MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Final Moving thoughts... or at least for now.
A good friend of mine, Bill F., (not my husband Bill), said he wanted to know about the 'unpacking'.  So Bill this is for you =)

Let me go back to the packing for a moment and mention that while I was packing I marked the boxes with their appropriate number and what is inside each box.  If you recall, each room, or section, in the new house had a number so all the boxes were marked with that number, so that the movers would know where to put each box when it came off the truck.  Of course, there were many boxes that were designated to the garage.  In the garage I had 2 sections, my numbers were 12 and 13.  The 12 area was for things that I will need soon, and area 13 is for the 'whenever'', meaning not sure when or if I will unpack them. (Umm, then do I really need them?  That thought for later)

In the garage, as I marked off the sections, I had the movers put the boxes in the correct section, with an aisle in between so I can see every box, and they had to be turned so I could read what is in each box on the side.  Each box was marked, i.e.,  'decorator items', on both the top and the side.  That way, when they are stacked up, I can still see what is in each box.  As I mentioned before, it takes a little longer in the packing, but the unpacking is so much easier.

We were blessed to be in a position to move things into the house before the movers came.  We moved all the kitchen boxes into the new house and got the kitchen unpacked and set up several days before actual 'moving day'. We also moved all the clothes from the closets.

Moving day arrived, the boxes were delivered to their appropriate room or space, and now it is time to unpack.

I always start with kitchen, family room and master bedroom so that I can at least feel like I have some control over the situation.  It's nice to have a place where we can unwind, take a break, etc., and feel like we are actually living here.  Since the kitchen was already finished, I was able to move pretty quickly to the family room.  You may be like us, in that there is mostly furniture in that room, not a lot of other stuff, so it didn't take long to get that room set and feel cozy.

From that point on, we just continued over the next few days to each of the rooms.  As I was having a party within 2 weeks, I unpacked the boxes for the dining room right away, china, candles, etc.

It works well for us to do a room at a time as it gives a more settled feeling when you can check off each room. Now this doesn't mean each room is beautiful, fully decorated, etc. but it means you can walk in the room, no boxes, beds are made.  Decorating and fine tuning will come next, but initially, you can walk into each room and not feel overwhelmed.

So there you go.  I hope you haven't been too bored with the nuts and bolts.  Of course, if you were too bored or uninterested, you probably didn't make it this far.

Good luck on your move.  My goal is to NOT move for 5 years.  That might be a record.

Blessings-

MERRY CHRISTMAS!  May the love and joy of Jesus surround you and fill your heart with His peace.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

This is beautiful -  I want to share a poem with you that touched my heart.  This was sent to me on a forward list by a friend.  I don't know the lady who wrote it, but she is gifted, and she believes in the love of Jesus and the Hope He offers.

In the tragic events of last week, she was inspired to write this poem. Blessings as you read it.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

"My wife wrote a poem this morning as she was thinking about the shootings in Connecticut. I would like to share the poem with all of you...I would also like to say--put down your cell phones and play with your kids today.....and every day. I see people (myself included) often placing so much time and emphasis on unimportant things. Re-focus your life where it needs to be. God and family. 

"William Smith
Here is Cameo's poem. If you like it, feel free to share: 

untitled
Twas' 11 days before Christmas, around 9:38,
when 20 beautiful children stormed through heaven's gate.
Their smiles were contagious, their laughter filled the air
they could hardly believe all the beauty they saw there.

They were filled with such joy, they didn't know what to say,
they remembered nothing of what had happened earlier that day.
"Where are we?" asked a little girl, as quiet as a mouse.
"This is Heaven." declared a small boy. "we're spending Christmas at God's house."

When what to their wondering eyes did appear,
but Jesus, their Savior, the children gathered near.
He looked at them and smiled, and they smiled just the same.
Then He opened His arms and He called them by name.

And in that moment was joy, that only Heaven can bring
those children all flew into the arms of their King
And as they lingered in the warmth of His embrace,
one small girl turned and looked at Jesus' face.

And as if He could read all the questions she had
he gently whispered to her, "I'll take care of mom and dad."
Then He looked down on earth, the world far below
He saw all of the hurt, the sorrow, and woe.

Then He closed His eyes and He outstretched His hand,
"Let My power and presence re-enter this land!"
"May this country be delivered from the hands of fools"
"I'm taking back my nation. I'm taking back my schools!"

Then He and the children stood up without a sound,
"come now my children, let me show you around."
Excitement filled the space, some skipped and some ran,
All displaying enthusiasm that only a small child can.

And I heard Him proclaim as He walked out of sight,
"In the midst of this darkness, I AM STILL THE LIGHT."

RELEASE IT!

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We are all moved in- Hallelujah!  We're almost decorated for Christmas, and nearly finished with the old house.  We still have some cleaning to do over there, and getting all the 'give-away' things to new owners. Out of my hands into theirs. Things are clicking along.

So did you catch that... almost decorated for Christmas?  Yes, I had a brain-storm (maybe you have already done this kind of thing, but it was new to me).  When the movers came, I had them put all the Christmas decorations in the living room, not the garage.  While I was packing, I packed all the decorator, non- Christmas items, in boxes and marked, so I can go to them after the first of the year.  So as I unpacked, I decorated, and it looks great.  I saved myself several extra steps by doing that.

We are having two parties this week.  A ladies group from church, GIFTS, is coming for brunch on Friday.  Then, on Sunday, the congregation is invited for dinner as part of our '55 Alive' ministry.   It'll be great fun, and I am almost ready-Yippee!

Moving is hard, tiring, fun, interesting... has ups and downs... makes us change.  I believe change is good, most of the time.  You notice I didn't say easy.  Most of the time it is hard, but it keeps us fresh.  Change keeps us from becoming stagnant, stuck in the proverbial rut, and keeps us depending on God, and that is the most important.

Thanks for hanging in there with me through the move.  Hopefully, the next time, when it is your turn, you will have a few new ideas and will use it as a time of releasing and freedom for yourself. 

=======================

Just another thought or two on 'Releasing'.  Have you ever thought about how freeing it can be to 'Release'?  As I've been in moving mode, and releasing 'stuff',  so many thoughts have come to mind.
 
For instance, the more stuff you have, the more you have to worry about. I think we are owned by what we own.  Often, it also means we are  over committed financially, which is another way of feeling tied down and pressured.  As we release the stuff, release some of the financial commitments, maybe consider getting out of debt, we begin to feel free. 

When we have less pressure and less responsibility, we are free.  Free to give of our resources when opportunities come up.  We are free to volunteer our time, to be more available when God opens a door.  Free to choose what we want to do, and not always feel that we are only doing what we have to do.  Freedom to act upon the nudge God gives us to stop in and visit someone, or take a meal, or sponsor a child. When we are so weighted down, in so many areas, we are aren't flexible. Does that make any sense to you? Freedom - something to think about.


UMMMMM,  2013 the year of freedom, let's see what God has in store. 
I love slogans (must be my Mary Kay years with a new slogan every year), so how about helping me with a New Year's slogan, with the thought of freedom, but with a little more pizzazz than what I just wrote.  Let me know your ideas.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!

MOVING - 4       WHAT TO DO WITH ALL THE 'STUFF'

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So here we are, just a few days before the actual move in.  The boxes are packed, most are marked with their number (see my last blog for that info).  The rooms will be marked when we get the keys.  The garage is overflowing with all the 'stuff' that I am releasing into someone else's hands.  There are the old and outdated cassette tapes, old electronics, golf equipment, cell phones.  Oh, my gosh, it is so much and our goal is to get it into the hands of others who need or can use it.  It is going to take a little more time to take it around town, but it will get to those who can use it. 

My husband, Bill, went on an email search and found some great info.  Yes, of course, there is Goodwill, Salvation Army, but there are others as well, depending on what you have. 
 We have our church for donations, as well as our local Amazing Grace ministry, which is a ministry to the homeless who always need clothing and small toiletries.


I also sent over 100 items to 'Sisters Consignment', and plan to send a few things to Ebay to sale.

It takes a lot longer to pack this way, to separate the things out, but it will be worth it.

Release.. Release.. Release.. and SHARE!

***********************************

FYI - Here is a list of a few other places, here in Vegas, but you probably have similar places wherever you live.  This is for your info only, no guarantees, etc., just sharing.


** CELL PHONES FOR SOLDIERS (MAIL IN PROGRAM) WWW.CELLPHONESFORSOLDIERS.COM
ACCEPTS: cell phones  WE LOVE THIS-- cells recycled to give phone cards with minutes for soldiers to call home!

**  FIRST TEE - golf equipment used for junior golfers - check your local area

** HABITAT FOR HUMANITY, (702) 638-6477, 1573 N. DECATUR BLVD, LAS VEGAS, NEVADA
ACCEPTS: paint, pallets

NOVA WASTE PAPER INC, (702) 876-5960, 3100 SIRIUS AVENUE, LAS VEGAS, NEVADA
ACCEPTS: aluminum cans, cardboard, magazines, newspapers, paper (office), telephone books

Disabled American Veterans - Donate

Donate glasses - Lion's Certified Collection Center

donateglasses.org/

Donate your used eyeglasses and help someone somewhere to see the world in focus -- and you get a tax write-off.

Others:  

ANTIFREEZE RECYCLINGDROP OFF ONLYREPUBLIC SERVICES OF SO NEVADA, (702) 399-1112, 333 GOWAN ROAD, N. LAS VEGAS, NEVADA
ROADRUNNER RECYCLING, (702) 293-5360, 1640 FOOTHILL DR #104, BOULDER CITY, NEVADA
THERMO FLUIDS INC, (702) 399-6220, 9 WEST DELHI AVE, N. LAS VEGAS, NEVADAAPPLIANCES RECYCLINGABBIES RECYCLING, (702) 457-8077, 6351 E VEGAS VALLEY DR., LAS VEGAS, NEVADA
CHAMPION RECYCLING, (702) 648-4884, 3000 MEADE AVE., LAS VEGAS, NEVADA
SILVER DOLLAR RECYCLING, (702) 642-9485, 3870 LOSEE ROAD, N. LAS VEGAS, NEVADA
SILVER DOLLAR RECYCLING, (702) 643-7711, 5000 RANGE ROAD, N. LAS VEGAS, NEVADA

CLOTHES HANGERS (PLASTIC) RECYCLINGDROP OFF ONLY

COMPUTER RECYCLINGDROP OFF ONLYBEST BUY STORES
BLIND CENTER OF NEVADA, (702) 642-6000, 1001 N BRUCE ST, LAS VEGAS, NEVADA


GOODWILL OF SOUTHERN NEVADA, (702) 214-2000, 1280 W CHEYENNE AVE, LAS VEGAS, NV
 
GREEN DISK RECYCLING MAIL IN PROGRAM, (800) 305-3475, GO TO WWW.GREENDISK.COM
 
INTERACT EXCHANGE, (702) 765-9893, 2832 E FLAMINGO ROAD, LAS VEGAS, NEVADA
 
LAPTOP REPAIRS, (702) 699-5657, 1555 E. FLAMINGO, LAS VEGAS, NEVADA

OFFICE DEPOT STORES
OFFICEMAX STORES
 
STAPLES, (702) 558-0319, 280 W. LAKE MEAD, HENDERSON, NEVADA
VEGAS MICRO, (702) 804-6610, 6285 S. MOJAVE RD. # 8, LAS VEGAS, NEVADA
 
50 DOLLAR COMP. SERVICE, (702) 383-2913, 1650 E. SAHARA, LAS VEGAS, NEVADACOMPUTER DISKETTES/FLOPPY DISKS/ELECTRONIC MEDIA (VHS, GAME CARTRIDGES, AUDIO
TAPE) RECYCLINGGREEN DISK RECYCLING MAIL IN PROGRAM, (800) 305-3475, GO TO WWW.GREENDISK.COM

PLASTIC BAGS RECYCLINGFRESH & EASY STORES
LOWE’S STORES
TARGET STORES
WALMART STORES


BLIND CENTER OF NEVADA, (702) 642-6000, 1001 N BRUCE ST, LAS VEGAS, NEVADA
ACCEPTS: cameras, computers, monitors, televisions and all types of electronics



   

  

Celebrate the Victories

Hi Friends   Blessings to you all, here is a message from Joel Osteen-- Happy thanksgiving--

Victory is Always on the Way

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

“Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ...”

(2 Corinthians 2:14, NKJV)

TODAY’S WORD from Joel and Victoria

Isn’t it wonderful to know that God promises to always lead us into victory? That means no matter what is going on in your life today, no matter what’s happening in the world around you, no matter what anybody says, you should always be thanking God because victory is always on the way! You don’t have to wait for everything to be perfect before you decide to celebrate what God is going to do in your life. Praise is putting action behind your faith. In the middle of adversity or a tough time, start making a list of who you’re going to invite to your victory celebration. That means if you’re in the hospital, start planning what you’re going to do when you get out. If you lost some money when the stock market went down, start planning your coming-out-of-debt party. When things don’t look good in the natural, remember, we serve a supernatural God. With God leading you into victory, you can always plan for increase. You can plan for restoration. You can plan for a comeback, and you can plan for victory because He is leading and guiding you in Jesus’ name!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Heavenly Father, I give You thanks and praise today for the promise of victory. Give me Your vision for the future so that I can move confidently into the abundant life You have for me in Jesus’ name. Amen.

— Joel & Victoria Osteen

MOVING - NUMBER YOUR BOXES AND YOUR ROOMS

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WHEW!  The boxes are taking over the house-- what a mess! 

We've gone thru the kitchen, family room, my closet (oh my gosh!), and 2 garages, and believe me that was interesting.  Do you know there were things in there I don't think I have ever used, as well as some things I don't know how to use. RELEASE!  That is the word.  Release the things I don't need, that I don't use, want, or things that are no longer relevant.

Release this stuff into the hands of others who can benefit from it.  Give to others who need it, want it, or can use it. Re-cycle, Re-gift, Re-use, Release! It feels great and it is actually quite freeing.   

For instance, as an example of obsolete, is cassette tapes.  I have, or had, up until last night, hundreds of accompaniment cassette tapes, that I have accumulated over the years, representing thousands of dollars.   They are totally not relevant.  It's hard to even find a cassette player to listen to them.  There isn't a player in my car, so I have saved one player to use for that occasional time I want to  listen.  BUT I am releasing them.  I have no idea if someone will be able to use them, or want, but they are leaving my domain to shift to somewhere or someone else.  Yippee!  I will admit, however,  there are a few favorites that can't be replaced so I am having my friend Larry transfer them to CDs for me.  The same thing goes with VCR tapes.  We have several boxes of videos of the kids, and of course we want them, so I am going to have them transferred to DVD.  

That is just the beginning, honestly, it is so much stuff!
 
Here's a thought-- we are Owed by what we OWN.  Does that make sense?  The more we things we own and hold onto, the more it determines the decisions we make.  If we own a big house with big expenses, then we are limited to the other things we can do, like take vacations, etc.  It also determines or at least affects,  our giving.  Sometimes a cause that we really believe in comes a long, and we want to help, or contribute, but because we are already so extended financially we can't give as we would like to give.   

I think when we are burdened down with so much stuff, it does weigh on our mind, determines many of our choices, and holds us back from being available.
Available to be flexible and be moved by the Spirit.  God has opportunities for us, blessings in store, that sometimes we miss because we are so burdened and tied down.  At least that is part of what I am learning in this season of moving.  Release to be free.

Back to the 'moving', I mentioned last time that I would tell you about numbering your rooms and the boxes.  This is a great idea, and I'm sorry I can't give credit to the person who came up with it, but it does work very smoothly.

Number each room and area of your new home.  For instance, kitchen, laundry room, garage 1, garage 2, master bath, master bedroom, etc.  Each area gets a number 1,2,3,4...

While packing, or when your boxes are packed, you will mark each box with a number to match up the to the area you want it to go in the new house.  Many are obvious, but some are not.  For instance this year, because it is almost Christmas, instead of the Christmas decorations going into the garage as they are now, they are going into the front living room.  As soon as everything is in, and I start to unpack, I am going to begin decorating for Christmas.  This way the boxes are already in the house and ready to go.  The opposite is true as well.  Many of the things I am usually use to decorate will go out in the garage til after the holidays.  

Next, the day of the move, I tape the number on the door frame of each room, so when the movers, or helpers, bring in the boxes, it is easy for them to see where it goes.  A big number 1 on the box, matches the big number 1 on the kitchen door frame.

It works for me.  

That's it for now.  It feels great to lighten up and release.  Now if I could just do the same thing regarding my weight... lighten up and release.  Ummmm, a new diet thought!

Have a blessed Thanksgiving.  God is good and may He shower your life with abundance and may your cup overflow with His grace.
Delinda
 

Delinda Layne | Most Powerful Voice gospel music contest

Delinda Layne | Most Powerful Voice gospel music contest

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Putting It All Together - Moving 2
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So I am re-arranging the house, moving the 'decorator' type things into the dining room, putting all the office supplies', like the stapler, paper clips, pens from all the drawers, in
Bill's office area, etc.  I'm packing- right?  Yes, for me, it is, or it is the beginning.

I have a definite process in my packing. Now keep in mind if you are a perfect housekeeper, and already have everything in it's perfect place... YAY YOU!  For me, not so much.  I have pens and paperclips, in most every room.  I take things into different rooms to work on something, and somehow it just doesn't back in to it's proper place.  I have band-aids in the kitchen, the bathroom, in the office..... things are spread out throughout the house.

My sister, as she sees me moving all this stuff around, has found it interesting the way I do it, and she mentioned I should talk about my  'process' of moving.

Since not everyone has moved as many times, and maybe haven't had the need to have an actual process, here's what I do.  It can be an overwhelming task, so here's a few ideas I have to keep it manageable.

First thing I do is mentally acknowledge that I am moving, and accept it.  Oh yea, I know, that is like 'duh', right?  Well, not so much.  It sometimes takes me a few days or a week, to mentally adjust to the move and then begin the pattern.

Some people like to pack each room, with everything in that room together in the boxes. Another way is just start filling up boxes, no matter what room, mainly just fill up the box with whatever will fit in the particular box.  This is the quickest to pack, but the most confusing while unpacking, and you never know where anything is.

Well, my process is a little different.  As mentioned above, I like to pack things together by what they are. So as I walk through the house, I begin putting things together in categories.  I place all the decorator items together, the candles, the batteries, etc.  That way when i get into my new place and need something, I know where that 'stuff' is.  It makes moving into the new place and settling in a little easier.

That  is my hint for today.. pack 'like' things together.

BTW - An interesting thing begins to unfold as I do this.  My mind begins to clear. As I put things in order- even if they are going into a box, it's a little bit like my life. During this time it all can seem a little overwhelming and chaotic, but it gradually begins to take a sharper focus.  Everything has a place, there is time to get it all done.  Really, it will get done, right?  By taking it a step at a time, a box at a time, a room at a time... it gets done.  Sort of like life.  We can only live a moment at a time.  God gives us each day, we can't see tomorrow, all we can see is today, and live life one step at a time, in faith. 

Next time - number and label your rooms.....

Do you have a moving hint?  It would be great if you would share it with me.

I invite you to visit my website, delinda-info.com,

and would love for you to 'Like' me on FB, send me a message =)
facebook.com/delindalayne

Blessings
D 

OHHHH....  Many of you have asked 'where' am I moving???    No big move back to Kansas, like Dorothy, or to a Island in Paradise, nothing exotic.... We love it here in Vegas.  It's just a local move across town.  Thanks for asking. 
 KEEP on scrolling to 'COMMENTS" and leave me a message   =)

MOVING - LIGHTEN UP!

Moving equals change- cleaning- packing- sell it - keep it- share it-- trash it.

My dad was a Colonel in the Air Force and we moved as a family...let's see--

Louisiana, Ohio, California, Florida, North Dakota (Yep), Texas, Louisiana, Nebraska, Arkansas, Nebraska.

Then Bill and I got married and the moves continue...

Omaha, 91st St, Nottingham, Lake Forest, Ill., back to Overland Park, Ks., 2 houses, Nashville, Lenexa, KS,  Leawood, KS,  Las Vegas, Condo, house, willows, and now... again.

So what have I learned?

Things change and it's easier when we go with the flow, instead of resisting.  Change can be fun, it is still work, but can be fun, if we let it.

Just think--You get the opportunity to look through all your stuff.  If you haven't used it in 2-3 years you probably won't.  And if you haven't worn it... you definitely will not.  So Re-cycle or Re-Gift.  There is someone out there who can probably use most anything you have and would like to release.  There are women's shelters, Goodwill, Salvation Army, Boys and Girls clubs for donations.  Consignment shops are great source to re-cycle your things, and make a little cash.  There is even Ebay to put your special things that will give you a chance to make some money too.

The main idea is to release some of the 'stuff'.  It is empowering and makes the change a little easier.  It also makes less to pack, and that is a good thing.

I'd love to hear some of your thoughts..... what does 'moving' mean to you?

D

Lighten Up

Lighten Up -

Fun, Fearless, Females-- Yes! we had Fun!

What a great group of ladies got together at First Presbyterian Church here in Las Vegas.  We had homemade soups and baked potatoes with all the fixings- Yummy!

We laughed and enjoyed being together.  We girls need our girlfriends to relax and let our hair down.  We chatted about ways to 'Lighten up' and take ourselves a little less seriously.  You know what I mean.  As women we often act like, and feel like, we are carrying the world on our shoulders.  Yes, there may be strife and pressures, life issues that weigh us down, but we don't have to 'live' in the worry.

One way to lighten up would be to be more spontaneous.  After dinner instead of going straight to dishes, go in and play and roll around with the kids, maybe go our for ice cream, or some other idea to change things up a bit.

Laugh at yourself, and be kind to yourself.  You are a child of the King, the Most High God who loves you unconditionally and He wants best for you.  He loves you and wants you to have a full and abundant life.  I think that is why we have girlfriends to share our life.

As I get ready to 'move',  I think this 'Lighten up' is the perfect kick off for my move.  'Lighten up', with the stuff, too. 

What do you do to 'lighten up'?

Delinda          

Empty Nesters- Fill it up!

Hi Gals-

When you hear the term 'Empty Nester' what comes to your mind?  The kids are gone, no more car-pooling, sporting events, dance recitals, etc.  Think of all the 'going' you have done.  When your kids were living at home, in school, you were on the go, all the time. Right? 

So now, providing that your kids are not 'back home', which is a whole different subject, you find yourself in a different place.

The house seems empty.  The energy has changed.  You now have time on your hands.
Sometimes women get depressed, they cry a lot more than usual, they wander around, not really knowing what to do next.  This happens to both at home moms, and  moms who work full time jobs outside the home. These are real feelings and it can be a difficult place to be.

I see women doing a variety of things, some good and some not so good.

One of my friends decided to fill up her house, since it was 'empty'.  You know what I mean, re-decroate, shopping spree, maybe even some QVC.  She was trying to fill the void.  Of course, as you might guess, she also filled up the credit cards, and had to get a job.  Which turned out to be a great thing, as it made her happy. She enjoyed her part-time job more than the shopping.

Others I have known just sit.  They decide now is the time to sit and watch TV, catch up on 'soaps', watch HGTV.  Now, that isn't necessarily bad, but too much TV is going to probably add weight, which most of us do not want, and it  can lead to depression.

You may be saying, alright already... what is the answer?

How about - think about you?   What have you always wanted to do?

Do you like history, or maybe you want to write? Take a class, sign up for even one class where you have to show up, do some homework or a project.  Meet new people with different ideas.

Maybe go to a local hospital and volunteer, they all need help.

One of my friends just recently retired and is at home now.  Although not an empty nester, she is at home, and life is different.  She shared with me the other day, that she is getting more active with our local area homeless group, Amazing Grace.  She is a great example of changing her life.  She is reading books, which she didn't have time for when she was working, as well as volunteering and gardening.

 As I may have mentioned before, one of my dear friends hadn't played the piano since she was a little girl.  A few years ago, she called a piano teacher and started taking lessons.  She is so happy and it gives her great joy.

This may be your time to make a change, for you. It's really about looking inside yourself and see what would make you happy.  Sometimes that is hard to do, because we, as women, are not really programmed to think of ourselves.  But it is OK!  Actually, it is better than OK.  God created you special, an individual, with talents, gifts, and abilities.

Are you willing to ask yourself the question, what do you want?  What would make you happy? If there were no limits, what would you do?   If you are willing to look inside, you will find answers.

It just takes a decision to do one thing, make one change, then take one step to do it.

Let's Go Girls!  Don't worry about the empty nest.  It isn't really 'empty', it still has you!  You can fill up the time and the space with your energy and your passion. 

I believe the best is yet to come- one day at a time! (Umm that sounds like a song...)

God Bless
Delinda

Are you being bullied?

Not too long ago, if someone had asked me if I had been bullied, I would have said 'No".  However, now to my surprise, I have to say 'Yes'.  This came as such a shock to me.

I have been bullied for years, and it has been so subtle, I never realized it.  Maybe you have been too.  The ones we usually think of are the bullies at school that push the kids down in the playground, or push themselves in front of you in the line at the grocery store.  Sometimes, it's the obnoxious person who bullies their way into your conversations and gatherings when you are out.

My son and daughter were bullied in school, and it wasn't until much later that they told me about it. (Gosh, why do kids wait and not tell you when it is happening?)  I've always felt so bad about not being there to help them, or ease their pain.  (That is after all, what I want to do as a parent).

So, imagine my surprise when I realized that I have been bullied.  For me, it was so subtle, a manipulation to get me to act, choose, and do what someone else wanted me to do.  As long as I made those choices, I was accepted, loved.

This person would say, "Oh Delinda you can do anything you want, as long as you're willing to work for it."  Sounds good right?   Trust me, I have believed that my whole life.  I like working hard, pushing through for a goal, and love seeing the results.  The difference is, when this person would say that, there was more to it.  I had to read between the lines.

 "Delinda, you can do anything you want to do, as long as you're willing to work for it... AND do what I think you should do".  That is  totally different.  As long as I made the 'practical' choices, the stable and safe choices, the 'normal', choices, then it was all OK.

When it came to making musical choices, well, that was different.  I was told that music is fine for a hobby, something to enjoy.  Music isn't something you can make a living from, certainly not to base your life on.  Ouch!

So no more.  For me,  I am saying Yes.  Yes to me.  Yes, to my talent.  Yes, to the person God created me to be. Yes, to Him.  His love is not contingent upon my choices, or answers to the questions.

His love knows no limits, no boundaries, has no contingencies.  Hallelujah!

I choose to move on, and not be bullied any longer, and it feels great!

Blessings
Delinda

Sugar & Spice

Hi All

I've been thinking about 'Sugar and Spice'.  That is a saying my Mother used to always say, "girls are made of sugar and spice, and everything nice".  I'm not sure why she said that except to let us girls know that we were supposed to be sweet and nice, and do as we were told. 

As I remember that, I think that now I like the 'spice' part the best.  Imagine that you are  a spice.  What spice are you?  It's possible we change for different times in our lives, or different situations.

In general, God has called us to be the salt.  He says to not lose our flavor.  We are supposed to add the flavor, His flavor to those around us, and our relationships. 

Sometimes He also calls us to be different flavors, or spices.

For instance, maybe you are pepper.  Now pepper adds a little extra, a little more zest to our foods.  If you are pepper, then God may be asking you to add a little zest, to take your influence 'up a notch', as you share His love and message.

It could be that you are paprika.  Paprika is red, adds a some color, a touch of interest to foods.  You could be the paprika, and being asked to add a little 'extra' to those around you.

Or, you could be cheyenne pepper.  Wow- now that adds alot.  Cheyenne pepper helps circulation, it is a blood purifier, a powerful and potent spice.  If you are cheyenne pepper, then you are probably the life of the party. You come in with great ideas, energy, and enthusiasm.  You may be the one called to Youth work, as it takes a lot of energy to keep up with the Youth.

There is one other thought.  Maybe you are chamomile.  Now chamomile is an herb that relaxes and is peaceful.  God may have you in a relationship, or group where He needs you to be the diplomat and to calm the situation and bring His peace.

What spice are you?  It's fun to think about and look at the possibilities.  When I meet you I'd love for you to share your 'spice'.

Let's add a little spice to life for His kingdom!

Blessings
Delinda 

Girlfriends are the Best!

Hey girls--

Don't you just love your girlfriends?  You know, the ones you can really share your life.  The ones you can  be honest, crazy, laugh, and cry.  The friends that love you  'anyway'... or maybe in 'spite of'. 

Our church has a group of ladies called 'G.I.F.Ts', meaning Girls in Friendship Together.  These are great women, they love the Lord, get together each week for a book study.  The study can range from a book in the Bible, or an outside source that teaches about ourselves and our relationship with Christ.

I haven't been regular for the last year or so, and they invited me to come and join in with them and share what God is doing in my life.  As we all chatted and shared with each other, it became so evident how much we really need each other.  We took the time to share with each person how much they mean to us, or how their life is making a difference.  I really believe each lady left feeling better and happy to have shared the time together.

I invite you to get together with some girlfriends, maybe go to lunch or grab a quick iced tea, and share how much you appreciate that person.  Most of the time they don't know how we feel, unless we tell them. Don't you love it when someone says nice things about you?

It was such a blessing to me to share with the 'girls'.  You might want to share with some friends how much they mean to you.  Reach out and make a couple of calls, and ask them to share some good news in their life, let them know you were thinking of them.  No one ever minds being told they are appreciated, or loved.  You can make their day.. or even their week.  Not only will they be blessed because of you-YOU will be blessed by doing it.

Try it-- You'll like it!

Blessings
Delinda

Balance or Harmony

Hi there

My sister and I have been having conversations about 'Balance'.  Have you ever felt like your life is out of balance, out of kilter (is that the right word?), or maybe you feel overwhelmed and out of control.  If you are a woman.. I imagine that is true ALOT!  For me that is a definite!

My sister is a hard worker, has great ideas, puts in many, many hours at our 'Sisters Consignment' shop here in Las Vegas... so much so that I get worried- and that is my right as the 'Big' sister' (tee hee).  So in our conversations a thought has come to me.  See what you think.

Sometimes, it is really 'harmony' that we are after.  Balance assumes things are equal; work, home life, recreation, spiritual, like a tetter-totter, up and down, to keep balance.  I would propose that most of the time when our lives get out of balance,  it is because it's hard to keep all of the areas equal.  Instead, I would suggest 'harmony'.  In a band or an orchestra, depending on the movement or the music that is being played,  the horns ay be louder, and then maybe the flute comes in,  followed by the sweet tones of the piano.  All together it makes for a beautiful song, with a little clash here and there, maybe big loud cymbals, and the relief of a harp or melodic violin line.  The music can be beautiful.. but not necessarily 'balanced'.

In our orchestra of life, God gives us so many things.  Maybe, like my sister, you have a job that you love and are passionate about - I hope that is true for you.  Your job or career may be taking more than it's equal share of your time, but when blended together with the other parts of the orchestra, it can lead to wonderful music, just waiting for the next musical 'movement'.   We are in the middle of our 'Concerto', our 'Symphony'.

Sometimes a switch in thinking can make the difference. I like to think of life as a symphony that God is directing.  Life has more harmony when I let Him keep the tempo, let Him be the Maestro, and then see what beautiful music He is playing and creating .

Just a thought-

Blessings

D
OHHHHH and BTW (by the way)  I'd love to hear your comments- AND I'd love for you to subscribe... let's keep connected.

No Whining allowed

Hi my friends

A wonderful sweet friend passed away this week, after many years of struggle with cancer... She was a light in the lives of all those around her.  Patty made friends with the other patients in therapy, friends with the nurses, doctors, and everyone around her.  She never whined about anything.. what a lesson.  She loved life and embraced every moment.

Matter of fact she was the first to say 'let's party!'  Of course, she had good days and bad days, but to her it was good days and others that 'weren't so good'.  She loved to listen to live music, to go shopping, and she was a great decorator.  Her husband and friends were always helping her move furniture.
She inspired all of us to be grateful for each day, share your love with those around you and at least for me - 'No whining'!

Thanks Patty!

Blessings to you all-
D

Both Feet in the Water...

Both Feet in the Water ...

Being raised as an ‘air force brat’, a child of an officer,  a girl, in the south, being the older sister, and the daughter of an alcoholic, has had a major impact on my life.  I have been inclined to put others first, take care of others, and basically put my needs, desires, and goals behind everyone else’s, whether that was consciously or not—it really has been the truth, and has been my reality.

I’d get one foot in the water- so to speak, and then, almost get the second one in and 'Voila', someone needed me for something… my kids, husband, someone or something at church...  my Mother, other family... whoever.

Really, it didn’t matter who or what… they would always take precedence over my plan, or my goal.  Have ya’ll ever felt that way? Have you had, or do you have desires, goals, or a calling that just never seems to happen… you never seem to have time, etc, to act on ‘IT’?  I would imagine that you do, matter of fact I'd bet on it.  (I am in Las Vegas after all).

Let me first say, it has taken a little time and some work to realize this, but now that I am aware of this tendency... things are changing.

Here’s the real issue- at least for me.  I truly believe the calling that I feel, this fire or passion within me… is God’s calling.  This is to serve Him by sharing with others, through the gifts He has given me, His love and joy, and to encourage others.

 So when I put all these others things “first’, I am really putting them in front of HIM... YIKES- that hurts my heart!  It really changes everything… it’s one thing to put others before my 'selfish’ desires, but to put them in front of Him—is like saying.. OK Lord.. wait just a sec, I gotta take care of this—Opps, sorry Lord, don’t have time for You.. I gotta take care of  ‘whatever’.  This is so wrong.  I don't want to do that anymore!  I'm praying that He will show me each time I begin to do that, to make a decision for someone or something else instead of Him.

Does that change how you look at the 'desire', or the call, that you feel in your heart?

Our God has planted those desires INSIDE of you—When scripture says He will give you the desires of your heart—Well, HE is the one who puts them there, so He will give you the desire of your heart, but we can’t put Him behind everyone and everything else.

It is time to put BOTH feel in the water.. not just sticking our toes in and out, but KEEP them there, moving forward step by step and day by day.  

Just some thoughts

D 

PS Watch for a couple New Youtube videos.  I'll keep you posted.

OH and Subscribe to the blog, and let me know your thoughts.. do you have any of these same 'issues'?

Each day is yours

Today was-- figure out how to do this 'blog' thing-- Am I the only one who thinks it's all a good idea-- but somehow finding the time... well, not finding it but choosing to take the time and 'DO' it  -- I love that NIKE phrase.. 'Just Do It!'   Because most of the time it is easier to talk about 'it' that Do It!

How about you- Is there something you want to do, think about doing.. ladies, some dream you've always had, but never really reached out for it.
Let's talk , or rather chat,.. or I mean Blog =)
Delinda