New Year's Eve

by Kay Heitsch

I can hardly believe it's New Year's Eve again. It seems the older one gets the years just fly by.

I used to go out and party on New Year's Eve. Years ago we ran a night club called, Britten Hill. There was lots of drinking, dancing, and loud music. I'd wake up New Year's Day with a horrible headache.

This year I plan to watch football! That's right, I'll stay home and watch the OSU Buckeyes. I hope they win, but if they don't I'll be happy for the boys who do win. That's life! Sometimes your team wins and sometimes they don't.

Today's quote is, "Tomorrow is the first blank page of a 365 page book. Write a good one!" I'll be thinking about 2017 as a book to be written when I go to bed tonight. I hope you will too. Let's write a good one!

Love Shines

by Kay Heitsch

Have you ever noticed how even a tiny nightlight shine brightly when it's dark in a room? I certainly have.

We have a lot of darkness in our world. When we hear of someone being loving and kind we see a light shine in that darkness. We feel hopeful and may even have a tear of joy come to our eyes.

Today's quote, "A heart that is kindled in LOVE is a light that shines in the darkness." This quote tells us that it is LOVE that shines in darkness. No matter how dark our world may seem LOVE will still shine.

We can be that light that shines in darkness when we are filled with God's eternal LOVE.

LOVE shines!

The Mother's Club

by Kay Heitsch

As most of you know by now Debbie Reynolds died one day after her daughter Carrie died. When I heard Debbie was taken to the hospital after Carrie's death my heart went out to her. I thought, "I'm sure Debbie has belonged to many clubs over the years, but now she's in a club no mother wants to be in."

The Mother's Club is a club mothers who's children have died know all too well about. It's a club of the broken hearted. No mother wants to be in this club, but there are many of us who are.

We all have different ways of dealing with the death of our child. It's very difficult to live with a broken heart. It doesn't matter how many years have gone by our hearts are still broken.

Is it possible to actually live with a broken heart? I'm here to tell you that it is! I do it every day!

Do tears come to my eyes for no apparent reason? Yes! Do I think of Todd? Yes! Is my heart still broken? Oh you bet it is! But I have chosen to LIVE in spite of my broken heart.

If you have a broken heart today please know that you too can LIVE even if you belong to, The Mother's Club.

Give the Lord your broken heart. He will pour his healing balm of LOVE on it. He will assure you that LOVE never dies! You can then LIVE with your broken heart and allow God's LOVE to shine through you and help you live fully every day.

Praying For Time

by Kay Heitsch

Praying for Time is a song by George Michael. When I heard this song years ago it brought tears to my eyes.

When our lasts days come will we be, Praying For Time? Time to get it right, time to live our lives better.

There is a "Time to be born and a time to die." Ecclesiastes 3:2 We are not going to be here forever.

We don't know if today is our time to die or if we are going to be given more time. What will we do with the time we have left?

Today's quote stood out. "Enjoy life today! Yesterday is gone and tomorrow is not promised. Life is short! There's no replay, no rewind. Live your life and enjoy every moment as it comes."

We can be thankful for the time we have now. We can live the abundant life that Jesus died to give us. (see John 10:10). We can live in such a way that we won't need to be, 'praying for time' when our time comes to die. We can say like Paul, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." 2 Timothy 4:7.

Pain

by Kay Heitsch

"Pain can change you, but that doesn't mean it has to be a bad change. Take that pain and turn it into wisdom." ~ "Sometimes it takes a painful experience to make us change our ways." Proverbs 20:30 GNT

Pain...we all have experienced it in our lives. When I saw the Bible verse years ago, "Sometimes it takes a painful experience to make us change our ways." Proverbs 20:30 GNT our son had recently died in a car accident. That very painful experienced helped me to see life in a whole new way. As difficult as it was, with God's help, I gained wisdom through that painful experience.

There certainly are different kinds of pain. But no matter what kind of pain it is we can gain wisdom by it.

Maybe our bad habits have cause our pain. Maybe our pain is caused by a painful experience. Maybe we don't know why we're having pain. It doesn't matter what caused the pain. We can gain wisdom by going through the experience, if we choose to.

"Pain can change you, but that pain doesn't mean it has to be a bad change. Take that pain and turn it into wisdom." Sorry to say but, Sometimes it takes a painful experience to make us change our ways." Proverbs 20:30 GNT

New Day

by Kay Heitsch

I read several quotes in the morning. When something stands out to me that's what I post. Today the words, "When you start each day with a grateful heart, light illuminates from within. It's a new day so shine on."

I've noticed how people who are grateful are happy people. There is light that illuminates from within them. If you notice it's just the opposite when we're around a complaining person.

Today is a new day! We can let light illuminate from within us when we go about our day with a grateful heart. So be grateful and shine on!

Happy Life

by Kay Heitsch

If you ask most people what they want in life they will say, "I just want to be happy."

Some people think more stuff will make them happy. They think, "If I had your life I would be happy." "If I didn't have these problems, I'd be happy." The list goes on and on.

Today's quote "Very little is needed to make a happy life; it is all within yourself, in your way of thinking." This quote goes perfectly with Proverbs 23:7 NASB "For as he thinks within himself, so he is."

If you're not happy, check your thoughts. What have you been thinking about?

A 'Happy Life' is within ourselves. It's in the way we think.

Maybe Christmas Means More

by Kay Heitsch

I don't know about you, but there are very few years that I remember anything I actually received for Christmas. I can tell you some wonderful Christmas memories though.

Today's quote by Dr Seuss says it well. "Maybe Christmas doesn't come from a store, maybe Christmas ...perhaps... means a little bit more!" ~ Dr Seuss ~

Yes, Christmas is much more than opening gifts. Christmas is a time to make some wonderful memories and celebrate the birth of Christ.

This Christmas Eve I hope and pray you find that Christmas doesn't only come from a store. Yes, I believe Christmas means more than a little bit more.

Joy To The World

by Kay Heitsch

Tomorrow night is Christmas Eve. I know a lot of people will be attending church. Many will be looking forward to the Christmas Eve service and singing the old Christmas songs.

In my childhood I never attended a Christmas Eve service. However, as an adult I have. There's something special about this service that is different than others.

Singing, Joy To The Word, Oh Come All Ye Faithful, and of course, Silent Night as the candles are lit make the heart happy and may even bring a silent tear to your eyes.

LOVE, Peace and Joy came down on earth on Christmas. May His LOVE, Peace and Joy fill our hearts on Christmas and always.

Joy To The World The Lord Is Come!

Do You Believe?

by Kay Heitsch

This time of the year people ask children, "Do you believe in Santa?" Some children do and some children don't.

This is the same question we can all ask ourselves, "Do we believe?" Some people do and some people don't.

Years ago I came across a Bible verse that was a surprise to me. The people were asking Jesus what God wanted them to do. "Jesus answered, "What God wants you to do is to believe in the one He sent." John 6:29 TEV

Christmas is the season when Christians celebrate 'the one He sent.' When we wonder what our part is in the celebration I like to think, "Believe."

A Smile Is A Gift Worth Giving

by Kay Heitsch

I'd never really thought about giving a smile as a gift until this morning. Sometimes a smile is the best gift you can give someone.

Yesterday I was in the grocery store. I saw an older man standing with a sad look on his face. I walked by and gave him a big smile. Immediately, his eyes brightened and he smiled back. I don't know why he looked so sad, but for that moment in time he smiled.

Today's quote is good anytime of the year. "Give the gift of your smile! You never know how much of a difference you could be making in their life at that moment."

People are in a rush and many are stressed this time of the year. Why not give a gift of your smile to everyone you meet.

A Smile is a gift worth giving!

A Peaceful Heart

by Kay Heitsch

Is there anything better than a peaceful heart? I don't think so.

When we have a peaceful heart we can be attentive in the present moment. When we are filled with peace we can experience joy, love, and even laughter.

In this time of giving I chose this quote, "If I could give you any gift, I'd give you love and laughter, a peaceful heart, a special dream and joy forever after."

My prayer for each of you this Christmas season is, "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope." Romans 15:13 ESV

I think it's awesome that in simple believing we can experience love, joy, hope, and a peaceful heart.

Believe!

by Kay Heitsch

Believing is a powerful thing! I've known people who live their lives believing the worst. Their lives are not any worse than anyone else's, but that's how they see it.

I've also known people who believe that something good is about to happen. Their lives may not be any better than the person who believes the worst, but they live in a happy expectation for the future.

I really liked today's quote. "Always believe that something good is going to happen. The future belongs to those who believe!"

Believing is very powerful. This Christmas season I pray we choose to believe that something good is going to happen. When we do we'll see that our future is bright and filled with delight!

Look For The Beauty

by Kay Heitsch

Today's quote,"Everything has it's beauty but not everyone sees it." caused me to ask, "What have I missed?"

I believe we all miss so much beauty in the world around us. It's easy to get distracted that we miss things that would bring joy to our hearts.

I've had times, usually after some tragedy in my life, where I seemed to notice things I didn't see before. However, other times I've needed to remind myself to 'look for the beauty' in the world around me.

When we know that according to Ecclesiastes 3:11 "He has made everything beautiful in its time." Knowing this we can be on the lookout to 'look for the beauty' in the world around us.

Today and everyday let's 'look for the beauty'. We can find it in nature and even in every person we meet.

Not What I Expected

by Kay Heitsch

I was wondering what I would see when I got up this morning. It was predicted by the weatherman that we might have 9 inches of snow. So when I looked out the window it wasn't what I expected. I saw maybe 3 inches of snow instead.

Today's quote made me smile, "Just because it isn't what you expected doesn't mean it isn't what you want." I was expecting 9 inches of snow, but 3 inches may be more what I wanted.

Life is very much like this. We expect so many things. I've found that even when something is worse than what I expected it can work out for my good in the long run.

The day is not over so maybe later the snow will begin to fall again. Right now 3 inches was not what I expected, but it doesn't mean it isn't what I wanted.

Loving Memories

by Kay Heitsch

At Christmas time many people reflect on days gone by. I've learned it's best to think on, 'Loving Memories.' that help me smile.

I found today's quote in my Christmas file, "Loving memories never die, as years roll on and days pass by. In our heart a memory is kept, of ones we loved and will never forget."

We all have many memories of Christmas time from years gone by. It's healthy to remember our loved ones and remember the good times of the past. We can let these memories help us to smile and bring joy to our hearts.

At Christmas time we can remember the past. But let's remember that we are now making 'loving memories' for the future. Not only for ourselves, but for others as well.

A Little Can Of Peanuts Saved The Day

by Kay Heitsch

When I got up this morning I noticed a can of peanuts on the counter. I thought, "You better take those down the basement before you're tempted to eat them."

When I got to the bottom of the steps in the basement I noticed A LOT of WATER on the floor. I wasn't sure where it was coming from. I ran over to the NEW hot water heater and NEW furnace. Water was coming from somewhere!  As I looked carefully I saw a steady stream of water coming from under the humidifier connected to the furnace. I ran and got my phone, a pail, and the shop vac.

I called the company who installed both the hot water heater and furnace. Within an hour they were out.

Today's quote hit home. "Happy are those who take life day by day and are thankful for little things."

I'm very thankful for the 'little can of peanuts' that needed to go to the basement. I can't imagine how bad it would have been had I not gone down the basement when I did.

A little can of peanuts saved the day! Plus, a little nudge from the Lord to take them down when I did.

Sparkle On

by Kay Heitsch

What I like most about snow is how it sparkles when the sun shines on it.

Today's quote calls snowflakes gems. "Silently like thoughts that come and go, the snowflakes fall each one a gem."

When the sun shines on the snow each flake starts to sparkle. The closer you look you can actually see a tiny rainbow of promise in each flake.

I was thinking how much each one of us is like a snowflake. We are all one of a kind. We were born to sparkle. We have a rainbow of promise in our hearts. We sparkle when the SON shines on us.

Today remember you were born to sparkle. Let the SON shine on and through you. Leave a little sparkle everywhere you go.

Sparkle on....

Sticking Together Like Snowflakes

by Kay Heitsch

Today's quote, "A snowflake is one of God's most fragile creations, but look what they can do when they stick together." This quote is a great reminder of what we can do if we stick together to help each other.

There's a Bible verse in Ecclesiastes 4:9 "Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed."

Just think what can be accomplished if a group of people stick together to get a job done.

Kindness and Snow

by Kay Heitsch

"Kindness is like snow...it beautifies everything it covers." This quote is an interesting way to see snow and kindness.

Snow does beautify everything it covers. Who can look at the world after a snowfall and not see the beauty. Kindness is the same way. When we see kindness in action it is a beautiful thing.

We can be like snow and cover our world with kindness today. When we do it will be a beautiful thing.

One Of A Kind

by Kay Heitsch

As I look out the window this morning I see a Winter Wonderland. It's amazing to think that no two snowflakes are the same, just like people.

Today's quote reminds us of that, "We're all like snowflakes unique, beautiful, and one of a kind."

I thought of Psalm 139:14 when I read this quote. "Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex. Your workmanship is marvelous--how well I know."

I hope and pray we realize that we are unique, beautiful and one of a kind. There is no one exactly like you! Isn't that amazing?

Snowflakes and LOVE

by Kay Heitsch

It's that time of the year in Michigan when snow is in the forecast. I thought these words fit the occasion, "A little smile, a word of cheer, a bit of LOVE from someone near. Wishing you SONshine, snowflakes, friendships, and Christmas blessings!"

The snowflakes will be falling here in Michigan. No matter what the forecast the SONshines! When the SON shines we can smile, be cheerful, and spread LOVE to someone near.

Christmas blessings are all around us. When we stop long enough we can feel the LOVE.

One Christmas

by Kay Heitsch

Today's quote, "The best gifts in the world are not in the material, objects one can buy at the store, but in the memories we make with the people we love." This quote brought back a memory from years ago.

My dad had a very rough childhood. He actually hated Christmas. It wasn't until I was grown that he seemed to feel the love that Christmas can bring.

One year Dad came to our house for Christmas. My Aunt Carmel, Uncle Fred, Pat and family came too. Patty sat down at our piano and started to play some Christmas Carols. Shannon was around 3 years old and she climbed up on my dad's lap. Dad handed her the song book and they both were doing their best to sing out loud and proud!

This was one Christmas I will never forget. It made my heart happy to bring some joy to my Dad. It was a long time coming, but I believe he felt the love that Christmas can bring when we open up our hearts to it.

Smart Cookie

by Kay Heitsch

I was thinking about making some Christmas cookies when I went over to find a quote this morning. Little did I know I'd find one mentioning attitude. Here's the quote, "You can't be a smart cookie if you have a crumbly attitude."

This quote makes a lot of sense. If we have a 'crumbly attitude' we won't be a 'smart cookie.' I know being a 'smart cookie' is an old fashion term. I haven't heard it in years, but my mother said it often.

This quote is a good reminder to keep a good attitude so we will be a "Smart Cookie!"

Gifts of LOVE and a SMILE

by Kay Heitsch

I had never really thought about Christmas as allowing God to LOVE and SMILE at others through us until I read today's quote. "It is Christmas every time you let God LOVE others through you. Yes, it is Christmas every time you SMILE at others and offer them your heart."

Wow, what a great way to think about giving. Many times we think of giving as a gift that cost money. But there are many ways to give that do not cost money. Today's quote tells us we can give LOVE and a SMILE to everyone we meet this Christmas season.

Today and everyday we can allow God to LOVE and SMILE through us. What wonderful gifts to give!

Make Good Memories (true story)

by Kay Heitsch

My husband Bill's Grandma Z. was in a nursing home when we moved back to Michigan. Grandma had been unable to walk for quite some time; now her eye sight was almost gone.

Over the years Grandma Z. and I had exchanged many cards and letters. I knew how she enjoyed staying in touch with people. Since I'd come back to Michigan, Grandma Z. thought I should be her "personal secretary." Trying to jog her memory I said, "I guess you've forgotten how bad my handwriting is." Grandma Z. acted like she didn't hear me. Grandma would have me write letters to go in the cards she would send. She would dictate; then I would do my best to write down what she said. Grandma would always have me read what I had written back to her. Grandma didn't have a problem hearing then because she was always telling me, "That is not exactly how I said that!" I would then rewrite whatever I wrote in her exact words.

Since I had some extra time before Christmas, I asked Grandma if she would like to send out some Christmas cards. Grandma readily agreed. I rounded up several different kinds of cards. I knew she had friends and family who all had different interests. I would take each card and describe in detail the front of the card, then I would read the verse inside. After thinking it over Grandma would tell me who she thought would like each card.

After a while I looked up and I noticed that we had several nursing home residents standing in the doorway. I started to notice as I read each card, the look on their faces and Grandma Z's face, too. Each one had a faint smile and a far away look in their eyes, as they were seeing the scenes in their minds' eye.

I thought when I went over to do the Christmas cards I would be doing Grandma Z. a favor, but it turned out that she did me a big favor. I'll always cherish this special memory of bringing some Christmas joy and pleasant memories to Grandma and her fellow residents.

Grandma Z liked to say, "Make good memories!" Thanks to Grandma Z. I made a "good memory" that I'm now passing on to you.

 p.s. This story is also posted in my blog, Let the SON Shine!  on December 3rd, 2008 

Christmas Memory

by Kay Heitsch

"Today is next years Christmas Memory. Make it one you will always cherish, and be sure to enjoy every single moment."

This quote is a great reminder to be aware this Christmas season that we can make memories that we will cherish for a lifetime.

I don't know about you, but I'm guilty of hurrying just to get things done. This time of the year I don't often take the time to cherish and enjoy every moment.

Today's Bible verse is a good reminder to enjoy each day, "This is the day which the LORD has made; Let us rejoice and be glad in it." Psalm 118:24 NASB

We've all made some Christmas memories in the past. Today is a good day to start to make next years Christmas Memory.

Christmas Prayer (true story)

by Kay Heitsch

As we slowly drove down the street on that cold December evening we spotted the porch light. "This must be the house." I told our "Positive Teens In Action" group.

We pulled up in front of an older home with the porch light glowing. We gathered up our song books, walked up the steps, and knocked on the door. We heard a faint voice from inside say, “Come on in. The door is open." We opened the door.

There in a rocking chair sat an elderly woman with a big smile on her face. "I've been expecting you." she said weakly. Ruth was one of our Meals On Wheels stops I had arranged; along with the usual church members who enjoyed carolers.

We handed Ruth the basket of goodies the teens had assembled earlier that evening. Then I asked Ruth what carols she would like to hear. Ruth's face was beaming as she joined in singing each song.

As we hugged Ruth good-bye she said to me with tears glistening in her eyes, “The day you called I was still in bed. I had just finished praying. I asked God if it would be possible to have some Christmas Carolers come to my home and sing this year. Thank you for being the answer to my Christmas prayer."

Wow, what an awesome experience to have the opportunity to be the answer to someone's Christmas prayer.

Bible Text: When you pray, go to your room, close the door, and pray to your Father who is unseen. And your Father, who sees what you do in private, will reward you. Matthew 6:6

Special Memories

by Kay Heitsch

I have a lot of special memories. I've written about a few of them over the years.

One of the best memories I have is the time I gave a special snowsuit away. Yesterday, a friend told me it was one of her favorite stories. ( "The Snowsuit"  is posted in my blog "Let the SON Shine!"  Jan 11, 2009)

Today's quote is so true! "Sometimes you never know the true value of a moment until it becomes a memory."

How many times have we gone through something and it didn't seem all that special at the time. It was only later on when we saw the value of the moment.

This Christmas season be on the lookout for those moments that later on just might become, 'Special Memories.'

Let the SON Shine!

by Kay Heitsch

It's very difficult to move forward when you have a child die. It's easy to let the shadows of yesterday spoil the sunshine of today.

When I read this quote, "Don't let the shadows of yesterday spoil the sunshine of today! I thought of Todd.

Our son Todd died on a Saturday. I didn't want to live in the shadows of yesterday. I wanted the Son to shine through the shadows of that day.

Many years ago I started to send out emails on Saturday in loving memory of Todd. I called it, "Let the SON Shine!" It was a play on words, but I wanted the SON's (Jesus') LOVE to shine through the shadows of Todd's death. I also started a blog to record special stories by the same name.

Today is yet another Saturday. It's cloudy here today, but I know no matter the weather the SON still shines.

Spirit of LOVE

by Kay Heitsch

When Christmas rolls around each year not everyone is happy. It can be a time of high anxiety, sadness, and depression. I know because this is what this season of the year was like for me for many years.

It would be easy to allow myself to slip back into that state of mind. However, over the years I've chosen to ask the Lord to fill me with His Spirit of LOVE. I also ask for His strength to do whatever I need to do with a good attitude.  Not everything we do is really necessary. For me, I know I need to keep positive memories in my mind.

Psalm 90:14 TEV is a favorite of mine. "Fill us each morning with your constant LOVE, so that we may sing and be glad all of our lives."

Today's quote, "Let the Spirit of LOVE fill our hearts and homes in this Christmas season. As LOVE fills our hearts help us to show LOVE to those around us."

When we get ourselves off of our minds we can show His LOVE to others and we are happy.

My hope and prayer is that we will ask the Lord to fill us with His Spirit of LOVE. As His LOVE flows in us we can choose to reach out to others and show LOVE to those around us.

Quietness Of Mind

by Kay Heitsch

I don't know about you, but this time of the year I need quietness of mind. That is why I chose today's quote, "Bless us Lord this Christmas with quietness of mind; teach us to be patient and always to be kind." Helen Steiner Rice

All kinds of thoughts run through our minds this time of the year. Thoughts about the past, the present, and the future. Some thoughts are pleasant memories, but some are not.

My prayer this Christmas is that the Lord will bless us with quietness of mind; He'll teach us to be patient and always to be kind.

LOVE Keeps Going...

by Kay Heitsch

There have been times in my life that I have felt like giving up. It's not easy to keep on keepin' on when we go through difficulties in life. We can either give in, give up, or get stronger.

The English have a phase, "When the going gets tough, the tough get going." I really like that!

How we respond to difficulties in life makes a huge difference. We can actually make a bigger deal out of things than we need to. Or we can ask the Lord to give us strength to go through our troubles with a good attitude.

Today I chose, "Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance." 1 Corinthians 13:7

LOVE has kept me going when the going was tough! LOVE never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance. LOVE keeps us keepin' on!

Be Ready!

Be Ready! by Kay Heitsch

Life is unpredictable and you never know what is coming next. Always be ready for change. Miracles come in moments. Be ready!

Some changes that come into our lives are welcome. Some changes are not. Welcome or not change comes. We need to be ready and look for the miracle in the moment.

When change comes I like to look for the miracles in the moment. When I look at life like this it makes change exciting.

It's the season for a change. I'm going over and remove the fall decorations from Todd's grave. I'll be changing it for Christmas and winter. I've experienced some 'miracle moments' at the cemetery. I'll be ready just in case I have one today.

I chose this Bible verse today, "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: Ecclesiastes 3:1 NIV

There is a time for everything and change will come. Be ready!

Love, Joy, Faith, Hope, Peace

by Kay Heitsch

Every morning I look for some quote to post on fb. Today I saw these words, Love, Joy, Faith, Hope, and Peace and felt uplifted.

Isn't it strange how just seeing certain words can affect the way you feel. I've heard someone say that words are containers for power! How true that is! The words we see and the words we speak have power in them.

Did you know that one kind word can brighten someone's day? Just the opposite is true too. One unkind word can cut as deeply as a knife.

Today is a great day to be aware of words. The words we read and the words we say.

Psalms 91:14 is a prayer to help us be aware of words, "May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer." Psalm 19:14

Say What?

by Kay Heitsch

What we say not only has a powerful effect on others, but it has a powerful effect on ourselves as well.

It's so easy to let our feelings dictate what we say. I'm guilty of that! I like the prayer David prayed. "Set a guard over my mouth, LORD; keep watch over the door of my lips." Psalm 141:3

This is a great quote, "The real art of conversation is not only to say the right thing at the right place, but to leave unsaid the wrong thing at the tempting moment."

It's great to say the right thing at the right time! But it's even better to leave unsaid the wrong thing at the tempting moment.

Lord, help me!

Rise and Shine It's Game Day!

by Kay Heitsch

Life is very much like a game of football. We have a goal line, but in order to get there we go through many obstacles. We run, pass, and fall down. But in order to win we must get back up and never quit.

Today's quote, RISE AND SHINE IT'S GAME DAY! It's not whether you get knocked down; it's whether you get back up! Winners are not people who never fail, but people who never quit! is a great way to live our everyday life.

The Bible verse I chose today talks about our life's journey. It says, "We are pressed on all sides, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed." 2 Corinthians 4:8 & 9

According to this verse no matter what we go through in life we can RISE AND SHINE! Why? Because IT'S GAME DAY!

Blessed!

by Kay Heitsch

It's the day after Thanksgiving! I don't know about you, but I feel blessed. As always the food tasted better than it usually does all during the year for some reason. Yes, we still have pie left over.

Today's quote kinda tells the story. "Happy day after Thanksgiving! I can't eat another bite! Oh look, pie! Hope you didn't forget to set the scales back 10 pounds!" I pray I didn't gain 10 pounds though.

Almost every Thanksgiving something special happens here. This year our son Brandon came with his new puppy, Jenny. She has given us a lot of laughs.

Shannon sent a video of Eli singing and Noah dancing. Their video made us all smile!

One year one of our foster daughters came for Thanksgiving as a surprise! It was great to see how she had grown into a beautiful woman.

I'm thinking back and feeling blessed today. I hope you are too.

Family Tradition

by Kay Heitsch

I heard a message this morning about Abraham leaving his country and heading off for a land he did not know. When I heard this I thought about my 10th Great Grandfather William Brewster. He did the same thing.

William Brewster, along with several others came to this country on the Mayflower. Like Abraham they did not know what was ahead of them.

What they did could be considered, 'A short term price for a long time benefit!' It was quite a price to pay, but look at the long time benefit the price they paid has been.

Bill made me smile when he said he knew why Thanksgiving has always been your favorite holiday. He said it's because it's a 'family tradition' which started with your Great Grandpa Brewster.

The "Family Tradition" continues all over this great country of ours in many homes. I'm thankful for Great Grandpa Brewster and others for paying the price for our long time benefit.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Why Is Thanksgiving My Favorite Holiday?

by Kay Heitsch

Anyone who knows me well knows there are certain things that have always been very important to me. First of all, my relationship with the Lord, my family and friends, my country, and that Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday!

I'd never really thought much about why Thanksgiving was my favorite holiday until this year. Somehow, deep in my heart I've felt something was extra special about it. What I found out this past year gave me some insight into why Thanksgiving has always been so important to me.

Around May my husband, Bill, sent for a kit to find out my DNA. Much to my surprise I received the results on my Mom's birthday. I found out that my 10th Great Grandfather was William Brewster. William Brewster, actually was a minister who came over on the Mayflower. He was one of the Pilgrims at the first Thanksgiving!

I was thinking about Thanksgiving this past week when it dawned on me why it has always been my favorite holiday. Thanksgiving has always been special to me, but this year it's going to be extra special. Why? Because now my head knows what my heart knew all along.

Who Ya Gonna Believe?

by Kay Heitsch

I have the word, BELIEVE on my cell phone case. When I feel doubt rise up I say, "I do believe; help my unbelief." (see mark 9:24)

We all go through situations in our lives that we don't understand. I'm sure Joseph was wondering why he was going through all that he did. I love the way he handled his situation when he came face to face with his mean brothers. He said, "You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good." He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many people." Genesis 50:20

I like today's quote, "Sometimes you have to stop worrying, wondering, & doubting. Have faith that things will work out. Maybe not how you planned, but always believe that God will see you through."

It's a rare occasion that God works things out the way we planned. I've found that out many times over the years. That's when I have to ask myself, "Who Ya Gonna Believe?"

I may not understand. However, I know from past experience that God will see me through! Even things that were meant for my harm. I've seen God work it out for my good in the long run.

Who Ya Gonna Believe? For me I'm going to believe and trust in the Lord. When bad things happen I can say like Joseph, This was meant for my harm; but God intended it for good. I'm gonna believe!

Enjoy The Journey

by Kay Heitsch

We've all read the poem, "I'll be happy when..." I can almost bet that at some time we've all said those words, "I'll be happy when." I know I have.

How about being happy now? How can we ever enjoy the journey if we are constantly thinking, "I'll be happy when..."

I like today's quote, "Life is a journey, with problems to solve, lessons to learn, but most of all, experiences to enjoy!"

It was a great day when I came on the Bible verse, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly." John 10:10

When I read John 10:10 I knew I could be happy today. I was here to enjoy the journey!

We have so much to be thankful for. Yes, we have problems to solve, lessons to learn, but most of all, experiences to enjoy!

Enjoy The Journey!

Do You Trust Me?

I can't even count the times I've heard this question in my mind, "Do You Trust Me?" I've thought, "Do you trust Me?" so many times I actually bought a plaque to remind myself to have faith.

This plaque with these words hang in our office. It reads, "Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take." Proverbs 3:5&6 NLT

Today's quote, "Faith isn't a feeling. It's a choice to trust God even when the road ahead seems uncertain." I believe this quote goes right along with the Bible verse on our plaque.

We don't know what the future holds. But we can keep our joy in uncertain times when we can answer, "Yes LORD, I trust You!"

Why God Why?

by Kay Heitsch

When bad things happen in our lives we are tempted to ask, "Why God Why?" We want to know why something bad happened to us. We know bad things happen to other people, but somehow we feel nothing bad should happen to us.

Today when I saw this quote, "God's promise isn't that He'll keep bad things from happening; it's that He'll be there if they do." I thought this quote was good enough to post. 

There is trouble in this world. Sometimes we cause our own problems. Sometimes the things that happen aren't our fault. I don't know why our son Todd died in a car accident. I know others who have had several car accidents and didn't die.

I love Ephesians 3:18, "And may you have the power to understand, as all God's people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep His love."

I don't know why bad things happen to good people. But I do know that when bad things happen in my life I understand that God's love is right there with me through thick and thin.

Enjoy The Ride!

by Kay Heitsch

I had to smile thinking about today's quote, "Life is like a roller coaster. You can either scream every time there's a bump or you can throw your hands up and enjoy the ride." How true this quote is.

I'm sure we all know people who are upset by every bump in the road. But we also know people who throw their hands up and enjoy the ride.

I want to be a person who "Enjoys The Ride!" I know, like all of you, that life is not fair at times. Life can be like a roller coaster. It has it's up's and down's. It can be scary at times. But it is what it is! We have a choice how we respond. We can scream or throw our hands up and enjoy the ride.

When life gets hard I like to remind myself of this Bible verse, "These things I have spoken unto you, that in me you might have peace. In the world you shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." John 16:33 KJ 2000

It's very clear that in this world we will have trouble. No doubt about it! But this verse also tells us to "be of good cheer." Why? Because "I (Jesus) have overcome the world."

So next time you feel like you're on a roller coaster remember that this is just life. You can scream if you like, but you can also throw your hands up and "Enjoy The Ride."

Love Never Ends!

by Kay Heitsch

Today would be our son, Todd's, 45th birthday. However, he died in a car accident when he was 16.

Today's quote, "Keep Calm because LOVE never dies!" and the Bible verse "Love never ends." mean a lot to me.

I remember well reading 1 Corinthians 13 after Todd died and seeing, "Love never ends." I've kept 'Love never ends' etched in my mind and in my heart. I know that my love for Todd has never died! I truly believe his love for me is still living on.

Hey Todd do you remember that record we had for you and Shannon that we played on your birthdays? Yours went something like this. "Hey Todd it's your birthday! You're the big STAR today!" Today is the day we celebrate you our STAR.

Happy Birthday Todd! I'm keeping Calm because I know LOVE never dies! I will love you forever!

You Are YOUnique

by Kay Heitsch

How cool it is that there is no one else like you! You are YOUnique! I don't know why people try to be like, and even look like, someone else.

Over the years I've found it's freeing to be comfortable with me. The more I've been able to accept myself the more I can accept others.

Today's quote, "Go forward in life with a twinkle in your eye and a smile on your face. Your life has a purpose. You are YOUnique" is good advice.

I met Dr Norman V. Peale. When I met him he was very old. What I noticed about him was the twinkle in his eye and the smile on his face. Dr. Peale knew who he was and that his life had a purpose. He knew he was YOUnique!

When we know who we are we can have a twinkle in our eye and a smile on our face. We know our life has purpose and we are YOUnique.

Attitude of Gratitude

by Kay Heitsch

The miracle of gratitude is that it changes the way we see life. When we are grateful it somehow changes our perspective.

"A moment of GRATITUDE makes a difference in your ATTITUDE." was the quote I chose today. I like to find simple ways to help in maintaining a positive attitude. Having an attitude of gratitude is a simple way.

The Bible verse that has helped me over the years to keep an attitude of gratitude is, "This is the day the LORD has made. We (I) will rejoice and be glad in it." Psalm 118:24

When we are grateful for each day this helps us keep an ATTITUDE of GRATITUDE.

What If?

by Kay Heitsch

I'm sure I'm not the only one who's had the words, "What if?" played over and over in their mind. No matter what we go through in life the fear of the unknown causes us to think, "What if?"

I'm sure Abraham when he was called to go into a land he did not know he had the thought, "What if?" come into his mind. However, Abraham went out not knowing. (see Hebrews 11:8)

I was thinking about the 'unknown' when I looked for a quote to put on today. I came across this one. "Fear can keep us up all night. But FAITH makes one fine pillow." How true that is.

Many people lose sleep over the, "What if's?" I like how this quote says, "But FAITH makes one fine pillow."

I pray we'll put our faith in God. I know when I've done that I have peace. The Bible verse I like to repeat to myself is, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." John 14:27

No Greater Love

by Kay Heitsch

If you're familiar with the Bible I'm sure you've read, "Greater love has no man than this; to lay down one's life for one's friends." John 15:13

Years ago I came on this Bible verse not really knowing who it was talking about. For Christians this verse is talking about Jesus who gave His life for our eternal life.

However, when I saw this verse for the first time, it took on more than Jesus giving His life for us. As I pondered this text I realized our son Todd was trying to save his friend when he lost his life. Todd had laid down his life for his friend.

Today on Veteran's Day this Bible verse reminds me of our Veterans. These men and woman were willing to lay down their lives for our freedoms in the United States.

Thank you to all our Veterans who were willing to lay down their lives for our freedom. No Greater Love!

Taken For Granted

by Kay Heitsch

Have you ever felt taken for granted? I think we all have at some time or another.

Today's quote "The things you take for granted, someone else is praying for. Be Thankful! " puts a new twist to being taken for granted.

Today let's think of things we often take for granted. Our eyesight, our hearing, the ability to walk, ability to smell, hair, friendships, freedom. I'm sure you can think of many things we often take for granted. I know I can for sure!

Today and everyday is a great time to be thankful for things we take for granted that others are praying for.

Kindsight

by Kay Heitsch

Kindsight! Isn't that a cool word? We all want others to treat us with kindness. How would it be if we went around looking for ways to be kind to others.

We all need eyes to see the good in everyone and even ourselves. Mark 12:31 says, "Love your neighbor as yourself."

The election is over. It's time to move forward and ask the Lord to give us Kindsight! We all need eyes to see the good in ourselves and others. Be kind! Life is short!

Be kind to one another, tenderhearted... (see Ephesians 4:32)

When we have "Kindsight" we can be kind to others and ourselves as well.

Keep Calm and Trust God

by Kay Heitsch

When you have a personality like mine, keeping calm isn't something that comes naturally. Anyone who knows me well is smiling right now. Over the years I may have gotten a little bit better, but I still have to tell myself, "Kay, calm down and trust God!"

Today on this election day is a day when many people will be anything but calm. I'm sure a lot of tears will be shed. People will be upset for one reason or another. Even if the person they wanted to be elected is, there will be high anxiety over the future of this country.

I plan to pray, keep calm and trust God. The Bible verse I chose to focus on is, "It is better to trust the Lord than to put your confidence in man." Psalm 118:8. I know God has a plan and it's good. (see Jeremiah 29:11) I also know that all things work together for good to those who love God. (see Romans 8:28)

As I put my trust in God I will keep calm today!

God Bless America Land That I Love!

When Fear Comes Knocking

by Kay Heitsch

For years I wasted a lot of time worrying about what might happen. I think worry is directly related to fear. Quite honestly, most of the things I stressed over never happened.

I've learned that you will not have a peaceful, happy life if you spend it in worry and fear.

When I became a Christian I started to understand that I was not meant to live in fear. I started to say, "I trust God" when fear came knocking.

Today's quote, "When fear comes knocking at your door send faith to answer it." has helped me close the door to fear. I answer it with, "I trust God!"

Isaiah 41:10 says, Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Don't be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.

Today and always we can put our faith in God when fear comes knocking. Then go out and have a happy day!

Shine On!

by Kay Heitsch

"It's a new day! We're alive, we're loved, we're blessed! God is great! Shine on!"

We all have people or things that come against us.These people or things try to stop us from shining. It's up to us to drop it, leave it, let it go and continue to "Shine On!"

Not everyone is going to like us. They say 10% of people won't like you no matter how nice you are. Some people find pleasure trying to make others look bad. I've found usually these people aren't too happy with their own life. Don't be discouraged! Shine on!

Today is a new day! We can be thankful we're loved by God. We are blessed to be alive! God is great! We have plenty of reasons right there to Shine On!

Set Yourself Up

by Kay Heitsch

We set the tone for our days. We can have ourselves on our minds thinking, "Well, what about me?" What will someone do for me today?" Or we can get ourselves off of our minds and think about how we are going to treat others.

We don't have to wait for someone to smile at us. We can be the first to smile and say a kind word to them. We can set the tone of our days.

I like today's quote, Set the tone of your day by treating people better than you expect them to treat you. Be the first to smile and show kindness. Set yourself up for a great day!"

We can set ourselves up for a great day by getting our minds off of ourselves and being the first to smile and be kind to others.

Celebrate Life

by Kay Heitsch

Today I went over to "Celebrate Life" quotes on the computer. I did so because I'm going to a funeral later on.

Bea's 89 year old cousin, Mary died. Bea and Mary were very close growing up. They had a lot of fun together. Even in their older years they talked almost daily on the phone.

It's a sad time for Bea, but I'm happy she has a lot of happy memories of Mary. I'm sure I'll be hearing the same stories I've heard many times before again. It's great to be able to relive special memories.

Today's quote stuck out to me, "There is always a blessing to thank God for; the ones you are aware of, and the ones you are not. Be grateful to God everyday."

I'm thankful to God that Bea is still able to remember what a blessing Mary was to her. I'm sure there are many blessings she was not even aware of too.

Being grateful to God is a wonderful way to celebrate the life that He has given us.

Give And Take

by Kay Heitsch

Today's quote jumped right out at me. "Life is full of give and take. Give thanks and take nothing for granted."

Wow, how much do we take for granted? Our health, our freedoms, people in our lives, our everyday life conveniences. I find I am very thankful for things when they're gone and I get them back. We don't realize how much we take for granted until they're gone.

I can recall several times when the power went out in the house. I'd taken flipping on the light switch for granted. I found myself trying to flip the switch on when I walked in the room, but now to no avail. I was certainly giving thanks when the power came back on. I'd taken 'flipping the switch' for granted.

In this month of thanksgiving I pray I am more aware to give thanks and take nothing for granted. I hope you will too.