking....

Hi my name is Barbara AKA Ladybug and I'm a Scrapbooking ADDICT....

That Love The Lord and all my Spiritual Gifts that he has given me....

***

HINT: I might be able to use some more Flowers!

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!

~Love Barbara~

Scrappin Thursday ...

2011-09-29T08:12:00.000-07:00

Good Morning

Reading thru bible gateway, I came across this bible verse.. it struck me and this pictures came to mind, so I scrapped a page around. it ... I love how the page came out...

GRACE..LOVE..FELLOWSHIP

2 Corinthians 13:14

May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the

Holy Spirit be wilh you all..

Some Sermon Notebook for a friend.

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•' Have A Great Day!

~Love Barbara~