She is Wonderfully and Marvelously Made

Nov21

It was a normal day for me…nothing out of the ordinary going on when the phone rang. It was my dear friend Jennifer Cannan and she was crying. Through her sobs I heard, “Can John and I come over? We’ve been at the doctor’s office today and we need to talk to someone.”

Within 15 minutes John and Jennifer were walking through the door. Both looked like they had been hit by a mac truck! Before she spoke, I grabbed her and held her while she sobbed on my shoulder. After a minute she was able to speak, “The doctor says Alisha is autistic.”

Because Alisha’s speech was delayed, we knew something was wrong…but Autism???? How do you wrap your head around that diagnosis???

Jennifer, being the take charge kind of person she is, immediately began to read everything she could get her hands on about Autism. She reached out to anyone with knowledge of Autism or anyone who knew of available resources for Autistic children. It wasn’t long after Alisha was diagnosed, she was enrolled in school and immediately the work began.

Within a very short period of time Alisha began to interact verbally with others. In fact her vocabulary grew to the point she was utilizing “big” words typically used only by adults. She began to laugh and interact with others on an emotional level as well.

Alisha was at my home for Halloween this year. She did not come for candy…She came to visit me and to give my candy away because in addition to Autism, Alisha has been diagnosed with Juvenile Diabetes. So, since she couldn’t have the candy she was elated to stand in my doorway and pass out candy to the trick or treaters who could. Then when my brother reached for a piece of candy, she provided him with a lecture on the perils of eating candy causing him to sneak his bites of candy when she was not looking.

Alisha is an adorable little girl who loves deeply everyone she encounters. She finds great pleasures in the most simple things. She is funny and witty making those around her laugh even when they aren’t in the mood to laugh. She says the cutest things and her mother is good to share them with us on Facebook. A couple posts by Jennifer I especially love…

“Mama, Can you come rub my back? I think there is a bone in it and it is really starting to hurt me.” How does she come up with these things?!?!?! Going to put on my masseuse hat….brb…a mother’s job is never done! LOL
“Alisha just informed me that she was “filthy, stinkin’ rich.” She then proceeded to show me that her change purse was full of coins plus she had 6 dollar bills. LOL”
“Alisha just told me that I needed to get bigger, uglier glasses since I am getting older. Nice! ROFL”

Today I was reminded of Alisha and her struggles and challenges in life when I read a post on Facebook by Alisha’s mom, Jennifer Cannan. It read…

“Kids with special needs aren’t sick or gross or stupid, and their handicaps not contagious. They only want what we all want: to be accepted and loved. Can I make a request: is anyone willing to post this and leave it as your status for at least an hour to spread the awareness? It is Special Education Week, and this is …in honor of ALL the children who were wonderfully and marvelously made.”

Do you know a child that is wonderfully and marvelously made? If so please honor them today!

I would like to take this opportunity honor my precious little friend Alisha Cannan…Alisha, your Aunt Lee Lee loves you Doll ♥

Love Lee ♥

Beyond Your Imagination

Nov19

While digging through the refrigerator, my husband will yell out “Where’s the ______ (whatever it is he’s looking for). I get up from my chair, walk to the refrigerator, reach in and move one item, and while handing him what he was looking for I say, “You might have to move something.” After going though this routine several times I no longer have to get up out of my chair, I only have to call out “You might have to move something.” and miraculously he is able to locate what he needs.

In much the same way we as humans tend to only see what is right in front of our face and forget there is so much more…We are told in 2 Corinthians, “So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”

Because I have never seen heaven, I can only imagine what it is going to be like and how awesome it will be when we see Jesus for the first time. In fact, the song “I Can Only Imagine” by MercyMe says it best.

I Can Only Imagine

I can only imagine what it will be like, when I walk by Your side…
I can only imagine, what my eyes will see, when Your Face is before me!
I can only imagine. I can only imagine.
Surrounded by Your Glory, what will my heart feel?
Will I dance for you, Jesus? Or in awe of You, be still?
Will I stand in Your presence, or to my knees will I fall?
Will I sing ‘Hallelujah!’? Will I be able to speak at all?
I can only imagine! I can only imagine!

I can only imagine, when that day comes, when I find myself standing in the Son!
I can only imagine, when all I will do, is forever, forever worship You!
I can only imagine! I can only imagine!

Surrounded by Your Glory, what will my heart feel?

Will I dance for you, Jesus? Or in awe of You, be still?
Will I stand in Your presence, or to my knees will I fall?
Will I sing ‘Hallelujah!’? Will I be able to speak at all?
I can only imagine! Yeah! I can only imagine!

What are you looking for in the refrigerator of life…Stop looking at what is right in front of your face…the here and now.

Love Lee ♥

Color Your World

Nov18

Color does have a physical effect on the human body. Color has a profound influence on the pituitary gland, which helps regulate hormone production. Hormones can affect our moods, so it makes sense that color would, too. But it can also be used to change our moods.

As for me…I love to surround myself a slight off white and accessorize with a variety of color which would lend to balance in my life. In each room of my home you will find something with each of the colors below except gray. Gray is probably my least favorite color! Gray causes me to feel down, drab, and drained.

Autumn while filled with vibrant colors is often a little on the gloomy side for me because all those beautiful colors are covered with a drab gray sky and a lack of sunshine which can lead to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

It is also in Autumn people begin to pull out their blankets and seasonal decorations in efforts to get “cozy” for the winter. They put away their bright cheery items and settle in for the winter totally unaware of the effect it has on their mood.

I challenge you to take note of your surroundings and take control of your mood by incorporating color!

Effect of Color on Emotions

Red is all about energy and vitality, but it can also indicate anger. And of course it’s associated with sexuality as well. Pink, though, can provide a sense of being cared for; it’s more about nurturing and maternal love.

Orange is stimulating, good for times when we just can’t seem to get started with something. Its lighter version, peach, may be useful for exhaustion due to stress.

Yellow is good for mental activities like reasoning and analysis. It can promote self-confidence and is helpful in situations when you need to be more optimistic.

Green tends to make most people think of nature, since so much of the natural world is green. It’s about connections – with nature, or with our fellow humans. It’s also good for general stress, since it can help balance emotions.

Blue is soothing and relaxing. It can stimulate creativity. Light blue can denote quiet, and dark blue can be sedating. But too much dark blue can be depressing.

Purple is related to imagination, intuition, and insight. In some situations it can also be very peaceful.

White is definitely about peace. But it’s also associated with purity, which makes it good for “cleansing” – which could mean purification, or maybe just clarification.

Black may make some people think of depression, but it doesn’t have to. It’s a very dramatic color; many artists wear nothing but black. It can denote mystery, something hidden – or maybe an introvert who’s been around crowds too long could use it to “hide” from people. In this sense, it can be a very protecting color.

Gray is a common color for business suits, and in those instances it can indicate independence, self-control, and self-confidence. But some color specialists think it’s also about ambiguity and indecision; after all, it isn’t black, and it isn’t white, either.

Brown is the color of earth, and be just as “grounding.” It’s good for introducing stability to an otherwise insecure situation. But too much of it can take stability to its extreme – stagnation.

I Challenge You To Color Your World!!!

Love Lee ♥

Are You Walking in the FOG

Nov17

Do you really believe it was luck that delivered you from a that near wreck you had? Or do you think your boss was nice to you because you’re all that? Do you think the unexpected check came in the mail at the exact time you needed it was just a coincidence? I think not…It is favor!!!

I do not believe in luck…

I Believe in FAVOR and I choose to walk in the FOG (Favor of God)

I like what the article What does having the favor of God mean? has to say about favor. To favor means to give special regard to; to treat with goodwill; to show exceptional kindness to someone. Sometimes, it means to show extra kindness in comparison to the treatment of others; that is, preferential treatment. God gives His children favor.

Joel Osteen says it like this. “I believe God’s favor is something intangible where you’ve got God’s blessings on your lives.”

In the 10 Benefits of Walking in the Favor of God Pastor Winston Reyes of Victory Fort lists the following as benefits we as God’s kids can be entitled to.

Supernatural increase and promotion
Restoration of everything that has been taken from you
Honor even in midst of adversaries
Increase assets especially in the area of real estate
Provision and overflowing harvest
Protection from the LORD
Prominence and preferential treatment
Prayers are heard and answered
Purpose of God is accomplished through you
Battles are won in which you won’t even have to fight because God will fight them for you

Are You Walking in the FOG?

If so, stop calling it luck and call it what it is…

IT IS GOD’S FAVOR!!!

Love Lee ♥

Do You Have Something To Give?

Nov16

I love Extreme Make Over Home Edition…To see someone who is down on their luck receive a hand up from a community is so touching! I am sure it is such a rush for the people involved too. Not only do they get to participate in the outpouring of love on a good and deserving person but they also get to be in the spotlight surrounded by the cameras and glam of TV. It is such a great cause and some very giving people are highlighted.

But…what happens when the lights go out, the cameras go off, and everyone goes home?

Unfortunately, it is human nature to do for others only when people are watching but it takes a special and obedient person to give when no one is watching. In Matthew we are taught we will be blessed when we give in private.

“Be careful not to do your ‘acts of righteousness’ before men, to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven. “So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. Matthew 6:1-4

One of mine and Richard’s favorite ways to give is to go out to eat and pick up the tab for total strangers and to do it anonymously. Or to lean over and whisper to the grocery clerk “put it on my tab” for a person standing in the grocery line having to put food items back because they don’t have the money to pay.

Do you know someone in need and if so what are you doing about it? As Thanksgiving approaches, I encourage you to open your eyes and heart and give to those who are less fortunate than you. Share your hearts and homes with them or have food delivered to them anonymously. If you do not know anyone in need then ask God to place that person in your path so you can bless them. You can also contact your local church as they have knowledge of people in need.

Do you have something to give?

Love Lee ♥

Recently I was the recipient of a gift given in private. I have no idea where it came from or who gave it but I am very grateful to the giver and appreciated the gift very much! I pray God will bless that special person richly for giving as instructed in His word.

All or Nothing

Nov15

In life people are often faced with life changing decisions like marriage, parenting, or careers. These decisions can not be taken lightly and require a higher level of commitment and dedications.

One of those life changing decisions is to include Christ into ones life. Along with the decision to follow Christ, a decision about the level of commitment must be made as well. If knowing God, living for Him, and growing in your faith is important, then it is worth giving your whole heart to it. To put on a fancy show for others to convince them that you’re doing a good job or seeking to know God better. However, the bottom line is you can’t fool God. He looks deep into your heart and knows whether your efforts to know Him are shallow or whether they run deep.

“You will seek me and find me when you seek me with your whole heart”. Jeremiah 29:13

God looks deep into your heart and knows whether your efforts to know Him are shallow or whether they run deep. If they are deep and your heart’s desire is to know Him with all your heart, then mistakes and failures will be brushed aside.

Striving for excellence does not mean you will not make mistakes. But, unlike your family, friends, or acquaintances God does not beat you over the head with your past. He wraps his arms of forgiveness around your shoulder and supports you as you move forward in your walk with Him. His opinion should be the only one that matters and we should live our life by His standards and not the opinions of others.

“An authentic life is the most personal form of worship. Everyday life has become my prayer.” Sarah Ban Breathnach

It’s All Or Nothing…God cares about your heart’s priority so choose wisely!

Love Lee ♥

I Love to Hear Him Sing

Nov14

Music has always been a very important part of Richard’s and my life. In fact music served as the medium which brought us together. In high school Richard sang in the choir and played a French horn in the band. I will never forget the moment I realized just how gifted he was…

He was playing in a band concert one evening and invited me to go. He appeared on my front door step wearing a band uniform covered in medals; medals he had won in competitions. I have always loved a man in uniform but for that uniform to be covered in BLING!!! (Did I mention, I Love Bling ♥)

Richard has continued to exercise his passion for music by singing in the church choir and by singing solos when asked. But more important than how he sings, it is what he sings…

Richard’s passion for the Lord becomes evident with the release of the first note from his mouth. He sings of the God’s love, mercy, and grace with such conviction and emotion…

Today, I celebrate as I get to not only attend church and worship my risen Savior, I also get to witness my precious husband sing joyfully to the Lord and worship our Savior in song.

Sing joyfully to the Lord, you righteous; it is fitting for the upright to praise him. Psalms 33:1

We would love for you to join us for worship at First Baptist Church Brazoria in Brazoria, TX. at 10:45 AM

Love Lee ♥

Walking With a Friend

Nov13

There is nothing more relaxing than a casual stroll with a close friend. To be surrounded by nature while engaged in conversation with a friend is a combination you just can’t beat!

Over the years I have walked along side many friends but there is one friend I cherish above all others. He listens intently, speaks gently, and cares tremendously! He does not pass judgement on me but listens and offers alternate solutions to my problems. He walks at a pace I can tolerate without pushing me.

My friend has been there for me through all of my life’s ups and downs. He celebrates with me when I am happy, cries with me when I am sad, and comforts me when I hurt. He says He will never leave me or forsake me! Through thick and thin he is right there.

His name is Jesus…

I do not take a step without Him!

I am reminded of the song below. I can’t imagine taking a step without Jesus! I no longer live in fear…If I step wrong He is there to catch me and set me up right.

Every Step I Take

Na na na na na na na
Na na na na na na na
Na na na na na na na
Na na na na na na na

Every move I make I make in you
You make me move, Jesus
Every breath I take I breathe in you
Every step I take I take in you
You are my way, Jesus
Every breath I take I breathe in you
Singin’

(chorus)

Every move I make I make in you
You make me move, Jesus
Every breath I take I breathe in you
Every step I take I take in you
You are my way, Jesus
Every breath I take I breathe in you

Waves of mercy waves of grace
Everywhere I look I see your face
Your love has captured me
Oh my God this love how can it be
Singin’

(chorus)

Every move I make I make in you
You make me move, Jesus
Every breath I take I breathe in you
Every step I take I take in you
You are my way, Jesus
Every breath I take I breathe in you

Waves of mercy waves of grace
Everywhere I look I see your face
Your love has captured me
Oh my God this love how can it be
Singin’

(chorus)

Today is a Great Day to Take a Walk With A Friend!

Love Lee ♥

It’s OK to Cry

Nov12

Sometimes life is hard, pain comes into all our lives and with that comes the associated emotions.

It is a privilege for a parent to be able to teach their children how to handle all of life’s experiences. If your children see you grieve and cry when the situation calls for such emotion, it gives them the freedom to experience those same emotions.

On several occasions I have heard friends or family say, “I don’t want anyone to see me cry”. However…

There is a time for everything…a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance. Ecclesiastes 3:1,4

The release of emotions associated with a good cry is very healthy and it is especially important for sons to know that men can cry without their manhood being threatened. Teach your children about the realities of life and give them the freedom to express the appropriate emotions for each situation.

You don’t have to be so tough!

It’s OK to cry!

Love Lee ♥

The Ultimate Choice

Nov10

Every day you make choices about how you will behave, how you will relate to other people, what your actions and reactions will be.

For a Christian the choice should be living for Jesus. Nothing should be more important than showing others what Christ is like.

IT IS A CHOICE…

“For God did not call us to be impure, but to live a holy life.” 1Thessalonians 4:7

We are called to live a holy life; one of honor which would magnifiy the Lord. A life that puts Him first by bringing Him honor and glory; a living testimony of His love and acceptance.

Life is so incredibly fragile! Here today and gone tomorrow therefore, it is so critical we choose to live life in such a way others crave what we have; that others see Jesus in and through us! We can do this by living our lives as instructed in 1Thessalonians 4:11

“Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody.”

Living your life while Striving for Excellence in your daily walk!

Sonic Flood has a song which says it perfectly…

Holiness

Holiness, holiness is what I long for
Holiness is what I need
Holiness, holiness is what You want from me
Holiness, holiness is what I long for
Holiness is what I need
Holiness, holiness is what You want from me

So, take my heart and form it
Take my mind and transform it
Take my will and conform it To Yours, to Yours, oh, Lord

Do you long for His holiness?

Only Jesus can provide you with the holiness you long for and need.

Love Lee ♥