Winter isn’t my favorite time of the year but it’s certainly part of life in the Midwest. I saw some robins in the snow last week they gave me hope that Spring is around the corner. I have a bird feeder out back by my patio doors and some of the birds are quite beautiful!
I was in a slump last Monday. I guess winter was getting to me. I love getting outside but it seems so cold. Also I don’t feel like I’ve completely recovered from the treatments and surgeries of last year. I know I have to be patient but I don’t always have the energy I used to have. Part of it is not being so young anymore too but I know God gives us treasures every season of our life.
I was listening to a song by Bill and Gloria Gaither and it spoke of living in the moment. It’s easy to sometimes miss the past or focus on the vacation or something we look forward to in the future but God has given us this moment to live in and to make sweet memories. This is the moment to trust God with the future and follow where he leads us.
I gave my testimony at church a few weeks ago about what God brought me through and how He strengthened me I’m much healthier now but much of the healing was spiritual and knowing that He loves me just the way I am and will perfect that which concerns me. I don’t know why the bad things happen but I know He can bring good out of difficult situations and we can grow stronger and more appreciative of life’s simple blessings.
A few days ago it was bright and sunny but it was cold. I was missing getting out and had this crazy idea to have a picnic! My husband and I packed some sandwiches and drove to Patoka Lake to eat. We had to eat in the van but we had the best view of the deep blue water. It felt good to get out of the house. I’m trying!
I hope in the future and even now that I can do something to help people who have cancer. I know what I went through and how much people blessed me through it all. There are volunteers at the cancer center. Some give out warm blankets and snacks and share a smile and kind words. Some are chaplains who pray with me. I think there’s something all of us can do.
Be blessed and be a blessing!
I love your pictures of the birds and that lake is just gorgeous!! That certainly was well worth the ride to get out and see such beauty! I love hearing your testimony and thoughts about serving others after what you've been through. I know God will lead you as you seek His face and direction. Meanwhile, yes, you are still recovering and it takes time to regain your strength. Don't push yourself too hard. Let God lead you one step at a time. (((hugs)))
ReplyDeleteThank you, I have my ups and downs yet. God has been patient and loving
DeleteOh, what a beautiful view you had at the lake, Cheryl, and I loved your bird pics, too. I agree that sometimes we hang our hats and our hopes in the anticipated events and don't focus enough on our present blessings, even when they seem small. It's an understatement to say that you've been through the wringer. I pray that you will find more healing, peace and promise as the days of this year unfold.
ReplyDeleteBlessings, my friend!
Is that your puppy? He(or she)'s adorable.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful view of the lake, and of the cardinal in the snow. I've never seen one out and about in the winter before.
Loved "God has given us this moment to live in and to make sweet memories."
Yes , sometimes we look so forward to things in the future or get to missing things the way they were but every day is a gift
DeleteBeautiful photos! Glad you had that nice outing. I'm tired of winter too, but glad that God sends us little moments of beauty and joy in it, like the birds you photographed.
ReplyDeleteIt was a nice day today it was probably about 60 and sunny which is great for us in February! Spring is around the corner
DeleteThe birds are beautiful and do bring a feeling of the Spring to come!! I LOVE that you and your hubby went on a picnic to look at that lovely scene and enjoy being in the moment!! You are strong, Cheryl, and are doing so well. I'm looking forward to seeing you again and how exciting that the kids are in a new home with more room. You are still welcome here - just let me know!
ReplyDeleteIt brings me joy to see that my children there are doing well, these are exciting times for the oldest grandchildren as young adults now. How does time pass so fast? We are planning on making our way down soon spending a few days at Destin on the way. The Emerald Coast is so pretty! I feel like we need this time, winter starts feeling so long sometimes.
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