Just Thinking

Driving state to state again,
Autumn leaves are nearly gone.
Highways seem so full today
The trip so short, seems long.

Tasks now before me,
A house of memories to pack.
God said go, we said yes...
There is no going back.

Though overwhelming threatens,
I'll lean on Him each day.
Praising, praising, praising,
For His wondrous, merciful ways!

C.S. Lewis Everyday

A few years ago my husband gave me a gift to last the whole year, a little C.S. Lewis every day. A Year with C.S. Lewis is a compilation of daily readings. Each page is dated for a day of the year and contains a short excerpt from his writing life; fiction, nonfiction, and dissertations.

Another special feature I love about this little treasure is the biographical tidbits placed at the bottom of many of the pages. It gives you an insight into the life and times of Lewis. Reading of his hardships and accomplishments is such an encouragement to those of us who struggle with what can be achieved during the latter years of our lives.

What a joy to know that we are not the first to endure such heartaches and be called to do difficult things despite our age.

Cleaning Out the Cobwebs

I don’t know about you, but I’m not a spider fan. They’re okay I guess as long as they stay outside and do their jobs. God doesn’t make junk, so I know they have their purpose in the eco system, but I don’t recall ever putting out the welcome mat to come inside from the cold.

Last year’s spider bite and the illness it brought motivate me even more to banish the cobwebs before the snows of winter fly and the spiders get a little too comfy inside my home.

Fall is a wonderful time for cleaning out the cobwebs. The temperature outside is perfect for cleaning windows and screens; you won’t overheat and the glass cleaner won’t dry too fast! It’s also a good time to open the windows and let some fresh air in while you vacuum the corners and ceilings inside. Of course those with severe allergies will have to chose a day when the allergen levels are low.

So this Tuesday's tips are for cleaning out the cobwebs –

• Remove window screens; vacuum, brush or rinse the cobwebs away.
  
• Open windows fully when cleaning to find the niches spiders love.
  
• Clean exterior door frames and storm doors.
  
• Don't forget the outdoor light fixtures.
  
• Spray spider repellent around exterior door and window frames.
  
• Pay special attention to basement and garage areas!
  
• High ceiling corners are a spider refuge. Use an extension on the vacuum to clean all interior corners.
  
• Remember to vacuum the tops of tall furniture, like china cabinets.
  
• Vacuum baseboards, especially in corners of rooms behind furniture.
  
• Think like a spider, where would you hide? Behind books on shelves or washers & dryers?
  

I don’t think we will ever rid all the spiders from our homes, but it’s best to get a head start before they do. Add a little praise and worship music while you work and you can banish the cobwebs from your mind at the same time. You'll have a shiny home and a shining spirit!

Blessings, Elizabeth

Multitude Mondays - Week 8

I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten … You will have plenty to eat, until you are full, and you will praise the name of the Lord your God, who has worked wonders for you; never again will my people be shamed. [Joel 2:25-26]

106. offers on our home (yes more than one!)
     
107. the sound of a rain storm
     
108. autumn's sounds and aromas
     
109. meat harvested for winter
     
110. God’s provision in so many ways!
     
111. the body of Christ, His church, my family
     
112. the smile on my husband’s face
     
113. blue skies and sunshine
     
114. a foggy morning on the mountain
     
115. a beautiful drive on Saturday
     
116. photos of my children
     
117. God’s Word, its power
     
118. a bold speaker of Truth, his message
     
119. cookies and fellowship
     
120. laughter in strange places
     
121. knowing God can heal all things
     
122. sunlight streaming through thick woods
     
123. answered prayers for friends
     
124. answered prayers for family
     
125. the freedom to praise!
     

Blessings, Elizabeth

Fall Colors

I'm really going to miss this yard. Lots of good memories!