There are so many Christmas traditions that come to mind!
As a child we had the tradition of going to look at lights on Christmas Eve. When we arrived home, we always discovered that santa had visited and left gifts and we opened them that night before going to bed!
When our daughter was born, we decided that we would not use the "santa" version of Christmas. Since it's advertised everywhere, we talked to her about how some children think that santa brings gifts and it's not our place to tell them any differently. She did receive Christmas gifts, but they were from us, not santa. It was my thinking that it was important for her to know what was real and what was make believe. I wanted to be sure that when we told her the Christmas story of the birth of Jesus, she would know that it was a true story, not another fantasy for the season. I've been told by some that they disagreed with this idea or way we did it, however it was what we decided to do.
Our daughter is grown with a husband and son and they are each an important part of my Christmas traditions now! They always make their plans and let me know which days they will spend here with me. (my view is that regardless of the date, it IS Christmas when we're together!) For the last 4 years, they have made it a point to be here on Dec. 22nd (the date my Daddy passed away in 2005) so that I'm not alone that day.
Having a grandson has made an amazing difference in the holidays for me. It is a constant source of joy to see how much he enjoys life and how he already has such a loving, giving and caring spirit. It's not unusual for him to include others in need in his prayers and he loves helping his Mommy prepare treats to share with others! We have traditions that he and I share and it's wonderful to have them to look forward to as the holidays approach!
When I was in grade school I wrote a paper and part of it included, "Christmas isn't just putting up a Christmas tree and exchanging gifts. Christmas is the celebration of Jesus' birth." I still feel that it's very important to make Jesus' birth a central point in our celebration!
~Bonnie
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
"Sometimes the wind is just gonna blow"
It has been nice to actually have some real fall type weather this year. (sometimes in Texas it goes from hot to cold over night!)
I have noticed that along with the fall weather, we have had some days where the wind is more like March wind! (Just like the question of what is the purpose of mosquitoes, I haven't been able to come up with a good reason for the wind to blow!) As I've taken time to observe the characteristics of fall - I realized that although it may be out of the "norm", the wind is just gonna blow some days! I have to not let myself focus on the wind, but rather all the things around me that are there for my enjoyment today!
Some days the wind is just gonna blow!
Have a great day!
~Bonnie
I have noticed that along with the fall weather, we have had some days where the wind is more like March wind! (Just like the question of what is the purpose of mosquitoes, I haven't been able to come up with a good reason for the wind to blow!) As I've taken time to observe the characteristics of fall - I realized that although it may be out of the "norm", the wind is just gonna blow some days! I have to not let myself focus on the wind, but rather all the things around me that are there for my enjoyment today!
Some days the wind is just gonna blow!
Have a great day!
~Bonnie
Monday, November 22, 2010
I'm Thankful !
I have so much to be thankful for again this year. I have tried to be more mindful of being thankful throughout the year also. I have taken time to watch a sunrise, as well as a sunset. I have noticed the new blooms in the Spring, the green leaves in the Summer and their changing colors this Fall. I have the most amazing children - my daughter and son in love, who are always a great support to me. My grandson is my pride and joy! I am thankful!
~Bonnie
~Bonnie
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
What if...........
What if I give each person I come in contact with today a smile? What if I take time to listen to a child who wants to share about the adventure he/she had last summer? What if I stop and help the young mother pick up the belongings that have rolled across the floor when her bag tips out of the shopping cart? What if I spend 15 minutes sitting in the back yard observing the beautiful day God has given me? What if I buy an extra can of veggies at the store to donate to the food pantry? What if....................
I think that perhaps it would make a difference in other's lives, but that the biggest difference would be evident in mine!
Have a wonderful day!
~Bonnie
I think that perhaps it would make a difference in other's lives, but that the biggest difference would be evident in mine!
Have a wonderful day!
~Bonnie
Monday, November 8, 2010
~ Changes ~
I have recently been thinking about the changes that I continue to try to make in my life. I was reflecting on mistakes that I've made and how I try to do things differently rather than repeat a mistake.
Sometimes it's easier to do the same thing over and over, even knowing that the result will be the same. I guess it's part of our human nature to follow a path that seems easier at the time, rather than taking a path that may be more difficult to walk. It's my desire to be able to see before I begin down a path if it's not the best one for me and to learn from previous mistakes.
I am thankful that God walks with me, always!
Have a great Monday!
Sometimes it's easier to do the same thing over and over, even knowing that the result will be the same. I guess it's part of our human nature to follow a path that seems easier at the time, rather than taking a path that may be more difficult to walk. It's my desire to be able to see before I begin down a path if it's not the best one for me and to learn from previous mistakes.
I am thankful that God walks with me, always!
Have a great Monday!
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Questions
My daughter @ Raindrops & Rainbows tagged me and here are my answers!
1. Do you exercise regularly? If so what kind of exercise do you do?
I do! I began doing Zumba at the beginning of Sept and love it! I usually go 3 times a week. I also use the total gym and play Wii during the week!
2. What is your favorite fast food restaurant?
Wendy's (with my boy, sitting at our "two year old table") precious memories!
3. Do you use plastic, paper or reusable/recyclable bags?
I use some of each!
4. What is the best book you've ever read?
"Her Sister's Keeper" (the book was much better than the movie in my view!)
5. What is your favorite drink?
Diet coke with good ice from Sonic!
6. What's a website you go to everyday?
Verizon - where I check email!
7. Do you have a favorite charity? What is it and why do you support them?
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society - Fighting Blood Cancers
After my Daddy passed away in Dec. 2005 from blood cancer, my family decided we would collect donations and attend the walk held near Austin in October.
1. Do you exercise regularly? If so what kind of exercise do you do?
I do! I began doing Zumba at the beginning of Sept and love it! I usually go 3 times a week. I also use the total gym and play Wii during the week!
2. What is your favorite fast food restaurant?
Wendy's (with my boy, sitting at our "two year old table") precious memories!
3. Do you use plastic, paper or reusable/recyclable bags?
I use some of each!
4. What is the best book you've ever read?
"Her Sister's Keeper" (the book was much better than the movie in my view!)
5. What is your favorite drink?
Diet coke with good ice from Sonic!
6. What's a website you go to everyday?
Verizon - where I check email!
7. Do you have a favorite charity? What is it and why do you support them?
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society - Fighting Blood Cancers
After my Daddy passed away in Dec. 2005 from blood cancer, my family decided we would collect donations and attend the walk held near Austin in October.
Friday, October 8, 2010
Gramma's Heart
A dear friend and her husband are currently going through a very tough situation concerning their daughter and her children. My heart is heavy just knowing a little bit about the situation from the perspective of a parent and a "Gramma".
I have seen through their actions the example that loving a child and grandchildren sometimes involves doing what's best for the children rather than what we "want". My heart is overwhelmed and I'm praying that they are strengthened as they go through this time. Also, that I can be the support that they need during this time.
Please pray for these precious people.
~Bonnie
I have seen through their actions the example that loving a child and grandchildren sometimes involves doing what's best for the children rather than what we "want". My heart is overwhelmed and I'm praying that they are strengthened as they go through this time. Also, that I can be the support that they need during this time.
Please pray for these precious people.
~Bonnie
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Thankful Thursday!
There are so many things in my life that I am thankful for, however today I want to focus on 3 people who are extremely important to me.
My daughter, son in love and grandson are blessings in my life! I am often amazed at the ways they bless my life.
Each week I receive mail - the kind in an envelope with a stamp - from them!!! I love getting and sending mail and it is such a pick me up to get mail! Sometimes it's something silly or sweet that my grandson cut out of a paper for me, along with a sweet note, but always it's a nice treat!
They are always there with their love and support for me, as well as physically always being available to help out.
It makes my heart so proud to see the wonderful family they are, how they put each other first and do everything they do with their family in mind.
It is a blessing beyond words the bond that my grandson and I have and I know that is due in part to the support of his parents! When he was born, my daughter began sending me "morning pictures" of him, so that I could see things that happened daily as he grew - wow, what a blessing! (I am sure I have several thousand pictures saved on CD and lots that I did print, but what precious memories!) They are always willing to let me come for a visit and make it part of their routine to come visit me! They let him call me often and make sure he calls to share important happenings with me!
Anyone who knows me knows the pride I take in these 3 amazing people, but I think it is important to always make sure they know how thankful I am for each of them!
I love each of you!
~Bonnie
My daughter, son in love and grandson are blessings in my life! I am often amazed at the ways they bless my life.
Each week I receive mail - the kind in an envelope with a stamp - from them!!! I love getting and sending mail and it is such a pick me up to get mail! Sometimes it's something silly or sweet that my grandson cut out of a paper for me, along with a sweet note, but always it's a nice treat!
They are always there with their love and support for me, as well as physically always being available to help out.
It makes my heart so proud to see the wonderful family they are, how they put each other first and do everything they do with their family in mind.
It is a blessing beyond words the bond that my grandson and I have and I know that is due in part to the support of his parents! When he was born, my daughter began sending me "morning pictures" of him, so that I could see things that happened daily as he grew - wow, what a blessing! (I am sure I have several thousand pictures saved on CD and lots that I did print, but what precious memories!) They are always willing to let me come for a visit and make it part of their routine to come visit me! They let him call me often and make sure he calls to share important happenings with me!
Anyone who knows me knows the pride I take in these 3 amazing people, but I think it is important to always make sure they know how thankful I am for each of them!
I love each of you!
~Bonnie
Monday, August 23, 2010
Happy Birthday Daddy
Today, August 23rd is my Daddy's birthday.
I must say that August is an emotionally tough month for me. Lots of happy and sad events have happened throughout the years during this month.
Today I am remembering Daddy and missing him. I remember so many silly things he said, things which many of us in the family say ourselves now! I remember the almost daily calls, usually just to talk or check on me. I remember how much he liked to pick up his "sweethearts" (my daughter and niece) and take them out for ice cream. I remember how when a grandchild was sick, he always came to visit with ice cream and 7-up! I remember how on Valentine's Day he always showed up with a red rose in a bud vase for me. I remember how he would always lend a hand to help out with anything that we were doing. I remember one year we were going to have a surprise birthday party for him and the surprise was on us..........he went to Alaska!!! I remember going to the gas station with him and sitting in a tire leaned up against the building and going next door for ice cream! I remember helping him with his lunch the last day he was with us..............everything was too hot or too cold or too salty, so he wasn't interested in eating any of it --- until I showed him there was chocolate cake and he ate it all!
I love and miss you Daddy. Happy Birthday!
~Bonnie
I must say that August is an emotionally tough month for me. Lots of happy and sad events have happened throughout the years during this month.
Today I am remembering Daddy and missing him. I remember so many silly things he said, things which many of us in the family say ourselves now! I remember the almost daily calls, usually just to talk or check on me. I remember how much he liked to pick up his "sweethearts" (my daughter and niece) and take them out for ice cream. I remember how when a grandchild was sick, he always came to visit with ice cream and 7-up! I remember how on Valentine's Day he always showed up with a red rose in a bud vase for me. I remember how he would always lend a hand to help out with anything that we were doing. I remember one year we were going to have a surprise birthday party for him and the surprise was on us..........he went to Alaska!!! I remember going to the gas station with him and sitting in a tire leaned up against the building and going next door for ice cream! I remember helping him with his lunch the last day he was with us..............everything was too hot or too cold or too salty, so he wasn't interested in eating any of it --- until I showed him there was chocolate cake and he ate it all!
I love and miss you Daddy. Happy Birthday!
~Bonnie
Thursday, August 19, 2010
A New School Year
I am blessed to work in an Elementary school office. I am beginning my 17th year doing this (wow that is a long time)! I totally love what I do and being a detail oriented person, it is a great challenge to me to get things done as they need to be done and for it all to fit together into a smooth first day of school!
I always make it a point to include prayer in the beginning of another year.
* for each person who works at the campus
* for each child who will soon come through the doors
* for each parent, grandparent, caregiver who is so essential in the child's life
* that I may be able to make a difference in some small way
My grandson will be starting first grade next Monday and I pray each of these things for the school where he will attend also. As I use to tell his Momma each morning when we would pray before she left for school - "do your best and let your light shine", I make it a point to have that as my goal each day!
Wishing each one a wonderfully blessed new school year!
~Bonnie
I always make it a point to include prayer in the beginning of another year.
* for each person who works at the campus
* for each child who will soon come through the doors
* for each parent, grandparent, caregiver who is so essential in the child's life
* that I may be able to make a difference in some small way
My grandson will be starting first grade next Monday and I pray each of these things for the school where he will attend also. As I use to tell his Momma each morning when we would pray before she left for school - "do your best and let your light shine", I make it a point to have that as my goal each day!
Wishing each one a wonderfully blessed new school year!
~Bonnie
Monday, August 16, 2010
Loss
Today I received news that a young man, Wills, (22 years old) passed away. He began his battle last October when he had a lump in his leg, followed by the discovery that it was a tumor, followed by ongoing treatment.
He was a senior, about to graduate college. He had a very outgoing full of life personality. So many questions, however I know it's not ours to understand.
I do understand that Wills has won his battle. He has achieved "the goal". He has run the race and won!
Please join me in praying for his parents, siblings, family and friends. Only God's touch can possibly hold and bring comfort to a heart that is grieving in such a way.
~ Bonnie
He was a senior, about to graduate college. He had a very outgoing full of life personality. So many questions, however I know it's not ours to understand.
I do understand that Wills has won his battle. He has achieved "the goal". He has run the race and won!
Please join me in praying for his parents, siblings, family and friends. Only God's touch can possibly hold and bring comfort to a heart that is grieving in such a way.
~ Bonnie
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Happy Birthday to my boy!
Today (Thursday, August 12th) is my grandson's 6th birthday! As the saying goes, "time flies"! I have been remembering so many special memories that began when we found out he was on his way, right up to today.
We had the opportunity to have his "Home on the Range" birthday party this past Saturday and it was absolutely wonderful! To see his little smile as he realized that he was going to get to work with the miniature horses, take saddle and cart rides, roast hotdogs over a campfire, ride on the chuck wagon and be a real cowboy was amazing!
I feel that making memories are extremely important. I only knew one of my grandparents and have such precious memories of my time with him and I want to always take time to make memories with Caleb. I feel that spending time with him is one of the most important things I can give him! I always want to make sure he knows that his Gramma is here for him!
I am so thankful for the continued support of his Momma and Daddy in reinforcing the relationship that Caleb and I have. We both have our moments of sadness when it comes time for our visits to end, but we both can't wait till we see each other again! We have lots of little sayings and traditions, as well as several things that we both look forward to sharing.
Being his Gramma is without a doubt a great joy. I know that I have a responsibility to God to always be a good example to Caleb.
Happy Birthday Dear Caleb - Gramma loves you "the" number!
We had the opportunity to have his "Home on the Range" birthday party this past Saturday and it was absolutely wonderful! To see his little smile as he realized that he was going to get to work with the miniature horses, take saddle and cart rides, roast hotdogs over a campfire, ride on the chuck wagon and be a real cowboy was amazing!
I feel that making memories are extremely important. I only knew one of my grandparents and have such precious memories of my time with him and I want to always take time to make memories with Caleb. I feel that spending time with him is one of the most important things I can give him! I always want to make sure he knows that his Gramma is here for him!
I am so thankful for the continued support of his Momma and Daddy in reinforcing the relationship that Caleb and I have. We both have our moments of sadness when it comes time for our visits to end, but we both can't wait till we see each other again! We have lots of little sayings and traditions, as well as several things that we both look forward to sharing.
Being his Gramma is without a doubt a great joy. I know that I have a responsibility to God to always be a good example to Caleb.
Happy Birthday Dear Caleb - Gramma loves you "the" number!
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Summer!
Whew, it's always so amazing to me how quickly the summer goes by.
Since I work at a school, I have some time off through the summer and
almost always have quite a "to do" list made for myself. Sometimes I actually
do get some of the things done off of it! This year I did have a list, however
I decided in May, that I was going to make sure I made time to just enjoy things
while I was off and I'm so proud I have (for the most part) done that!!
I got to go on a day trip Amtrak ride with my grandson! The look on his little face as he looked out the window and kept saying, "I can't believe we're really on the train" was so great! (now I am thinking I would enjoy getting on one and traveling several days just seeing the sights and new places!)
I have also taken him several times to the little waterpark near where they
live. It is such a fun time and really does make me feel like a carefree kiddo when
I'm with him!! (we even let his parents tag along sometimes!!)
I have enjoyed the flowers in my yard again this summer. I plant zinnia seeds
all around the flowering bushes and it's so fun to watch them blooming and see all
the butterflies around them. It's like an encouragement to me, the flowers and the
butterflies!
We were able to take the kiddos to the lake in the boat this summer and it only took one trip for Caleb to become a fan! It was a totally relaxing, fun day and we're planning to do it again before long!
We got to go to Hot Springs, Arkansas for a vacation trip and it was such a great, relaxing trip. We got to stay at Lake Catherine State Park in a cabin where the back porch swing was looking right over the lake. We cruised around the lake on the jetski and although we did encounter a thunderstorm during one of the times out, we had so much fun! There was a mother duck and 7 babies who made it part of their morning routine to come to the back of our cabin for me to feed them cheerios! I think I got more pictures of the ducks than anything else!! We got to go to ride on the Belle Riverboat ride at Lake Hamilton also.
I've gone to the nearby lake to fish off the dock several times this summer, which is something that I love to do. It's very relaxing to me and a great place to enjoythe beauty of the water and peacefulness.
I enjoy working in the yard and think it's theraputic to me to keep it done.
I am so thankful for all the opportunities I've had this summer and all the things I've gotten to enjoy! I'm planning to continue to remember to take time to enjoy such things as these in my day to day life. Next week I will begin work on preparing for a new school year and plan to remind myself to count my blessings daily - there are SO many there each day!
~Bonnie
Since I work at a school, I have some time off through the summer and
almost always have quite a "to do" list made for myself. Sometimes I actually
do get some of the things done off of it! This year I did have a list, however
I decided in May, that I was going to make sure I made time to just enjoy things
while I was off and I'm so proud I have (for the most part) done that!!
I got to go on a day trip Amtrak ride with my grandson! The look on his little face as he looked out the window and kept saying, "I can't believe we're really on the train" was so great! (now I am thinking I would enjoy getting on one and traveling several days just seeing the sights and new places!)
I have also taken him several times to the little waterpark near where they
live. It is such a fun time and really does make me feel like a carefree kiddo when
I'm with him!! (we even let his parents tag along sometimes!!)
I have enjoyed the flowers in my yard again this summer. I plant zinnia seeds
all around the flowering bushes and it's so fun to watch them blooming and see all
the butterflies around them. It's like an encouragement to me, the flowers and the
butterflies!
We were able to take the kiddos to the lake in the boat this summer and it only took one trip for Caleb to become a fan! It was a totally relaxing, fun day and we're planning to do it again before long!
We got to go to Hot Springs, Arkansas for a vacation trip and it was such a great, relaxing trip. We got to stay at Lake Catherine State Park in a cabin where the back porch swing was looking right over the lake. We cruised around the lake on the jetski and although we did encounter a thunderstorm during one of the times out, we had so much fun! There was a mother duck and 7 babies who made it part of their morning routine to come to the back of our cabin for me to feed them cheerios! I think I got more pictures of the ducks than anything else!! We got to go to ride on the Belle Riverboat ride at Lake Hamilton also.
I've gone to the nearby lake to fish off the dock several times this summer, which is something that I love to do. It's very relaxing to me and a great place to enjoythe beauty of the water and peacefulness.
I enjoy working in the yard and think it's theraputic to me to keep it done.
I am so thankful for all the opportunities I've had this summer and all the things I've gotten to enjoy! I'm planning to continue to remember to take time to enjoy such things as these in my day to day life. Next week I will begin work on preparing for a new school year and plan to remind myself to count my blessings daily - there are SO many there each day!
~Bonnie
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Thankful Thursday
Today is my first Thankful Thursday post. I've been reading them for a while now, from my daughter's blog.
Today I am especially thankful for my parents.
My Mother lives in the town where I do and I am able to see her regularly. I am thankful for her guidance through the years. I am thankful that she's close so that I can lend a hand when she needs it. I am thankful that she's in good health and able to get around so well.
My Daddy passed away in December 2005. I miss him each day and am thankful each day that he is/was my Daddy. I'm thankful that he taught me how to change a flat, change oil (although I take it and have it done) and listen to what a lawnmower sounds like when it doesn't want to start and know what to try next! He taught me the importance of integrity and honesty. He taught me that a parent loves and supports their child, always.
I'm thankful for the relationship I had/have with both of my parents. I am thankful that God gave them to me!
I am thankful this week for the freedom's we have due to those who served to secure them.
~ Bonnie
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
After the Rain
The last 2 days we have had some spring-like rain. It's such a refreshing smell and sight, just after the rain. I was outside earlier today, taking pictures of the many blooming flowers in my yard and thinking. (thinking happens to be one of my specialties!)
As I walked from plant to plant I smiled as I saw the new blooms. I noticed so many butterflies going from bloom to bloom as if they couldn't decide which one to pick! I was thinking how the lightening before and during the rain, along with the thunder made it sound so mighty and fierce. Thankfully there was no wind with these showers, however sometimes there are. Sometimes the wind, rain, lightening and thunder all come upon us and can be a bit frightening in the midst of it. It's important to have the confidence that God's there and faithful, regardless of what is going on all around. For me, having that confidence doesn't mean that there is confidence in myself, but rather an inner peace, knowing that He is in control of even the storms.
When the storms pass (and they always do) there is that fresh smell and newness. Just as all the plants this morning had bright new blooms from the renewing of the rain, we can begin anew after a storm, "blooming" through whatever our day holds.
Thank you for reading and thank you for all the welcomes I've received!
~ Bonnie
Sunday, June 27, 2010
A Place to Start
After being encouraged by my daughter, Bethany, to do a blog, I've decided to dive off into one!
I'm not sure yet what I will write about, however she assures me I will have no trouble finding something to write on it, so here goes!
I follow several blogs and find them encouraging. It's amazing to me the amount of information we have available at the click of a mouse now days. I hope that I will use this blog to be an encouragment to others, as well as a way to express some of the things that are going on inside my heart!
Thank you for reading!
I'm not sure yet what I will write about, however she assures me I will have no trouble finding something to write on it, so here goes!
I follow several blogs and find them encouraging. It's amazing to me the amount of information we have available at the click of a mouse now days. I hope that I will use this blog to be an encouragment to others, as well as a way to express some of the things that are going on inside my heart!
Thank you for reading!
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