Humble Gratitude

One Thousand Gifts 341 - 350

2011-01-18T13:42:00.000-08:00

341.

The gentle beauty of snow

342.

For apple trees that stay strong in winter.

342.

For beautiful sunrises on the way to work.

343.

for early morning coffee together

344.

for glowing lights in the wintry snow

345.

for incredible family fun!

346.

for joyful moments at work

347.

for patience at work when things are not so joyful

348.

for a patient husband who waits

349.

for a sister who listens

350.

for peaceful sleep at night.

For these and so much more

Thank you

~ All is Gift ... ...All is Blessing~

family blessings - 337 - 340

2010-10-15T19:50:00.000-07:00

.337
Safe travels for our kids.

337. Wonderful moments together.

338. Wishing we were there.

339. Getting to see the beautiful world

340.

For God's creative touches everywhere!

Thanking God for all our blessings.
So happy everyone traveled safely to a wedding and then back home again!
Grateful that all their adventures were fun and safe as well.
*Thank you, Lord, for all our blessings
~ seen and unseen~

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

So very grateful for #335 & 336

2010-09-27T04:14:00.000-07:00

This Friday my son Jason was in a car accident.
He's okay!
Thank you Lord!
A woman driving excessively fast swerved into his lane
causing the car ahead of Jason to drive off the road
and Jason's car to be side-swiped all the way from

the front of the car to the back.

He has a few stitches on the side of his head and arm.

# 336Family Gathered.
It was a confirming weekend.
A Confirmation of Love.

♥

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

Blessings 325 ~ 334

2010-08-02T10:43:00.000-07:00

325. The spirit of my beautiful mother
I like to think I inherited a little of this

326. These amazing two people who had so much love in their hearts to adopt my mother.

327. All the "new" old photographs of mom and dad, grandparents and relatives that were recently passed along to my family.

328. The flower lined plaza that is such a pleasure to stroll.

329. Watching the whirligigs twirl in the breeze with my niece and sister.

330. The sweet cool breeze that freshens the air.

331. frosting cupcakes with my sis and niece

332. fun things that make me smile.

333. a fun time making summer treats with daughter, Amanda

334. a little anniversary day away with my sweet husband

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

...A Still Retreat ...

2010-06-30T07:39:00.000-07:00

Sometimes

I dream of Pemberley.

...A Jane Austen retreat waiting for me up on a hill...

"Every disposition of the ground was good; and she looked on the whole scene, the river, the trees scattered on its banks, and the winding of the valley, as far as she could trace it."

Jane Austen

* * *

Sometimes
I remember that my Heavenly Father
prepares for me

a Glorious Kingdom retreat

every time I meet Him.

* * *

And now,

. . . Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennett . . .

~ a humble retreat ~

...look up and see...

Be Still and Know

Be Still

~

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

So Many Blessings {316 - 324}

2010-06-29T09:59:00.000-07:00

316.
My dear daughter, Amanda, has quite a heart to help the needy.
{This is part of her gift to her sponsored child in Uganda}

317.
The energy to be creative.

318.
My matching boys
{quite by coincidence!}

319.
Rows and Flows of Angel Hair

320.

Good Morning Glories

321.

A Neighborhood Salute

322.
Little reminder of the joy of children.

323.
Another neighborhood reminder...this time
of God's Promise

324.
Backyard reminder of sweetness

~For these and all HIS blessings~

♥ I give thanks ♥

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

One Thousand Blessings 306 - 315

2010-05-24T18:25:00.000-07:00

Grateful is my Heart

for the goodness of the earth

for the fragrance of flowers

for harvest that gives joy

for beauty that's found even in a parking lot

for a creative husband's cooking fun

for the gift of a loving son

for his hard work studying science and math

the joy of family

for the creativity of a breakfast chef

for sweet joys that arrive from friends!

For these and so many more unspoken, unwritten blessings that happen every day!

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

Awakening to More Blessings 301 - 305

2010-03-05T20:29:00.000-08:00

For chicken soup

such warmth and sustenance in one bowl.

For melting snow

and life-giving water

For the incredible, never-forgettable moment

when I saw "my mother's dish pattern" in the thrift store...

just waiting for me to find them!

so very, very randomly

♥For a tiny visitor to my kitchen ♥

♥

For the dear students that make my day!
~

For all these things, and those I didn't note

but have enriched my life and heart ♥ I thank you, Lord.

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

New Blessings 290 - 300

2010-02-14T19:29:00.000-08:00

For new classes that are a pleasure to teach.

For the students who return to visit.

A wonderful husband ♥

My son's vibrant interest in what he's been studying

For calm with no worries about my daughter's wedding...

Because we know there is love.

My warm home

"mountain fresh" laundry

good for me salmon dinner made by Chris.

Our local diners

an emerging geranium bud

Old cars that keep running

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

Christmas Thanksgivings ~281 - 289

2010-01-04T17:10:00.000-08:00

281. It's always the thought that counts!
My daughter, Amanda surprised me last week with a package in the mail.

She bought a darling sweater vest at Sears that I just loved... I went out to find one too... but to no avail-they were sold out!
After she got back to her town, she looked for one at her Sears and surprised me with it!
How Fun!
We match on our first day back after vacation (vests, shirts and bag)!
A fun way to start a full week of work!

282. A student baked a heart shaped cookie and decorated for Christmas!

283. Here's the most adorable dress for a flower girl.

My daughter, Rachael found it at Penny's for her flower girls to wear!

284. tenderly wrapped packages by my father

How sweet!

285. funny Christmas cards that made me laugh out loud!

286. Safe returns from snowshoeing in the Adirondacks for Husband and Son.

287. for hot yummy drinks in the cold of winter

288. The twinkling ~ sparkling snowflakes hanging in my classroom window!

289. The time spent by a colleague crocheting this cute boot.
I filled it with candy canes and used them for sustained silent reading times!

For love in my life
and
so much more,
Thank you, Lord Jesus

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing
~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

One Thousand Gifts #271 - 280

2009-12-16T20:49:00.000-08:00

Sometimes the most amazing things happen when you least expect.

Teaching is very rewarding work.

But it doesn’t always feel that way.

Some students are as focused as a cat watching for signs of its prey moving in the grass.

The prey –in education– is knowledge.

Others can hardly contain their own thoughts, let alone absorb any others.

Yesterday was the kind of day when the latter students overcame the focus of the former.

At the end of each school day, I read my devotional calendar quote again and then open to Psalms. I am reading one each day ~ in order.

Yesterday’s reading was Psalm 27.

“The Lord is my light and my salvation – whom shall I fear?

The Lord is the stronghold of my life –

Of whom shall I be afraid?

…

One think I ask of the Lord,

This is what I seek:

That I may dwell in the house of the Lord

All the days of my life,

To gaze upon the beauty of the Lord

And to seek him in his temple.

For in the day of trouble

He will keep me safe in his dwelling;

He will hide me in the shelter of his tabernacle

And set me high upon a rock.

… at this moment, the cloudy sky opened for the sun… and its warm glow reached my face.

I looked up from my reading and accepted the comfort.

Hear my voice when I call, O Lord;

Be merciful to me and answer me.

My heart says of you, “Seek his face!”

Your face, Lord I will seek.

Do not hide your face from me,

Do not turn your servant away in anger;

You have been my helper.

Do not reject me or forsake me,

O God my Savior.

…

I am still confident of this:

I will see the goodness of the Lord

In the land of the living.

Wait for the Lord;

Be strong and take heart

And wait for the Lord.”

. . . I stayed at the window for a few moments more, feeling the comfort of the Lord’s word and in the sunshine he sent me.

In that moment of acceptance and as peace was returning to my spirit – a student that is trying to overcome an ongoing problem with focus, schoolwork and discipline, and one of the sources of my disappointment for the day… quietly walked in and said, Mrs. C, I’m just checking in with you. What can I turn in tomorrow that I owe?

He was after school catching up for one of his other teachers… and took a break to visit his other teachers that may still be in the building.

I told him that I had a difficult day (which he knew about first hand) and was glad to see him. I was glad to see that the hard work we do (teachers and students) can pay off… can make a difference.

The Lord sent me a gift in that small, five minute visit. The day ended with a reward.

For this, I thank you, Lord.

272. For a warm home to come home to.
273. For Chris ... who gets my toast and travel cup ready every morning!

274. For my children who work so hard...
275. For work
276. The sweet ways the Lord lets me know He IS
277. Sunrises on the way to work
278. Pretty views from my windows
279. Fresh vegetables still coming from under the snow.

280. Our sweet birds that visit for the winter

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

Gratitude

2009-11-26T04:17:00.000-08:00

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

One Thousand Gifts 271- 270

2009-11-22T19:29:00.000-08:00

271. Take home dinner that's big enough for two!

272. Saturday mornings... quiet... hot second cups of coffee...

273. Longer time together ~ walks and talks

274. Rachael & Juan's great arrangement with wedding venue...

275. Pies already made and in the freezer

276. Authors that weave love and faith in their stories so that students in a sterile, secular environment can find some truth and beauty.

277. Challenging students that test my teaching skills and patience.

278. Tender students that tug at heartstrings and reach out for hugs

279. Still innocent students that still need a teddy bear.

280. The joy of my nieces during their visit on Tuesday...Their 'pleases' and 'thank yous' hugs and giggles.

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

One Thousand Gifts of Love *261 - 270

2009-11-09T18:24:00.000-08:00

261. What makes me feel pretty loved!

262. Glorious autumn walks 263. A favorite pie ~ blueberry!264. Gorgeous birthday flowers from sister 265. Beautiful sunset leaving work after daylight savings 266. Last rose in the garden
267. Sister time

268. Yummy treats on the way home.

269. A first snow

270. A safe trip home for Rachael

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

One Thousand Gifts 253 - 260

2009-10-25T18:49:00.000-07:00

253. The beautiful trees with sunlight pouring through the leaves like golden honey..

254. The churches I pass on my walks through town... when the windows are aglow, I know someone's working or praying inside. I am grateful for their presence.

255. The incredible harvest of rhubarb and the best cake recipe ever from dear, sweet Linda.

256. Warm hellos from family and friends ~ more golden honey in my life.

257. I thank the birds for their lesson:
When life makes puddles, take a lesson from the birds and splish-splash.

258. The thoughtfulness of my children. Delicious, homemade crabapple jam~ Thank you Amanda, birdie note cards~Thank you Rachael, stopping over to help with the dogs & share dinner~Thank you Jason.

258. Safe travels for us and others.

Glorious gifts of painted creation.

259. Trees

260. Skies

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

Helping Hands

2009-10-18T17:59:00.000-07:00

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

The Gift of Stillness

2009-10-13T19:13:00.000-07:00

252.

Setting my clock time

to awaken

every moment

and Live Now in His Presence.

Even in the noisy parts of my day
I want to hear his whispers.

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

One Thousand Gifts 241 - 251

2009-10-11T23:29:00.000-07:00

God bless him!

241. Our son, Jason has the perseverance to work this hard for what he wants to learn!
Notes from his 400 level atmospheric science class

242. The lessons in this wonderfully written story by Kate DiCamillo
Because of Winn Dixie

243. That little hearts in nature are always there to remind me of His Love.

244. Tree hearts

245. Little pumpkins reminding me to give thanks.

246. Little wrens taking a puddle bath.

247. Chris made pancakes Sunday morning... THE BEST EVER!

248. Who can not give thanks for this beauty!?

249. Thank you for a kind and persistent salesperson at Dell, Jennifer, that called us back three times to help us with a purchase. She deserves her commission!

250. The generosity of a neighbor.
The delicious brussel sprouts from our neighbor, Joe's garden.
They were incredible... fresh is best!

251. The love of family that makes life beautiful.

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

One Thousand Gifts 230 - 240

2009-10-04T19:08:00.000-07:00

'twas a long Monday at work then errands
finally the shoes come off :)

Wonderful weekend joys
230. A beautiful Saturday morning ~ long in our jammies.
231. A fun Saturday afternoon with daughter and nieces.

232. A beautiful Sunday morning ~ everyone out and meeting at church.
233. Leisure Sunday afternoon.
234. Great bread.
235. Great sandwiches toasted in the grill press
236. Great pumpkin pie 'birthday cake' and coffee

237. Sweet and gracious daughter
238. Amanda's call and her sweet birthday wishes for her sister, Rachael.
239. Love between Rachael and her fiancé, Juan.

240. Sunday night rest before a full work week.

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

One Thousand Gifts 221- 229 Weekend Joys

2009-09-26T06:34:00.000-07:00

221. Quiet day at home for Chris ~ no desk work! outside all day!
222. Quiet outdoor fire
222. Quiet moments with Chris
223. Quarter moon behind fiery leaves
224. Warm coffee in hands
225. Sunflower in the dark still casting a bright yellow glow
226. More apples ... these are for lunches :)
227. A day filled with worship, a family breakfast, and more apple recipes.
228. The extended birthday celebrating for my 85 year old father.
229. A touching movie about adoption that oldest daughter recommended in honor of my own mother and niece who were adopted.

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

Falling on My Knees

2009-09-22T20:16:00.001-07:00

When I was in my late 30's, I went through a time of spiritual searching.

My husband ~ wonderful
My children ~ healthy, beautiful.
Home ~ comfortable, secure.

Yet, there was a dull ache and the 'ground' was moving sand.
How could I feel this way?
What in the world did I want?

I have to admit, although I had a nice devotional time in the morning, and attended Bible studies...
my 'prayers' were mostly about self...
my past disappointments, my desires for the present and my hopes for the future.

So much time went by repeating prayers about self.

Then...one morning, before dawn...
like the bright light that knocked St. Paul off his horse and made him fall to the ground...
...for the first time in my life,
I began an understanding of Jesus in the garden the night before He died...
I fell off my horse ~ dropped to my knees ~ bowed my head
and
stayed there for the longest time.

It pierced me through and through and changed me forever.

The sweat, the blood, the prayers of the night before His death were for the
horrific physical torture that lay ahead.

... but only after...
The sweat, blood and prayers of how He gave up the Self.
He had thousands of followers.
The power of God.
He could have it all.
Worldly dreams,
the temptation of self aggrandizement shaking the ground...

But, to fulfill the will of the Father, Self needed to die.

When Self dies... Everything changes.
...and the instrument of torture became a path to the divine...

Prayer changes.
Wants, needs, self ~ fall to the wayside,
The Father knows about these things...

My Prayer changes.

Husband, still wonderful.
Children still beautiful
Home still comfy
for these I want to express gratitude...

I stop the noise in my head
wait for 'human noise' to quiet

and simply be with God.

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

One Thousand Gifts *209 - 220

2009-09-20T04:05:00.000-07:00

209. Beautiful clean water flowing from an indoor faucet ... a gratitude that 'welled up'
after catching myself complaining about the wacky timed-faucets in the bathrooms at school.

21o. Gorgeous autumn weather

211. Baskets of apples from our backyard trees ~manna from Heaven I say!

212. First full week of school - all systems GO!

213. Parent night (Thursday) went well. I had the opportunity to meet the parents of students I've known since last September.

214. These parents are raising 'salt for the earth.' I love these kids!

215. The beautiful drive we had yesterday to travel.

216. The fiery splashes of autumn in the hills of upstate, NY.

217. Always looking for wildlife (especially deer) on rt. 23 ... Chris spotted an eagle perched in a tall defoliated tree... We quickly turned around to take a photo. Chris snapped this shot just in time!
Gratitude overflows and the song performed by Josh Groban, raises up in our hearts.

218. The incredible food we are always served at Nina's Restaurant.

219. Fresh clean air for deep breathing.

220. Always, my teddy bear husband ~ close and comfy.
~ ~ ~

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

The face I wear

2009-09-15T20:31:00.000-07:00

In the world, but not of the world.

This is the face I wear in the world.
This face wears 'sunblock' and faces a fluorescent light.

This is the blush of worldly love.
Underneath, I look pale.

. . . When I step away from the world . . .

This washed clean face looks to the 'SONshine'

and feels the blush of Heavenly Love
warmth on face and in heart.
Sweet forgiveness, grace and joy to help me Walk With Him into Kingdom living where form does not matter ~ only heart and soul.

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

Joining Ann and many others at Holy Experience...
as we share our faith walks with one another.
Join Ann over here.

Photos: new makeup that covers
sonshine through the sunshine on yesterday's walk
rose: picked long ago from the internet

One Thousand Gifts *200 - 208

2009-09-13T19:11:00.001-07:00

~
Harvest time!

200. Look at these cutie patooties! I love garden fresh potatoes! soooo sweet!
Actually, these avoided the infamous blythe that swept through local gardens this year!

201. Although some of our tomato plants had Blythe, we were so grateful that the plants on the other side of the garden area were free and clean!

202. This is my 85 year old father... determined to pick this year's blueberries from our local orchard last month. His fortitude is such a gift and a blessing.

203. So grateful for the cool mornings the week before school started so that I could decorate my classroom... This is part of a large back wall. I filled it with poster board people from around the world.

204. My daughter's cozy classroom area. Her pup, Chino, visits school after hours.
So grateful she enjoys her work.

205. Our new and very fast computers at school! I want to bring the same speed and creative software home! Thank you to the district and to the generous families who live there.

206. That my presentation went well and for all my students this year.

207. This sweet bouquet of pink mums at the garden shop...
It made me smile just to see them.

208. The yummy tea that my sister gave me to tuck away in my desk drawer...
...for when I need a little break in the middle of my school day.

For the blessings all around me ~ seen and unseen ~
and Thanking Ann Voskamp at Holy Experience for helping me keep my garden of gratitudes growing by joining in every Monday here with the Gratitude Community.

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

The Gift of a Prayer *199

2009-09-08T15:23:00.000-07:00

Father, Creator of all,
We praise You and worship You.

Seek You and honor Your will.

Although we live in this world,
Let us be of Your Kingdom.

Holding Your Word in our hearts
So we may grow in Your love

And bring forth the fruit of Spirit.

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

~Amen~

With Love,

You are a Gift . . . a Light for the World *190-197

2009-09-06T18:33:00.000-07:00

How long does a candle have to burn . . . before it starts lighting up the room?~ As soon as it's lit on fire ~

A very special gratitude to the souls that light up this grand community.
* * *

190. The gorgeous week of wonderful weather we had here in the northeast.

191. For the custodians who freshly painted the halls and classrooms.

192. For family that calls to say, 'we'd love to see you!'

193. For niece that worked hard at McDonald's this spring and summer...
to save money for a special trip to France ~ she maintained her high-honor average and saved enough money to go!

194. Grateful for my neighbors that call and say, 'we'd love to have you join us.'

195. Heart overflowing for daughter who makes phone calls feel almost as good as real visits.

196. The sweetness that lingers long after the togetherness.

197. Humbled by and grateful for our pastor's message today...
Is my life my ministry?
Have I introduced my close friends to my Closest Friend?

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

Prayer Happens

2009-09-02T04:22:00.000-07:00

Inside our house, prayer comes at special times of the day.
A quiet morning devotion, grace, prayer for family.

Most of the time, however . . .
prayer just . . . happens where we are
. . . inside . . . or out . . .

Monday morning, our old dog, Muffin (15) woke me up at 5:30 am ...
Due to her age, I always get up when she barks...
Poor ol' girl can't hold on like she used to ...

Opening the front door ... I let her out and quickly carried her to the grass
(She's about 99% blind now).

The weather has cooled down to fall temperatures,
so the air was crisp.
I love that!

At this hour of the morning, there isn't any, what I call 'man-made noise.'
Just me, the air I breath and God.
(And today, Muffin too).
I always look up and over to the horizon . . .
This morning there was a hint of red in a deep corner, behind a neighbor's house.
Muffin was still wandering in the grass
... so I waited.

To see God's 'Good Morning.'

Maria and her house said, 'Good morning,' back.

. . . Inside . . .
the coffee was brewing and Chris and I began our day.

* * *
Prayer happens when I walk passed this Angel's Tears plant
Lord, you knew our names before we were born. Be with the unborn.

Prayer happens when I pick apples from our backyard trees.
Thank you God for this wonderful, pure harvest.

Prayer happens when I iron.
Please keep Chris in Your care.

Prayer happens when the phone rings. Hello, Maria, I was thinking of you today.
Lord, thank you for the people in my life who make me feel loved.

. . . Prayer Happens inside and outside and all around . . .

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

One Thousand Gifts 181 - 189

2009-08-30T19:03:00.001-07:00

The Greatest Little Treasures

190. For 20 year old "Love a Lot" Care Bear that can still make a little girl feel snugly at bedtime.

191. God Bless Uncle Chris... who will let his niece style his hair ... in the most awesome styles!

192. For the best afternoon ever ... making "Velvet" the bear at the Build a Bear factory.

193. For the love of a beautiful couple ... engaged to be married next year.
~God bless you, Rachael & Juan~

194. For this delicious salad... all was provided by our generous neighbor who loves to garden.

195. The next generation of Ralph the bunny.

196. For the first of the apples ... those that fell on the ground ... from our orchard of five trees ~
I love those trees. Thank you God! *You can see they're not sprayed :)

197. Our first apple crisp of the season...from the apples that fell from our trees.

198. For the lingering lesson learned by visiting the Build a Bear Factory.

199. A simple gratitude for the bluebird dishes that made every Saturday morning this season a sweet way to start the day!

Giving thanks together here at Holy Experience.

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

The Greatest Treasure

2009-08-28T20:26:00.000-07:00

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

Praise ~ the Gateway to Worship

2009-08-25T22:22:00.000-07:00

Photo taken at Glimmerglass State Park in central N.Y.

See how others Walk with Him today.~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

One Thousand Gifts 171 - 180

2009-08-22T09:11:00.001-07:00

171. The best feeling ever is when children, now adults LOVE their time together.
172. Mr. Darcy and Chino Sanchez . . . our very own comedy show!

173. Finally some quiet moments. What a power house (look at those muscles)!
174. Linda's rhubarb cake recipe... keeps on making smiles... even for daughter, Amanda who doesn't like rhubarb---she loved it!
175. Fabulous wake-up treat from Chris... Topped with Amanda's homemade crabapple jelly!

176. Some of the best photography happening out there is by Sky Watchers.
177. Sweet view I pass every evening on our neighborhood walk.
178. Grateful for the little, little birds that chitter chatter ... they sing rain or shine reminding me to be joyful always.
179. This sweet garden statue that puts a smile on my face each time I walk past.
180. The gladiolas that grew this year!
For these and all your precious gifts, I am humbly grateful.

Counting my blessings has opened my eyes to a new awareness of God's presence in the everyday...every day~
Celebrate gratefully at Holy Experience .

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

Most times a Pilgrimage . . .

2009-08-18T16:46:00.000-07:00

on a beautiful, peaceful pathway on a remote island is not available. Most times, for me, it's not in a quiet prayer corner.
...although it calls for me as I walk passed.
Sometimes,
my pilgrimage to prayer and time alone with God are in my car.

I turn off all the noise coming through the speakers...

And this enclosed space with a graciously appointed seat with a view~
becomes a sanctuary.I listen in my heart to the Writer, the Speaker, the Example of the Word.

and a pathway opens up in my soul.
See how others Walk with Him today.

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

Photo of the beautiful pathway taken last week by husband and son while camping on a remote island ~ Indian Lake, Adirondack Mts. NY.
Photos of car interior - Maria's good ol' '98

One Thousand Gifts 162- 170

2009-08-17T19:18:00.000-07:00

162. A wonderful 24 hours with my niece!

163. Her head to toes joy with our special outing to Friendly's.

164. All the choices and some pretty good food available!
My sister would be proud of her choices for dinner.

165. My delicious coffee... I had two cups and was up until 1am!

166. She ate all her sundae...chocolate with peanut butter! mmmm ... Auntie Maria got a 'coffee creamer mini-cone.' That's when you take an empty coffee creamer and fill it with ice cream...
It's actually a lot of fun :)

167. The next day we enjoyed berry picking. I am grateful for the gift of this wonderful little lady who has so much perseverance.

168. Her careful and thoughtful selections as she placed them in the basket, naming the beautiful berries' recipients.

169. Apple cider and apple cider doughnuts made right there at the orchard. A must have while you're there!

170. The gift of getting to watch her angelic face sleeping next to the pile of CareBears and all the other stuffed animals.

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

One Thousand Gifts 156- 161

2009-08-15T08:19:00.000-07:00

Gift 156. The secluded islands in the Adirondack Mountains that have been preserved for those who love nature...
The island where husband and son camped.

157. The soul-rest my husband had ... truly needed.158. The glorious view from their campsite

159. Grateful for their dry weather and good equipment.

160. Son's needed soul-rest and time with his father and nature.

161. For Barry's successful leg surgery.
He and son, Ryan were missed by my boys.
Prayers for his return to wellness.

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

Walking with God on a Pilgrimage to Prayer

2009-08-12T04:54:00.000-07:00

Things pile up.

Countertop displays day's work or lack of work.

Mail that was judged not to be 'junk' waits in gift bags to be sorted.

Basement and garage ... need a miracle.

... my miracle comes as I open the front door and walk away ...

A nice long walk helps me to shed the encumbrances of the day... I clear my mind and look down at the leaves, rocks, flowers and other treasures at my feet ...

and up to the sky through to the heavens above ...

I can feel the encumbrances and burdens falling off of my shoulders and Peace entering from within.

Since before I was married, throughout our first years, later with children in wagons or strollers... and now with my husband or alone...
My front door is my helper
as I go out to walk with the
Helper ~ Healer ~ Comforter
of my soul.

'Now it was in those days that Jesus went to a mountain to pray, and he spent the whole night in prayer to God.'

'Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.'

'At that time Jesus walked through the grain fields on a Sabbath. '

Walking with God on a Pilgrimage to Prayer

Photos taken on one of my village walks last autumn.

Thanking God for my sweet little village... where thousands of prayerful pilgrimages have included my footsteps.

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

See how others Walk with Him today.

One Thousand Gifts 148- 155

2009-08-08T20:25:00.000-07:00

~A Gratitude of Great Magnitude~
This Sunday morning my father (almost 85) and I had a rather personal and quite sensitive discussion of the current state of the church in America ...
A few minutes later, he came walking toward me pointing to one of the pages of his devotional book ...
He said to me,
"Maria, these are the three most important words in a person's life."

. . . Jesus, Thank You . . .
He is a man of such Grace and wisdom... I am so grateful for him.
Jesus, Thank You
... for my father...

148. Wonderful day and evening with my husband and my father.
149. Visit from son, Jason... always love to see him... and makes his dad and g'pa smile!
150. Jason loves math and science... and so... this awesome shirt that makes me laugh.
God's math is perfect!151. Swiss chard from the garden...
with Parmesan Reggiano cheese on top!

152. George Foreman who made a great grill that makes great panini sandwiches! ...Jason loved learning that his grill can do that too!

153. We enjoyed the perfect summer weather all day...
154. Beautiful sunset tonight... with sherbet clouds everywhere.155. Al & Cathy who made a breakfast corn bread and dropped it off here for us to enjoy
tomorrow... their visit was the 'frosting on the cake.'
~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

One Thousand Gifts ~ Gift of Love for All

2009-08-02T13:37:00.001-07:00

~ For All Time ~

This song from yesterday's worship music stayed with me throughout the day; I humbly bow in gratitude for the example of love and sacrifice...

Thank you, Jesus, for what you did...
All for Love by Lenny LeBlanc
Oh You gave it all for Love
You gave it all for Love
Traded the stars above ... You gave it all for love

...All for Love ... You gave it all for Love...
With every drop of Blood ... You gave it all for Love

What would make You turn away from glory
Laying down Your life to save the world...

... Giving up Your Throne...Giving up Your Throne ...

... For a crown of thorns ...

King of all, You became a Servant
Leaving everything to rescue me
. . . Never looking back . . .

Never looking back ... You embraced the cross

You gave it all for love...You gave it all for love
Traded the stars above...You gave it all for love
You gave it all for love...With every drop of blood
You gave it all for love...With every drop of blood
. . . You gave it all for Love . . .

Thank you, Jesus,
for All you did for the love of humanity. Open our eyes ~ bring us to a conscious awareness of the sacrifice you made. You released to the Father . . . what would be a dream of life, health, worldly success, fame and power.
I am deeply and most humbly grateful for your complete and perfect surrender of all...

...You released the world to the Father ...
...and released the divine to the world...

* * *
My heart opens to new moments of gratefulness as I continue . . .

143. For Muffin's health... our ol' girl's hanging in there!
Mostly blind (about 95% ... completely deaf --- I talk deeply next to her ears so she feels my voice) Her sense of smell and enjoyment of eating keeps her smiling!
144. Sue's oatmeal cookie recipe...morphed into even 'healthier' cookies

145. Mixers that make arms flabbier but happier ~

146. My little birdies...always bringing joy into hearts

147. Sweetest ... bread dough ... comfort food ... comfort aromas

Counting my blessings has opened my eyes to a new awareness of God's presence in the everyday...every day~
I count Ann Voskamp as one of my blessings...
Visit her at Holy Experience .

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

One Thousand Gifts 135 - 141

2009-07-30T09:05:00.000-07:00

135. Clearer and clearer skies over my sister with every day that passes.

136. My niece...Miss M ... so grown up, polite and thoughtful.
137. Beautiful blue skies and cooler breezes blowing today after the huge storm last night.
138. Learning about the preciousness of life through family and nature.
139. For the grace and beauty of this plant called "Angels Tears."
It reminds me to pray for the unborn.

140. Google Earth is so amazing... we took a virtual drive down
"Going to the Sun Road." It's soooo special!

141. This cute heart cloud... I was looking for clouds with "curls" for a special :SkyWatch Friday: and saw this little gift :)

~Thank you Heavenly Father for the blessings all around me~

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

Walking with His Letters of Love and Grace

2009-07-28T18:56:00.000-07:00

Wednesday's Gift of Scripture
#134

Romans 5

1Therefore, since we have been justified through faith,
we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,
2through whom we have gained access by faith
into this grace in which we now stand.
And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God.

3Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings,
because we know that suffering produces perseverance;
4perseverance, character; and character, hope.
5And hope does not disappoint us,
because God has poured out his love into our hearts
by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.

God teaches us through nature...

I see so much in nature that is teaching me...
I want to be like Mary, at my Lord's feet following Him into his stories...

...telling the Martha in me to set my priorities ...
...and choose 'the better part.'

I often think of the day this robin (that nested in one of our trees) endured 3 thunder storms
as she protected her precious eggs.
You can see the nest in the bottom right corner.

...Life is stronger than Death...
another lesson, another love letter from God.
Humbly Grateful
~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

I always knew, that God blesses us... but how aware of the steady flow of these blessings was I? As I count them ~ my awareness rises and they 'count' more than I ever could guess.
Thank you, Ann Voskamp at Holy Experience, for raising the sails!
My ship has left the harbor!
Ps. Ann, ever since your post on "Power Source," (one of the first of yours we read as newcomers to blogland) Chris and I have kept your farm in our prayers...Keeping you in prayer now with the aphids.

One Thousand Gifts 126 - 133

2009-07-27T04:38:00.001-07:00

At Sunday Service our pastor continued his series

"Inside Out" part 9 - Deciding What is Most Important"
This scripture (Matt 6:21) was discussed:
"For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

...When thinking of my dearest treasures...

126. My walk in God's presence...
127. Jesus leading me on.

128. Many others are walking along side of me...family ~ friends ~ this body of Christ.

129. My husband, Chris, so close, we are one as we walk.

130. Children, now adults, they are friends and fellow travelers.

131. My sister ~ closer every step of this walk together. I am so grateful she is in my life.

132. My father, almost 85, at his kitchen window with day's first prayer, and on his knees at bedside before sleep. He walked with me for my first steps ~ and continues along side me in this journey.

133. Brothers and families ... walking together.

We, with God in us, are treasure to one another.
trésor ~ tesoro ~ treasure

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

A prayer today for sisters

One Thousand Gifts *119-125

2009-07-25T06:38:00.000-07:00

119. The sweetest, most tender lettuce is that freshly harvested. Grateful for the green thumb and generosity of our neighbor, Joe.

120. Every time I can afford to choose organic, I do! Grateful for the farmers who, themselves, show gratitude to the environment.

121. This is what my daughter's dog, Mr. Chino Sanchez did to a cute bunny barista gifted to me last spring...
A silly gratitude that I could find new eyes and restore him.

122. Oh my ... Thank you ... thank you... thank you...
Amanda comes home today from her week away and collects her dogs!!! It's the last day of doggie sitting ...
My daughter's two are in the middle: the prideful papillon, Mr. Darcy and 'Mr. Charm' from a dog rescue - Chino Sanchez.

123. So grateful for the delicious steal-cut oats and fresh peach breakfast. I should be full all morning!

124. The sweet clover leaves and blossoms with hasta flowers. They made a quick little bouquet that sweetens my kitchen~

125. Amazing cherries... soft & sweet.

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

Wednesday's Gift: Walking with Him to the Well "How I Eat This Book"

2009-07-22T06:46:00.000-07:00

"Give us this day Our Daily Bread"Sometimes when we reach for something to eat, what our body really needs is water.
---I'll pick up snack---
...a mini-devotional here, a psalm or proverb there, turn the calendar page to a new inspirational...

When my children were younger,
my most cherished devotional time came early in the morning .
Somehow, with little sleep, but body younger, I rose early to pray, read...ponder...
watch sunrises with God.
My eyes tear as I write this, I miss those days deeply.
* * *
I teach middle school.
Children stretching and growing in every way possible.
About seven years ago, I went from a part time to a full time teaching day.
...leaving the house at 7:00 am ... not back until 4 or 5:00... leaves little personal time.

Over time, I have decided to use my planning period (luckily first in the day) to prepare my lessons ~ heart and soul first ~ then subject area.
A table pulled close to my desk...Set with cozy comforts of home...

Coffee cup, a simple wooden angel, photos of loved ones... perpetual calendar with scripture... a copy of "Our Daily Bread" a pocket size New Testament.
(I bring these home for the summer :o)
I take what I can from this gift of scheduled time.
I wish for no interruptions, but sometimes they come...

I need this heart & soul-prep time at school.
It is a sip from the well. A little snack.

I thirst for more...Hunger for more.
...a long drink from the well for this parched soul...
who misses awakening with Him at dawn.

Perhaps He is now calling me at sunset.

~To Dine with An Old Friend~

~Filled with coffee stains, notes and prayers to read~
~Special cards & very old letters of the special people in my life~
some passed on
a sister ~ close then / best friend now~Old songs from a church that closed, but I still "sing" them~

Gift from God ... gifted to me by my husband over 30 yrs. ago.

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing
Ann Voskamp ~ What a Blessing!

One Thousand Gifts *112-118

2009-07-21T07:24:00.000-07:00

112. So grateful for this wonderful diner... Isn't coffee so nice when someone brings it to you with a smile.

113. Gorgeous waterscape at a physical therapy center that my neighbor's 95 year old mom can enjoy while she recovers from hip surgery. ~ We love you, Yolanda, and wish you quick healing ~
114. Hysterical moments at the park with my daughter's dog, Mr. Darcy. He forfeited his otherwise dignified appearance for a photo in the freestanding photo-panel.

115. Amanda's safe trip to the west coast... praying for safety there and her return.

116. Clean, fresh summer breezes to dry my laundry.
117. For the warm hearts that I meet here in blogland ;o)

118. This tired ol' dog, Muffin... I'm sure she's grateful for her cozy bed...

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

One Thousand Gifts *107-111

2009-07-17T08:20:00.000-07:00

107. Lord, you know our needs before asking. Yesterday, Rachael couldn't start her car... She sent me a picture text with a message that said: "Mom, my car won't start- what's the blue stuff on my engine?"
Thank you for Rachael's car emergency kit that was a work prize she won Wednesday and needed the NEXT day to start her battery!
How You know know us and our needs and take care of us even when the muffler-oil change place doesn't! *They should have cleaned "the blue stuff* - dried battery acid!!!

108. The sweet fragrance of God's loving kindness that follows me through the day.

109. Humbly accepting the bountiful gifts that surround me ~ home for family, garden food and flowers, backyard creatures that delight. (and sometimes help themselves to a few goodies).

110. My perpetual calendar that nearly always has a wonderful message so appropriate for today.

111. When the news reports cause anxieties
to surround me and my loved ones,

I can remember that YOU ... Heavenly Father...
...then You, have the final WORD ~

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

One Thousand Gifts *101-106

2009-07-13T19:18:00.000-07:00

101. HAPPY ANNIVERSARY, CHRIS! Very Humbly Grateful for the 31 years I've spent with Chris. My mother wrote that he is a one in a million man... I know that she wrote this to me when she was my current age. How wise she was... What did I know when I was 23 years old? How would I know that the man I loved with all my heart... would still be the one for me all these years later? ~I knew~ We never really rocked the world... but I think we rock as a married couple and we rock as parents... and most importantly, we hold on to The Rock for our comfort, guidance and foundation.

102. Grateful for Robert Brault's beautiful quotes that he regularly shares with others. "If we do not feel a bond with the animals who share with us this moment in eternity, we do not comprehend eternity." I don't know what it is, maybe it's practicing gratefulness... maybe it's that I've watched so little TV in months and instead I've been inspired by many people here on the web~ perhaps a combination of several things...
I am finding in the moments of stillness... time to look up and out and I 'see' so much I must have missed for years... I've seen, but not spent 'moments of eternity.'

103. The cool air is so wonderful this time of the year. I love the brisk mornings and refreshing afternoons.
104. Making a cup of tea and really enjoying it because of the coolness of the afternoon air.

105. A beautiful bouquet of wild flowers picked while "weeding."
106. Although I don't always like cooking, tonight's dinner was especially great... Fresh basil from the garden inspired chicken & spaghetti with pesto sauce ... fresh Parmesano reggiano on top!

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

One Thousand Gifts *97-100

2009-07-13T05:19:00.000-07:00

Gifts 97 ~ 100
97. To wake to a crystal blue morning like this one... fresh, clean air ~ birds singing.

*A mini-gratitude for cellphone cameras that are so handy! 97 & 100 taken with my cell!
98. Thank you Lord for the safe travels this weekend.
...early prayers for the travelers this arriving on Friday.

99. For thoughtful Daughter who baked at her apt. last night to help with the arrival of family visitors.

100. I am so grateful to have these next few days with Chris home from work. We love spending lazy time together watching the clouds go by ... some of our projects will have to wait...

I have written of 100 blessings... I have counted many more.
A journey through life with a heart of gratitude is what I desire... it is how I wish to live.
My journal is now off of my night stand and is "allowed" around the rest of the house and even out of the house...

I am inspired to lighten my steps, soften my heart and give my spirit wings as I continue to record my blessings one ~ by ~ one.

. . . to a thousand and then . . . thousands more . . .

~Heartfelt thanks to Ann Voskamp for being my inspiration to begin counting~

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

One Thousand Gifts *91-96

2009-07-11T18:58:00.000-07:00

Gifts 91 ~ 96
Gift 91. Thursday was the last day our son, Jason, wore his glasses. He needed corrective surgery on his eyes and it was successful. Humbly grateful to God and the amazing skill with which He blessed the doctors and staff.

Gift 92. Jason slept home the night before his surgery. Our sweet little dog, Misty who rarely strays from her own bed, must have sensed Jason's hidden stress this night. She stayed on his bed all night. Jason is "her boy."

Gift 93. What a wonderful day we had today in Vermont. A day of beautiful mountain views, nieces' giggles...
"hand-checks" hand-holding on busy streets.
... yummy muffins & scones at the great
Northshire Bookstore...a wonderful visiting time with Joe & Elaine. Grateful for all the fun moments like this "just married" couple that drove by!

Gift 94. Humbled by the mountain creations.

Gift 95...and the beautiful HUGE Shasta daisies.

Gift 96...and the pinkest of pink hollyhocks.

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

One Thousand Gifts *86-90

2009-07-10T11:18:00.000-07:00

Gifts 86 ~ 90
Gift 86. I am so grateful for the moments my family thinks of me by sending sky pictures...

87. My 'empty nest' only lasted a few days, since I found this robin's nest in one of our crabapple trees. So grateful that those beautiful blue eggs hatched successfully. The robins endured so many battering thunderstorms. I am humbled by their perseverance~

Gift 88 ~ The sweet night songs of the birds that share our space.

Gift 89. For my husband, who makes us smile when when we notice how unaffected he is by discomforts.

Gift 90. For God's blessings of the animals who befriend us ... Mr. Chino Sanchez ~ Amanda's rescued dog. Mix of chihuahua, jack russell and ?
What a character... one everybody loves!
...and grateful for this quote by Robert Brault:
:If animals could talk, the world would lose its best listeners:

Look at that face!

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

One Thousand Gifts *80-85

2009-07-08T09:31:00.000-07:00

Gifts 80 ~ 85
Gift 80. Another sweet robin family built a nest in one of our crabapple trees.
She has the view of the whole street from her little nest. I did worry about the security of her beautiful blue eggs. We had three terrific thunderstorms during the day yesterday. She hung on though... all is still well. Tonight we saw the mother and father robin checking out the nest and eggs. I'm so curious as to how things are progressing!
81. This adorable wren and her friend, the sparrow are enjoying pieces of a bagel that my niece threw to them. A great summer stay near Panera!

82. Today, I enjoyed some time with my other two nieces. We went for an amazing walk to the P.O., the library and the ice-cream shop. We always are grateful for the flowers we get to enjoy along the way. "Aren't daisies the friendliest flower?"

83. I am so grateful that I was able to photograph the two robins' eggs that are in the nest ... in our crabapple tree.

84. For these adorable little robins that taught me so many things, I am making a list just for this summer lesson. Thank you, Lord for the times that you teach us in gentle ways.

85. For World Vision. A most wonderful organization that brings light and life to many around the world.

One Thousand Gifts *73-79

2009-07-06T07:01:00.000-07:00

Gifts 73 ~79
73. A surprise visit from my lovely lil' niece with her new sparkly earrings!

74. The 25 cent Barbie Swan Lake puzzle that kept young and old playing!

75. The amazing chocolate cake we ate for Amanda's Birthday...Thank you Chris

76. Amanda's Joy

77. The Lesson of the Robins

78. The opportunity to watch the last to fly away.
My Humble Gratitude to the Creator's timing and to Mr. & Mrs. Robin

79. The cozy sofa everyone loves

In Humble Gratitude for all these gifts that made the weekend and every day in Your Graces so wonderful and special.
~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing

One Thousand Gifts *71 & 72

2009-07-02T10:57:00.000-07:00

71. A Special Gift Arrived 26 years ago.
Amanda ~ She made him a father

She made me a mother

~ She made us parents ~

~ and, then made us friends ~

72. Love having coffee at your apartment early in the morning!

~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing ~ Mom

One Thousand Gifts *66-70

2009-06-30T20:01:00.000-07:00

Gifts # 66 - 70
66. The young man, Juan, who cherishes my daughter, Rachael. There are more gifts that are uniquely their own...that will bless them always. Welcome, Juan~

67. These two birds reminded me of a mother feeding her son (who's bigger than she ;) or of the "The Bride Cuts the Cake" as she feeds it to her love.

68. For all the safe travels this weekend!

69. Surprisingly real! So beautiful the hydrangea's were... they almost did not look real... But they were ... and Ann's gift for beauty makes them splendid.

70. Rainbows after the rain. We must look, we must run outside as soon as the sun pours out through those rainclouds!

One Thousand Gifts *61-65

2009-06-29T19:34:00.000-07:00

Gifts #61 - 65
*61. The wonderful men that share in my life. The great time we had at our favorite hometown restaurant.

62. Close family ~ love ~ honor

63. Son who loves his father <3
The bond is so strong and the love for family so great.
Humbly thanking God for this heart's desire.

64. Kind and gentle teacher that uses this mug for her soups.
Her imagination and sense of humor make her a treasured colleague.

65. The sweet smell of summer all the way home from that long, last day of school.

One Thousand Gifts *56-60

2009-06-22T19:19:00.000-07:00

Gifts #56 - 60 ~ The Love that Transcends All Time and Space ~ That Envelops Us With a Deep Sense of Comfort and Peace
56. For Amanda ~ the oldest of three.
She was the first teacher of these new parents.
She helped us teach her younger brother and sister.
Tonight, she became a tenured teacher at the middle school where she has worked for three years. I know she has been a role model and a wonderful teacher for her students as I'm sure her students have taught her a few things as well ;)

57. For my sister, who keeps me driving on the right side of the road :D
What would I do without her...on a daily basis!?!
A friend indeed.

58. The quiet hour I spent yesterday browsing through such amazing family memories as I made Chris's Father's Day Card.

59. For these three bundles of joy, energy, worry, laundry, braids, ponytails, tonka trucks, dolls, stuffed animals to insulate a whole house... homework, open houses, phone calls, driver's licenses, part-time jobs, graduations, college applications, full-time jobs, luggage and airplanes, dogs, apartments, and laundry again ;)

60. For my husband, and his garden of hope. Tonight, the two of us enjoy the sweetest garden delights with our dinner. The Swiss chard was amazing dear! Pictures will follow :)

One Thousand Gifts *51-55

2009-06-20T05:10:00.000-07:00

Gifts 51 - 55
Every morning, after my homeroom students leave, I spend a few minutes preparing my heart for the day. I read a passage or two and I turn the page of my desk calendar to take in the little devotional quote.
Thursday was such a busy day at school, I was never able to read the quote for June 18.
That evening, while relaxing after work, I visited a fellow blog writer, Cathy, from Tales of the TCKK Family.
She posted about her favorite praise songs. It started me thinking of my fav's. I even Googled song titles so that I could really remember as many as possible. One of the websites I found had 6 special songs and an all time favorite of mine: All Things Bright and Beautiful. I shared my favorite title in Cathy's comments.
Here is Hayley Westenra singing it:

Today, Friday, I had another very full day... proctoring finals, grading more papers, posting grades... and because it was fairly cool in my second floor classroom...I took advantage and cleaned until 5pm. I locked up, and was about to grab all my bags... when I saw my daily calendar.
I went over and reread June 17 and flipped to 18. Tears and laughter spontaneously flowed ~ as it was a verse to All Things Bright and Beautiful!
God, you are so cute! That was just cute and sweet.
I am Humbled by your personalized greeting today!

52. Making it to Macy's and back this afternoon during my lunch to buy a special birthday gift that was on sale (big time) and I got the last one available!
53. A tender walk with my husband, Chris, tonight.
54. My second try for a homemade chocolate cake (for a Father's Day celebration tomorrow) actually came out ok!

55. It's almost 1am and I'm still awake, with work to do... but I am so grateful that I don't have to rush out first thing in the morning!
I can have my second cup in my jammies
~All is Gift ...... All is Blessing ~

Maria

One Thousand Gifts *44-50

2009-06-17T18:37:00.000-07:00

#44 - 50 --- All is Gift ~ All is Blessing
44. In Humble Gratitude for my niece and daughter's safe trip to Seattle and gracious blessings for their trip to Vancouver...

45. For her fiance, Juan, who got up before the crack of dawn to drive them to the airport for a 6:30am flight. That means check-in at 5am... leave the house at 3:45! Thank you ... Thank you ... Thank you!

46. For the kindness of our secretaries, who put up with so much, especially this time of year.

47. For cool breezes another evening! I just love this cooler weather sans humidity.

48. I am so grateful for the continued blossoming of our peonies. Their fresh scent fills the rooms.
49. A thank you to the Creator who throws in a little humor to His creations now and then. Our dog, Muffin, mostly blind, deaf and a lil' chunky ... actually added a little skip to her walk down the hill of our neighborhood. Pets add such a wonderful connection to God and nature.

50. With three cheers that our son passed all of his entrance exams for his internship this summer.

~ Humble Gratitude ...
All is Gift ...... All is Blessing ~

One Thousand Gifts *37-43

2009-06-16T14:29:00.000-07:00

#37 - 43 --- Hugs to Last a Week and Back Again
37. For tender hugs and long good-byes for our daughter who travels tomorrow to Vancouver...

38. Surprise from a colleague of coffee and bagel from Dunkin' Donuts left on my desk early this morning.

39. Principal's help with a student.

40. Freeze-pop surprise from a student! Just what I needed!

41. I am thankful for the little grocery store that roasts REAL turkey breast and slices it for sandwiches...no preservatives in that!

42. For wee one's good report.

43. For cool rooms and breezes in my house after being on the second floor at school all day... even though it's only in the low 70's, upstairs, is like an attic with no windows :)

One Thousand Gifts #31 - 36 --- Soaps, Dogs and Storms

2009-06-15T21:41:00.000-07:00

31. For these amazing soaps that are made with goats' milk. They look like big pieces of fudge!

32. They're work, but they're joy and laughter.

33. The soaking rain from today's thunderstorm.

34. The song of birds. The trees are singing.

35. The laughter over the "giant" fire hydrant. A monument to Misty's favorite toy!

36. Wispy wonderful peachy clouds that still lingered after the storm.

In Humble Gratitude for all Your Graces. ~Maria

One Thousand Gifts #25 - 30 --- Sky, Plants, Water

2009-06-14T18:29:00.001-07:00

25. For the BIG beautiful skies we all enjoy in our neighborhood. Going for a walk here encourages us to look upward.

26. For the indigo plant and all the perennials that Frank and Herta gave us when we moved here 22 years ago. They are prolific!

27. For the rhubarb (which was also from Frank & Herta) This is also growing prolifically and is incredibly delicious.

28. For the strawberries a dear neighbor traded us for some rhubarb :)

29. This little garden statue brings me so much joy. It was a Mother's Day gift from Chris... He knew I liked it because it reminds me of when I was little and stood holding my dress as to curtsy.

30. Humbly filled with Gratitude for this beautiful creek that is just a few blocks away from our home. Watching the water flow down this creek is truly meditative.
I have spent very long moments here.

One Thousand Gifts #14 - 24 Showers of Joy with a 100% Chance of Rain

2009-06-13T19:09:00.000-07:00

So many joys today.
14. A surprise visit from our lil' niece.
15. No crying when 'Mommy & Daddy left.
16. Trusting hugs and smiles... all day!
17. Cheers with our glasses of milk.
18. A walk under the clouds with 100% chance of rain and making it back with only the tiniest of sprinkles!
19. Lil' niece asleep in the stroller, Auntie gets to read on the front porch!
20. Auntie Maria can't resist and lifts lil' one out of stroller to sleep in her arms, on the front porch, still able to read... enjoying every tender moment.
21. Time later with Brother & Sister in-law. Incredible dinner of organic turkey burgers . Thanks to the people who raise, what I call, 'happy turkeys & chickens.'
22. No need to water our garden... 100% chance of Rain... a long soaking rain!
23. Brother-in-law returns safely home after 3rd most difficult hike in the U.S. ---21 miles in one day ~ includes Mt. Marcy (highest peak in NYS).

In Humble Gratitude for surprises that come wrapped in little white and blue sundresses.
...which makes me think of ...

# 24. For the time with little nieces that help me practice Presence...smelling flowers, coloring pages, splashing toes, walking barefoot in the peonies petals and clover.

~Maria

*Gifts 12 - 13 The Dogwood Rescue

2009-06-13T05:43:00.001-07:00

Gift 12 ~ Tree survived and thrives.
Two years ago, Chris had to dig out half our garden due to a construction project.
(Making a room for Dad)
He carefully unearthed the dogwood tree's roots ...knowing how fragile a tree like that is here in the northeast....only to find that the tree was planted with a steel cage still wrapped around the root ball.
Chris freed this tree from its cage and prayed for it to survive knowing how tender a plant it is and how beautiful the blossoms are.
Gift 13 ~ Blossoms to treasure.

Gifts 10 & 11 My Boys on Sundays

2009-06-10T20:45:00.000-07:00

I love these two men.
My husband, Chris, is such a good man.
Before Chris and I were even engaged, my mother once wrote me
that he is a "one in a million" man.
She knew, as only mothers do.
Chris wears a smile after Sunday service.
He truly appreciates pastor Rex, from Grace Fellowship.
...as do we all...
Jason, 21, has grown to love God and to listen for His voice...
...and is man enough to be holding a pink strawberry smoothie with cream...
Jason has the best hugs, (he gets that from his dad) a sense of humor that's tops and such wit!

I humbly thank you, God of all, for these two men.
gifts ~ treasures.

Gift 9 Our Grandmotherly-Grandfatherly-Dad

2009-06-08T17:32:00.000-07:00

~♥♥♥~I am so fortunate to have this man in my life~♥♥♥~
for this I am eternally grateful

As it is getting closer to Father's Day, I think of how much my father has adapted over the last three decades.

Having come from a very traditional culture, having had a very traditional marriage, it was truly devastating for him to lose his wife so very young. My mother was only 53 years old. She did all of the domestic work... cooking, cleaning, washing, ironing... holidays... gifting... (although Dad loved Christmas shopping) The emotional loss of his dear love ... topped with the overwhelming loss of a partner in life ... put Dad in the depths of despair for over a year. The second and third years, he began to see a glimmer of light... which became brighter as the months went on.

His sister, my dear aunt, would invite him over for meals regularly. This turned into delivered meals ~ then, very slowly... because of his love for his over-worked sister and his love of independence...my father began his quest to become a cook.

My mother would not recognize him today. He cooks the most delicious meals, bakes birthday cakes (from scratch). He also makes a triple chocolate cake (with a mix, chips and double choc. frosting). He sends cards on everyone's birthday... hasn't missed a graduation, bought all his grandchildren keepsake ornaments every year for Christmas.

I am so proud of the man he has become. His devotion to God, self-disciple and good cooking have kept him healthy for so many years. He will turn 85 this year.
Dad is a wonderful father and a dear grandfather.
He wears this t-shirt from his grandkids with pride. I always wish him a Happy Mother's Day too ... he's done a great job taking on my mother's part. I know she would be so impressed.

Sky Watching With My Niece Gift 8 the wee ones

2009-06-07T09:46:00.000-07:00

I love being Auntie Maria!
I am so grateful for the lovely lil' ones that are the sprinkles on the cake of life, the daisies in my garden!This beautiful photo was taken by my very creative "almost 5" year old niece! She really wanted to contribute to Sky Watch Friday!

Great Job!

~Auntie Maria Loves You~

The Joy That Music Brings Gift 7

2009-06-03T21:10:00.001-07:00

The music of David Nevue came my way via FarmGirlCyn, a blogging friend. She posted a few months ago about a beautiful prayer written by Ann Voskamp, A Holy Experience. I printed that prayer and it is in my Bible along with others frequently read. Upon visiting Ann's site, I scroll down, read her inspiring words, take in the timeless photographs. Tears generally come as I spend time reading and listening to solo pianist ... David Nevue.

The Gift (a song title) is really His gift to David ... then David's gift to us. ~ I am so grateful ~

The Best Gifts Gift 6 Tender, Real Moments

2009-05-30T20:20:00.001-07:00

The best gifts in Life are the real moments shared with others.
Tender clover flowers and buttercups given by the tiny hand of my niece today.
Thank you, Lord, for helping me to recognize
The Best Gifts

Mothers and Daughters Gift 5 The Women In My Life

2009-05-23T05:01:00.000-07:00

I L*O*V*E spending time with my daughters.

When they were younger, I used to tell them that the women in my family were my best friends... Now that they are in their twenties, they understand and appreciate this.

We have stories about ourselves that go "Way Back" as we always say!

I am so grateful for the women in my family. They know me and love me just the same ;)

He Makes All Things Beautiful...In His Time Gift 4

2009-05-20T13:21:00.001-07:00

Ecclesiastes 3:11He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.

We must wait with patience for the full discovery of that which to us seems intricate and perplexed, acknowledging that we cannot find out the work that God makes from the beginning to the end, and therefore must judge nothing before the time. We are to believe that God has made all beautiful. Every thing is done well, as in creation, so in providence, and we shall see it when the end comes, but till then we are incompetent judges of it. While the picture is in drawing, and the house in building, we see not the beauty of either; but when the artist has put his last hand to them, and given them their finishing strokes, then all appears very good.

~Humbly seeking patience and grace~

Clean Thoughts Gift 3

2009-05-16T21:01:00.001-07:00

I humbly thank the Creator, the One who sets order to the universe... for sending me these lovely people who daily inspire me.

Thank you Lord, for my sister who shares her thoughts about keeping order and gently shines light ...
She's been in my basement. She's opened those drawers!
Thank you Lord, for the wider community that inspires and motivates me to conquer the unkempt corners of my house ... of my heart ... of my soul.
This post followed a phone call from my sister in which we shared our "clean house" philosophy. . .
She - more conscientious about tidiness, I - more relaxed...
(a reversal from childhood).
Ann Voskamp wrote of this last week ~ A Divine Appointment, I always say. Ann writes for me, for many.
That was it, that was my moment... I knew what I had to do... Scrub brush in hand, knees on floor, hot steamy pine scent filling the air...

Doreen inspired Clean was on its way to Maria's house!

"Science may call it entropy, the second law of thermodynamics, the wearing down of all systems. God calls it sin and decay. I call it my daily battle.

Dirty laundry, sprouting weeds, piling dishes, dust collecting... this is life after the Fall.

Yet, in small ways, I return to God and the Perfect Time Before when I order, wash away, sweep clean...beating back the chaos, the powers of destruction.

Simple acts of cleaning are humble, conquering efforts in the quotidian struggle between chaos and order, creation and disintegration, God and Death.

Deliberate, ritual motions can maintain an easy order. Daily attending to picking up, putting away, cleaning out is easier than wrestling order out of invading chaos.

A tidy space ushers in the possibility of a tidy heart. A heart beating with His, in a place more like that place In the Beginning.

Is work a picture of entering into Redemption? To bring restoration to that which has fallen...

I can frame this task at hand as my monastic beauty, my daily wrestle to create, in imperfect ways, a world more like the one He created for humanity when the world began...."
~Ann VosKamp
A Holy Experience

He refreshes Gift 2

2009-05-12T19:21:00.001-07:00

Leviticus 26:4 (NIV)

I will send you rain in its season, and the ground will yield its crops and the trees of the field their fruit.Dear Lord,

Thank you for sending down your sweet rain to water the beautiful trees that surround me. The crabapple trees are splendidly clothed in white blossoms. The oldest tree, given to me on Mother's Day 20 years ago, adorns my picture window all year.

Her sister tree, given two years later, is almost as big now.
We have five apple trees, abundantly producing fruit that lasts for months.
In every season, I am in awe and filled with gratitude for the beauty, the strength and the gifts of these trees.
~a grateful heart ~

enjoy the blossoms more by clicking on the photos

A Grateful Heart Gift One

2009-05-09T19:06:00.000-07:00

He shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry
them in his bosom." ~ Isaiah 40:11 JOHN 10
I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. He who is a hired hand, and not a shepherd, who doesn't own the sheep, sees the wolf coming, leaves the sheep, and flees. The wolf snatches the sheep, and scatters them. The hired hand flees because he is a hired hand, and doesn't care for the sheep. I am the good shepherd. I know my own, and I'm known by my own; even as the Father knows me, and I know the Father. I lay down my life for the sheep.

I live in this country, under its governance and laws...
But my Shepherd is not of this world. He is the one who truly loves me.
Thank you for carrying me

Humble Gratitude

One Thousand Gifts 341 - 350

family blessings - 337 - 340

So very grateful for #335 & 336

Blessings 325 ~ 334

...A Still Retreat ...

So Many Blessings {316 - 324}

One Thousand Blessings 306 - 315

Awakening to More Blessings 301 - 305

New Blessings 290 - 300

Christmas Thanksgivings ~281 - 289

One Thousand Gifts #271 - 280

Gratitude

One Thousand Gifts *271- 270*

One Thousand Gifts of Love *261 - 270

One Thousand Gifts *253 - 260*

Helping Hands

The Gift of Stillness

One Thousand Gifts *241 - 251*

One Thousand Gifts *230 - 240*

One Thousand Gifts *221- 229 *Weekend Joys

Falling on My Knees

One Thousand Gifts *209 - 220

The face I wear

One Thousand Gifts *200 - 208

The Gift of a Prayer *199

You are a Gift . . . a Light for the World *190-197

Prayer Happens

One Thousand Gifts *181 - 189*

The Greatest Treasure

Praise ~ the Gateway to Worship

One Thousand Gifts *171 - 180*

Most times a Pilgrimage . . .

One Thousand Gifts *162- 170*

One Thousand Gifts *156- 161*

Walking with God on a Pilgrimage to Prayer

One Thousand Gifts *148- 155*

One Thousand Gifts ~ Gift of Love for All

One Thousand Gifts *135 - 141*

Walking with His Letters of Love and Grace

One Thousand Gifts *126 - 133*

One Thousand Gifts *119-125

Wednesday's Gift: Walking with Him to the Well "How I Eat This Book"

One Thousand Gifts *112-118

One Thousand Gifts *107-111

One Thousand Gifts *101-106

One Thousand Gifts *97-100

One Thousand Gifts *91-96

One Thousand Gifts *86-90

One Thousand Gifts *80-85

One Thousand Gifts *73-79

One Thousand Gifts *71 & 72

One Thousand Gifts *66-70

One Thousand Gifts *61-65

One Thousand Gifts *56-60

One Thousand Gifts *51-55

One Thousand Gifts *44-50

One Thousand Gifts *37-43

One Thousand Gifts #31 - 36 --- Soaps, Dogs and Storms

One Thousand Gifts #25 - 30 --- Sky, Plants, Water

One Thousand Gifts #14 - 24 Showers of Joy with a 100% Chance of Rain

*Gifts 12 - 13 The Dogwood Rescue

*Gifts 10 & 11* My Boys on Sundays

*Gift 9* Our Grandmotherly-Grandfatherly-Dad

Sky Watching With My Niece *Gift 8* the wee ones

The Joy That Music Brings *Gift 7*

The Best Gifts *Gift 6* Tender, Real Moments

Mothers and Daughters *Gift 5* The Women In My Life

He Makes All Things Beautiful...In His Time *Gift 4*

Clean Thoughts *Gift 3*

He refreshes *Gift 2*

A Grateful Heart *Gift One*

One Thousand Gifts 271- 270

One Thousand Gifts 253 - 260

One Thousand Gifts 241 - 251

One Thousand Gifts 230 - 240

One Thousand Gifts 221- 229 Weekend Joys

One Thousand Gifts 181 - 189

One Thousand Gifts 171 - 180

One Thousand Gifts 162- 170

One Thousand Gifts 156- 161

One Thousand Gifts 148- 155

One Thousand Gifts 135 - 141

One Thousand Gifts 126 - 133

Gifts 10 & 11 My Boys on Sundays

Gift 9 Our Grandmotherly-Grandfatherly-Dad

Sky Watching With My Niece Gift 8 the wee ones

The Joy That Music Brings Gift 7

The Best Gifts Gift 6 Tender, Real Moments

Mothers and Daughters Gift 5 The Women In My Life

He Makes All Things Beautiful...In His Time Gift 4

Clean Thoughts Gift 3

He refreshes Gift 2

A Grateful Heart Gift One