Ellie Marrandette: A Place to Belong

Nov4

A very special thank you to my dear friend Carol Balawyder, who wrote this lovely review of my fourth novel, A Place to Belong. It is rare indeed for such a busy person to put her work aside to assist a fellow author.

Carol is an incredible writer in her own rite and I highly recommend her captivating novels as well. ❤

Carol Balawyder

Most of us at one point in our lives struggle to find our purpose in life. A Place to Belongis Katerine LeVay Cunningham’s (Kate) personal battle in search for her purpose in her life.

It is not enough that she is married to a wealthy movie producer who adores her and that her marriage is one full of romance and tenderness. Following her husband on his movie shoots does not satisfy her personal needs for fulfillment.

A Place to Belong is the third of a trilogy (although it can also standalone) and when we meet Kate she is in NYC with her loving British husband, Robert, who is directing a movie on the American Revolution. Throughout the novel the relationship between Kate and Robert is a romantic, tender one.

However, Kate is haunted by her past and until she puts to rest the secret, perfect crime which she has…

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What It Takes To Be A Champion

Feb8

Have you ever gotten tired of winning? No? Didn’t think so.

Tom Brady is an incredible athlete. In 2003, I debated several opinionated men who argued Peyton Manning was the better Quarterback. I respectfully disagreed. Praise God, time has proven me right.

Please don’t put others down because it makes you look more important. You can never build yourself up by putting others down.

How did Tom Brady defy the odds to become the G.O.A.T? An inauspicious beginning, he was the 199th draft pick in the 6th round! That didn’t exactly assert upcoming greatness.

Granted, TB wasn’t a top-drafted NFL recruit but he never whined about it. No excuses! He wanted to prove what he believed. “If you want something badly enough, you’ll work your hardest to achieve it.

Discipline is key to appreciating greatness and there’s always a price to pay to reach it.

Tom Brady began incorporating strict discipline into his life, determined to become his best self. Dedication to greatness is what we all should strive for. Just ask my inspirational friend and follower, Steve, who’s legally blind but runs and climbs mountains. Just like Brady, he wanted to prove something to himself! He did.

TB is the epitomy of a dedicated athlete. He recognizes change always starts from within. He follows the strictest diet, which even I, as a nutritionist probably couldn’t adhere to. He knows nutrient-dense foods produces mental acuteness which helped him out of challenging situations.

Tom Brady has all the qualities it takes to succeed. He’s thinks things through, before he acts. As should you. Talk yourself into success. TB not only wants victory, he wants it for the right reasons. He realizes football is only a God-given gift for a limited time. Being a QB is only what he does – not who he is – a genuinely caring individual.

He works as a team player. Have you noticed how TB directs the football to different receivers? He threw to Gronkowski to get him to the all-time SB touchdown QB/receiver combo record. He knew Evans was nearing a running record several weeks ago, so he helped Evans quickly obtain it. He thought Antonio Brown was worth redemption and mentors him. Similary, in your own life be an encourager, let others shine! It’s not all about US!

Tom Brady knows the value of fitness! Exercise creates muscle which burns fat which acts as the body’s furnace. To create muscle means talking oneself off the couch and move when you’d rather sit lazily watching a movie. TB practices an all-round exercise program which includes a stretching, limbering routine. Do the same! Start out small and get better over time by talking yourself into success.

Tom Brady’s an example of that mental outlook. I only pray he realizes that football will not get someone into Heaven, (although I firmly believe, we’ll be playing or watching sports, creating works of art, theater, music – not sitting on clouds being bored for eternity.) Heaven is Amazing!!!

“I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.” (Philippians 3:14)

Of course TB has bad games, but he shakes it off and plans a way to overcome future obstacles. So should we- learn from our mistakes. Everyone endures challenges in life. I had an extremely horrific childhood but I don’t live in the past! Make your life matter, because we matter to God!

Through it all, remain humble. Glory fades, champions are mostly forgotten but the Word of the Lord is Forever – Amen.

Thank You for the Light of the World Award

Jun19

I’d like to extend a special thank you to http://www.hisperfecttiming.blog for a very special award given to those blogs “whose presence on the web serves as a shining light for Christ and His Gospel of salvation.” That’s quite an honor, thank you! I have been truly blessed via the internet to obtain many wonderful followers who have become very close friends. She is certainly one of them.

This lovely award, created by Joe Rodriguez of Lighthouse Devotions, http://www.lighthousedevotions.blog (one of the rules is to mention him in your prepared acceptance post.) So thank you Joe for creating an encouraging award. All who post this to our site strive to motivate others to become their best self, pleasing to our Lord.

The Rules for Acceptance:

Save and add the award image (pictured here) on your blog.
Create a page/post to mention the award nomination and thank the person/blog that nominated you. Make sure you provide a link to their site.
Give credit to the creator of the award (Lighthouse Devotions) and provide a link to the site as well. (http://www.Lighthousedevotions.blog)
List the rules.
Answer the next four questions on the same post:
What three words would you use to describe your blog?
In what way(s) can a Christian shine for Christ?
What bible verse (quote it) talks about being a light in a dark and lost world?
What Christian song do you know that has the word “light” in it? Provide a link if available.
Nominate 7 or more people/blogs to receive the award. Briefly explain why you think they should receive it and provide a link to their sites.
Contact them and let them know that you nominated them.
Provide them with a link to the Rules page.
Say a prayer thanking God for His light and ask that He continue to shine it through you and your blog.
Keep shining the light of Christ wherever you go and in whatever you do!

Here are my answers to His Perfect Timing’s questions:

1. What three words would you use to describe your blog?

“Biblical Nutritional Truth” There are so many false diet gurus out in the world today who profess a false dietary doctrine which contradicts God’s Word of physiological Truth. Don’t believe everything your “itchy ears” want to hear simply because it sounds easy and quick!

2. In what way(s) can a Christian shine for Christ?

One way is to present our bodies as living sacrifices, practicing self-control over food cravings. “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God–this is your true and proper worship.” (Romans 12:1)

3. What bible verse (quote it) talks about being a light in a dark and lost world?

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105)

Many people are in the dark about what constitutes a sensible daily diet. That path can literally lead to one of destruction through dangerously high cholesterol levels, heart disease, diabetes and even cancers.

I urge you to discover what God already knows and has encouraged us to follow, a common-sense physiological pathway – which He laid down in Genesis 1:29 & 9:3 – for that way leads to a healthier lifestyle.

4. What Christian song do you know that has the word “light” in it? Provide a link if available.

Perhaps Chris Rice, “Go Light Your World.” By exhibiting a strong Christian testimony, others seek what you have.

Hold out your candle for all to see it
Take your candle, and go light your world

My nominations in no particular order and I love everyone of my 3200+ followers:

Matthew Winters, Comeback Pastor https://mdw4christ.wordpress.com His Biblical insight is soooo incredible, that I’ve sent many links to my pastor husband.
Yelobird, Tammy of http://www.yelobrd777.com Her prayerful encouragement never failed to bring peace to my soul, She’s not only my wonderful sister in Christ, but also my personal prayer warrior!
Randy, another wonderful pastor friend who provides Wisdom in all his posts which is an encouragement to me. https://kingdompastor.wordpress.com/ The world needs more strong, intelligent Biblical pastors like Randy and Matthew!
Wendy Endaya of https://harvestofhealing.wordpress.com My gosh, I know if she lived in my town, I’d be over at her house daily for Christian fellowship! I thank her for her prayers of encouragement as we endured tough times recently.
Bob Clark posts on Facebook: https://plus.google.com/+RobertClarke He is always is there with an intelligent comment attached to a Scripture verse and he knows nutrition!!!
Lisa Riehm, another strong-minded Christian woman who physically struggles with Lyme disease. You’d never know it however, for her positive attitude is an inspiration to all! https://thewhisperwithin.live
Sheila, my Christian Outreach friend in Italy (the gorgeous city view on her site is worth the click alone!) https://sheilascorziello.com. My heart broke when we couldn’t meet after my Italian missionary trip was canceled. But if not soon, I know we will eventually

“I thank my God every time I remember you.” (Philippians 1:3)

No Greater Love

Feb13

Have you ever sacrificed your own desires for someone because you loved them more than yourself? That certainly expressed true love, right? Well, tomorrow is Valentine’s Day and I would like to comment on the Greatest Act of Love ever accomplished for us; John 3:16.

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”

Have you ever wondered what went through Christ’s mind as He was scourged, spat on, beaten and ridiculed as a scapegoat for our sin?

Did our Lord ever question why He was doing this?

Wonder why He was sacrificing His life for someone who tortured and murdered sweet children?
The one who stole funds from that Christian charity for personal use?
Or that serial rapist a judge let go, only to do it again?

True, but Christ died for all sinners, even those who simply lied, stole pencils from the office or whose golden idol was gluttony.

Every one of us is guilty of sin before the Lord.

Aren’t you grateful that Jesus didn’t disobey God’s Will in Gethsemane to avoid unfathomable pain and suffering? He knew the future. He knew people would not accept him or even worse become apathetic. They would curse in his name, ignore his commands, laugh as others worshipped him and yet he still sacrificed his life for them as well.

What tremendous love it must have taken to go to the Cross!

Personally I believe while Christ suffered, my face along with the billions of faces for whom He became an offering for, came into view. As He was suffering, He focused all his attention, mental powers and love on that future victorious day when Ellie, Martha, John, Bob (or whomever) accepted Him as their personal Savior. “Come onto me . . .” and it was worth the cost. Praise God for that!

Now the question is, how do we show appreciation for His incredibly loving sacrifice? What would you sacrifice for love? Would you give up gluttony for Christ? Is something as miniscule as reducing unhealthy foods to become a stronger testimony worth His sacrifice? Silly question, right? But will you? Please don’t sell your godly testimony, as Essau did, for a mess of material pottage here on earth.

When life becomes difficult and we face our own challenges in the future, remain focused on what is really important in life: Eternity, not on the way we look but how we have honored our inner Temple of the Holy Spirit for God’s Glory.

Focus on becoming a New Creation for Christ based on 2 Corinthians 5:17, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.”

Satan wants nothing more than to destroy God’s temple on earth, which are His believers. There are many enemies who hope to sideline you from that goal with temptations of drugs, alcohol, smoking and even food.

But God remains by our side, even during our most stressful situations.

Isaiah 41: 10 “Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”

Sometimes our “old memory chains” bind us mentally or emotionally to the past. Break free from bondage and live an abundant life in Christ! I urge you to personally accept Jesus’s incredible Valentine gift: Freedom in Christ .

Water, The Great Equalizer

Aug30

As I watch the devastation of Hurricane Harvey and the heartbreak of those who have lost so much, my heart goes out to them. Through no fault of theirs the Houston and additional Texas areas are enduring trials I can’t imagine.

Expectedly the hurricane with its torrential rain turned north after striking Corpus Christi, hitting the beautiful area of Houston hardest with still-rising flood waters. Leaving their beloved home, memories and animals behind, residents called out for safety.

Floods demonstrate how water is the great equalizer. It didn’t matter if one owned a shack or a multi-million dollar estate; water devastated each one. It didn’t matter if someone was a field laborer or CEO, water took away their livelihood. When we come before God, keep in mind that it won’t matter if we are janitors or celebrities because no one can purchase Heaven with fame or money. Salvation by Faith is a free gift and will be the only fact that determines eternity.

I wonder how many of them thought of the Scripture in Matthew, Chapter 24. Jesus told his followers; as it was in the days of Noah, so shall it will be when Christ returns to rescue his Believers. For a hundred years Noah urged his friends to renew their lives through faith in God. But some, believing they had all the time in the world, mocked his warnings. Failing to heed God’s Saving Grace, they perished. Water became the great equalizer. Many today believe they have plenty of time to accept Christ. Until then, God is mocked and other idols replace our Lord.

Unexpected disaster can occur at any moment in our lives, even death. Some seem apathetic to death as well. “I’m young!” They say, “I have plenty of time, couldn’t happen to me!” But “Now is the time of Salvation!” (1 Corinthians 6:2)

Some will blame God for their circumstance; failing to understand that God originally created all things, “Good.” Remember it was man’s choice to mess everything up. Mankind became so evil that God sent a worldwide flood to reclaim and renew His original Creation. But in His Mercy and Love He didn’t destroy all but rescued eight faithful people and began again.

As residents evacuated, many had to leave their beloved pets behind, praying they would be saved eventually. When Christ comes to rescue his Believers, some loved ones will be left behind. Do everything you can to ensure they are saved!

Baptism by water immersion represents a rebirth and dedication to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. If one confesses sin and turns from their old ways, Baptism washes it all away. God will never forsake us and offers us a safe place of refuge. Find refuge with Him.

Accepting Christ makes one new through a newly-created attitude and mindset. Some experts say it will take years to rebuild Houston but accepting Christ and becoming a New Creation only takes a moment. God is giving you a way out of your despair, accept Him today!

“No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it.” (1 Corinthians 10:13) NASB

A Tribute to Our Little Walking Buddy

Aug8

I’ve been putting off this post for weeks because of my broken heart. Our beloved Lhasa was only 10 years old when she unexpectedly developed bladder stones last month and had to be put down. Our other two Lhasa Apso’s lived 16 1/2 years and we had no reason to expect she wouldn’t live as long. It was with a heavy heart we made that decision rather than have her endure an intricate painful operation which provided only a 50% chance of survival at best.

For many years she was my little walking buddy. She kept me on my toes literally. Our two mile walk in Arizona was one I wrote of frequently. She rode shotgun beside me on the passenger seat while I drove the 2500 mile drive from Arizona to Ohio.

I used illustrations I saw in her and our beautiful 14 year old Cocker Spaniel’s behavior many times in my blogs. It became easy to relate canine behavior to our relationship with God and health. She inspired me to write about trust, discipline and eating habits among other topics which can be found via my search engine on my webpage.

When she was a puppy she was so sweet and affectionate! She would climb upon my chest, wrap her little paws around me and give me an actual hug. She was a favorite at the dog park at the RV resort we lived in at the time.

Then something happened after we moved into our new home. In most Arizona communities, people went to work, drove home, entered their enclosed garage and sat out on their private patio afterwards, enclosed behind a 6 foot high fence. We failed to keep her socialized and she became over-protective and sadly mean-spirited with strangers.

This was a terrible mistake on our part but we learn from our mistakes. Dog owners aren’t perfect, neither are parents or individuals. I needed to forgive myself and instill necessary changes. So I vowed last year after our beautiful Cocker Spaniel passed, that we would absolutely socialize our transitional pup, “Mr. No-no.” Happily he has become the most loving of pets.

Five years ago when I began this blog, I had no idea what God had in store for me – that He’d ask me to become a pastor’s wife 3 years ago. (You want me to do what God?) I never expected His leading to take me down this pathway. But I began to listen to my Master’s Voice, trust HIm and grew in a closer relationship with my Lord. Throughout the decision some tough choices had to be made. Now here I am in northeast Ohio surrounded by family and friends, being more blessed than I ever imagined.

It takes an enormous amount of faith to trust God, even through sorrow, knowing that He only has our best interests at heart. Life is messy, hurtful, unfair at times. She was my last tie to my daughter and for that I will be forever grateful for having her in my life.

Someday I’ll know why God’s pathway has lead me to where He wants me to be now, even amidst sorrow. For I’d rather have memories of my little Lhasa buddy than to never have had her in my life at all. Until then, He has His arms around me, soothing me with comforting Words. All I need to do is trust and learn not pull on my leash. Trust – it’s a liberating word.

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

Sage Advice From a 100-Year-Young Friend

Jun13

“Wisdom is with the aged, and understanding in length of days.” (Job 12:12)

Everyone desires to live a productive and happy life. Few achieve it. My dear friend Judy exemplifies it!

Tomorrow marks her 100th birthday. Yes, she moves a little slower but her mind is still sharp. She resides in a lovely assisted living facility but never misses a Sunday service if she can. With so much energy, I can’t help but think she must have been somethin’ in her prime!

Now imagine all she has seen since 1917; how the world has transposed amidst industrial growth, space flights, world wars, technical advances and changes in society which have occurred over a century.

I interviewed her recently to unearth how she accomplished what so many seek but never find; peace and contentment.

Ellie: Judy, you are one of the most gracious people I know. I never hear you complain about aches, pains or grumble as so many older people do. What’s your secret to being so youthful?

Judy, without a moment’s hesitation deadpanned, “Good genes!” (A great sense of humor is also a wonderful age-resister: Proverbs 15:13.)

E: And that’s certainly part of it. You still look and act young-at-heart. But I also know you’ve gone through challenging times. What has given you such a positive outlook on life?

J: (pausing) I guess my mother was the greatest influence in my life. When I was a teenager, she wouldn’t allow me to complain when others had so little compared to us. She always told me to count my blessings.

E: This was during the Great Depression?

J: Yes, we weren’t rich but we weren’t poor either. My mother was always sharing what we had with those less fortunate than us. Her generosity was a good example to follow.

“I have been young, and now am old, yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken or his children begging for bread.” (Psalm 37:25)

E: So what was the most important piece of advice your mother ever gave you?

J: She taught me that if you don’t give – you won’t receive. Help others as best you can. Give from the heart but be genuine about it.

E: What’s your secret to aging gracefully? You certainly don’t act 100. I know they feed you well here.

J: In here, one eats what they put in front of you. (smiling) Well . . . there’s always an activity to occupy our time if we want and I’m happy being here near friends. My mother told me there is always someone who is better off or has less than me so I try to live my best life. Until I see Jesus, this is the life I’m given and I am content.

E: Is that another of your many secrets? So many who live in Assisted Living Facilities miss their previous home and lifestyle, but I’ve never heard you complain.

J: I think I’ve never minded change. I’ve lived a long time and have seen this world change a great deal. Look at how technology has grown. I’m able to watch TV, talk on my cell phone and have friends drive me to church.

E: With that being said, what words of wisdom would you give today’s generation?

J: I’m sorry so many seem to have lost the Godly values my generation had and I’d like to see more kindness. Young people used to stand aside to allow older people to enter a building. Few do today.

E: You don’t seem to live in the past as so many do.

J: I remember my past but I don’t live in it.

Judy epitomizes what being young-at-heart is all about. To be truly content one must be grateful for God’s blessings in one’s life, remain mentally and physically active while being surrounded by loving, supportive friends. Those are the keys to a Joyous Life.

She has truly exemplified Philippians 4:11, “Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have.”

Godly and Nutritional Lessons Learned from the Super Bowl

Feb7

“For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” (2 Corinthians 12:10)

How many of you are on a weight loss plan and struggling? Did you expect to lose that weight without a strong mindset, a strategy and proper education? It takes all that to reach a goal. But it’s the third quarter and it seems you’re on a path of failure. You’re stagnating. You think, here we go again, I’m going to fail and everyone will make me a laughing stock!

Do you care more about what others think than what you should? So what’s your solution? Do you give up, laugh it off or cave into a false belief that a goal isn’t worth fighting for?

I watched the Super Bowl and wondered where my beloved Patriots had gone? During the first half, what was going through their minds? Being defeated was a real option for Tom Brady. Sports anchors mentioned repeatedly that no team had ever come back from a 10 point deficit so how could a team overcome a 25 point one?

Well they didn’t know Tom Brady!!! Disciplined, confident and competent, he showed them all! He inspired his team with those personal traits. I admire all those, don’t you? Tom Brady never admitted defeat! He knew his strengths, believed in himself and never gave up!

Not everyone was a fan of the Patriots. Believe it or not there are some who won’t want you to succeed ether. Some might place mental roadblocks or temptations in your way. If you’re successful they might lose your friendship, they believe. Will you stop meeting them at the bakery anymore? True friends want the best for you and will cheer you on.

When on a weight loss plan, there are times when it’s difficult to continue, when the thought of giving up might enter your mind. When that occurs find your own support team, friends who will fire you up and inspire you. You can also accomplish your goal if you make God your Coach! Don’t believe the devil’s taunts and mind-games! Rather trust in the positive Word of God (Philippians 4:13) which declares you’re strong enough!

However we are all weak at times. We all have good and bad days, accept that. Know yourself, your limits and what you can accomplish. Your ultimate goal is to strive for excellence. Don’t believe your own publicity, good or bad. Brady himself recognized he wasn’t presenting his best during the first half. With that, he determined that even if they lost, they’d begin to employ their best once again.

Have you ever noticed how people who are disciplined sometimes aren’t as popular? Is it insecurity, jealousy? As long as you are doing what God wants, stand firm! God wants you as healthy as you can be – not necessarily a size 2. Eat anything in moderation and enjoy nutritionally healthy food..

Throughout 4 1/2 years of blogging, I am fortunate to have very few nasty comments about why their diet is better than simply eating for nutrients as God intended. However when someone attempts to deride God’s concrete solutions to man’s weight loss problems, I’ll stand firm!

What do you believe? Are you confident that striving for a healthier lifestyle is right? Victory is certainly better than defeat, right? God created each of us uniquely – we all can’t all be Hall of Fame quarterbacks but we all can strive for excellence. Let nothing defeat you, especially mentally. Become confident, as a Christian remember you are a child of the King.

Thank you for the “Sisterhood of the World” Award

Oct6

How wonderful to discover while on vacation that I’ve been nominated by a lovely new follower, Fashionable Librarian for the Sisterhood of the World Award. I am honored and thank her so much for thinking of me. Please check out her fabulous “fashionista” blog at http://conciergelibrarian.com/2015/09/26/sisterhood-of-the-world-bloggers-award/

I find these type of awards a wonderful way to discover more about our blogging friends. Only wish I could nominate many more. Have fun with this one!

Here are the simple rules for participating:

1. Thank the blogger who nominated you, linking back to their site.
2. Put the award logo on your blog.
3. Answer the ten questions sent to you.
4. Make up ten new questions for your nominees to answer.
5. Nominate ten blogs, notify them.

Questions I had to answer:

What is your ideal vacation spot?

Where do I start? Possibly the coast of Spain, the Highlands of Scotland? The Rhine River of Germany? No, I think my favorite place is a small area high above Innsbrook, Austria called Pertisau. An absolutely breathtaking, peaceful village surrounded by mountains. My husband and I loved cross-country skiing there. Enjoyed stopping at local eateries for gluwein and brats as we progressed.

Where are you from?

Having lived in 14 States, moved over 20 times in my life as a girl, while in the military, golf and on God’s ministry, I’m from “everywhere.” Educated up north, raised mostly in the south. Best of both worlds!

What is the national dish of your country?

Probably Bar-B-que, wouldn’t you think, USA?

Dark or milk chocolate?

Definitely dark!!! Nutrients you know.

Coffee or tea?

Always preferred coffee until we moved to Ohio where the winters are freezing and spiced teas warm us up!

Do you have a pet?

Had a skunk, raccoon, calf, cats, duck, (until he went to duckie “heaven” my mom said. Can’t eat duck to this day) Now we own two crazy dogs, a Cocker and Lhasa who frequently get mentioned in this blog.

If so how did you decide on a name?

They fit the names they already had, couldn’t change ’em. Too stubborn . . . dogs that is, not us.

Reggae or Hip Hop?

I guess Reggae because of it’s happy Caribbean beat, but love all types of music from Jazz to Country.

If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be?

Mmm, any place near the ocean. Mykonos, Greece sounds good.

Why would you want to live there?

The warmth of the people, the freedom to write.

Here are my questions:

Would you rather win an Oscar, Pulitzer, Nobel or other award? Why?
What would be your dream job?
What characteristics describe your ideal husband?
What’s your favorite place to vacation?
What’s your greatest skill?
What was your first car?
What were you like in high school?
Have you met a celebrity? Who?
Have you been on television?
What historical person would you invite to dinner?

Have fun! Here are my Nominees:

“I thank my God always concerning you for the grace of God which was given you in Christ Jesus,” (1 Corinthians 1:4)

I Humbly Accept the WordPress Family Award

May19

A Very Special Thank You to Deborah of www.talkingtomyweightlosscounselor.wordpress for nominating me for this sweet award, The WordPress Family Award!

I was amazed to discover that Deborah and I have been reading each other’s posts for only four months! That just goes to prove how quickly one can become friends via the blogosphere! I urge you to check out Deborah’s blog where she advises and encourages others to strive for healthy weight-loss through Godly, long-lasting ways. After all, He is the True Counselor! No dietary gimmicks for this lady! She looks amazing and if she can do it through sensible applications, then you can too.

Yes, as bloggers we do seem to become family, don’t we? When someone’s heart is breaking, we grieve along with them. When someone celebrates a special occasion we are happy with them. When one moves from a warm climate to brave the bitter cold of a northern winter . . . oh wait I digress . . . well anyway, close blogging friends sympathized with me. Sometimes, don’t you wish we could simply select all those who are close friends via our blogging network, and create one big, happy, encouraging town of our own? Yeah, me too.

Simple rules for the Award:

1. Copy and display the award logo on your blog. (check)

2. Link back to the person who nominated you. (check)

3. Nominate 10-15 others you see as having an impact on your WordPress experience. (check – all of these and more have been incredible supporters!)

4. Let your “fellow blogging family members” know you have awarded them. (check)

5. That’s it. Simple. Just please pick 10-15 people that have taken you as a friend, and spread the love. Simplest award I’ve ever won! But family members are supposed to make life simple, aren’t they?

I’m proud to call each one below a beloved friend, for each one has been there encouraging me and making me feel so special that I called upon my LORD to keep me grounded and realistic. I know that my life belongs to God and He is the one I ultimately work for. I wish I could nominate all 1556 more but then it would become another book. But please know that I love and adore all my followers! Please continue to express your comments so I can get to know all of you better.

The friends below are nominated as well, but I know they live extremely busy and hectic lives, so I leave it up to them to accept or not. No need to respond, but I want you to know you are equally special to me:

“I thank my God in all my remembrance of you” (Philippians 1:3)